Windhoek: Prime Minister (PM) Elijah Ngurare has called for greater investment in climate-resilient water infrastructure, innovation, and multi-stakeholder partnerships, emphasizing that Namibia's worsening water scarcity necessitates coordinated action from the government and all stakeholders.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Ngurare, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform Inge Zaamwani during the African Public Service Day commemoration in Swakopmund, highlighted the challenges posed by recurring droughts, declining groundwater resources, and climate change. He stressed the need for resilient and sustainable water solutions. The PM pointed to the recently launched N$2.1 billion Erongo SUNAM Desalination Project as evidence of the government's commitment to long-term water security. He called for the adoption of solar-powered boreholes, groundwater recharge, desalination, water reuse, and digital monitoring systems.
Ngurare further emphasized the importance of accelerated rainwater and floodwater harvesting. He noted that six out of the planned 17 earth dams have been completed, and the Ohangwena Aquifer Project is expected to bolster water security in northern Namibia. He stressed the importance of maintaining infrastructure and preparing for drought before crises occur, on par with building new facilities.
The PM urged stronger collaboration between the government, regional and local authorities, traditional leaders, academia, civil society, and the private sector. He stated that universal access to water and sanitation cannot be achieved by the government alone. Additionally, he mentioned Namibia's rising international profile following the relocation of the Global Water Partnership Organisation headquarters to Windhoek and the country's selection to host the 2028 International Network of Basin Organisations World Basin Summit.
Erongo Governor Nathalia /Goagoses remarked that the commemoration's theme is particularly pertinent to the region, one of Namibia's driest and most water-stressed areas. She highlighted the recently established Erongo Water Forum, which aims to involve regional leaders and technical experts in planning future water interventions. 'We do not want to read in newspapers about water solutions for Erongo without the involvement of Erongo leadership,' she said, advocating for the forum's inclusion in the governance of desalination and other strategic water projects.
Acting Public Service Commission Chairperson Michael Mutonga noted that achieving these ambitions would require a modern public service driven by innovation, digital transformation, and citizen-centred service delivery. He mentioned that the commission is advancing electronic recruitment and integrated human resource systems to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accessibility across the government.