Otjiwarongo: The rehabilitation of several streets at Otjiwarongo which started in April this year is nearing completion, with only one street in the Orwetoveni residential area awaiting resurfacing and road markings.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Otjiwarongo Municipality Chief Executive Officer, Mberipura Hifitikeko, stated in an interview that the rehabilitation includes reconstruction of some streets, resurfacing, and slight resealing on 18 streets. The N.dollars 71 million project is jointly carried out and funded by the Road Fund Administration (RFA), Roads Authority (RA), and the Otjiwarongo Municipality. The project addresses damage from heavy rains in January this year.
CEO Hifitikeko emphasized that several roads required extensive repairs and structural improvements as they had deteriorated beyond the scope of normal routine maintenance. He mentioned that the selected roads underwent complete reconstruction, including strengthening their base and improving drainage systems to extend their lifespan.
Hifitikeko also noted that if funds are available in the next financial year, the municipality plans to upgrade about two streets from gravel to bitumen level.
Otjiwarongo Municipality project coordinator, Solver Sinombe, detailed that Dr. Libertina Amathila Avenue, Bahnhof Street, and Kandara Church Street’s old tar was replaced with new asphalt. Additionally, Rikumbi Kandanga Road, River Street, Virmos Bar Street, Manuel Somseb Street, Simentaler Street, Wes Street, and Otjibricks Road were completely rehabilitated.
Sinombe reported that a total of 5.1 kilometers have been completed out of the 5 kilometers earmarked for rehabilitation. For resurfacing, 8.5 kilometers have been completed, surpassing the planned 6.5 kilometers. He expressed satisfaction with the progress and confidence that the projects are advancing well according to the implementation plan.
The work is being carried out by the contractor, China International Cooperation Group, and is expected to conclude officially in December this year.