Ncamagoro:Low water pressure from shared boreholes is endangering crops in the Ncamagoro Constituency of the Kavango West Region, according to local gardeners.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Gumi Garden Project in Gumi village, which involves 18 young people, shares a solar-powered borehole with residents and livestock. Project leader Hausiku Mpepo reported that the borehole cannot fill the garden's water tanks after livestock have been watered, resulting in crop losses. Mpepo suspects a problem with the pump despite the solar panels functioning well.

Watering the garden can also limit the community's access to water, Mpepo added. Anna Karora, a member of the Gumi Garden Project, emphasized that water is the group's primary requirement.

Kavango West Governor Verna Sinimbo stated that a second borehole would not be drilled, as the existing borehole should suffice for residents, livestock, and the garden. She mentioned that technicians would be dispatched to assess the low water pressure and explore solutions for better water distribution.

The Tukumwe Garden Project in Ncamagoro village is similarly affected. Member Agerius Kudumo noted that water availability is inconsistent, often requiring them to water crops in the afternoon. The group wishes to expand the garden, necessitating a larger water tank and a reliable water supply.

Richard Shikongo, Control Administrative Officer in the Directorate of Water Supply and Sanitation Coordination in the Kavango West Region, stated that the office was not involved in connecting the gardens to community boreholes and was unaware of the issues until media reports. He urged that the office be consulted before such connections are made to avoid similar problems in the future.