Staff Reporter
THE Ohangwena Aquifer 2, which is an abundant fresh underground water source, is a huge blessing for the region. It has the potential to turn Ohangwena into a hub of agriculture, industry, commerce, and healthy living for its inhabitants and those of neighbouring regions.
This was said by Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa on the occasion of the inauguration of the Ohangwena II Wellfield Water Supply Scheme Project at the Eenhana NamWater Defluoridation Plant on Thursday.
She said that access to potable water in the region is improving thanks to infrastructure projects and commended the Government for prioritising the improvement of access to water for all.
“However,” she said, “it remains a significant challenge for many residents who still travel long distances to access potable water.”
The Ohangwena 2 Wellfield project has started supplying potable water to the residents, having developed a groundwater system with decentralised water treatment and distribution systems to make access more resilient and sustainable.
Hamutumwa said that these achievements can be attributed to proactive leadership, effective coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Water, Land and Resources, other key stakeholders such as NamWater and development partners, and strong community participation at the local level.
She expressed gratitude for President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s continued leadership and advocacy for sustainable and equitable access to water, especially for rural communities.