‘Significant’ development planned for Wlotzkasbaken

Erongo chief regional officer Mupenzeni Ntelamo has flagged Wlotzkasbaken’s “severely outdated” water infrastructure as one of the main issues plaguing the settlement.The system currently relies on three workers manually filling household water tanks from a central reservoir. “This is pure slavery, I’m sorry to say,” he said. “We cannot continue this way. It is inefficient, labour-intensive, and simply unsustainable.” He assured the public that the regional council is working to modernise the system by connecting individual households to a consistent water supply, adding that the upgrade “will not only relieve our workers, but will also ensure a steady and reliable water service for residents”.Beyond water infrastructure, Ntelamo highlighted other improvements planned for the settlement, such as housing upgrades and a formal zoning scheme. He noted that funding has been secured from the urban and rural development ministry to support these initiatives. Currently, 32% of the necessary equipment for expanding the water infrastructure has been obtained, with pipeline work set to begin soon, he said. These efforts are expected to resolve long-standing water supply issues and improve overall living conditions for Wlotzkasbaken residents.Valuation issueNtelamo briefly addressed an ongoing court case regarding the valuation of land in the settlement. However, he merely expressed hope for a ‘swift resolution’ without going into detail. “We are optimistic that the court will soon make a decision, and this will allow us to proceed with important projects," he said.While the matter remains unresolved, he reaffirmed the council’s commitment to bringing essential services - including electrification and improved sanitation - to Wlotzkasbaken. “Despite these setbacks, we remain focused on delivering what we promised. Our goal is to ensure that every household has access to vital services,” he said. In a breakdown of funding allocations for the 2024/2025 financial year, Ntelamo highlighted key projects aimed at addressing Wlotzkasbaken's infrastructure shortages. According to the budget report, over N$23 million has been designated for various essential developments. This includes the construction of internal water reticulation for phases three, four and five, which has been allocated N$19 million. A total of N$51 000 was earmarked for the Wlotzkasbaken valuation roll project. The construction of staff housing, the establishment of a township and land surveying projects will receive over N$1 million each, while N$393 420 has been set aside for a land use structure plan. Additionally, building plans were allocated N$250 000, while N$160 000 will fund a septic tank trailer.“I believe that with the projects we have in place, Wlotzkasbaken will see significant progress in the next year,” Ntelamo said. precious@erongo.com.na

‘Significant’ development planned for Wlotzkasbaken

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

Please login to leave a comment

‘Significant’ development planned for Wlotzkasbaken

Comments

Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

Please login to leave a comment

Login