Pipeline upgrade pushes Groot Aub water investment to N$18.4 million
The City of Windhoek has launched the second phase of the Groot Aub Water Pipeline Replacement Project. This N$5 million infrastructure investment will bring the municipality's total spending on upgrading the settlement's water network to approximately N$18.4 million since 2023.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, deputy mayor Nangula Amutenya said the latest phase would be completed over an anticipated six-month period and forms part of the city's long-term strategy to improve water security and replace ageing infrastructure in the growing settlement.
According to Amutenya, the municipality has invested about N$11 million in the procurement of pipeline materials that are being installed under the current contracts and future phases, with the overall investment in the replacement programme now standing at approximately N$18.4 million.
Improving water supply
The project, which began under Phase 1 in 2023, seeks to replace and upgrade critical sections of Groot Aub's water pipeline network to improve infrastructure capacity, increase water pressure and provide a more reliable water supply.
Amutenya said inadequate water infrastructure has resulted in low water pressure, supply interruptions and uncertainty for residents as the population continues to grow. "When water infrastructure no longer meets the needs of a growing population, families experience low water pressure, water supply interruptions and supply uncertainty. The City therefore recognises both the urgency of the challenge and its responsibility to respond with lasting infrastructure solutions," she said.
She added that the investment extends beyond engineering works. "Infrastructure development is not simply about pipes beneath the ground; it is about healthier households, stronger schools, safer communities and improved opportunities for residents."
Responding to community concerns
Amutenya acknowledged frustrations raised by Groot Aub residents over water challenges, saying the municipality had listened to the community's concerns.
She urged the appointed contractor to deliver the project on schedule and within budget while maintaining high safety and quality standards. "I call upon the appointed contractor and project team to deliver work of the highest quality, to uphold safety standards, to respect the community and to complete the project within the agreed timeframe and budget," she said.
She also appealed to residents to safeguard the upgraded infrastructure. "Illegal connections, vandalism and damage to water infrastructure reduce water pressure, increase water losses and compromise water quality. Let us protect public infrastructure, report unlawful activity and use water responsibly. The success of this project will depend not only on sound construction management, but also on our shared stewardship."
Part of broader renewal programme
Amutenya said the pipeline replacement project forms part of the municipality's broader commitment to renewing ageing water infrastructure while planning for future population growth. "The Municipal Council of Windhoek's vision is to be a sustainable and caring city, a city that is inclusive and resilient in which every community can access reliable basic services," she said.
She acknowledged that many communities continue to face service delivery challenges but stressed that progress is achieved "one well-planned and properly delivered project at a time".
Council member Demetreo Beukes, delivering the vote of thanks, described the project as another milestone in improving basic services in Groot Aub and thanked municipal officials, engineers and contractors for advancing the initiative. He said the N$5 million investment should be delivered safely, within budget and according to the anticipated six-month construction schedule. "We trust that you will execute this N$5 million investment safely, to the required quality, within budget and within the anticipated six-month construction period," he said.
