Vries questions N$10.8m Reho Spa spending
Diederik Vries a Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) member has questioned the utilisation of approximately N$10.8 million invested in the rehabilitation of Reho Spa in Rehoboth, which began in July 2024 but has yet to become fully operational. The concerns were raised in a parliamentary notice of questions directed to the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, seeking clarity on the expenditure, progress and outstanding work at the resort. "This situation warrants greater accountability regarding the utilisation of public funds and the continued delay in restoring a valuable tourism facility with significant economic and employment potential for the people of Rehoboth" he said.
Vries questioned discrepancies in reported government contributions of N$6.3 million, N$6.8 million and N$7 million, asking the minister to clarify the actual amount spent on the rehabilitation project, "N$10.8 million investment, what tangible developments have been achieved to date and which rehabilitation works are yet to be completed" he asked despite the reported combined investment by government, the Rehoboth Town Council and the community.
Questions were further raised about the legal transfer of the Reho Spa property from the Ministry of Works and Transport to the Rehoboth Town Council, "What strategies will ensure that the projected permanent employment opportunities benefit residents of Rehoboth, particularly unemployed young people?".
Vries further asked what the delay in reopening the swimming pool facilities, which the council had previously indicated would reopen in September 2026 and asked the minister to provide a revised operational date.
Another concern relates to Phase 3 of the rehabilitation, particularly the restoration of the natural hot springs, which are the resort's main attraction. He asked whether government had secured the funding needed to complete this phase.
The questions also seek clarity on the management and financial sustainability arrangements put in place to ensure that Reho Spa generates sufficient revenue, maintains its facilities and does not fall into disrepair.
In addition, he called for details of strategies to ensure that projected permanent employment opportunities benefit Rehoboth residents, particularly unemployed young people.
