Water brings hope to Kap ’n Bou
Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare, together with Otjozondjupa Governor John Julius ǁKhamuseb, officially inaugurated the new water reticulation system in the Kap ’n Bou and neighbouring areas. The initiative is a key part of ongoing efforts to curb the cholera outbreak in Kap ’n Bou and neighbouring areas, bringing much-needed relief to residents. Hoofman Gubes expressed her overwhelming gratitude, saying she was “very thankful for the water,” her voice filled with both emotion and joy.The Prime Minister’s visit to the cholera-stricken community highlighted government’s commitment to improving access to clean water and sanitation as a frontline defence against waterborne diseases. The newly opened water reticulation system is expected to significantly reduce residents’ reliance on contaminated ponds, which have been linked to the spread of cholera.
Exclusive preference for local suppliers
Addressing regional leadership during a briefing after his visit, Ngurare announced that government has issued a directive granting exclusive preference to local suppliers in the procurement of furniture. The directive exempts public entities from certain procurement procedures in order to cut red tape, speed up service delivery and promote local manufacturing.
“We may not have resources to go to the moon, but let us focus on solving local problems with local solutions by sourcing locally,” said Ngurare, emphasising the importance of supporting Namibian businesses and strengthening local value chains.
Giving credit where it is due
Ngurare praised the Otjozondjupa Regional leadership and the Inter-Ministerial Task Force in Grootfontein for their swift and coordinated response to the cholera outbreak in Kap ’n Bou and nearby areas. He stressed that credit must be given where it is due, noting the practical measures taken on the ground to protect communities.
The Task Force has installed a water tank and seven taps supplying clean drinking water to affected communities, helping residents avoid contaminated water sources. In addition, temporary isolation rooms have been set up at the hospital to manage cases and prevent further spread of the disease.
During his familiarisation visit to one of the cholera-affected locations on the outskirts of Grootfontein, the Prime Minister called for practical, sustainable solutions to address hygiene, sanitation and water challenges across the country. He further encouraged regional leadership to engage unemployed youth in cleaning cholera-prone environments through Cash-for-Work and Food-for-Work programmes, creating short-term employment while improving public health conditions.
The Otjozondjupa Regional Council was also commended for pledging N$50 000 towards cholera response efforts, a contribution the Prime Minister described as a strong demonstration of local commitment to safeguarding community health.
As clean water begins to flow in Kap ’n Bou, residents say the intervention brings renewed hope not only in the fight against cholera, but also for a healthier and more dignified future.
