Erongo governor pushes for permanent offices as utility plans new electricity credit system

Erongo governor Natalia |Goagoses has renewed calls for the construction of a permanent government office park, warning that the regional council’s reliance on rented facilities is draining public resources.

Currently, the council spends about N$100,000 a month on office rentals. According to the Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), in the proposed 2025/26 budget, |Goagoses said that figure is expected to more than double to N$1.17 million. “This is unsustainable,” she said, urging the government to prioritize a permanent facility.

The governor’s remarks highlight ongoing concerns over fiscal efficiency in the Erongo region, where rising operational costs have put pressure on already stretched budgets.

In a separate development, regional electricity distributor Erongo RED announced plans for a new service that would allow customers to buy electricity on credit. Under the initiative, households could access power units immediately and repay the debt during their next purchase.

Benjamin Nangombe, the company’s head of communications, said the service is aimed at easing financial strain for families who often struggle to keep their homes powered. “It’s a practical solution that gives customers breathing room when they need it most,” he explained.

Together, the two initiatives underscore the region’s attempts to balance financial responsibility with social support, as both government and utilities grapple with rising costs.