Oshikoto council secures N$6.4 million from EIF to improve water scarcity

By: Maria Namupala

The Oshikoto Regional Council, in collaboration with the Environmental Investment Fund (EIF), on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving access to potable water for residents affected by the ongoing water shortage.

The agreement, signed by EIF Chief Executive Officer Benedict Libanda and Oshikoto Governor Sacky Kathindi, establishes a structured framework for cooperation between the two parties.

Libanda said that, as part of the initial phase, an estimated N$6.4 million has been allocated for the drilling, development, and installation of boreholes at priority sites. The funding will also support the installation of water pumping systems, storage infrastructure, and distribution networks, as well as technical assessments and ongoing project monitoring to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Libanda said EIF will also help check if the water is safe to drink, making sure the pumps stay fixed and operational and with local leaders to manage the water fairly.

Kathindi noted that the region needs N$22 million to ensure that every resident has access to water within a five-kilometre radius of their home.

” This is just the first step, it will take time, but we are committed to finishing the job, and make sure our people get all the services they need closer to their houses. This project is a big step towards making life better for everyone in Oshikoto who has suffered from water shortages for too long,” said Kathindi.

Kathindi added that since his appointment in 2025, addressing access to clean water has been his top priority.