Unpaid water bills put pressure on NamWater

Oshakati purification Plant

“The top 12 indebted local authorities collectively owe NamWater about N$889 million.”

WINDHEOK, 12 March – The Namibia Water Corporation Ltd (NamWater) is facing financial strain, with outstanding payments for water services reaching N$2.4 billion by the end of February 2025. The corporation’s latest figures reveal a 16% increase from N$2.1 billion in June 2024, raising concerns about the sustainability of the country’s water supply infrastructure.

NamWater spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata confirmed the escalating debt on Monday, attributing it to non-payment by municipalities, town councils, private consumers, village councils, rural communities, and government institutions.

“The highest debtor is Grunau Town Council, with an outstanding amount of N$333.9 million. Other heavily indebted municipalities include the Otavi Town Council (N$70 million) and the Municipality of Keetmanshoop (N$56 million).”

Despite intervention agreements with some local authorities, the debt continues to rise, posing a challenge to NamWater’s ability to maintain and expand water services.

The persistent non-payment trend, he noted, has been exacerbated by a perception that water should be provided without cost.

“Water is a necessity, but it is not free.

NamWater operates on a cost-recovery model, meaning payments are crucial for maintaining infrastructure and developing new water projects,” he said.

Ndamanomhata compared NamWater’s situation to that of NamPower, the national electricity supplier, which recently announced plans to disconnect services to defaulting clients. He warned that NamWater may have to take similarly steps if the debt continues to mount.

“We do not want to cut off water supply, as it is essential for life and development,” he said.

“However, unless payment regulations are enforced more strictly, NamWater’s financial viability will be severely compromised.”

In an effort to improve collection rates, the corporation is considering introducing smart water meters to ensure better monitoring and accountability. “We need to reach a point where those who can afford to pay do so, while ensuring that vulnerable communities continue to receive the support they need,” Ndamanomhata added.

NamWater is now calling on policymakers and local authorities to take urgent action to address the growing debt crisis, warning that failure to do so could lead to severe disruptions in water supply across the country.

The post Unpaid water bills put pressure on NamWater first appeared on Future Media News.

The post Unpaid water bills put pressure on NamWater appeared first on Future Media News.