A significant electrification project in the Kavango West region of Namibia has successfully provided electricity to nearly 200 households in Nkurenkuru Extension 10. The commissioning ceremony was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines, and Energy, Natangue Ithete, who announced a comprehensive 14-year plan aimed at achieving universal electricity access across the country. He reassured residents that even in areas where direct household connections are not practical, access to electricity would be guaranteed.
The project is part of a larger initiative funded by the Ministry of Industries, Mines, and Energy through a service level agreement with the Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (Nored), with a total investment of N$12.1 million. This includes N$9.6 million for current projects and N$2.5 million earmarked for the second phase of Sikondo village. Nored board director Andreas Shintama emphasized the collaborative effort involving local councils and the ministry, stating that electricity access is crucial for social and economic development.
Nored is also working on additional projects to provide 354 connections at Maporeza and 68 connections for Rupara Shackdwellers, funded by a KfW government grant, with a completion target of June 2026. However, concerns were raised about electricity theft and unsafe practices in the region, prompting Nored to launch the ‘Takamisa Kikosi’ safety campaign. Shintama urged residents to report illegal connections and to prioritize electrical safety in their homes and businesses.