Water Security
Pipeline Vandalism Threatens Namibia’s Water Security and Economic Activity
NamWater warns that pipeline vandalism along the Okakarara–Elandspan system threatens community water supplies, disrupts agricultural activities and diverts resources from infrastructure development.
Namibia’s water security and rural economic activity faces growing risks following incidents of vandalism along the Okakarara–Elandspan pipeline system, with NamWater stressing that damage to critical infrastructure is disrupting water supply and increasing operational costs.
In a public notice this week, the Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater) said incidents include cutting pipes and tampering with air valves to release water.
The affected areas include pipeline branches between Okamutenja and Omuramboviruru, Omungondonguvi and Otjitaazu, as well as Otjengondo and Ourundu. Other incidents have also been reported at Okauha, supplied from Coblenz.
NamWater warned that the damage threatens reliable water access for households, farmers and other customers, while forcing the corporation to redirect financial and technical resources towards emergency repairs.
“Repairing damaged pipelines requires technical personnel, equipment, materials and financial resources that could otherwise be directed towards improving and expanding water supply services,” the corporation said.
The economic implications extend to agriculture and livestock farming, which depend on reliable water supplies to sustain production. Prolonged interruptions can affect rural livelihoods, disrupt water-dependent activities and place additional pressure on communities already facing water security challenges.
The corporation said damaged pipelines may take several days to refill and recover sufficient pressure after repairs, potentially prolonging disruptions for downstream customers. The resulting repair costs also divert resources from planned maintenance and infrastructure development, which are essential for strengthening Namibia’s water supply network.
NamWater further reminded the public that Section 127(1)(e) of the Water Resources Management Act, 2013 (Act No. 11 of 2013) makes unlawful damage to, or interference with, water infrastructure an offence.
“NamWater will report incidents of vandalism and suspected unlawful interference with its infrastructure to the Namibian Police for investigation and appropriate legal action,” the notice stated.
The corporation has urged farmers, community leaders, customers and residents to protect water infrastructure and promptly report leaks, damaged pipes or suspected vandalism to its Okakarara or Otjiwarongo offices.
