He was shown an architectural model of the development and explained which buildings are which.

The administration block, two guard houses and a guesthouse for visiting VIPs are expected to be finished in early April 2006.

The Presidential residence, which is being financed through a grant from China, is being designed and construction will start early next year.

The State House complex covers 25 hectares and the buildings will cover 15 000 square metres.

The administration block is a three-storey building with a reception area at ground level, Cabinet chambers and a banquet hall on the first floor and offices on the top floor.

President Pohamba said that when he travelled abroad and saw the national assets of other countries he felt ashamed that Namibia did not have similar assets in the form of a state house.

He said he was aware that many people opposed the new State House and that some citizens were very critical.

But he said the time had come for all citizens to visit the complex to see what Government has done.

"This State House will house the President for as long as Namibia is in existence.

It is not Nujoma's castle nor Pohamba's building; it will be occupied by the current President for as long as he is President," he said.

Pohamba said he was impressed with what he had seen and thanked the workers for their efforts.

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