The Namibia Water Corporation Ltd (NamWater) is owed N$2.4 billion by local authorities, municipalities, town councils, invdividuals, village councils and rural water communities.
In a statement issued on Monday NamWater spokesperson Lot Ndamanomhata said the company is facing growing financial challenges due to increasing outstanding water service payments.
“This marks a 16% increase from the N$2.1 billion recorded in June 2024, posing a serious threat to the long-term sustainability of water supply in Namibia,” he said.
Ndamanomhata said local authorities owed the highest amount at N$889 million.
“The highest debt was owed by Rundu Town Council with N$333.9 million, followed by N$108.4 million owed by the Rehoboth Town Council,” he said.
Ndamanomhata said the persistent financial strain is hindering the expansion of water services to underserved communities.
“While the Namibian government, largely through NamWater, currently serves 87% of the population with access to water, further expansion to underserved communities is at risk due to the financial strain caused by unpaid debts,” said Ndamanomhata.
