Minister Veikko Nekundi presents works and transport budget in National Assembly

Windhoek. April 2026.

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Allow me to begin by appreciating the minister of finance, Ericah Shafudah, and the director general of the national planning commission, Kaire Mbuende, together with their teams, for the work done in compiling the 2026/2027 budget, as I present the budget allocation for vote 23: department of works for consideration and approval.

Vote 23 has been allocated a total budget of N$592.972 million. Of this amount, N$499 million is allocated for operational expenditure, while N$93.972 million is allocated for capital investment.

This budget addresses challenges related to public infrastructure and the management of state assets, while strengthening the government’s capacity to deliver efficient and reliable services.

The department of works is mandated to develop, implement and regulate policies relating to infrastructure development and the management of state assets. It also administers legislation governing the construction industry and regulates professional practices in architecture, quantity surveying and engineering.

In addition, the department provides technical support to the government in infrastructure development, payment of rates and taxes, stores management and auction services. It also ensures the provision of accommodation and maintenance of government properties, while delivering technical services to offices, ministries and agencies and regional councils.

These services include implementation of construction projects, provision of maintenance materials, and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment.

During the 2025/2026 financial year, several key achievements were recorded. These include the construction of workshops and a storeroom at the Outapi maintenance regional office, fencing of the Tsumkwe sub-office, and completion of infrastructure works at Katjinakatji sub-office.

Maintenance and renovation of government buildings were carried out nationwide, including offices, flats and houses across multiple regions. Additional works included renovations at the national museum, police housing, regional offices and government flats, as well as electrical and structural upgrades.

Prepaid water meters were installed at Nesser Huis in Windhoek, and major water infrastructure improvements were completed. Restoration of the hot water system at Windhoek central hospital and installation of medical gas systems at Katutura intermediate hospital were successfully completed.

Further improvements included conversion of hospital bathtubs to showers and the management of construction projects valued at over N$8 billion across government.

The ministry also implemented photovoltaic systems to promote renewable energy, including a solar carport system and an electric vehicle charging station at its headquarters.

Procurement contracts valued at over N$256 million were awarded to Namibian-owned companies, supporting local enterprise development and job creation. A database of local manufacturers was also established to promote locally produced goods in line with the growth at home strategy.

Under programme 01: construction and building regulation, an amount of N$68.369 million is allocated to oversee capital construction projects, enforce building standards and regulate the construction industry.

Under programme 02: fixed asset management, N$70.387 million is allocated to provide office accommodation and manage government properties, including land transactions and housing allocation. Rental payments are also provided to ensure adequate office space. Progress continues on the development of a comprehensive government asset register.

Under programme 03: maintenance of government properties, N$288.178 million is allocated to maintain and rehabilitate infrastructure, including hospitals and regional facilities. An amount of N$91.922 million is specifically allocated for major rehabilitation projects.

Under programme 04: provision of store and auction services, N$32.726 million is allocated to manage procurement, warehousing and distribution of supplies, as well as disposal of assets through public auctions. These activities generated significant revenue, contributing to cost recovery and efficient asset management.

Under programme 05: provision of horticultural services, N$11.098 million  is allocated for landscaping and maintenance of government facilities and support for national events.

Under programme 99: policy coordination and support services, N$122.214 million is allocated for leadership, financial management, human resource administration and strategic oversight.

The ministry has 2 753 approved positions, of which 1 651 are filled, with plans to fill additional posts during the financial year. Recruitment, training and employment programmes have been implemented to strengthen human capacity.

Information and communication technology improvements are also underway, including the implementation of a disaster recovery solution and the upgrading of office connectivity.

We have delivered on our commitments and will continue to build a connected, prosperous and inclusive nation.

I therefore request this house to support and approve the allocation of N$592.972 million for vote 23 for the 2026/2027 financial year.

I thank you.

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