What is access to water like in Namibia?

In Namibia, there are a multitude of villages struggling to have access to water. One village in particular, Amarika, has been hit especially hard by the lack of helpful infrastructure like paved roads or electricity. The harsh circumstances become even more unacceptable when you learn that the desalination plant has not been in operation at all during the past three years. 

Articles

Dying for a Drop from the Center for Collaborative Investigative Journalism

The residents of Namibia’s Amarika reflect on the dangerous lengths they are forced to go to, simply to collect water from the village’s wells.

Five Things You Should Know About Water Quality In Namibia from the Borgen Project

Located in southern Africa and bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the Republic of Namibia is known for its sweeping deserts and mineral exports. However, the country’s dry climate makes it susceptible to drought, which means there are scarce freshwater resources. Here are five things you should know about water quality in Namibia.

Namibia aims for 100% water access by 2030, acquires AfDB support from ESI Africa

On a water access drive, the African Development Bank has approved a $121.7 million loan and €3 million grant from the Rural Water Supply Sanitation Initiative Trust Fund to support Namibia’s Water Sector Support Programme.

Hand dug wells in Namibia: An underestimated water source or a threat to human health? from Science Direct

The rural population of parts of northern and western Namibia uses hand dug wells for their domestic water supply, partly because no other source (e.g., deep tube wells) is available, but also as a substitute for pipeline water that is often perceived as being too expensive. The water quality of these wells is usually not monitored or controlled, thus a study has been carried out in four study areas in Namibia: southern Omusati/Oshana area, Okongo/Ohangwena area, Omatjete/Omaruru area, Okanguati/Kunene area.

How an ancient well is bringing northern Namibia water – until funds dry up from the Guardian

A vast acquifer could quench the region’s thirst for hundreds of years, but investment is in short supply in this drought-prone nation.

While you continue to educate yourself on issues like access to water in Namibia that affect the disadvantaged communities, remember to have open dialogues with friends, family, and colleges about the ways that access to water clean is not always equal. Recommend different resources from above that helped broaden your own perspective and continue the conversation. 

With all social justice issues, it’s important not only to have open discussions but to take action if and when you are able. Below are a number of places to get involved through donations, participation in events, and simple actions.

Learn more from the Center for Collaborative Investigative Journalism

If you have any other information or resources related to wells in Namibia or other issues, please let us know at [email protected].