Africa-Press – Namibia. For decades, Kavuki in Rehoboth was defined by dusty streets, poor infrastructure and as a hotspot for drugs and crime.
The biggest concern was safety.
During the rainy season, the river cut the community off, forcing children to be driven across to avoid risking their lives.
A few years ago, a schoolgirl tragically drowned while trying to cross the river.
However, a new road project, officially launched last week, has brought a ray of hope to the community.
Funded by the Roads Fund Administration (RFA) at an estimated N$5.06 million, the development is set to transform Kavuki.
Residents welcome change
For pensioner Johanna Susana Titus, who has lived in Kavuki since 2007 and suffers from asthma, the road is a blessing.
“This dusty road affected me a lot. Now, I am happy and proud that our area is finally being developed,” she said with gratitude.
Young couple Charlene and Lee-Roy Louw also voiced their excitement.
“This project is a beautiful gesture. It will uplift the town’s image. It might even increase the value of our homes,” Charlene said.
She recalled how the gravel road damaged their car and often forced them to walk home when rivers flooded during rainy seasons.
For fellow pensioner Lettie van der Berg, the change was immediate.
“Since the contractors started with the road, the dust has already settled. We are so grateful,” she said.
Safety and dignity
The road, measuring 960 metres, includes four speed humps and three drifts to control reckless driving and water flow.
Sidewalks, kerbs and road markings are part of the upgrade, with bypass routes created to reduce disruption.
The Rehoboth Council is also servicing the area with sewage systems.
However, challenges remain.
Stolen construction profiles (road level indicators) and residents walking on unfinished sections pose serious concerns.
The six-month project has been awarded to Sebke Civil Contractors CC, owned by Kevin and Jakobus Majiedt.
They plan to hire 10 extra security guards to protect the project during its sensitive phases.
“It’s frustrating now because of the inconvenience. But once the project is done, everyone will be happy. The investment will be worth it,” he said.
Employment for the locals
The project will create at least 100 jobs in addition to Sebke’s 17 permanent staff and several casual workers.
Materials are sourced locally – from gravel in Rehoboth to bitumen in Okahandja, “thus ensuring that the money circulates within the bounds of Namibia,” he said.
“It’s about ploughing back into our own Rehoboth community. Every project we finish makes us proud – not only because of the quality of the road, but because it changes lives. Pride is what drives us,” he added.
The contractor’s approach is to employ residents from the area of the project.
Members of the Burgershoek committee, who often volunteer for the town council, took a risk by approaching the contractor.
Initially, they were told that the early phases were machine heavy.
However, on 8 September, they got the call, and work started immediately.
The contractors vowed to use only Namibian materials and invest in the community’s skills and upliftment.
Building future
For worker Imms Garoёb (30), the project is more than a job.
He first applied at Sebke in 2024 but he was not successful.
He returned and was hired.
His persistence and determination paid off.
“I’m learning every day. I can go far with this company. It helps me support my family,” he said.
With Church Street underway, the Kavuki community believes the road is more than just asphalt.
It is a lifeline that brings safety, jobs and restores dignity. It marks a new chapter for the citizens of Kavuki.
Taking pride
While the handover date is set for March 2026, the contractors are determined to complete the project earlier as they did with their two previous road projects – Luketz Swartbooi Street and Dr Hage G Geingob Drive.
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