Africa-Press – Namibia. Omusati regional governor Immanuel Shikongo has expressed deep frustration over persistent delays and poor implementation of government projects in the region.
Shikongo made the remarks last week during his familiarisation visit to Oshikuku. His visits cover 12 constituencies where he is engaging with community members on issues such as infrastructure and basic services, employment creation, food security and disaster coordination, amongst others.
Highlighting the stalled projects in the constituency, the governor expressed disappointment over structures that have remained incomplete for years.
The Rural Development Centre in Ogongo, intended as a hub for agricultural training and community programmes, remains locked and unused. The soccer field in Outapi, constructed in 2013, still has only gates installed, while the rural sanitation project to build toilets in remote communities remains incomplete, leaving some areas without basic facilities.
“We cannot continue saying projects are implemented when there is nothing on the ground. Our people are losing confidence because all they see are unfinished structures,” Shikongo said.
He attributed the bulk of the problem to underqualified contractors and poor project management. “Sometimes, those who accept tenders are not well-skilled. They rush to get contracts but leave work halfway, do not show up, or provide poor-quality services.
“If you know you are not capable, do not take on these projects. Let those who are skilled and well-equipped do the work properly,” he said.
Shikongo also urged service providers and relevant authorities to prioritise effective project implementation, stressing the importance of timely execution, strong supervision and quality control of contractors to avoid repeated spending on poorly executed projects.
“People responsible for government tenders must ensure that projects are done on time, supervised well, and executed with quality. Repeating expenditure on failed projects is unacceptable,” he said.
He emphasised accountability and public oversight, calling on institutions to account for every cent spent and encouraging citizens to monitor progress and report delays or suspected corruption. Public funds, he said, must be protected and responsibly managed.
To avoid miscommunication and frustration among communities, Shikongo urged authorities to develop a culture of direct community engagement and public education.
“Those responsible must engage with communities, provide clear information on why projects are delayed, and help citizens understand where, how, and when to access services. It is not enough to just say, ‘We are building toilets’ and then go silent. Transparency and education are essential,” he said.
Community members expressed support for the governor’s stance, noting that delays and incomplete projects have fuelled rumours of mismanagement and underpayment of local contractors, which often leads to abandoned projects.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
