Africa-Press – Namibia. The Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekundi, on Friday broke ground to start work on the upgrading of the Oshakati–Ompundja road in the Oshana region.
Still on Friday, the minister has officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the long-awaited upgrading of the Uushake-Okankolo road to low-volume seal standard.
Again on Friday, minister Nekundi officially opened the Engoyi- Omuntele road.
During the groundbreaking, the minister said the Oshakati–Ompundja road connects Oshakati, the regional capital of the Oshana region and a major economic hub, with the Ompundja constituency and surrounding communities.
“For years, this road has been in an unacceptable condition, making travel difficult, uncomfortable, and sometimes even unsafe.
We have heard the cries of the road users, from taxi drivers, business owners, farmers, school children, and community members, all of whom have long endured challenges along this route,” he said
Nekundi stressed that the upgrading of this road to low-volume seal standard will not only improve road safety and travel comfort but will also stimulate economic activity, and enhance access to essential services, schools such as Omeege Primary School, Ekuku Junior Primary School, Ompundja Primary School, Oshihenge Combined School, to Golgotha Church and the Mandume Pension Centre.
“This road is approximately 43 kilometres long, and today we begin with phase 1A, which spans 12 kilometres. This is fully funded by government,” he said.
He indicated that the project amounted to approximately N$28.9 million.
“Our government once again demonstrates our commitment to developing our national infrastructure despite financial constraints.
The Consultant tasked to ensure quality work on this project is Pregon Consulting Engineers & Dunamis Consulting Engineers (PD Joint Venture), and the Contractor is the State-Owned Entity,” said the minister.
He stated that the Roads Authority is responsible for the overall management of this project.
“I have been informed that 25% of the contract amount is assigned to SME Subcontractors. In addition, the region will benefit from the employment of unskilled labourers from the region.”
In addition, he said it is anticipated that more than 40 labourers comprising skilled and unskilled personnel will be required during the construction of this project.
“This is good news indeed, and it also aligns with our policy to empower local contractors and SMEs.” he added. Nekundi urged the contractor and consultant to carry out their work diligently, within the agreed timelines and quality standards.
“Community members I ask for your patience and cooperation during construction. Let us support and protect this development because it belongs to all of us.” he added.
Community members have expressed their appreciation for the government’s efforts to upgrade the roads.
They say this is true testimony that their government is committed to ensuring service delivery.
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