Africa-Press – Namibia. THE Outapi Town Council, Road Fund Administration, and Road Authority have joined forces by signing a two-year MOU agreement to improve their road infrastructure.
The collaboration aims to clean streets, fix drainage damages, and maintain road signs. Additionally, the agreement includes significant upgrades such as the upgrading of a section of the main road MR92 and constructing stormwater drainage, pavements, and capacity improvements on MR123 on the Outapi-Tsandi road to prevent flooding.
Further, they also aim to seal DR3672 (Outapi-Kapalelona road), an existing gravel road, to reduce dust and address health considerations, while also enhancing urban collector streets in Outapi.
The work is set to commence in March 2025.
RFA CEO Ali Iipinge said partnerships like this one are important as they demonstrate their commitment to addressing the developmental needs of urban areas, settlements, and villages.
Last year, Iipinge said the RFA presented its Business Plan for the period 2025-2030, whereby the Fund aims to increase its RUCs revenue by 11.4%, from N$3.302 billion (previous 2024/25) to N$3.679 billion (current 2025/26).
He explained that this has resulted in 41.5% of the budget requests from Approved Authorities being funded. It was indicated at the Stakeholders Consultation Meeting that funding towards Local Authorities and Regional Councils will increase by 39%, from N$434 million to N$605 million.
“The RFA, at that platform, has reemphasized its commitment to playing its part in the development and expansion of the Namibian road network, both nationally and locally, by assisting Local Authorities in maintaining their urban arterial roads and streets,” he said.
He added that the funding allocated is determined and applied based on the principles of economic efficiency, safety, equity, and transparency within the Road User Charging instruments.
Meanwhile, Outapi Mayor Selma Asino indicated that their council has faced numerous challenges with the current state of their main road, M123 (Outapi–Tsandi Main Road).
“This road is severely congested, with traffic volumes far exceeding its capacity. The high traffic has led to frequent potholes, requiring constant maintenance,” she said.
Additionally, Asino said the road’s level is very low, making it prone to flooding and stormwater accumulation during the rainy season, which poses significant difficulties for motorists.
Despite receiving annual funds for road maintenance, Asino indicated that these funds have been insufficient to address the critical improvements needed. Upgrading M123 (Outapi–Tsandi Main Road) to a dual carriageway is essential to accommodate the high traffic volume and ensure the safety and convenience of all road users.
She stressed that good roads are vital to their community’s infrastructure. They facilitate transportation, improve accessibility, and contribute to economic growth.
By investing in better roads, Asino said they are investing in the future of Outapi. Improved road infrastructure will attract businesses, create job opportunities, and enhance the quality of life for residents.
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