Usakos is staring down a serious water crisis, with the town caught between an approximately N$18 million debt owed to NamWater and a staggering N$36 million in unpaid water bills owed by consumers.
The financial standoff comes as NamWater prepares to implement a phased reduction and eventual suspension of bulk water supply to Usakos, raising concerns over the impact on residents and businesses.
In a notice issued on 18 September, NamWater referred to its earlier correspondence of 25 August 2026 concerning the suspension of water supply to the Usakos Town Council.
Council has acknowledged the approximately N$18 million outstanding to NamWater, but says it is engaging the water utility in an attempt to reach a settlement.
Among the proposals submitted by Council is an offset of approximately N$1.6 million that Council says NamWater owes it in rates and taxes.
But the Council itself is facing a major revenue collection problem.
According to Council, consumers owe approximately N$36 million in outstanding water-related debt, including a staggering N$12.88 million attributed to pensioners.
This leaves the town facing a combined water-related debt burden of approximately N$54 million between what Council owes NamWater and what consumers owe Council. Council says it continues to provide essential municipal services despite the financial pressure.
It has also rejected any suggestion that the current water rationing in Hakhaseb and Erongosig is directly linked to its outstanding NamWater account, saying the rationing is instead due to limitations affecting NamWater’s supply infrastructure.
In an attempt to improve water security, Council says it has developed four boreholes and two reservoirs and is proceeding with the installation of 800 prepaid water meters.
Council currently supplies Town, Bo-dorp and Plot Areas through its own water resources, while NamWater supplies Hakhaseb and Erongosig.
With NamWater’s planned supply restrictions looming, the pressure is now mounting on both sides to find a solution before the taps run dry.
Council says it remains available for engagement with NamWater and will keep residents informed of developments affecting the town’s water supply.
By Rudi Bowe
