NamWater has dismissed social media claims that water supplied to Swakopmund is contaminated with Shigella bacteria, saying the allegations are false, misleading and unsupported by credible evidence.

In a statement issued on today,1 August, the national bulk water supplier said it was concerned about information circulating on the Swakopmund Gesels Facebook group, alleging that contaminated water had caused children to become seriously ill.

NamWater said there is no evidence to support the claims and warned that the spread of unverified information could create unnecessary public fear and undermine confidence in the country’s water supply.

“The information circulating is false and has not been supported by any credible evidence,” the utility said.

According to NamWater, maintaining water quality remains one of its key priorities. It said microbiological testing conducted for its Coastal Business Unit consistently records a pass rate of more than 98%, demonstrating compliance with required water quality standards.

The utility urged members of the public to verify information before sharing it, particularly when it relates to public health and essential services.

NamWater also highlighted ongoing investment in water infrastructure in the Erongo Region, saying two pipeline replacement projects worth more than N$170 million are currently under way.

The projects include the N$86.6 million Omdel–Wlotzkasbaken Pipeline Replacement Project and the N$84 million Schwarzekuppe–Swakopmund Pipeline Replacement Project.

According to the utility, the projects are expected to reduce water losses, minimise pipeline failures and unplanned supply interruptions, improve the resilience of the bulk water supply system and strengthen water security for households, businesses and industries along the central coast.

The projects are also expected to create approximately 120 local employment opportunities.

NamWater thanked residents who alerted it to the social media posts and encouraged the public to rely on information issued through official channels, including NamWater, the Swakopmund Municipality and other relevant authorities, on matters relating to water quality and public health.

The utility reiterated its commitment to providing safe, reliable and sustainable bulk water services while continuing to invest in infrastructure to secure Namibia’s future water supply.