Residents and businesses in Usakos are facing a phased reduction and eventual suspension of their water supply after the Namibia Water Corporation Ltd (NamWater) announced measures starting next week.

In a notice issued on 18 September, NamWater said the decision follows its earlier letter of 25 August 2026 regarding the suspension of water supply to the Usakos Town Council.

According to NamWater, the Council has not provided written confirmation accepting the conditions contained in the August letter, nor submitted an alternative proposal that would achieve an equivalent outcome. NamWater will therefore implement a phased programme beginning on 21 September. During Week One, from 21 to 25 September, water supply will be suspended daily from 17h00 until 08h00 the following morning.

During Week Two, from 28 September to 5 October, the daily suspension will again run from 17:00 to 8:00 with an additional interruption between 12:00 and 14:00.

The situation will escalate during Week Three, from 6 to 9 October, when NamWater says there will be a full suspension of water supply.

Over weekends, supply will be reduced by approximately 50%, which NamWater warns could result in low pressure and possible outages, particularly in elevated and remote areas.

NamWater urged residents, businesses and institutions to make contingency arrangements, increase water storage where possible, conserve water and monitor water levels to prevent booster pump failures. The corporation said it will continue providing tanker services to critical institutions, including health facilities, schools and hostels, where required.

The phased programme will remain in place until the outstanding matters between NamWater and the Usakos Town Council are resolved and an acceptable formal arrangement is reached.

NamWater apologised for the inconvenience and urged the community to plan ahead for the interruptions.

By Rudi Bowe