By: Annakleta Haikera
The Rundu Town Council (RTC) revealed on Wednesday that it is investing more than N$118.9 million in road infrastructure projects to improve access, reduce flooding and support economic development across the town.
The Town Council is upgrading 7.2 kilometres of roads to low-volume bitumen seal in Tutungeni and Queens Park, where severe stormwater erosion has damaged roads, properties and underground services along the river.
Rundu Town Mayor Andreas Jikerwa said the N$101.65 million project includes the construction of stormwater drainage channels to safely direct runoff to controlled discharge points, reducing erosion and protecting infrastructure.
The project started on 19 March 2026 and is expected to be completed by 27 April 2027.
He said Tutungeni and Queens Park were prioritised after a 2024 stormwater master plan identified them as the area’s most at risk of infrastructure damage caused by uncontrolled stormwater.
The Rundu Town Council is also upgrading 17 kilometres of sandy roads to gravel standard in Kasote, Sauyemwa, Kehemu, Kaisosi and Ndama to improve access to both formal and informal residential areas.
The N$17.34 million project is expected to be completed on 1 August 2026.
Jikerwa said the roads were selected mainly based on traffic volumes, with input from political leaders and other stakeholders.
He acknowledged that the gravel road project experienced delays due to late payments from the central government, shortages of gravel after the Kaisosi borrow pit was depleted, and encroachment on road reserves.
However, he said the gravel supply challenge has since been resolved.
Jikerwa said the upgraded roads will improve connectivity, reduce travel times, enhance access to schools, clinics and businesses, and improve the delivery of municipal and emergency services.
He added that the Rundu Town Council remains committed to extending road upgrades to other informal settlements and newly developed residential areas as funding becomes available.
Maria Kambonde, a Tutungeni resident, said the road upgrade would make it easier for residents to travel during the rainy season and help reduce flooding near their homes.
Paulus Muronga, who lives in Queens Park, welcomed the stormwater drainage project, saying erosion has damaged roads and threatened nearby properties for years.
Martha Shikongo, a resident of Kehemu, said upgrading sandy roads to gravel standard would improve access for taxis, schoolchildren and emergency vehicles.
According to reports, residents in parts of Rundu have faced challenges caused by poor road conditions, sandy streets and uncontrolled stormwater flow for years.
During the rainy season, some areas experience flooding, erosion and difficult access due to inadequate drainage systems and unpaved roads.
