By: Annakleta Haikera
A N$1,177,422.79 streetlight project has brought new light and renewed hope to Ndiyona Settlement along the B8 trunk road in the Kavango East Region.
This is set to enhance safety and prolonged economic activity in the area, such as trading.
The project, funded by the Kavango East Regional Council, was completed within three months and incorporates energy-efficient LED technology to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
The official handover ceremony took place on Monday, officiated by the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, James Sankwasa, represented by his advisor, Boniface Mutumba.
Speaking on behalf of the minister, Mutumba said the installation of the new streetlights symbolises transformation, progress, and improved safety for residents and road users.
“Streetlights are not just fixtures, they are beacons of progress. By illuminating Ndiyona and the B8 road, we are improving safety, stimulating economic activities, and enhancing the quality of life for our people,” he said.
He added that adequate lighting helps reduce the risk of traffic accidents and deters criminal activity.
“Families, students, and travellers will now move with greater confidence after dark,” Mutumba remarked.
In the same breath, he urged residents to protect and maintain the new infrastructure.
“These streetlights are now your responsibility as much as they are ours. Let us safeguard them for the benefit of all, especially our children and the most vulnerable,” he noted.
Mutumba shared that the project forms part of the government’s broader rural electrification and infrastructure development programme aimed at improving living conditions across all regions.
“This project is not just about lighting a road, it’s about lighting lives, creating opportunity, and ensuring that no Namibian is left behind,” he concluded.
Community members welcomed the development, saying it has already made a noticeable difference. Anna Muhepa, a local shop owner, said the lights have improved security for businesses.
“Before, we used to close early because of darkness and fear of thieves. Now, we can stay open longer, and customers feel safe walking home,” she said.
Samuel Mukoya, another resident, said walking at night has become much safer, noting that “We can now see people and animals crossing the road and walking behind us clearly.”
Some traditional leaders also thanked the government for responding to the community’s long-standing request.
“For years, we have been asking for lights along this road. It was dangerous for school children and travellers at night. Today, we see real development reaching Ndiyona,” one of the leaders mentioned.
The small settlement of Ndiyona is located about 120 kilometres east of Rundu, serving as the administrative centre of the Ndiyona Constituency. The area is home to a mix of government offices, schools, and small businesses.
Like many rural communities in Namibia, Ndiyona has long faced challenges related to limited infrastructure, including poor lighting, which has affected safety and economic activities, especially at night.
