By: Loise Shiimi
Earlier this week, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) and the Road Fund Administration (RFA) formalised an agreement in which the administrator would invest over N$2 million annually in research for the next five years.
This funding agreement is designed to bolster research, innovation, and capacity development within Namibia’s road sector.
According to Professor Andrew Niikondo, acting vice-chancellor of NUST, these areas of collaboration between the two entities will focus on mutually beneficial research and entrepreneurial initiatives aimed at generating alternative revenue streams for the road sector.
Key research topics include climate-resilient road infrastructure financing that identifies funding mechanisms and develops adaptive strategies to address the impacts of climate change.
Cost optimisation and sustainability in road construction and maintenance analysing cost drivers, updating pricing models, and evaluating innovative and sustainable construction materials will also form part of the research topics.
Additionally, Niikondo noted that the partnership will enhance laboratory capacity and technical infrastructure through joint resource utilisation, upgrading facilities, and supporting evidence-based research and innovation in the transport sector.
He emphasised that these collaborative efforts are not only technically important, but also reflect critical national priorities requiring coordinated actions, innovative thinking, and evidence-based solutions.
Niikondo ensured that NUST’s mandate as an institution is to cultivate high-quality human capital through applied research and education.
“It is mandatory for our students to engage in work-integrated learning before graduating and entering the workforce. Likewise, our researchers are expected to conduct applied research aimed at addressing developmental challenges in Namibia, the SADC region, and beyond,” he stated.
RFA CEO Ali Ipinge also highlighted the significance of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), asserting that it represents a commitment to sustainable, evidence-based solutions for Namibia.
“We will collaboratively explore distance-based charging options, sustainable road materials, and innovative funding mechanisms to ensure our roads are constructed not only to be built but to last,” he stated.
Ipinge indicated that the annual investment of over N$2 million over the next five years will directly contribute to delivering innovative solutions for the transport and road sector.
He further explained that the RFA’s initiatives are aligned with Namibia’s national priorities outlined in NDP 6, ensuring that their investments support economic growth, infrastructure development, and effective service delivery.
“Simultaneously, we are guided by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, viewing them not only as global aspirations, but as practical action points influencing how we plan, construct, and maintain our roads,” he added.
Addressing the road sector funding gap for the 2025/2026 financial period, he noted that it stands at approximately N$3.7 billion.
He also mentioned that recent measures, such as the temporary 50% reduction in fuel levies, are projected to lead to an estimated revenue loss of around N$300 million over the next three months.
This will further strain the capacity to effectively fund road programs and projects, ultimately impacting the quality of available roads.
