Staff Reporter
THE Namibia Water Corporation (NamWater) is urging Swakopmund residents to use water sparingly, as the Orano Desalination Plant, which supplies the town with water, has been temporarily shut down until further notice.
According to NamWater’s Public Relations Officer, Lot Ndamanomhata, the desalination plant recorded a sulphur reading of 449 micrograms per litre (µg/L) on Monday, 20 January 2025, at 12:00. Ndamanomhata explained that this level far exceeds the plant’s operational limits, necessitating the temporary shutdown of the desalination plant.
“Sulphur upwelling, a seasonal natural occurrence along Namibia’s coast, disrupts desalination operations by risking equipment damage and requiring additional and extensive water treatment. To safeguard the plant, Orano has suspended production until conditions improve,” he said.
Ndamanomhata revealed that NamWater has initiated water supply restrictions for Swakopmund, with the possibility of further restrictions as there is uncertainty about when the plant will resume operations.
“NamWater has implemented contingency measures to prioritise water distribution, ensuring essential supply to critical areas. Residents and stakeholders are urged to use water sparingly,” Ndamanomhata urged.
