Staff Reporter
FOLLOWING President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s recent visit to the Zambezi Region, the Minister of Education, Sanet Steenkamp, has also travelled to the region to assess the impact of flooding, particularly on the education sector.
The minister’s visit follows the temporary closure of schools such as Muzii Combined School, Mpukano Primary School, and Nakuntwe Combined School due to flooding. The Ministry of Education revealed that Steenkamp is accompanied by a delegation, and her visit commenced at the Zambezi Regional Council offices, where she met with the Director, Beaven Walubita, and his team.
“The Ministry, in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister, is working closely to determine the most effective ways to support the schools and learners affected by the floods in the region. The education sector has been significantly impacted, necessitating the urgent provision of temporary shelter, adequate nutritional support, and essential bedding to ensure the continued well-being and safety of affected learners,” the ministry explained.
FLOODED: Video shows Muzii Combined School is surrounded by water. Video: Facebook (Matengu Bayo Bahwile).
According to the Hydrological Services of Namibia, the Zambezi River at Katima Mulilo recorded a water level of 6.94 metres on Thursday morning. The Zambezi Regional Council confirmed that around 75% of the land in Kabbe North Constituency and 65% in Kabbe South Constituency has been submerged, as flooding in the Zambezi Region continues, isolating critical infrastructure, including schools, clinics, and police stations.
“The eastern Zambezi floodplains continue to fill rapidly, with backflow observed towards Ngoma Bridge and Lake Liambezi. The Chobe River at Ngoma Gate recorded a water level of 3.96m this morning. A flood alert is therefore advised for the eastern Zambezi floodplains. Communities are advised to remain on high alert and activate flood preparedness and response measures,” the Hydrological Services of Namibia added.
