Namibia is set to begin construction on its second desalination plant in January 2025, aiming to ensure long-term water security, crucial for the country’s sustainable development and economic growth. The plant, with a planned capacity of approximately 20 million cubic meters, is expected to be operational by early 2027.
NamWater, the national water utility, has engaged Synergy International Consultants as a transaction adviser to help develop an implementation model and provide legal, technical, and financial guidance for the project. The legal due diligence has confirmed the viability of this joint venture, paving the way for negotiations between NamWater and Swakop Uranium to move forward with the plant’s development.
The new desalination facility will be located near Wlotzkasbaken in the Namib Desert, not far from the existing Orano plant, the largest reverse osmosis seawater desalination plant in Southern Africa. The Orano plant currently plays a crucial role in Namibia’s water supply system, which relies heavily on the Omdel and Kuiseb Delta aquifers.
According to Namibia’s Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, the country’s current water sources collectively provide just under 30 million cubic meters annually, a volume that has reached its sustainable limit. With increasing demand driven by ambitious development plans, expanding mining activities, industrial growth, agriculture, and food production, the need for additional water resources has become urgent.
Namibia’s economy is projected to grow by 3.7% in 2024, according to the Central Bank of Namibia. However, ongoing drought conditions and potential water supply interruptions on the coast pose significant risks to this growth. The new desalination plant is a strategic initiative aimed at mitigating these risks, positioning Namibia as a leader in sustainable water management.
In addition to the domestic benefits, discussions have been held with the Botswana government about the possibility of supplying water from the Namibian coast to Gaborone via a pipeline through Windhoek. This cross-border collaboration could further enhance regional water security and support economic development in both nations.
The new desalination plant represents a significant investment in Namibia’s future, ensuring a secure and reliable water supply that is essential for supporting the region’s economic activities and improving the quality of life for its residents.