TSANDI: The construction of the Tsandi-Omugulugwombashe road, an essential infrastructure project in the Omusati Region, has passed the 70 percent completion mark, as reported by Roads Authority spokesperson Hileni Fillemon.

According to Namibian Press Agency, in a conversation with Nampa on Wednesday, the development of the 22-kilometre stretch is on course, with the first phase of the road expected to be finished between December 2023 and January 2024. This initial phase includes the construction of a 12-kilometre section that began in May 2023, with funding projected to be close to N.dollars 26 million.

Katrina Nahenda, a site agent for Kambwa Construction, noted that the surfacing phase is complete and work is now focused on applying the final layer. The collaboration with project managers from the DAT joint venture and the support from their client, the Roads Authority, were cited as reasons for the satisfactory progress of the project.

Nahenda emphasized the importance of timely payments from the Roads Authority, which have contributed to the uninterrupted continuation of the project. She mentioned the improvement this project will bring to the local community, making travel to the national shrine at Omugulugwombashe smoother compared to the prior 22km gravel road.

Further community engagement has resulted in the identification of additional support measures, such as the construction of five earth dams and the enhancement of five access roads leading to local schools. Kambwa Construction has also incorporated 35 local individuals into the workforce for this project.

Adding to the community perspective, Tsandi Village Council land management officer Rebbeka Nuule expressed optimism regarding the road’s completion, anticipating a boost to the town’s economy through increased tourist activity to Omugulugwombashe. This location is of historical significance as the starting point of Swapo’s armed liberation struggle on 26 August 1966.