Funding Gap Threatens Growth in Kavango West and Nkurenkuru town
By TUW
The Kavango West Regional Council and Nkurenkuru Town Council have raised fresh concerns over persistent underfunding, warning that delayed allocations and an imbalance in national budget distribution are slowing development in one of Namibia’s youngest and fastest-growing regions.
The two councils held a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening cooperation and aligning their priorities with national development goals. The meeting focused on improving household sanitation, accelerating land servicing, and upgrading informal settlements to support inclusive housing delivery.
However, much of the discussion was overshadowed by frustration over financial constraints that continue to obstruct major projects. Officials revealed that Nkurenkuru Town Council received no developmental budget for the 2025/26 financial year, while the Regional Council has also not received its expected support for the ongoing N$30 million Office Park project. Despite the allocation being approved, not a single payment has been made this financial year, leaving invoices dating back to April 2025 unpaid.
This, the councils say, has resulted in significant delays and growing uncertainty over the project’s completion.
In addition to capital project challenges, both councils stressed the urgent need for improved sanitation infrastructure. They resolved that all public institutions particularly schools must be connected to the Nkurenkuru sewerage system to enhance public health and meet future planning standards. All new and existing government buildings within the town boundaries will also be connected to the system.
Beyond infrastructure, revenue collection emerged as a key priority. The councils acknowledged the need to strengthen internal revenue streams to reduce over-reliance on the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, which they say cannot always provide timely funding.
The meeting further highlighted disparities in national budget allocations. While towns such as Katima Mulilo and Omaruru received N$100 million and N$300 million respectively, Kavango West which continues to battle acute developmental needs secured much lower allocations. This mismatch, they argue, undermines the region’s ability to scale up essential services.
Both institutions agreed to prioritise capacity building for staff and political leadership and reaffirmed their commitment to national frameworks, including NDP6 and the Swapo Party Implementation Plan.
Despite the challenges, the councils expressed determination to push for equitable funding and faster disbursement from central government. They stressed that without a fair share of national resources, service delivery efforts risk falling further behind.
As the youngest region continues to grow, council leaders emphasised that increased financial support is critical for unlocking economic potential and improving living conditions for residents in both Kavango West and Nkurenkuru.
