On 13–14 October 2025, the WaReNam project hosted a two-day Capacity Development Workshop at the NamWater Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC) in Okahandja. The in-person workshop brought together representatives from NamWater, the Emschergenossenschaft-Lippeverband (EGLV, Germany), national training institutions, and project partners to strengthen cooperation on operation and maintenance (O&M) and training for sustainable water and wastewater management in Namibia.
The workshop opened with welcoming remarks by Elten Cloete (NamWater HRDC), followed by opening statements from Irwin Haihambo (NamWater) on behalf of NamWater’s CEO, and a video message by Frank Obenaus (CTO, EGLV). Speakers emphasized the critical role of targeted capacity development and long-term partnerships in addressing Namibia’s water security challenges.
An overview of the WaReNam project was presented by Sophia Keller (ISOE), highlighting the project’s objective to support the development of a multi-level National Water Reuse Strategy through the integration of technology, governance, and capacity development. Participants were also introduced to the institutional structures and mandates of NamWater, NamWater HRDC, and EGLV, creating a shared understanding of roles, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.
Technical sessions focused on operation and maintenance practices in water supply and wastewater treatment. NamWater presented key O&M challenges, including ageing infrastructure, regulatory requirements, data gaps, and the need to move from reactive to preventive and predictive maintenance approaches. EGLV shared international experience in wastewater treatment operations, providing valuable insights into efficient and sustainable O&M models. A guided tour of the NamWater HRDC campus complemented the technical discussions.
The second day focused on training and capacity development. Presentations on existing training programs at NamWater HRDC and EGLV highlighted both strengths and gaps, particularly in wastewater treatment, water resources management, digital systems, and automation. During group work sessions, participants identified requirements for sustainable O&M, such as a skilled workforce, modernized infrastructure, adequate training facilities, and improved stock and asset management systems.
Key outcomes of the workshop included agreement on:
Strengthening exchange programs and partnerships in training and human resource development;
Exploring collaboration on curricula development for wastewater treatment, involving national training authorities;
Initiating steps toward a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NamWater and EGLV beyond the scope of the WaReNam project.
In the closing session, participants expressed appreciation for the open exchange and practical focus of the workshop, underlining its importance for building long-term capacity and institutional cooperation. The outcomes will directly inform WaReNam’s capacity development activities and contribute to creating the enabling conditions for sustainable water reuse and water security in Namibia.