Second desalination plant approved for Namibia

By Annelie Coleman | 5 August 2024 | 7:00 pm

Namibia’s Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform, Calle Schlettwein, recently announced that the government had authorised the construction of a second desalination plant.

The Erongo Desalination Plant, also known as the Orano Desalination Plant, was constructed between 2008 and 2010. It is the largest reverse osmosis seawater desalination plant in Southern Africa. Photo: Erongo Desalination Plant

Reuters reported that the decision was aimed at ensuring long-term water security, which is crucial for sustainable development and economic growth.

Construction on the second desalination plant was planned to commence in January 2025. The plant, with a capacity of about 20 million cubic meters, was expected to be commissioned by early 2027.

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NamWater, the national water utility, had secured the services of Synergy International Consultants as a transaction adviser to develop an implementation model and provide essential legal, technical and financial assistance for the project.

Legal due diligence confirmed the viability of this joint venture, paving the way for negotiations between NamWater and Swakop Uranium to develop the plant. Schlettwein emphasised NamWater’s vital role in managing the country’s water supply infrastructure, which currently depends on the integrated water supply system comprising the Omdel and Kuiseb Delta aquifers and the existing Orano desalination plant.

Located 35km north of Swakopmund near the settlement of Wlotzkasbaken in the Namib Desert, Orano is the largest reverse osmosis seawater desalination plant in Southern Africa.

“Our ambitious development plans, along with those of Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, increased mining activities, industrial demand, agriculture, and food production, have pushed projected demand beyond what the current sources can deliver. These water sources collectively provide just under 30 million cubic meters annually, having reached their sustainable limits,” Schlettwein said.

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Namibia’s economy is expected to grow by 3,7% in 2024 but the drought and water supply interruptions at the coast posed significant risks, according to the Central bank of Namibia.

The envisioned new desalination was a strategic move to position Namibia as a leader in sustainable water management. Schlettwein added the plant would ensure a secure and reliable water supply, crucial for supporting the region’s economic activities and enhancing the quality of life for residents.