By Jeremiah Ndjoze

The Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy is looking at the electrification of at least 26,700 households per year, in order to meet its target of a 70 percent electrification rate by the year 2030. 
 

According to industries, mines and energy minister, Natangwe Ithete, at present, Namibia has just over 400,000 households that still need to be connected. “In light of this figures, one may find our target too ambitious and far-fetched, however, I believe that with unity of purpose we can maximize our resources and efforts to fulfil our national goal,” Ithete said.   
 

The minister, who is also the deputy prime minister, stressed that in the current era, electricity is no longer a luxury but a basic need. 
“Our government recognises this, hence in 2022, Cabinet approved a national electrification policy with the clear intent that by the year 2040, every household in Namibia should have access to electricity,” he revealed.
 

According to Ithete, the ministry in collaboration with the City of Windhoek initiated these projects during the 2024/2025 financial year through a service level agreement. He added that since the beginning of the project, about 814 households in Windhoek’s informal settlements have been connected, and 662 of those are already switched on. 
 

Windhoek mayor Ndeshihafela Laranja described the recent commissioning of electrified houses at Okatunda Y in the Tobias Hainyeko constituency as a significant milestone in the City Council’s ongoing quest towards a more equitable and prosperous City. 
According to Laranja, the initiative represents far more than just the flick of a switch, as it embodies the City’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Windhoek residents while ‘fostering sustainable development and building a brighter future for generations to come.’ 
 

“Imagine the impact [of this project]. The ability to study at night, the comfort of a hot breeze on a cold day, the opportunity to start a small business and the security of a well-lit home. 
 

"This is the reality we are creating. A reality that will transform lives and open doors to countless new opportunities for individuals, families and the entire community,” Laranja said.