Windhoek - McHenry Venaani, the leader of Namibia's official opposition, has called on President Nangolo Mbumba to establish a water commission aimed at improving the management and utilization of the country’s water resources.

According to Namibia Press Agency, who spoke to the media on Monday, the proposed water commission would oversee comprehensive water resource management and promote conservation efforts through collaborative frameworks. He emphasized that such a body is essential for safeguarding the agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and supporting overall economic growth in Namibia. Venaani argued that without such oversight, Namibia risks becoming a water-stressed nation, failing to capitalize on its water resources compared to neighboring countries.

Venaani pointed to South Africa's success with similar commissions, noting their effectiveness in managing water resources, mitigating crises, and ensuring sustainable usage. He highlighted discrepancies in water utilization along Namibia's borders, citing the underutilization of major rivers such as the Orange, Zambezi, and Kunene compared to neighboring countries. By establishing a water commission, Venaani believes Namibia can better coordinate its response to water shortages, manage droughts, provide emergency relief, and support research into sustainable water practices and technologies.

The opposition leader’s call to action underscores a pressing need to rethink water governance and management to better utilize and preserve Namibia’s critical water resources.