Tsumeb: Over 450 houses in Tsumeb's Soweto location are currently without water for domestic use after the town council blocked their water tokens. Local community members reported that the municipality had issued notice that monthly fixed charges be linked to the prepaid system as a control measure. The monthly bill becomes payable in advance through the prepaid water system before purchasing water for consumption.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the houses, originally built in the colonial era for mineworkers in the 1950s, were donated to the municipality by the Tsumeb Corporation Limited (TCL) mine. Thomas Akwenye, a resident of Soweto, indicated that the municipality has instructed them to settle historical house water bills left by previous owners dating back to the 90s. Akwenye's water bill stands at N.dollars 180,000 due to these accumulating debts. He noted that some residents have debts accumulating to N.dollars 280,000. The municipality made the decision without consulting the affected residents to reach an agreement that would benefit both parties.

Akwenye added that the recent decision to block water tokens for Soweto residents and impose an arbitrary charge of N.dollars 600 to regain access to purchasing water is a significant burden. He emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental human right and should not be subjected to exorbitant fees.

The town's spokesperson, Stella Imalwa-Nangolo, clarified that the fixed monthly charge of N.dollars 600 is not a new fee and is not solely for water usage. The amount is an existing, gazetted tariff covering essential municipal services such as water, waste collection, and sewerage management. She explained that while most households use prepaid water, many residents have not been paying for these basic services, creating financial strain on the municipality and limiting its ability to provide consistent services.

Imalwa-Nangolo stated that the council understands some residents may be facing financial difficulties and encourages anyone with outstanding debts to visit the municipal offices to discuss payment arrangements or inquire about support.