Windhoek: Khomas Governor, Sam Nujoma, has stated that while Namibia has made progress in improving access to water, sanitation remains a significant national challenge affecting thousands of households. Addressing the World Wetlands Day and World Water Day Commemoration in Windhoek, Nujoma highlighted that in urban areas, about 98 percent of households have a yard water connection, while in rural areas, about 87 percent of households have access to potable water. According to Namibia Press Agency, Nujoma emphasized that despite successes in water access, sanitation remains a national crisis. Approximately 40 percent of Namibian households do not have access to basic toilet facilities, often resorting to open defecation, which poses public health and dignity issues. The governor stressed the importance of coordinated efforts, investment, and technical capacity to address social inequalities and the national sanitation crisis. Nujoma noted that infrastructure development alone is insufficient. He acknowledge d the government's commitment to addressing these issues but stated that ensuring full coverage requires more than government interventions. He mentioned that constructive steps have been taken over the past decade to bridge the gap in water investments. At the same event, Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) Managing Director, Waldemar von Lieres, warned of the risks associated with falling water levels in reserves. He stressed that delaying decisions until infrastructure fails or dams are depleted puts communities and the economy at risk. Von Lieres highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, industries, and communities to address the country's water challenges. Von Lieres further advocated for public-private partnerships as a practical and sustainable way forward. He underscored that partnerships combining public oversight with private investment and technical capability can accelerate infrastructure upgrades, expand water access, and strengthen long-term water security. The event was hel d under the theme 'Water, Wetlands and Gender: Honouring Indigenous knowledge for inclusive water security.'