Treated wastewater as a resource for sustainable water supply in Windhoek, Namibia:

Overview, drivers and benefits

Authors

  • Earl Lewis Life Science Division of the Multidisciplinary Research Centre, University of Namibia
  • Mayday Haulofu Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre, University of Namibia.
  • Nguza Siyambango Life Science Division, University of Namibia.

Keywords:

Windhoek, treated wastewater, sustainability, water supply, water demand

Abstract

For decades, Windhoek, which is situated in arid Namibia, was under chronic water stress due to diminishing water supply and increasing water demand. To enhance sustainable and adequate quantities of potable water for diverse water requirements, the first wastewater recycling plant in Africa was constructed. This paper provides an overview of Windhoek’s water resources and shows how treated wastewater makes an invaluable contribution to promoting the security of supply. The paper concludes that the main drivers for implementing wastewater recycling plants are population growth, urbanisation and industrialisation coupled with poor rainfall, drought and climate change coupled with the paucity of alternative freshwater sources within this central area in Namibia. Windhoek’s experience shows that treated wastewater does play a key role in the water supply system, but it requires adequate upgrading, comprehensive planning, training and ongoing commitment for its continued success.

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Author Biography

Mayday Haulofu, Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre, University of Namibia.

Research Assistant at the Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre, University of
Namibia.

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Published

2022-12-30

How to Cite

Lewis, E. ., Haulofu, M. ., & Siyambango, N. . (2022). Treated wastewater as a resource for sustainable water supply in Windhoek, Namibia: : Overview, drivers and benefits. Journal for Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences, 11(1&2), 48–56. Retrieved from https://journals.unam.edu.na/index.php/JSHSS/article/view/1769

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