Namibia to build more VIP toilets to improve sanitation
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The Namibian government plans to construct 50 ventilated improved pit (VIP) toilets in five constituencies within the Otjozondjupa region.
This new construction will add to the 125+ VIP toilets already built in the region, which are designed to be more sanitary and reduce odours compared to traditional pit latrines. Gerson Karaerua, chief regional officer for the Otjozondjupa Regional Council, explained the toilets will primarily help elderly people and others without access to facilities, who currently relieve themselves outdoors.
The project responds to a recognised need to improve sanitation access for residents, many of whom are pensioners and face long walks to find private locations. The government reaffirmed its commitment to sanitation improvements in 2023, aiming to increase access to basic sanitation for 67% of the population by 2027, a rise from 46%. Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform distributed 90 VIP latrines to communities in the Omaheke region, costing N$3.3 million.
The budget for the 50 new toilets in Otjozondjupa has not yet been determined.
