RESIDENTS of the Outjo informal settlement want more pre-paid water taps installed in their area to reduce the distances they have to walk to collect water.

“From 7de Laan, I walk to Camp 5 as there is no tap in our area. It’s too far, we need more taps,” said Rita Hoakhaos.

Since there is no one to look after their children many mothers are forced to walk these long distances with their young ones when collecting water.

“I have to go with my children to fetch water as it is dangerous to leave them alone at home,” said Lucia Matengu.

Matengu, a mother of three, is accompanied by her children every day when she collects water in a 25-litre container.

“The Outjo municipality failed us for years now, imagine after 22 years water access is still difficult for some Namibians,” said the elderly Ouma Maria.

The chief executive officer of the Outjo municipality, Abel /Urib, told The Namibian that the municipality has bought 50 taps to be installed in the informal settlement areas.

/Urib said the installation will be done early next year, as pipelines have to be laid first.