RA denies abandoning road projects

The Roads Authority (RA) says no road project has been abandoned and outstanding sections of ongoing projects will continue, subject to annual funding availability.

This is according to a statement issued by RA Chief Executive Officer, Mbahupu Hippy Tjivikua, on Friday after road users, regional councils and communities raised concerns about the pace of road construction.

“Contrary to some public assertions, it is incorrect to suggest that the Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN), the RA or the Road Fund Administration (RFA) has abandoned any road project,” the notice read.

“All outstanding sections of ongoing projects remain active commitments of the GRN, RA and RFA, and their implementation will continue subject to annual funding availability,” it said.

The RA said projects at advanced stages of construction would be completed within a reasonable timeframe, supported by technical reviews, funding discussions and prioritisation exercises.

“Road infrastructure is capital-intensive and requires substantial financial resources,” the notice said. It added that the RA, RFA and GRN are actively engaged in discussions to strengthen and diversify funding arrangements for road construction and maintenance.

The RA acknowledged delays, saying that it is aware of delays in the execution of some projects and is actively addressing the challenges affecting their timely implementation.

“Every effort is being made to address these concerns in the short, medium and long term through targeted maintenance interventions, accelerated procurement processes and improved project sequencing,” it said.

The notice did not name projects or give costs, completion dates or funding amounts.

Nampa reported on 13 October that the RFA recorded a N$2.3 billion deficit for the 2025/26 financial year, despite N$4.06 billion in revenue and N$3.5 billion invested in road preservation.

In August the national road network only received 40% of its required funding, according to RA head of road management system Sophia Tekie.

The RA further encouraged stakeholders to contact its head office for verified information on project timeliness, progress and planned interventions.

*– Nampa *

The post RA denies abandoning road projects appeared first on New Era.