KEETMANS FISH PROJECT STILL INCOMPLETE AFTER FOUR YEARS IN NAMIBIA

Contractors set to meet with the ministry to resolve payment issues holding the completion of keetmans fish project after four years.

Construction of the N$21 million Fonteintjie community aquaculture fish project facility is still not complete after four years. The project which was originally due to be complete within 14 -16 months four years ago.

According to report, the project is experiencing a delay due to an outstanding payment of  N$500 000. The payment is for contractors and subcontractors handling the projects.

Fisheries minister Bernhard Esau said “The incomplete project is a headache for us since it is denying people jobs. He also said it has hampers government’s efforts to secure food self-sufficiency.”

In an effort to resolve the problem, the minister has ask his staff to call a meeting this week with project consultant Burmeister & Partners (Pty) Ltd and the contractor to sort out the payment dispute.

Edison Building Enterprises’ Director, Edison Kapuuo said “most of the construction work had to be redone due to a lack of skills among the artisans. He said 80% of the work is complete and project within three to four months.”

The contractor is asking for payment before the project will continue.

The Minister is asking regional and local authorities to set aside land close to water bodies for fish farming. He is also urging locals to visit the fish farm to be empower with skills to start aquaculture projects.

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