Smart Water Innovation in Ongwediva: A Model for Sustainable Infrastructure

In the heart of Ongwediva’s Extension 11, a quiet but profound shift is underway. The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), working alongside the Ongwediva Town Council, is piloting a smart water monitoring solution that blends infrastructure innovation with sustainable development priorities.

At the core of the initiative are 69 Pulse Readers installed on household water meters, supported by a Bulk Smart Meter soon to be commissioned. Together, these devices form a District Metered Area (DMA) – a high-resolution, real-time tracking system designed to monitor water distribution, detect irregularities, and significantly reduce non-revenue water.

This pilot not only represents a technological upgrade but a mindset change, one that reflects Namibia’s commitment to inclusive service delivery, responsible consumption, and community-level data empowerment. By allowing both the municipality and residents to access live usage data through a mobile application, the project fosters transparency, accountability, and behavioural shifts towards conservation.

The technical team has completed the Pulse Reader installations and is currently troubleshooting network antennas to enable seamless data communication. Preparations for the Bulk Meter are also in progress, including custom spool fittings to bridge the size gap between existing infrastructure and the new device. Field feedback has been positive, with local leadership engaging directly on-site to ensure long-term security of the meters, many of which are vulnerable due to their outdoor placements.

This intervention directly supports several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities, and SDG 9 on infrastructure and innovation. It lays the groundwork for replicable models across Namibia, proving that even modest interventions can create meaningful, measurable impact when rooted in local realities and national aspirations.

Through projects like this, NUST continues to drive applied research that speaks not only to local needs but to global imperatives for sustainability and resilience.