Namibia’s B1 Highway Reopens: A Milestone in Infrastructure Development
Windhoek, September 3 – In a significant boost to Namibia’s transport infrastructure, a celebratory ceremony was held in the southern town of Tses to officially mark the commissioning of the B1 highway after a comprehensive rehabilitation project. The B1 highway, which spans an essential 88 kilometers from Keetmanshoop in the Karas Region to Mariental in the Hardap Region, serves as a vital transportation artery for the country, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities.
The event saw the participation of key dignitaries including John Mutorwa, Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Works and Transport, along with Aletha Frederick, the Governor of Karas Region. Representatives from the China Henan International Cooperation Group Limited, the construction company behind the project, were also present, alongside more than 400 enthusiastic local residents.
During his address, Deputy Prime Minister Mutorwa expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Chinese team for their exceptional quality of work, noting they completed the project a month ahead of schedule. He further highlighted that the project not only improved the highway but also provided training to over 500 local workers, demonstrating a valuable commitment to local skill development.
Governor Frederick commended Henan International for its substantial contribution to both the infrastructure and socioeconomic advancement of the Karas Region. She described this project as a new benchmark for future road infrastructure initiatives in Namibia, emphasizing its importance to the region’s development.
Cui Yunke, the general manager of Henan International Namibia Company, also spoke to the challenges faced throughout the project, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the company employed over 800 locals, fostering economic empowerment particularly among smallholder farmers, women, and youth within the community.
Importantly, the B1 highway serves as Namibia’s primary link to South Africa, the nation’s largest trading partner. Its reopening promises to enhance the movement of goods and bolster transport safety for people traveling between the two countries, which is expected to significantly contribute to the broader economic development of Namibia.
In summary, the commissioning of the B1 highway is a landmark achievement for Namibia, reflecting the nation’s commitment to improving its transport infrastructure while simultaneously enhancing local communities’ economic prospects. As this prominent route reopens, it stands to pave the way for greater trade links and more vibrant local economies.
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