Industries, Mines and Energy Minister, Natangue Ithete has warned against copper cable theft, which is a big concern in the Otjozondjupa region.

Speaking at the commissioning of the joint electrification projects at Otjiwarongo's Ombili Informal settlement, Ithete said that continued damage of electricity kiosks and cable theft is disadvantaging residents.

Ithete warned scrapyards to refrain from buying copper cables as this fuels criminal activities that cost millions to fix and reconnect.
 
He added that Namibia is part of the Mission 300 Energy Compact, an African effort to electrify 300 million households by 2040.

CENORED Chief Executive Officer, Fessor Mbango raised concerns over illegal electricity connections, that lead to unsafe networks, unfair billing and interruptions, as well as exposing people to electrocution and fire.

About 200 households are now connected on the peri-urban grid programme at Ombili.