A recent report by the Namibia Statistics Agency highlights critical sanitation issues in the Khomas region, revealing that more than 23% of urban residents do not have access to flushing toilets. Governor Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma launched the 2023 Census Regional Profile report, which points to alarmingly high rates of open defecation, with 16.9% of residents resorting to practices such as using bushes, riverbeds, or plastic bags. The Moses Garoeb constituency is noted as having the highest percentage of residents practicing open defecation, followed closely by the Tobias Hainyeko and Samora Machel constituencies.

The survey also indicates that a significant portion of the population relies on pit latrines, with just 2.7% using ventilated types and 1.9% using non-ventilated ones. In stark contrast, the lack of access to safe drinking water affects only 1.4% of urban residents. This disparity emphasizes the urgent need for improved sanitation and toilet facilities in the region.

The findings underscore broader public health challenges facing the Khomas region, including potential outbreaks of diseases linked to unsanitary conditions. The government and local authorities may need to intensify efforts to address these critical gaps in sanitation infrastructure, as toilet access is fundamental to public health and well-being in urban areas. This situation calls for immediate attention and strategic planning to ensure that all residents have access to safe and hygienic sanitary facilities.