Stop illegal electricity connections: Sinimbo

NKURENKURU, 13 MAY (NAMPA) - Kavango West Governor, Verna Sinimbo, has warned residents of the Kavango West Region against the illegal connection of electricity and theft of copper wires, noting that such actions endanger lives and hinder development.

She was speaking at the official launch of a new safety awareness and public education campaign for employees and the community, named TAKAMISA, under the theme “Caring for Employees, Caring for the Community, Zero Harm”, by NORED in Nkurenkuru on Monday.

The campaign aims to reduce injuries and accidents, ensure zero harm from electrocution, and provide education on various electrical safety issues. This follows three recent fatal incidents that occurred in the Kavango West Region in 2025.

In her keynote address, Sinimbo emphasised the importance of the campaign, stating that it is intended to raise awareness about the dangers associated with electricity and its infrastructure.

“We all understand the vital role electricity plays in our daily lives. It's a necessity for homes, a catalyst for businesses, and prosperity to our communities. However, electricity is also a very dangerous commodity, and if not handled with care, it can be a serious hazard. Therefore, the issue of electricity safety becomes a non-negotiable priority,” stated Sinimbo.

She concluded by urging everyone to take the campaign seriously.

“Let’s work together to create a community where electricity is used safely and responsibly, protecting lives and preventing accidents. Takamisa means be careful, so going forward let’s be careful every time we are dealing with electricity and remember that electricity can be very dangerous,” urged Sinimbo.

Chairperson of the NORED Board of Directors, Johannes Uushini, stated that the current landscape and recent data present NORED with the challenge of increasing electrical accidents and incidents involving both employees and members of the communities they serve.

“A matter which drew our attention as a Board and management to refocus our approach to effectively rise above the recent unfortunate incidents and ensure a safe environment for our people,” said Uushini.

He explained that the safety campaign will specifically focus on electricity safety in workplaces, homes, schools, businesses, and communities.

“I believe we will make a significant impact on changing the attitudes and behaviours towards electricity safety while also aligning perfectly with our organisation’s lifetime strategic objective of zero harm,” said Uushini.

The three-month campaign will be rolled out across eight other regions where NORED provides electricity services.
(NAMPA)
JLN/HP