Ongoing Projects:

Central North Water Supply Area (2007)
Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation (2006 – ongoing)
MATA Warehouse (2006 – ongoing)
Wanaheda Pump Station & Gammams Relief Sewers (2006 – ongoing)
Rehabilitation of the Walvis Bay Hospital (2006 – ongoing)
Feasibility Study into the Brukkaros Dam (2006 – ongoing)
Construction of the new United Nations House in Windhoek (2003 – ongoing)
Bulk Sewer Reticulation Investigation (2005 – ongoing)
Veterinary Clinics in Four Regions (2005 – ongoing)
Hydrological Studies and Flood Analyses (Various and ongoing)
Tsandi South Water Supply Project – Construction Phases 1 and 2 (2003 – ongoing)

Projects Completed in 2006:
Feasibility Study on Water Supply to Four Settlements in the Caprivi Region (2005 – 2006)
Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project: Four Construction Phases (2003 – 2006)
Extensions to Robert Mugabe Avenue, Windhoek (2004 – 2006)
Oshivelo – Omutsegwonime – Okankolo Water Supply Project Four Construction Phases (2001 – 2006)
Polytechnic of Namibia: New Student Centre (2001 - 2006)

Projects Completed in 2005:
Arendal Phase 2 Development (2005)
Flood Line Analysis of the Arebbusch River in Windhoek (2005)
Feasibility Study on Water Supply to the Proposed Langer Heinrich Mine (2004 – 2005)
Pre-Feasibility Study on the Extension of Water Supply in Eiseb in the Omaheke Region (2004 – 2005)

Projects Completed in 2004:
Feasibility Study on the Provision of Irrigation Off-takes from and Rehabilitation of the Calueque-Border Canal (2003 – 2004)
Feasibility Study on the Supply of Bulk Potable Water to Calueque Village (2003 – 2004)

Projects Completed in 2003:
Popa Falls Hydro Power Pre-Feasibility Study (2003)
Modifications to Avis Dam Spillway (2001 – 2003)
Roman Catholic Arch Diocese: New Assembly Hall and Kindergarten (1998 – 2003)
Regional Rural Water Supply Development Plan for the Kavango Region (1999 – 2003)

Projects Completed in 2002:
Investigation into the Sufficiency of the Katima Mulilo Water Supply Scheme (2001 – 2002)
Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project: Design (2000 – 2002)

Older Projects:
NamCor Office Building (1998 – 2001)
Nkonko Primary Health Care Centre (1998 - 2001)
Windhoek MediClinic (1997 – 2001)
Oshivelo – Omutsegwonime – Okankolo Water Supply Project Feasibility Study (1998 – 2000)
Namibia Breweries Grain Storage Silos (1997 – 2000)
Abstraction of Water from Abenab Mine and the Supply to the Eastern National Water Carrier (1997 – 2000)
Namibia Breweries Oshakati Warehouse (1997 – 2000)
Liambezi Sugar Project in the Caprivi Region (1998)
Oshikango Township Services (1997 – 1998)
Okavango River to Grootfontein Pipeline Link to the Eastern National Water Carrier (1996 – 1997)
Etunda Irrigation Canal (1996 – 1997)
Pre-feasibility Investigations on the Brukkaros Dam and Irrigation Project (1993 – 1994)
Central Area Water Master Plan (1992 – 1994)
Omdel Dam (1991)
Waterberg – Okakarara Regional State Water Scheme (1988 – 1989)
Aigams Additional Office Accommodation – Windhoek (1984 – 1987)

Central North Water Supply Area (2007)

LCE have recently been appointed, by the Namibian Water Corporation Ltd., NamWater, to carry out a detailed assessment of their water supply infrastructure in the north central part of Namibia. This study has commenced with a physical condition assessment of the infrastructure components which include pipelines, pump stations, canals, dams, reservoirs and water treatment plants. Following the preparation of water demand forecasts, a capacity assessment will be carried out for each infrastructure component of each scheme in order to determine its sufficiency lifespan. Computerised modelling of the water demands and the capacity of the various infrastructure components will be carried out as part of this sufficiency analysis.

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Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation (2006 – ongoing)

Following an invitation to all engineering consultants in Namibia to submit proposals for short listing, LCE were in 2006 selected to provide consultancy services to the Rosh Pinah Zinc Corporation. The fist part of the work is on a Master Water Plan, which includes a review of the mine’s water sale contract with NamWater, and a full ISO 14001 compliant water balance for the mine, from which proposals for improvements and compliance with the regulations are to be made. LCE is also involved in preparing ISO 14001:2004 and ASHACT compliant recommendations for dust suppression at the side slopes of the tailings dam, in association with specialists from South Africa.

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MATA Warehouse
(2006 – ongoing)

A new warehouse, to be situated in Prosperita, Windhoek, was designed for MATA Investments. LCE performed the layout and conceptual design, all structural design work, the design of all ancillary services and civil works and compiled the tender documentation. Following the advertisement of the tender in July 2006, LCE carried out the tender administration and adjudication. Construction of the warehouse is nearing completion, with LCE carrying out the construction supervision and quality control.

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Wanaheda Pump Station & Gammams Relief Sewers
(2006 – ongoing)

The first task of this project entails an allocation of the sewer flows of the entire City of Windhoek between two existing waste water treatment plants and the associated pump stations and pipelines. Since the Gammams Waste Water Treatment Plant is operating at or near its capacity, ways to divert excess flows around the Goreangab Dam to the Otjomuise Waste Water Treatment Plant must be found. The next component of this project therefore entails a feasibility study into this flow diversion, which must preferably use as much of the existing infrastructure as possible, which infrastructure is to be upgraded and rehabilitated accordingly. The project includes the design of the most feasible option, once approved, as well as the compilation of tender documents, including a Schedule of Quantities, as well as the required site supervision and contract administration. One construction contract, for the rehabilitation of the outlet works of the A-Series ponds at the Gammams Waste Water Treatment Plant and the rehabilitation of an existing transfer pipeline to the Otjomuise Waste Water Treatment Plant has recently been awarded, and construction work is underway. Following the completion of the feasibility study and design components, a second construction contract will be prepared. 

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Rehabilitation of the Walvis Bay Hospital
(2006 – ongoing)

This project commenced with an investigation into the condition of all the reinforced concrete elements of a three-story concrete frame structure. The remedial measures to rehabilitate the deteriorated elements include the repair of localised concrete spalling, the installation of sacrificial zinc anodes, the installation of monitoring probes, the provision of a special protective coating for the entire building, desalination of the reinforced concrete roof slab and the waterproofing of the roof slab. Tender documentation and specifications have been compiled for a construction contract to carry out the required remedial work. The tender was advertised in early 2007 and following the recent award ot contract, construction is due to commence shortly, after which LCE is to carry out the site supervision and contract administration.

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Feasibility Study into the Brukkaros Dam (2006 – ongoing)

This project is being carried out for the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, in association with and under funding from the African Development Bank, and entails a feasibility study into the construction of a dam on the lower Fish River, in order to provide irrigation water to a proposed 2,000ha of land, which will be developed under the Namibian Government’s Green Scheme Agriculture Project. This investigation is more detailed than the 1993/94 study and so far several sites and dam wall types, configurations and heights have been investigated. Together with specialised consultants, detailed investigations are being carried out into the possible siltation of the dam sites due to the sediment load of the Fish River, as well as into the geological conditions at the various dam sites proposed thus far. 

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Construction of the new United Nations House in Windhoek
(2003 – ongoing)

LCE was responsible for the detailed soil investigation at the start of the project. LCE also carried out the structural design of the reinforced concrete structure, including the pre-stressed concrete slabs and all civil components, including storm water, roads, parking and sewage. The building will eventually consist of a 4-storey structure including the basement. The construction contract, at a value of MN$ 55.00, commenced in March 2005 and is nearing completion.

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Bulk Sewer Reticulation Investigation (2005 – ongoing)

In November 2005, the City of Windhoek appointed LCE to carry out a detailed investigation of the bulk sewer reticulation network of the City. The aim of the assignment is to establish accurate as-built information of all bulk sewer lines, to carry out an assessment on the current condition of all pipelines and manholes, to determine the current and future loading on the system, to carry out flow measurements at specific locations, to compare the existing capacity with the required capacity, to propose required rehabilitation and upgrading programmes and to identify problem areas in the current operation and maintenance set-up. Special emphasis is put on leakage detection, leakage control and prevention in the main sewer lines in the groundwater-sensitive areas to the south of the City. The outcome of this investigation will be a report that the City of Windhoek can use as a guideline for future rehabilitation, upgrading and prioritising of activities. Work in this project is still underway.

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Feasibility Study on Water Supply to Four Settlements in the Caprivi Region
(2005 – 2006)

A Feasibility Study was completed for the Caprivi Regional Council, which investigated the reliable supply of potable water to and the implementation of suitable billing systems (conventional or pre-paid) for the settlements of Mafuta, Chinchimane, Bukalo and Ngoma in the Caprivi Region.

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Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project: Four Construction Phases
(2003 – 2006)

Following the decision by the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry to proceed with the Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project, the construction of the 78 km long bulk pipeline between Katima Mulilo and Linyanti in the Caprivi Region was carried out in three separate construction contracts. These contracts ran between April 2003 and November 2004, with values of MN$ 4.58, MN$ 4.73 and MN$ 10.64 respectively. Between April 2005 and July 2006, construction of a fourth phase, consisting of the rural water supply distribution network, to the value of MN$ 9.11, was completed. This distribution network included the construction of 78 community water points and approximately 91km of uPVC and HDPE pipelines. LCE carried out the project management, construction administration and quality control for all four these construction contracts. On the fourth phase, LCE, in conjunction with Miriam Truebody Development Consultant, also carried out extensive Community Based Management training activities concurrently with construction, where after all water point installations and rural pipelines were handed over to the Water Point Associations, on behalf of the Client.

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Extensions to Robert Mugabe Avenue, Windhoek
(2004 – 2006)

The City of Windhoek initiated this project to extend and upgrade Robert Mugabe Avenue, in order to ease traffic congestion between the northern suburbs and industrial areas and the city centre. As part of this project, a new bridge was built over the Klein Windhoek River, together with a new section of road alongside the River, for the extended Robert Mugabe Avenue. As part of this greater project, LCE, who are a Joint Venture Partner of Klein Windhoek Valley Consultants, were appointed by the City of Windhoek in 2001, to plan, prepare detailed designs and tender documents for and carry out construction supervision of a 360m³/s, 1,400m long, 40m wide and 2,5m deep, Reno Mattress-lined, section of the Klein Windhoek River. This lining of the Klein Windhoek River, primarily on the left bank, is required in order to prevent flood damage to the new section of road and underscour of the new bridge.

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Oshivelo – Omutsegwonime – Okankolo Water Supply Project Four Construction Phases
(2001 – 2006)

Following the approval of the Feasibility Study, and due to budgetary constraints, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry decided to implement the project in four construction phases. Each construction phase would constitute a separate tender and contract. The table below provides details of the scope of each construction contract.

For each of the construction phases, LCE carried out the detailed design, preparation of tender documentation, tender administration and adjudication, the project management, contract administration as well as full-time construction supervision and quality control. In conjunction with Miriam Truebody Development Consultant, LCE also carried out extensive Community Based Management  (CBM) Training activities concurrently with construction, such as the facilitation of the election of community management committees and caretakers, the training of the elected community management committees and caretakers, the hand over of water point installations to the Water Point Associations on behalf of the Client, the hand over of gravity-fed pipelines to the Local Water Associations on behalf of the Client, as well as the coordination of community-based construction activities and CBM training with the contractors’ construction activities.

By separate appointment, LCE carried out the foundation design for the elevated reservoirs of Phases 2 and 3.

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Veterinary Clinics in Four Regions (2005 – ongoing)

LCE have been appointed as Civil and Structural Engineers for the construction of four Veterinary Clinics and Staff Accommodation buildings in the Kunene, Omusati and Oshikoto Regions. For the site in the Oshikoto Region, a detailed soil investigation was undertaken, as this area is covered by wind-blown sand dunes, resulting in very loose founding material. The construction contract, at a value of MN$ 6.80, commenced in August 2005 and has since been completed. The construction of a clinic at Oruvandjai in the Kunene Region has recently started.

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Arendal Phase 2 Development (2005)

A flood line analysis was initially conducted in order to determine the 1:50 year flood line for the property to be developed, including the influence of a possible retaining wall to maximise the area of the erf for development. Viking Developers then proceeded with the development of a 10-unit sectional title housing development in Klein Windhoek. LCE was appointed to design and supervise the construction of a 160m long, up to 4.5m high reinforced concrete retaining wall, including the specification and supervision of the bulk earthworks behind the wall.

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Flood Line Analysis of the Arebbusch River in Windhoek (2005)

In January 2004, after an intense rain storm, following a prolonged spell of heavy rain, several rivers Windhoek came down in flood. One of these, the Arebbusch River, caused significant damage to the Acacia Development, which was at the time partially under construction, in the western part of the City. LCE was appointed to carry out an investigation into the flood damage, to determine the causes thereof. This investigation entailed the survey of several cross sections along the Arebbusch River, a topographical survey of the Acacia Development and an area between two bridges across the river, as well as detailed flood analyses for the river reach alongside which the Acacia Development is located. (Photo courtesy of Dannic Construction).

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Hydrological Studies and Flood Analyses
(Various and ongoing)

Various hydrological and flood studies have been undertaken for the Department of Water Affairs and the City of Windhoek since 1969, including hydrological studies and yield analyses for the proposed Dürnsternbrook Dam in the Otjiseva River, the Swakoppoort Dam in the Swakop River, the proposed Omusema Dam in the Omatako Omuramba and the Neineis Dam in the Omaruru River. Several flood studies have been conducted for the Klein Windhoek, Gammams and Arebbusch Rivers which flow through Windhoek. Recent projects include investigations into the 2004 flooding of a storm water channel, which may have contributed to the flooding of the Acacia Development, as well as an investigation into the storm water provision around the new Sam Nujoma Stadium, which may have contributed to the January 2006 flooding of portions of the Dolam Township in Windhoek.

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Tsandi South Water Supply Project – Construction Phases 1 and 2
(2003 – ongoing)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) initiated a feasibility study into extending the existing water supply pipeline system to the Tsandi South Area in the Omusati Region of north western Namibia, which was completed in 2001.

In January 2003, the MAWF appointed LCE and Miriam Truebody Development Consultant to verify some of the findings of the Feasibility Study, to carry out the detailed design of the scheme, the preparation of the tender documents, as well as construction supervision, community mobilisation and committee training for the first implementation phase.  The Project Area covers 1,800km², and is home to 43,664 people in 5,386 households spread over three constituencies.

A physical assessment of the condition of the existing water supply infrastructure (mainly community water points) in the Project Area, a desk study assessing the condition of the existing supply pipelines in the Project Area, and an extensive community consultation process were carried out during 2003. The design of the scheme proposed two alternatives, of which one was selected as the favoured alternative on the basis of a financial analysis. The detailed design work, an economic analysis of the project as a whole, a cost estimate and construction programme were consequently prepared for the favoured alternative. The proposed pipeline network comprised approximately 306km of pipeline and 280 community water point installations. The above work culminated in a Draft Design Report, which was presented to the MAWF and NamWater in June 2004.

Following the submission of the Draft Design Report, and discussions between the MAWF, NamWater and LCE, it was decided that the rehabilitation of the existing Tsandi – Eunda bulk pipeline would not be viable, as previously proposed by the favoured design alternative. This necessitated the re-design of the proposed pipeline network, this time incorporating an approximately 40km long, new pressure pipeline between Tsandi and Eunda. The design and optimisation of all secondary and tertiary pipeline networks was consequently revised. The revised design work was concluded with the submission of a Design Memorandum to the MAWF and NamWater in February 2005. Detailed financial and economic analyses, carried out by LCE, helped the MAWF secure donor funding for the implementation of the project.

Following the Client’s approval of the new pipeline network design, LCE prepared the tender documentation for the first construction phase. Construction of the first phase, to the value of MN$ 18.00, took place between July 2005 and December 2006.

Construction of the second phase of the project, scheduled for completion in March 2008, is currently underway. As with the first phase, LCE is carrying out the project management, contract administration as well as full-time construction supervision and quality control. In conjunction with Miriam Truebody Development Consultant, LCE is also carrying out extensive Community Based Management Training activities concurrently with construction, such as the facilitation of the election of community management committees and caretakers, the training of the elected community management committees and caretakers, as well as the coordination of community-based construction activities and CBM training with the contractors’ construction activities. On completion of construction, the water point installations will be handed over to the Water Point Associations and the appropriate pipeline sections will be handed over to the Local Water Associations, on behalf of the Client.

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Polytechnic of Namibia: New Student Centre
(2001 - 2006)

For this project, LCE was responsible for the detailed soil investigation (the terrain stretches over a previous land-fill site), the design and supervision of the bulk earth works and piling works (109 auger piles varying in diameter from 600 – 1,200mm and in depth from 3.5 – 11.0m). LCE also carried out the structural design of the reinforced concrete structure, including the pre-stressed concrete slabs and all civil components including storm water, roads, parking and sewage. The building will eventually consist of a 6-storey structure, including a suspended basement. The construction contract was valued at MN$ 54.00.

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Feasibility Study on Water Supply to the Proposed Langer Heinrich Mine
(2004 – 2005)

Paladin Resources Ltd, a publicly listed Australian Company, in August 2002, acquired 100% of Langer Heinrich Uranium (Pty) Ltd (LHUPL), the Namibian Company holding the project rights. Following the decision to proceed with the establishment of a new uranium mine at Langer Heinrich, some 73km due east of  the coastal resort of Swakopmund, LCE were appointed to carry out a Feasibility Study on the supply of water to the mine at a rate of 1.5Mm³/a. The project entailed the investigation of alternative water sources for supply to the mine, liaison with NamWater regarding the quantity of water required and the point of supply, the investigation of alternative pipeline routes and pipe materials, as well as liaison with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism concerning construction of the pipeline through the Namib-Naukluft Park. The most favourable alternative consists of a 300mm diameter, ductile cast iron, surface-mounted pipeline, some 83km long, with a base pump station located at the NamWater Terminal Reservoir in Swakopmund, and two booster pump stations, to lift the water over a total pumping head of 760m, a pipe bridge where the pipeline crosses the Swakop River, terminal reservoirs, and the usual pipeline appurtenances. The total cost of the pipeline was estimated to amount to USM$ 14.9. Pro-Services and Seelenbinder Consulting Engineers were appointed as sub-consultants for the mechanical and electrical designs respectively.

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Pre-Feasibility Study on the Extension of Water Supply in Eiseb in the Omaheke Region
(2004 – 2005)

Initiated by the Luxembourg Agency for Development Cooperation, Lux-Development, in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, this project’s aim was to investigate the possibility of supplying a dry area in the Eiseb Block, which is situated in the Otjombinde Constituency in the western part of the Omaheke Region of Namibia, with water from six existing boreholes. The purpose of the expanded water supply system is to open up areas of virgin rangeland for resettlement. The results of the earlier pumping tests conducted on the existing boreholes were evaluated and the water demands of the present and possible future population and stock numbers were determined. In liaison with the Gobabis Rural Water Supply Office, possible resettlement locations were identified and inspected during a field visit. Two basic design alternatives were proposed and evaluated: solar powered and diesel powered borehole installations, with the corresponding booster stations and storage reservoirs, as required. The life cycle costs of the various alternative pipeline networks and borehole installations were determined, and the favoured alternative, using solar powered borehole installations, was selected on the basis of lowest present worth costs. Various recommendations for the detailed design and implementation phases of the project were made, and the project was summarised in a Pre-Feasibility Study Report, which was submitted to the Client in January 2005.

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Feasibility Study on the Provision of Irrigation Off-takes from and Rehabilitation of the Calueque-Border Canal (2003 – 2004)

A large portion of north central Namibia, being the Omusati, Oshana, Ohangwena and Oshikoto Regions, is supplied with water from Calueque in Angola, via infrastructure owned by NamWater, the Namibia Water Corporation Ltd. A critical part of this infrastructure is the 12km long Calueque – Border Canal, which transfers the water abstracted from the Calueque Dam into Namibia.

The aim of this study was to confirm the number, location and ownership of the illegal off-takes from the canal, to asses the condition of the portion of the canal which is situated in Angola, to determine the condition of the Calueque – Border gravel road, to investigate the feasibility of providing suitable formalised off-take points to meet the water demands of the local Angolan populace, to prepare proposals on the provision of additional or new cross-drainage structures, to prepare proposals on improving the condition of the Calueque – Border gravel road, and to carry out a community awareness and participation campaign, amongst others. LCE carried out a detailed field inspection of the canal and off-takes after the canal had been drained by NamWater, as well as of the Calueque – Border road. LCE further completed all the above work, prepared cost estimates for the required new off-take structures and rehabilitation work and proposals for carrying out the rehabilitation work on the canal with the minimum interruption of supply to NamWater’s customers. The project culminated in a presentation to NamWater and the submission of the Final Report in May 2004.

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Feasibility Study on the Supply of Bulk Potable Water to Calueque Village
(2003 – 2004)

This study was initiated by NamWater, following discussions between the Angolan and Namibian Authorities in 2002, during which the need to supply potable water to the inhabitants of Calueque Village, located 14km north of the Namibian border, in Angola, was identified. LCE and AMGS Consultants from Luanda, Angola, formed a joint venture to tackle this study, during which a population census of Calueque Village was carried out, the existing water sources and supply infrastructure were assessed, the water demand of the Village determined, and different infrastructure development alternatives proposed. Following the selection of a package-type water treatment plant, the preliminary supply scheme, incorporating pump stations, a pumping main and storage reservoirs, was preliminarily designed. A cost estimate for the proposed scheme was prepared and a financial analysis, which determined the unit cost of water for the proposed scheme, the unit cost of water for break-even of the proposed scheme and other financial indicators, conducted. The study culminated in a presentation to NamWater and the submission of the Final Report in March 2004.

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Popa Falls Hydro Power Pre-Feasibility Study (2003)

Water Transfer Consultants, which is a joint venture partnership between LCE and Bicon Namibia, undertook this Pre-feasibility Study for NamPower, the Namibia Power Corporation Ltd.

BKS South Africa (hydrology, advising on weir design aspects and geotechnical investigations), EcoPlan (preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment), Fichtner GmBH of Germany (hydropower specialists) and Flowgate Projects of South Africa (spillway gate design) were sub-consultants who joined the Project Team. The objectives of this study were the review of previous studies, the reassessment of hydrological data using updated records, preliminary site and geological investigations, the identification of potential suitable weir sites, the investigation of alternative weir designs, the preliminary optimisation of the reservoir size, weir and spillway gate design, the preparation of a preliminary electro-mechanical feasibility design for a 5 to 20kV power generation installation, the preparation of cost estimates and cost–benefit analyses. LCE undertook the technical evaluation of alternative weir sites, the optimisation of the weir sites, the mapping (area/volume determinations etc) of the proposed weir sites, assisted with the sediment transport analysis in liaison with a hydraulics and sedimentation specialist, carried out sedimentation measurements and sampling, assisted with the cost estimates and economic analyses, carried out the bulk of the project management and liaison between the Client and the other members of the Project Team, and carried out the bulk of the report writing, which was completed in November 2003.

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Modifications to Avis Dam Spillway
(2001 – 2003)

LCE was commissioned by the City of Windhoek to modify the existing spillway of Avis Dam on the eastern side of the city, in order to reduce the 1:100 year return period flood discharge from 500m³/s to 360m³/s, but to do so whilst ensuring that flood waters no longer spill over the original natural spillway. This was achieved by incorporating two, 10m long and 3.5m high TOPS gates into a new 5m deep, 28.5m wide spillway channel, which was formed by enlarging the existing natural spillway. The design and specification of these TOPS gates was carried out in conjunction with Flowgate Projects in Randburg, South Africa, who design TOPS gates for applications around the world. These patented TOPS gates are unique in that they offer a reliable, un-manned system, whereby the gates open and close automatically at pre-selected water levels, to control the flood discharge of a spillway. The project entailed geotechnical investigations, the detailed design of the spillway structure, the design of the spillway gates, as well as the installation and testing of the TOPS gates, and was carried out in conjunction with Flowgate Projects and Geo-Logic Solutions. Construction was completed in 2003.

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Roman Catholic Arch Diocese: New Assembly Hall and Kindergarten
(1998 – 2003)

LCE was responsible for the site investigations, compilation of the earthwork tender documentation and the design of the reinforced concrete structure, which consists of a basement, a kindergarten and a multi-purpose assembly hall. LCE’s responsibility also included the associated roadworks, shear studs and steel decking. Due to financial constraints, only the foundations for the assembly hall, the parking deck and the kindergarten have been constructed so far, at a cost of MN$ 11.90, between February 2001 and September 2003.

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Regional Rural Water Supply Development Plan for the Kavango Region
(1999 – 2003)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry initiated this project to provide technical and institutional solutions to achieve the objectives of the Water and Sanitation Policy of the Government, and to provide implementation guidelines as a tool for long term budget planning. LCE was part of a consortium of eight consultants who were successful in their bid to tackle this project. The work carried out included the formation of a Regional Planning Group, which included all stakeholders of development in the Kavango Region, from Government ministries to parastatals to NGOs, Regional Councillors and elected traditional leaders, a desk study, a literature review, a planning phase, an initial field reconnaissance, a project introduction meeting, technical and socio-economic field inspections and data collection, initial planning, detailed planning and the formulation of the Development Plan. The key results of this Study were the provision of a documented assessment of the condition of existing rural water supply infrastructure in the Kavango Region, the development of software and a Geographical Information System to prioritise the extension of rural water supply infrastructure, the development of a phased implementation programme for the development and extension of rural water supply infrastructure, the submission of the Development Plan in three volumes in 2003 and the presentation, in Rundu, of the final development plan to all stakeholders in April 2003.

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Investigation into the Sufficiency of the Katima Mulilo Water Supply Scheme
(2001 – 2002)

 With the planning of the Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project (see elsewhere), the additional water demands on NamWater’s Katima Mulilo Water Supply Scheme (KMWSS) were determined. This prompted NamWater, the Namibia Water Corporation Ltd., to commission this study into the sufficiency of their Katima Mulilo treatment scheme. LCE was approached to undertake this study, which included an investigation into the condition and capacity of each of the components of the Katima Mulilo Water Supply Scheme, an analysis of the historic demands of all the consumers receiving water from the Scheme, the preparation of water demand forecasts for all these consumers, and the comparison of these demand forecasts with the capacity of the various components of the KMWSS, in order to determine the expected lifespan of each. Following this, LCE carried out a risk assessment to determine the impact of a significant increase or decrease of the water demand by the town of Katima Mulilo on the Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project. NamWater also requested an analysis on the billing efficiency, cost recovery and collection efficiency of the Katima Mulilo Town Council, the largest consumer of the KMWSS, as well as an analysis of the non-revenue water and losses in the town’s distribution network. This investigation was concluded with a presentation to NamWater in November 2001 and the submission of the Final Report in 2002.

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Katima Mulilo – Linyanti Rural Water Supply Project: Design
(2000 – 2002)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) recognised that some areas between Katima Mulilo and Linyanti were in critical need of an improved water supply, due to the unsuitability of the ground water, and the aim of developing the settlements of Chinchimane and Linyanti. In November 2000, LCE was appointed by the DRWS to plan and design the bulk and rural water supply infrastructure to supply the defined Project Area. The Project Area covers three constituencies in the Caprivi Region of Namibia, and is home to some 13,700 people (2001 figures) in villages located in 17 Management Units. Assessments of the existing water supply infrastructure (pipelines, treatment schemes, reservoirs etc) as well as of water samples taken from 44 existing borehole installations in the Project Area were carried out. This was followed by a population census carried out by LCE, in association with Miriam Truebody Development Consultant, during 2001. Following the determination of the water demands and the selection of a favoured pipeline route, a new bulk pipeline between Katima Mulilo and Linyanti was designed. Using Class 9 uPVC pipes from 250mm to 110mm diameter, this pipeline would transfer water from the Zambezi River approximately 78km to Linyanti. A surge analysis, cost estimate and financial analysis of the proposed bulk pipeline were carried out, and the design phase culminated with the presentation (in November 2001) and submission to the MAWF and NamWater of the Bulk Design Report in January 2002. A shortage of funds temporarily stopped further work on the design of the rural pipeline distribution networks, and the implementation of the project was put on hold until 2003.

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NamCor Office Building
(1998 – 2001)

LCE carried out the structural design for a new office block for the Namibian Petroleum Corporation in Windhoek. The building design comprises a 6m deep basement, which projects 2m above ground, a ground floor with four above ground storeys and curved steel roof structures at various levels.

The ancillary works included a covered parking area, and an access ramp, which is flanked by up to 4.5m high cantilever-type reinforced concrete retaining walls, which provides access to the basement (core storage area). The building has been designed as a concrete frame consisting of reinforced concrete columns, flat slabs with edge beams, and a lift shaft and stair well which provide lateral stability. The roof structure consists of curved steel trusses. The gable steel trusses had to be installed in an inclined position, requiring intricate detailing, as curvature in both the horizontal and vertical planes had to be achieved. The close cooperation between the engineer, architect, steel and main contractor was a prerequisite for the success of this demanding design, which was constructed in 34 months between October 1998 and July 2001 at a cost of MN$ 11.00.

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Nkonko Primary Health Care Centre
(1998 - 2001)

LCE carried out the structural design, preparation of tender documentation and construction supervision for the additions and alterations to the Nkonko Primary Health Care Centre in northern Namibia. This work consisted of a new Outpatients Department, nurses and doctors’ accommodation, dining and administration blocks. The new buildings utilised a conventional concrete and brick design, though special care had to be taken with the transition from the timber roofs of the existing structures to the steel roofs of the new structures. For a Contract Value of MN$ 4.56, construction lasted 35 months, from July 1998 to June 2001.

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Windhoek MediClinic
(1997 – 2001)

This project entailed an extension to the existing MediClinic Hospital in Windhoek. LCE’s involvement consisted of assisting in the design, detailed construction supervision and quality control. The structure, three storeys and a basement, consists of a reinforced concrete frame, flat slabs, shear walls and a reinforced concrete lift shaft. Associated site works included the retaining walls and concrete block-paved parking area.  Construction started in February 1998 and ended in February 2001, and was valued at MN$ 9.30.

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Oshivelo – Omutsegwonime – Okankolo Water Supply Project Feasibility Study
(1998 – 2000)

One of the potential projects which the Ministry of Agriculture, Water And Forestry (MAWF) identified during the 1996 drought which severely affected Namibia, was the Oshivelo – Omutsegwonime – Okankolo Piped Water Supply Project. The aim of this project is to bring a reliable source of potable water to an area of approximately 253,600ha in the Oshikoto Region of northern Namibia. The Project Area is inhabited by approximately 40,000 people in 4,444 households in 95 villages spread over five constituencies.

Several consultants were invited to tender for consulting services for the Feasibility Study. LCE, Miriam Truebody Development Consultant, Environmental Evaluation Associates of Namibia (EEAN) and EMCON Consulting Engineers formed a consortium of consultants to submit a tender. The Consortium was successful in their tender for the Feasibility Study, and was appointed to carry out this work in October 1998. The Feasibility Study was divided into Bulk and Rural Water Supply Components as well as an Environmental Assessment.

A participatory and community consultation approach was adopted for this study, which included community based planning, in order to achieve full acceptance of the scheme within the community and therefore the effective and sustainable use of the proposed facilities. The community leaders requested the establishment of a development plan prior to the proposal of the rural water supply infrastructure, in order that water supply could be used as a tool with which the development of the area could be controlled.

The environmental report, entitled “Impact on the Bio-Physical Environment Report” was submitted in February 1999. In September 2000, the second and third parts of the Feasibility Study culminated in the submission of two reports entitled “Report on the Investigation into Bulk Water Supply to the Rural Water Supply Area” and “Rural Water Supply Component”. Due to budget constraints, the MAWF decided to phase the implementation of the project into separate contracts, which would correspond to the April – March Government financial year.

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Namibia Breweries Grain Storage Silos (1997 – 2000)

This Project entailed the extension of the grain storage capacity for Namibia Breweries Ltd. at their Windhoek premises. LCE carried out the foundation investigation, recommended the treatment of the sub-foundation material (the site is situated in an alluvial river bed), the design of the reinforced concrete bases for the silos and the conically shaped, reinforced concrete floors. LCE was also responsible for preparing the necessary tender documentation and for the supervision of construction, which lasted 31 months from December 1997 to July 2000, for a Contract Value of MN$ 0.75.

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Abstraction of Water from Abenab Mine and the Supply to the Eastern National Water Carrier
(1997 – 2000)

Water Transfer Consultants, a joint venture partnership between LCE, Bicon Namibia and Parkman Namibia, undertook this project, which comprised a Feasibility Study on and the detailed design of infrastructure needed for the abstraction of water from Abenab Mine, the required treatment and transfer thereof to the Eastern National Water Carrier (ENWC) canal at Grootfontein, as an emergency water supply measure for the Central Area of Namibia. The proposed scheme entailed the abstraction of water from two, 200m deep disused mine shafts via 250mm diameter steel pipes, the 250m above-ground transfer of this water, via a 500mm diameter steel pipeline, to a water treatment scheme and thence to a storage reservoir. From the storage reservoir, a booster pump station would transfer 650 m³/h through a 500mm diameter, 38km long, glass reinforced plastic (GRP) pipeline into an existing 1,700mm diameter and 14km long concrete pipeline, which terminates in the ENWC canal at Grootfontein. LCE carried out a very detailed and intricate surge analysis on the proposed scheme, including the analysis of different pipeline materials. The route of the proposed 38km pipeline required that water be lifted 170m over a large hill, which caused the separation of water columns as well as large vacuum pressures in the pipeline. Intricate surge mitigation measures such as bypass pipelines, dividing the pipeline into several sub-sections using non-return valves, the use of self-generating surge vessels and the exact placement of air valves were therefore required. 

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Namibia Breweries Oshakati Warehouse
(1997 – 2000)

This project entailed the design, preparation of tender specifications, construction supervision and quality control of a new depot in Oshakati in the north of Namibia for Namibia Breweries Ltd. The depot comprises a 3,000m² storage area, a loading zone for 22m long interlink trucks, the associated workshops, administration, generator and entrance gate buildings, a fuel station and wash bay. The access roads are constructed in concrete block paving and are designed for heavy axle load and fork lift traffic. The warehouse structure consists of a series of 24m span steel portal frames. Construction of the Project took 40 months between February 1997 and June 2000, at a cost of MN$ 9.00.

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Liambezi Sugar Project in the Caprivi Region (1998)

This study, for the Department of Agriculture in the Ministry for Agriculture, Water and Forestry, proposed the preliminary design of an earth-lined canal to transfer water from the Zambezi River to the proposed sugar plantation on the northern bank of Lake Liambezi in the Caprivi Region of Namibia. Water would be abstracted at a rate of 14m³/s, and discharged into the 21.25m wide (invert width), 33km long canal, which would transport the water along the Bukalo Channel. 

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Oshikango Township Services
(1997 – 1998)

LCE were appointed by the Ministry of Regional and Local Government and Housing to carry out the planning, detailed design, and preparation of tender documentation for water and sewage reticulation networks, roads, storm water drainage and oxidation ponds for the Oshikango Township in the Ohangwena Region of northern Namibia. This project included 13,025m of potable water pipelines of diameters varying between 75mm and 250mm, including 49 fire hydrants, 353 erf connections to residential, industrial, business, public administration and institutional erven and informal settlements, 10,559m of sewer pipelines of diameters varying between 110mm and 200mm, with 237 manholes, 4 sewer pump stations, interconnected with a total of 2,543m of pumping mains to the oxidation ponds, oxidation ponds consisting of one primary, one secondary and three tertiary ponds and approximately 8,000m of gravel surfaced roads. The pre-tender cost estimate for the construction of the above services amounted to MN$ 14.600.

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Okavango River to Grootfontein Pipeline Link to the Eastern National Water Carrier
(1996 – 1997)

Water Transfer Consultants (WTC) was formed as a joint venture partnership between LCE, Bicon Namibia and Parkman Namibia, to undertake this Feasibility Study on the transfer of water from the Okavango River at Rundu to the Eastern National Water Carrier (canal) at Grootfontein. Undertaken for the Department of Water Affairs of the Ministry of Agriculture Water and Rural Development of the Government of Namibia, this Study initially updated the earlier Central Area Water Master Plan Study (see blow) insofar as the historic water demands and water demand forecasts were concerned. This lead to the determination of the water transfer requirements, and the preliminary design of a 250km long, 700mm diameter pipeline, to transfer 0.55m³/s at 400m static head, with four booster pump stations and river outlet works. A risk assessment and cost estimate were prepared, as well as financial and economic analyses on the preliminary design. An environmental assessment was also carried out to determine the impact of the proposed pipeline as well as the impact on the Okavango River and Delta, resulting from the proposed abstraction of water at Rundu. This study was concluded with the publication of a report in 6 volumes in August 1997.

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Etunda Irrigation Canal
(1996 – 1997)

LCE was commissioned by the Directorate of Extension and Engineering Services of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Namibia, to design a 10.5km long, trapezoidal, concrete lined canal, with a capacity of 2.1m³/s and an invert width of 1.0m, for the purpose of supplying water to the Etunda irrigation project in the Omusati Region of northern Namibia.

This canal is supplied with water from the main Calueque – Olushandja Canal, through two 600mm diameter siphons, which discharge into an off-take structure with a stilling well. This Project also included the provision of a base pump station and two irrigation pump stations, as well as canal structures such as road and pedestrian bridges, under passages, reject weirs and livestock drinking installations. Seelenbinder Consulting Engineers were appointed as the mechanical and electrical sub-consultants. LCE also carried out the project management, construction supervision and quality control for the construction contract, which was successfully completed in 1997, at a cost of MN$15.00.

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Pre-feasibility Investigations on the Brukkaros Dam and Irrigation Project
(1993 – 1994)

LCE undertook this Pre-feasibility Study for the Directorate of Extension and Engineering Services of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Namibia, which was funded by the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) of the Federal Republic of Germany. LCE undertook this project as part of a joint venture together with Consulting Engineers Salzgitter (CES) of Germany. Loxton Venn and Associates were appointed as a sub-consultant responsible for the market studies. This study investigated the construction of a roller compacted concrete dam in the Fish River in southern Namibia, the provision of potable water and the necessary infrastructure to villages in the surrounding area and the supply of water to a 1,000ha irrigation scheme. The project components included pre-feasibility planning, preliminary site investigations, a hydrological study, material investigations, geological investigations, cost estimates, an assessment of the project returns, a risk analysis as well as an assessment of the economic viability of water supply for irrigation of agricultural crops and domestic consumption. The provision of benefits to the communities in the surrounding Berseba Constituency of the Karas Region, as well as marketing strategies for various crop combinations and farm models were also investigated. 

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Central Area Water Master Plan
(1992 – 1994)

LCE formed a joint venture with Consulting Engineers Salzgitter (CES) of Germany and Windhoek Consulting Engineers to carry out this Study, which was funded by the Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) of Germany and carried out for the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) of the Ministry of Agriculture Water and Forestry, Namibia. The rapid development and therefore rapidly growing water demands following Namibia’s independence, coupled with the limited water resources in the country, created the need for the development of a Water Master Plan for the central area of the country, in which most of the major water consumers are located. This very comprehensive study investigated historic water demands, the hydrology, geohydrology, surface and ground water sources and existing water supply infrastructure of the Study Area. Water demand forecasts were prepared for various categories of consumers, following which a water resources development plan was prepared, in order to ensure that the expected water demands of consumers could be supplied. A comprehensive system analysis was prepared, whereby the DWA could plan and manage the existing supply systems and their corresponding yields, matched to the demands of consumers, explore alternative methods of operating the water supply system and simulate future water demand scenarios and the performance of the system as a whole. The various environmental aspects relating to water resources development were also investigated. This study culminated in the publication of the report in 11 volumes between 1993 and 1994.

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Omdel Dam
(1991)

The Omdel State Water Scheme provided for the construction of a 40Mm³, 33m high earth embankment dam in the Omaruru River, some 33km inland from Henties Bay, with the intention of channelling water into spreading grounds above a major aquifer for temporary storage, from where it could later be abstracted and pumped to Swakopmund and the Rossing Uranium Mine. The design of the dam was carried out by the Department of Water Affairs of Namibia, under the guidance of Chunnet Fourie & Partners of Pretoria, South Africa. LCE were appointed to design the abstraction tower, consisting of eight, 900mm diameter outlets located at 4 levels, a 1,200mm diameter steel collector pipeline feeding water into an open channel which lead to the spreading grounds located above the aquifer and the spillway. LCE’s services included liaison between the Client and Chunnet Fourie & Partners, the abovementioned design work as well as the associated construction supervision.

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Waterberg – Okakarara Regional State Water Scheme
(1988 – 1989)

This aim of this project, implemented by the Department of Water Affairs, was the abstraction of water from the Grootfontein – Omatako canal, water treatment, storage and the supply of this water to the town of Okakarara, located 14km due east of the canal, and into the existing pipeline network supplying water into the Otjiwarongo Constituency of the Otjozondjupa Region of central Namibia. At a Contract Value of MN$ 5.00, the works entailed the construction of a canal outlet works, a two-compartment, 94,000m³, PVC-membrane lined, earth embankment bulk water reservoir, a 1,000m³ circular concrete clear water reservoir, an automatic backwash gravity water treatment plant with a 117 l/s total capacity (including provision for chemical dosing and chlorination), a 14km long, 368 l/s capacity, 600mm diameter fibre cement pipeline from the water treatment works to the town of Okakarara, 28km of gravel surfaced access roads, buildings (including an operations complex, chemical dosing and chlorination facilities), accommodation buildings and general site services including water supply and reticulation, incorporating a 40m³ elevated steel reservoir and road works. LCE carried out the preparation of a feasibility study, all the design work, the preparation of the tender documentation, the site supervision, quality control and project management.

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Aigams Additional Office Accommodation – Windhoek (1984 – 1987)

LCE were appointed by the then Department of Water Affairs, now NamWater, to design the structural and civil components of the new office accommodation for the Department in Windhoek. LCE’s responsibilities included the detailed structural design, the design of the civil engineering components, the foundation investigations, the construction supervision and quality control for the following components of the project: two 5-storey reinforced concrete office blocks, double storey reinforced concrete parking garage, heavy equipment workshop with 20 ton travelling crane, two warehouses and stores, water meter testing installation and building, soils laboratory, ablution facilities, spray painting and sand blasting workshops, 200m³ underground reinforced concrete reservoir, 200m³ steel elevated reservoir, undercover parking garages, paved road works, sewage and water reticulation networks, retaining walls and general site works.

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