Namibia is one of the driest countries on earth. Windhoek also has a very dry climate, which is why supplying the city with clean water is a challenging issue and any contamination of surface water is considered a threat. Surface water pollution in the townships of Windhoek, caused by the illegal disposal of waste oils, used paints, lubricants and solvents by informal backyard mechanics, is a problem for the environment as well as the health of the local population. However, the informal small businesses in the car services sector (so-called backyard mechanics) in Windhoek represent a valuable and important opportunity to generate income and create jobs – especially for unskilled workers in the townships. The mechanics are to some extent aware of the problem of illegal disposal of materials, and they are willing to work towards a solution.
This is why the project 'Environmental Education and Improved Surface Water Quality in Townships in Windhoek, Namibia' was launched, in which the backyard mechanics were closely involved. It was preceded by various thematically related activities, such as delegation visits and a study co-financed by Bremen at the University of Namibia on the operation and regulation of informal vehicle workshops and backyard mechanics. This was followed by a first workshop with ten backyard mechanics in Katutura in 2010, which was also attended by delegations from both partner cities. In preparation for the project, an initial survey was carried out in December 2013. This involved visiting the project area, Katutura Township, as well as a number of sites of informal and formal car mechanics and micro garages, and holding numerous discussions with the actors involved.
The main objectives of the project were first of all to improve surface water quality by educating mechanics, as well as the entire community, on the environmental and health hazards of waste oil. Secondly, a pilot plant adapted to local conditions was to be constructed to retain spilled and collected oil. To achieve these objectives, the project focused on three aspects: raising the environmental awareness of motor mechanics, modernising and expanding a waste oil retention system and raising awareness of water quality testing.