RFA commits N$10 million to NUST research

RFA and NUST contribute to NDP6 together
The partnership aims to harness research and innovation in strengthening the efficiency and sustainability of Namibia’s road sector.
Rozanne Swart
  • 3 Hours Ago

In a move aimed at driving infrastructure innovation, the Road Fund Administration (RFA) and the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) have formalised a five-year, N$10 million partnership to leverage academic research in improving the efficiency and long-term sustainability of Namibia’s road sector.

In a joint statement, the two institutions said the RFA would draw on NUST’s research capabilities to develop innovative, evidence-based solutions to strengthen the sector’s efficiency, resilience and sustainability.

RFA chief executive Ali Ipinge said the partnership was intended to be an active collaboration rather than a symbolic agreement, contributing to Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6). “Our work is aligned to Namibia’s national priorities under NDP6, ensuring that our investments support economic growth, infrastructure development and service delivery,” he said.

Ipinge added that the partnership also aligns with global sustainable development goals. “We are guided by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, not just as global aspirations, but as practical action points that shape how we plan, build and maintain our roads.”

NUST acting vice-chancellor Andrew Niikondo described the collaboration as mutually beneficial.

“Our researchers are expected to conduct applied research designed to find solutions to developmental challenges in Namibia, the SADC region and beyond. We therefore welcome this agreement between our two public institutions as a means to advance our national obligations,” he said.

Niikondo said the collaboration would help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry application by combining RFA’s industry expertise with NUST’s research capacity. “NUST recognises the RFA as a key player in Namibia’s transport sector, bringing invaluable industry expertise that will enrich our research in this field,” he said.

Ipinge reiterated the importance of collaboration. “Namibia’s road network will not be built by one institution alone; it will be built through collaboration, research, innovation and shared purpose.”