Othithiya is still the place to be – Truth, for its own sake. – New Era

Obrein Simasiku

OMUTHIYA - The atmosphere is hyped up in Oshikoto as revellers continue indulging midway into the festive season, with Othithiya water spring emerging as the most preferred recreational spot attracting hordes of people from all the four northern regions.

Upon approaching the place, one is welcomed by the fauna and flora of the environment coupled with a cool breeze. Its also commonly known for sundowners overlooking the Okashana grazing land and salt pans. It has become an intertwined area where both human and wildlife coexist in harmony.

Having existed for decades, the fountain which has water running all year round through a tiny opening has proven to be an ideal place for friends and families to sit, catch a cool breeze overlooking the King Nehale conservancy, presenting an opportunity to interact with nature.Others descend to braai and enjoy the serenity with ice-cold beverages. The area is situated roughly 10 kilometres south of Omuthiya en route to Etosha National Park through the King Nehale conservancy, thus also makes it accessible to tourists visiting the park.Far end revellers have already started preparing camping chairs, tents and cooler boxes, as its a norm people camp at the open area towards Christmas leading to New Years Eve to secure space.As much as the area is admired by many, the masses feel more improvements should be done to make it an extraordinary place of relaxation.Among such, the residents appeal to Omuthiya town council to install electricity to cater for those willing to stay up late, as well as provide tap water.The need for flushing toilets was raised while bemoaning the few dilapidated pit latrines. This is a great idea for sure.We need to upgrade this hotspot, a town council refreshments shop would do, they can start with a container. Security is also becoming a necessity since we have heard a few robberies there lately. A few lights for those who wish to spend extra time is also needed, remarked Omuthiya resident Salomo Ndeshimona.Extra garbage bins and more shades are a must. A volleyball court in the sand may as well do. Then deepening it a little for better cooling off, perhaps even paving the area north-eastern close to the main fountain so that it appears cooler, provided that it does not disturb the birds sanctuary southwestern of the main pond, further suggested Ndeshimona.Another resident Selma Namgongo feels it would be nice to fence off the area for better management, in terms of cleaning and maintenance. She, however, feels fencing might also interfere with nature, as its within the conservancy and its a source of water for wildlife.Making his voice heard Johannes John from Otavi and who is planning to come to spend time at Othithiya this festive, suggests the road should be tarred as it leads to a national park thus this can attract many people to visit.Its such a unique place, it, therefore, needs an investment to change the face of it so it can be seen beyond the borders of the country and as a national attraction site, he noted.Former councillor of Guinas Betty Kaula wishes the swimming pool is constructed using the same water from the fountain, while on a long term one can consider constructing a lodge to provide accommodation and boost tourism and hospitality industry.osimasiku@nepc.com.na

Read more here:
Othithiya is still the place to be - Truth, for its own sake. - New Era