UPDATE ON THE VOLUNTARY EXCHANGE OF THE 1959-1960s KATUTURA AND KHOMASDAL HOUSES PROGRAMME

The Municipal Council of Windhoek is pleased to provide an update on the Voluntary Exchange of the 1959-1960s Katutura and Khomasdal Houses Programme. This initiative seeks to celebrate our history by recognizing, protecting, and conserving our city’s heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.

The Council invited homeowners of houses built between 1959 and the 1960s in the townships of Katutura (Herero, Damara, Nama, Ovambo, Donkerhoek, Gemengde) and Khomasdal to participate in the voluntary exchange, offering them modern homes through the Council’s Affordable Housing Project. The public call for participation ran from 8th April 2024 to 30th September 2024.

Update on the Application Process:

The Municipal Council acknowledges that, out of 102 applications distributed, only 23 completed applications have been received. These submissions represent a variety of locations, including Damara, Herero, Ovambo, and other areas in Katutura. However, there are still gaps in applications from certain locations and townships.

Terms and Conditions for the Voluntary Exchange:

• Houses must be older than 50 years, built between 1959 and the 1960s.
• Houses should be in their original state with minimal or no renovations/additions.
• Applications must be submitted on the prescribed application form.
• Selected houses, that meet the set criteria, may be considered for designation as city heritage resources.

Project Phases:

Phase 1:

• Call for applications.
• Acknowledgement of applications received and updates to homeowners on the project status.
• Extension of the application deadline to 28th February 2025 to encourage submissions from areas that have not yet been represented. Please note that this extension only applies to homeowners who missed the original deadline and does not affect those who have already submitted their applications.
• Assessment of the 23 houses according to the criteria for heritage preservation and development.

Phase 2:

• Additional public consultations in areas where no applications have been received.
• Research on the historical significance of the houses.

The Municipal Council of Windhoek greatly appreciates the interest shown by homeowners and residents. Your participation is integral to the protection, recognition, and promotion of the city’s heritage. We ask for your patience during the review process, which will ensure a comprehensive evaluation of all applications. If further information or clarification is needed, the Council will reach out to applicants accordingly.

We value the contributions of our residents in enhancing Windhoek’s heritage while fostering sustainable urban development.

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ISSUED BY:
City of Windhoek
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Public Participation

For more information about this statement, please contact our Corporate Communications Section at Tel.: 061 290 3797 /2044, or email: cowcommunication@windhoekcc.org.na