Walvis Bay Mayor Addresses Housing Delays, Infrastructure Challenges and Service Delivery Concerns

Walvis Bay – Walvis Bay Mayor Johannes Shimbilinga has responded to a wide range of service delivery concerns raised by residents, addressing housing delays, infrastructure challenges, water billing systems, and public participation in municipal decision-making.

The mayor was speaking in an interview with journalist Leonard Witbeen, where he outlined the municipality’s plans and ongoing interventions aimed at improving service delivery across the coastal town.

Housing delays at Farm 37 under scrutiny

One of the key issues raised relates to approximately 200 houses at Farm 37 that remain unoccupied due to a lack of bulk services.

Mayor Shimbilinga confirmed the situation, explaining that the houses were constructed under a national urban development programme but were delayed due to infrastructure constraints, particularly sewer pump capacity and contractor availability.

He said the municipality is currently in the process of appointing contractors to complete the remaining bulk services.

“We are committed to ensuring that these houses are occupied. Our target is within six months, depending on the completion of bulk services. The beneficiary list is already in place, prioritising backyard residents in Kuisebmund,” he said.

The mayor added that the allocation process is guided by the municipality’s land and property policy, which he says ensures structured and regulated distribution of housing opportunities.

Housing delivery approach under review

On broader housing delivery, Shimbilinga said the municipality is pursuing multiple strategies, including land servicing under national informal settlement upgrading programmes and partnerships with social groups.

He noted that five blocks of land have already been allocated to community-based organisations to support self-build housing initiatives.

According to him, the municipality is also shifting towards faster land servicing and direct allocation of plots to individuals to accelerate housing development.

Road infrastructure upgrades to begin

Residents also raised concerns about deteriorating roads and potholes affecting mobility and tourism.

In response, the mayor confirmed that road rehabilitation and pothole repair works are expected to commence soon, following the finalisation of procurement processes.

Key roads identified for upgrades include Sam Nujoma Drive, Nangolo Mbuma Road, and Western Avenue.

“Residents will begin to see activity on the roads within this month as contractors are mobilised,” Shimbilinga said.

He added that long-term infrastructure planning is underway, including road network rehabilitation programmes aligned with sewer infrastructure upgrades.

Youth employment through municipal maintenance

On unemployment, particularly among young people, the mayor said the municipality continues to involve youth through temporary employment programmes.

These initiatives support municipal maintenance teams, including road repair activities.

“This is not new. We have historically engaged youth in municipal operations, and this remains a practical way to provide short-term employment while delivering services,” he said.

Water services and Red Force billing concerns

Concerns were also raised regarding water disconnections and billing practices linked to Red Force.

The mayor explained that disconnections occur only after clients fail to respond to multiple notices, after which payment arrangements are still possible.

He acknowledged public concern over the current system and noted that the municipality has introduced relief measures, including reduced deposit requirements for payment plans.

Residents now pay 25% deposits for residential accounts and 30% for businesses under revised arrangements.

“The current system has challenges, and I am personally not fully satisfied with it. There is a need to review future arrangements to ensure better service delivery to residents,” he said.

Crime prevention and drug abuse response

On social issues, including rising concerns about drug abuse, Shimbilinga said the municipality is establishing a multi-sectoral security task team.

The team will include councillors, municipal officials, police, and social welfare representatives to coordinate responses to crime and social challenges.

He also confirmed plans to expand CCTV surveillance in key areas to support crime prevention and monitoring.

Shebeen licensing and zoning enforcement

Responding to concerns about alcohol outlets in residential areas, the mayor said shebeen licensing remains strictly regulated under municipal zoning laws.

He added that approvals for new establishments in residential zones have been significantly reduced in recent years.

Municipal investigation into cash loss ongoing

The mayor also addressed a reported break-in at a municipal pay point last year, which resulted in the loss of approximately N$400,000.

He said the matter remains under police investigation and is being treated as confidential while inquiries continue.

“The case is still under investigation, and once concluded, the public will be informed accordingly,” he said.

Calls for greater public participation

On public participation, Shimbilinga encouraged residents to take part in municipal budget and planning consultations, stating that several public meetings have already been held across different areas.

However, he expressed concern over low turnout at such meetings.

“We urge residents to actively participate, as these platforms are critical in shaping the future development of Walvis Bay,” he said.

Conclusion

Mayor Johannes Shimbilinga reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to improving service delivery through infrastructure development, housing projects, youth employment initiatives, and enhanced community engagement.

He emphasised that while challenges remain, coordinated efforts between government, council, and residents are essential to achieving sustainable urban development.