Water, land, power and law enforcement

More than 4 000 Windhoek residents took part in public meetings hosted by the City of Windhoek in mid-2016, giving them a platform to air their complaints.Thirteen public meetings took place over a month, with the biggest crowds recorded in Tobias Hainyeko constituency (700), Windhoek West (700), Groot Aub (650), Mix Settlement (580) and the Samora Machel constituency (570). Most of the concerns they raised were about a lack of basic services such as water, sanitation, land and electricity, it was noted in last month's City Council agenda, which provided an overview of the meetings. On a number of occasions, residents raised the issue of noise pollution from shebeens in their areas and asked that the police strictly enforce city by-laws to address the issue.Many residents from various constituencies complained that municipal buses do not reach their areas or are chronically late, and “when they do, drivers have a bad attitude towards passengers.”Residents demanded that bus supervisors should be employed to ensure buses complete their rounds as required. Residents of Tweetheni in Okuryangava wanted to know about the provision of electricity to their area, as was “supposed to be done”, while several other residents also requested electricity. Groot Aub residents asked whether small-scale farmers in their area would be relocated, and what the status was of farmers within the boundaries of the city between Cimbebasia and Groot Aub.Several residents requested debushing and cleaning of riverbeds, and additional recreational facilities. Several residents from a number of constituencies asked for the provision of a library and community hall in their areas. Some residents complained about illegal traders, especially at road intersections, while market traders asked the municipality to provide infrastructure that would keep out the rain and sun. In terms of solid waste management, several residents requested additional skips and complained about waste at building sites. Tobias Hainyeko residents asked for the removal of “community leaders who have been serving on leadership committees too long.”Residents from Katutura East constituency complained that nearby shacks were negatively affecting the value of their houses.A common complaint was that some individuals lock up public toilets, for example in Babylon. JANA-MARI SMITH

Water, land, power and law enforcement

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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Water, land, power and law enforcement

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-03

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