Windhoek Mayor Addresses Urban Decay and Public Safety Concerns. The Mayor of Windhoek, Her Worship Cllr. Ndeshihafela Larandja, conducted a site visit to key areas in the city to address concerns raised by residents about deteriorating infrastructure, safety risks, and sanitation issues.
The Mayor also assessed the Old White Hotel, located near Wernhil Shopping Mall, which has become a refuge for homeless individuals. The neglected building lacks lighting and sanitation, raising concerns about its role in nighttime criminal activities. Residents have reported incidents of robberies in the vicinity, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
The final stop was at the Oshetu Open Market (Single Quarter) in Katutura, where a blocked drainage system has led to flooding. The stagnant sewage water poses a health hazard to both vendors and customers, making the marketplace increasingly uninhabitable. Business owners expressed concern over the impact on trade, as unhygienic conditions deter customers.
The Mayor acknowledged the severity of these challenges and assured the public that solutions would be explored to improve safety, hygiene, and urban maintenance. While some of the issues fall within municipal jurisdiction, she emphasized the need for collaborative efforts with relevant stakeholders to restore the affected areas.