Africa-Press – Namibia. As his five-year term concludes, outgoing Ongwediva mayor Taara Shalyefu reflected on a leadership journey characterised by noticeable development, community impact and resilience.
Shalyefu leaves behind a legacy of infrastructure growth, community service, and a call for continued unity and public engagement.
Speaking to New Era, Shalyefu highlighted his key accomplishments, describing them as projects that “changed lives, not just landscapes.”
“We upgraded roads, constructed water channels to reduce flooding, and installed sewer reticulation systems in the extensions. We also relocated residents from informal settlements to properly serviced areas and electrified places that had long been left in the dark,” he said. Urban development was a major focus during his term.
“We built a leisure park, installed streetlights, upgraded a number of streets, improved sports facilities and even provided free sewer connections,” Shalyefu stated, noting that these developments provided safety, recreation, dignity and opportunities for residents.
But the journey was not without challenges. Shalyefu candidly acknowledged the obstacles that hindered faster progress at the town.
“We faced land scarcity, unsatisfactory refuse collection, a stalled development project, and persistent issues of crime, littering, unregulated street vending and stray animals. These remain areas that require decisive action,” he shared.
Reflecting on governance, he offered heartfelt advice to the incoming leaders, stating, “They must engage with residents, prioritise service delivery, and continue providing land to our people. Leadership is not about titles; it is about serving the community.”He further emphasised the importance of teamwork and harmony. “I want to urge for peace among the staff members of the town council and the community. Development can only happen where there is unity,” he said.
Although his term has ended, Shalyefu pledged his continued support. “I thank the people of Ongwediva for their trust and cooperation, and I will continue to support the incoming councillors in any way I can,” he said.
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