Africa-Press – Namibia. Addressing poor road conditions and unreliable refuse removal services, which have turned Walvis Bay into a shadow of its former self, are high on the Walvis Bay municipal council’s agenda for the 2025/2026 financial year.
This was revealed by the chairperson of the management committee, councillor Richard Hoaeb, who said these concerns are being prioritised under the new N$1.3 billion budget that was tabled on Friday during an extraordinary council meeting.
“The total capital budget amounts to N$632 million, while the operational budget is N$660 million. At least N$152 million is earmarked for infrastructure repair and replacement, making it the second-largest allocation under the capital budget,” he said.
During the tabling of the budget, he stated that the capital expenditure for the replacement of vehicles, plant and machinery has been significantly influenced by the frequent breakdown of refuse collection trucks.
“This has had a direct impact on service delivery, particularly in the timely removal of refuse, an issue that has understandably caused frustration among our residents,” he noted.
Hoaeb said the council has now prioritised the procurement of five new refuse trucks to restore consistent and reliable refuse removal services across Walvis Bay.
“This investment reflects our commitment to maintaining essential municipal services and addressing operational challenges with urgency and responsibility,” he added.
Hoaeb said a renewed and focused approach is being adopted to address the backlog in road maintenance and pothole repairs.
“This area represents a significant backlog. The deteriorating state of our roads poses challenges to safety, efficiency and quality of life. Our objective is to implement a comprehensive road infrastructure programme, ensuring timely and sustained improvements to our transport network,” he remarked.
Land
The budget provides N$272 million for land development.
This includes the ongoing work at Farm 37 and Narraville Extension 8.
Hoaeb said land delivery remains a priority.
Hence, they allocated 43% of the capital budget towards land development.
“A total of N$88 million will go towards the development of Farm 37, which will yield over 700 erven. So far, 151 people have willingly moved to Farm 37. While the area is not fully-serviced yet, we are providing basic sanitation and water for free,” he said.
Narraville extension 8 will receive N$52 million for 225 erven, while N$42 million has been set aside to develop industrial plots in extension 9.
Meanwhile, N$25 million has been reserved for residential plots for members of the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia.
Hoaeb said the budget complies with the line ministry’s directive that it must be balanced.
About 79% of the revenue will be generated from water, sanitation, refuse collection as well as rates and taxes.
Unrealistic budget
Meanwhile, councillors Ronald Bramwell and Epfraim Shozi rejected the budget shortly after it was tabled.
“My concern is that in the 2025 financial year, N$45 million was allocated. With about only two months left in the financial year, less than half was spent. If we are serious about maintaining infrastructure and keeping costs down, the full budget should be utilised every year,” Bramwell said. “The main question is – is this big budget achievable, or is it just another number that looks good on paper?” he questioned.
He said the budget was not discussed with the community.
Therefore, it does not speak to their needs.
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