Windhoek battles potholes, land shortage amid constrained budget
The City of Windhoek has repaired more than 67 000 potholes over the past year at a cost exceeding N$64 million, as ageing infrastructure and heavy rains continue to strain the capital’s road network.
Delivering his official address at the March ordinary council meeting on Thursday, Mayor Sakarias Uunona said deteriorating roads remain a major concern for residents, particularly following consecutive rainy seasons that have worsened existing damage. “Windhoek’s road network is aging, and with limited maintenance funding over the years, it has become increasingly fragile,” Uunona said.
“This was made worse by the heavy rains and flooding during the 2024–2025 rainy season, which caused major damage to our roads, bridges, and stormwater systems.”
He noted that potholes have become a “daily frustration” for residents, with the hardest-hit areas including Katutura, Khomasdal, the central business district, Otjomuise, Rocky Crest, and Okuryangava.
Despite financial constraints, the municipality has undertaken extensive patching efforts. “Since February 2025, our teams have fixed 67,344 potholes and repaired over 54,000 square metres of damaged road,” Uunona said. “To date, the City has invested N$64.36 million in these routine repairs.”
However, he cautioned that such interventions are temporary. “While pothole patching is only a temporary solution, it remains an essential step in keeping our roads usable and our residents safe while we continue to work toward long-term improvements.”
Rainfall risks
The mayor also warned that the ongoing rainy season continues to pose risks to several communities, urging residents to remain cautious. “I urge all residents to remain vigilant and follow the safety advisories issued by our municipal response teams,” he said, adding that city officials and emergency services are closely monitoring conditions.
Beyond infrastructure challenges, Uunona highlighted the growing demand for serviced land, saying supply continues to lag behind need. “Council remains cognisant of the urgent need for land. However, the demand for land continues to outstrip the availability of serviced land, and financial constraints pose a significant challenge,” he said.
In response, the city has initiated a large-scale planning process aimed at formalising informal settlements. Residents have been urged to cooperate with the initiative to ensure a smooth transition.
Entrepreneurship push
The council is also stepping up efforts to boost local economic activity through entrepreneurship support. In February, 21 aspiring entrepreneurs were trained under the Start Your Business programme. “Participants gained practical knowledge and skills in financial planning, marketing, business planning, cost analysis, and effective business management,” Uunona said.
One participant described the programme as a “game changer,” saying it demonstrated “the essential components required to build a profitable and sustainable business”. Uunona added that the city would continue working with partners to facilitate access to funding opportunities for small businesses.
Community and youth programmes
The mayor reaffirmed the council’s commitment to social development through initiatives such as the Junior Council, which leads community outreach programmes including clean-up campaigns, HIV/AIDS awareness, and youth engagement.
He said the Junior Council’s leadership training and elections for the 2026/27 term were successfully conducted earlier this month, with the inauguration set for 28 April. In addition, more than 2,500 learners are expected to participate in the upcoming under-13 mayoral sports league starting in April.
Infrastructure projects underway
On capital projects, Uunona reported progress on the construction of a new cemetery south of Rocky Crest Extension 8, which is now entering its third development phase. “The development… forms part of long-term spatial and infrastructure planning to ensure that future burial needs are taken care of,” he said.
He also confirmed that refurbishment works at Sam Nujoma Stadium are advancing, with structural work on key sections nearing completion. The project is expected to conclude in October 2026.
Call for unity
Reflecting on Namibia’s recent 36th Independence anniversary, Uunona echoed calls for unity and collective action, referencing remarks by Frans Kapofi that “a people united… will always emerge victoriously”.
He also congratulated President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on the milestone, wishing her “strength, wisdom, and unwavering clarity of purpose”.
“Meaningful and lasting change comes when we unite for the common good,” Uunona said. “Let us continue to work as a collective for the prosperity and well-being of our city.”
