PowerCom, City link up through CCTV partnership amid safety concerns
In a major step toward transforming Windhoek into a safer and smarter city, PowerCom Namibia (Pty) Ltd and the City of Windhoek have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the installation of CCTV surveillance infrastructure across high-risk urban areas over 5 years. The signing ceremony took place last week at the Windhoek City Police service headquarters.The partnership will leverage PowerCom's extensive telecommunications infrastructure to support law enforcement efforts in crime prevention and urban monitoring.
"This initiative is not just about technology," emphasised PowerCom CEO Beatus Amadhila during his remarks. "It is about partnership, it is about taking collective action to make our city safer, smarter, and conducive for families, businesses, residents, and all visitors alike."
He said that PowerCom is already finalising CCTV installation at seven identified sites, which are expected to be completed within two months. For the 2025/2026 financial year, the company has earmarked provision for 15 to 20 additional sites. "Upon approval, the final plan shall be submitted to the City in line with the terms of the MoU," he added. "We anticipate making similar commitments for the ensuing financial years—for as long as it takes."
Responding to questions on the scope of the commitment, a PowerCom representative clarified: "It's difficult to say we are going to sponsor 60 or 100 cameras or whatever. But it is a five-year contract. We want to increase the amount every year depending on approval."
There is no hard cap on the number of cameras that may be deployed. Instead, decisions will be made on a need-to-need basis, reviewed annually in collaboration with the City. "The board will approve the contribution—say 20 cameras—and the City will identify the sites throughout the year. If fewer than 20 sites are determined that year, we adjust accordingly. The two entities need to work together. One determines the need, the other provides the cameras," the representative explained.
A smart city vision by 2027
Windhoek mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja hailed the agreement as a pivotal moment in Windhoek's path to becoming a "smart, inclusive, and sustainable city" by 2027. "Today marks a significant milestone," she said. "This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to harnessing innovative technologies and strategic partnerships."
She stressed that digital inclusion, safety, and sustainable urban development were core to the City's vision and that PowerCom's involvement would help tackle urban challenges such as crime and access to digital services. "This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to address the pressing challenges of urbanisation," said the mayor. "PowerCom's involvement goes beyond technology. It strengthens social cohesion and safety-critical pillars for a thriving city."
Amadhila also used the occasion to urge other stakeholders - businesses, civil society and citizens - to support initiatives that improve urban safety.
"We are not here to compete, but to complement one another," he said. "We encourage others to support and participate in efforts that aim to make our city safer, smarter, and hospitable."
As the partnership officially takes off, both PowerCom and the City of Windhoek expressed optimism that this initiative will deliver a long-term, meaningful impact for the capital's residents and visitors.