City says park budgets guided by operational needs, not bias
Recreational parks in Windhoek’s high-density suburbs are bearing the brunt of vandalism, theft and heavy usage.
This has raised questions about the perceived unequal condition of public recreational spaces across the capital.
While the City maintains that it does not apply an unequal approach to maintenance, conditions on the ground suggest a more complex picture shaped by usage pressure, crime and limited security.
In an interview with City of Windhoek spokesperson Harold Akwenye regarding the maintenance, security and management of public recreational parks, playgrounds and green spaces, he stressed that there is no budget bias, but rather operational realities to consider. “The City remains committed to ensuring that all public facilities are maintained in a fair, transparent and sustainable manner for the benefit of all residents.”
Akwenye explained that Windhoek is divided into eastern and western operational zones, with 17 facilities in the east and 15 in the west. Maintenance is carried out either on a scheduled monthly basis or as once-off interventions, depending on how frequently facilities are used.
Pressure and damage
Network Media Hub (NMH) site visits revealed stark contrasts in park conditions. In densely populated areas such as Katutura, many parks appear to lack security and show signs of vandalism, including damaged infrastructure and missing equipment.
By contrast, recreational spaces in suburbs such as Eros appeared well maintained during visits, with security guards regularly monitoring playgrounds.
According to Akwenye, maintenance spending is not fixed per area but is guided by need, usage levels and the condition of each facility.
Parks in high-density areas, many of which are located in the western parts of the city, experience heavier daily use, leading to faster wear and tear and more frequent repairs.
Akwenye noted that parks in high-density areas, particularly in suburbs such as Katutura, are more prone to vandalism and theft of infrastructure, which undermines maintenance efforts and shortens the lifespan of facilities.
Security remains limited and is prioritised for high-traffic public spaces such as Zoo Park and UN Plaza, where there is constant public movement, he added.
Most neighbourhood parks do not have dedicated security personnel, leaving them more vulnerable to damage and theft.
Neighbourhood care
On procurement, Akwenye said the City follows a regulated and transparent process when appointing service providers, with performance monitored internally to ensure compliance with service standards.
He rejected any suggestion that certain areas are deliberately neglected, adding that differences in park conditions are often linked to levels of vandalism and community involvement.
In some eastern suburbs, he said, residents and neighbourhood watch groups play an active role in safeguarding public facilities, contributing to better upkeep. - [email protected]
