News from Council Chambers
The Municipal Council of Windhoek has approved a new property rates framework aimed at resolving a long-running dispute involving Brakwater and other areas incorporated through boundary extensions, the council said after its ordinary meeting on Thursday.
Residents had raised concerns about paying the same rates as other Windhoek residents despite differing levels of service delivery.
Council said property rates are a municipal tax and not directly linked to services received by individual property owners. It said revenue is used to fund city-wide infrastructure, including roads, parks, street lighting and stormwater systems.
The council resolved that uniform property rate factors will apply across all rateable properties within Windhoek’s municipal boundaries, including extended areas.
However, Council approved a 75% rebate for farms and smallholdings used primarily for agricultural purposes, meaning eligible properties will pay 25% of standard property tax and solid waste tariffs.
Properties zoned for agriculture but engaged mainly in non-agricultural activity will not qualify. Smallholdings are defined as agricultural properties between one and 50 hectares.
Council said the framework aims to provide clarity, address resident concerns and align with the Local Authorities Act. Interim tariffs remain in place until new rates are gazetted.
Donations for Katutura Old Age Home
The council noted and approved donations worth N$269,617 received by the Katutura Old Age Home between July 2024 and April 2026.
Donations from individuals, businesses and organisations included food, toiletries, bedding and household goods.
The city said the contributions had improved the quality of life of residents and supported daily operations at the facility.
Dog control regulations
Council also approved new Dog Control and Management Regulations aimed at improving public safety, responsible ownership and animal welfare.
The regulations respond to concerns over stray dogs, attacks, neglect and gaps in existing legislation.
Mandatory dog registration, licensing, vaccination and fitness certification will be introduced, alongside stricter leash and confinement rules.
Council estimates there are about 20 000 dogs in Windhoek and said a formal regulatory framework is required to manage the population.
The regulations also provide for impoundment, adoption and measures for dangerous dogs. Licensing fees for ownership and breeding have been approved, with registration fees to be set via official notice.
Council said the measures aim to reduce dog-related incidents, improve welfare standards and strengthen accountability.
The City said the items were highlights of the meeting and that full details are available on its website.
