Billions needed for houses
165 000 new residents in the capital
The City of Windhoek wants to deliver 12 000 serviced plots by 2027 at an estimated cost of N$2.7 billion.
The City of Windhoek needs an estimated N$7.8 billion to service land in response to the rapid increase in urban growth.The capital's mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja said during her inaugural address that Windhoek's population is expected to reach 500 000 inhabitants this year. The demand for serviced land has therefore reached a critical level, especially in informal settlements and new residential areas.
"The city gained 52 000 additional households between 2011 and 2025, which means 165 000 new residents, all of whom require housing and municipal services," Larandja said.
With urban growth outpacing infrastructure development, 40% of Windhoek's residents currently live in 130 informal settlements, often in poor living conditions.
To address this crisis, the capital has committed to delivering 12 000 serviced erven by 2027 at an estimated cost of N$2.7 billion.
Larandja stressed the urgency of collaborating with role players and called on the private sector, government agencies and development partners to align their efforts to contribute to urban expansion.
“This is not just a municipal responsibility, but a joint effort,” she said.
The capital’s recently launched Windhoek Urban Structure Plan seeks to provide a strategic framework for managing growth, as well as improving service delivery and attracting investment for housing and infrastructure. While the challenge for financing is a very steep one, Larandja stressed that “Windhoek remains open for business”. She went on to call on partners to invest in sustainable urban development.
As the capital city continues to expand, Larandja warned that securing the necessary resources is critical to ensuring all residents have access to decent housing, water, sanitation and roads. - [email protected]