News from Windhoek council chambers
The City of Windhoek recently shared highlights from its latest ordinary council meeting, covering key initiatives on climate change, international agreements, educational partnerships, and new urban developments.Climate Change Steering Committee
Council approved the formation of the Windhoek Climate Change Steering Committee (CCSC) to implement the Integrated Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (ICCSAP). Due to its arid conditions and socio-economic factors, Windhoek faces severe climate change impacts, including a projected future of drier and warmer conditions. Urbanization and informal settlements will worsen these challenges, affecting service delivery and resilience-building efforts.
The CCSC will include council members, officials, and stakeholders such as national government representatives, civil society, academics, the private sector, and research institutions. The committee will monitor the ICCSAP, set strategic directions, and provide impartial feedback. It will report to the council annually on progress, ensuring timely project execution and promoting collaboration among stakeholders across Windhoek’s society.
International agreements
The Council approved several international agreements to enhance global cooperation and cultural exchange. These partnerships align with Windhoek's Strategic Plan for 2022-2027, focusing on areas such as tourism, community development, and innovation.
Blantyre City Council, Malawi: This agreement will promote tourism, heritage, culture, and the exchange of information on social services, education, and public safety.
Luanda, Angola: Following discussions at the Angola-Namibia Bi-National Commission in May 2024, a sister-city relationship will be formalized to collaborate on urban management, economic development, and environmental management.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: This twinning agreement, building on mutual interests since 2001, will focus on solid waste and water management, urban planning, economic development, and support for startups and SMEs.
Matsapha Town Council, Eswatini: This agreement emphasizes economic development through small and medium enterprises, environmental sustainability, and promoting tourism, heritage, and culture.
NUST MoU
Council plans to renew its five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). The original MoU, signed in May 2019, expired earlier this year. Both parties have expressed a desire to continue their collaboration for another five years. The renewed MoU will focus on areas such as research, smart city technology, urban design, renewable energy, disaster management, and international relations.
Otjomuise Extension 12 development
Council approved the development of a new township, Otjomuise Extension 12, in partnership with Omba Holdings Pty Ltd. This Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project will feature 146 erven with various land uses, integrating residential, business, institutional facilities, and public open spaces to create a vibrant community. The residential erven will range from 302 m² to 5,294 m², providing diverse housing options to meet different needs and enhance affordability.