Waste management a growing concern
The irregular emptying of garbage containers in Windhoek has raised concerns among residents.Windhoek mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja subsequently met with the Waste Management Department and the city's Fleet Department to gain a better understanding of the issues affecting this service.
During the meeting, the Solid Waste Management team explained several operational challenges. "Waste containers, originally introduced in 2002 for garden and construction waste, are often misused for general household waste and even hazardous medical waste, leading to overcrowding and potential health risks," the CoW said. The department also faces limited staffing, which hampers ongoing public education on the proper use of waste containers.
In addition, there is a lack of reliable vehicles, many of which are prone to breakdowns, making it difficult to maintain regular collection schedules.
The mayor noted that she now has a better understanding of the challenges facing the Waste Management Department. She emphasised that the situation requires urgent intervention not only within the city, but also from the central government and other stakeholders to find and implement sustainable solutions.
"Windhoek is our capital, and we all share a responsibility to keep it clean. Reclaiming our status as Africa's cleanest city will require a collective and coordinated effort," she said.
Larandja emphasised the importance of transparency with residents, adding that understanding the extent of the challenges facing the city is crucial for managing public expectations.