“Let’s Make it Happen for Walvis Bay!” – Shimbilinga
Walvis Bay Mayor Johannes Shimbilinga has assured residents that the town council is fully committed to addressing pressing infrastructure challenges and improving living conditions over the next five years.
Speaking at the first ordinary council meeting of 2026 held recently in the harbour town, Mayor Shimbilinga emphasized the need for unity, community participation, and collective action to tackle the town’s challenges. “As a local authority, we are currently faced with various challenges, from dilapidated infrastructure to the need for improved living conditions for our residents. We are all aware of the roads and facilities that require urgent attention. I assure our residents that the Council is fully committed to addressing these issues and enhancing the quality of life for all our community members during the next five years,” the mayor said.
He called on residents to take pride in public infrastructure and refrain from vandalism, noting that destruction hinders collective progress. Mayor Shimbilinga also urged the community to confront social issues such as poverty, crime, and substance abuse, which require joint effort to resolve. The mayor outlined key municipal projects underway. Roadworks include the completion of 3rd Street, Allen Dean Martin Street, and the ongoing rehabilitation of Railway Street, with expected completion in March 2026. Several intersections, including Ben Amathila and Johannes Nampala Street, are nearing completion, while maintenance on Hanna Mupetami Road has been finalized. Future projects include Sam Nujoma Avenue, Independence Road, Nangolo Mbumba Drive, and Nathaniel Maxuilili Avenue, all in planning or design stages.
Housing and land development projects have made significant progress. The Green Valley (Farm 37) government housing project delivered 233 low-cost houses valued at N$37 million, with Phase 2 planned for Green Valley Extensions 1 and 2. Narraville Extension 8 is also advancing, with Phase 1 nearing completion.
Building and recreational projects include the Independence Beach Promenade, 97% complete with EU support, the renovated Ekutu Open Market, and structural repairs to Kuisebmond Community Hall, Narraville Club House, and various stadiums. The council is also upgrading informal trading stalls, public ablution facilities, and constructing boundary walls, fire stations, and new water and sewer infrastructure.
Mayor Shimbilinga emphasized that Walvis Bay’s priorities are service delivery, economic growth, infrastructure development, and community engagement. “Let this meeting be a testament to our commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance. Let’s get to work with integrity, diligence, and passion. With that, let’s make it happen for Walvis Bay!”
By Rudi Bowe
