Walvis Bay Mayor Johannes Shimbilinga has pledged to defend the integrity of the record-breaking N$21.29 million Mayoral Fund, promising that every cent raised will be accounted for and used for its intended purpose, regardless of who occupies the mayoral office after the upcoming leadership changes.
Speaking at the Walvis Bay Mayoral Fundraising Gala Dinner at the Civic Centre, the Shimbilinga said the historic fundraising achievement had left him overwhelmed, describing the support from businesses, individuals and stakeholders as deeply touching. He said he had hoped to break a fundraising record but was uncertain whether such an amount had ever been raised at a similar local authority event in Namibia.
The N$21,291,496 raised will be directed towards initiatives intended to improve the lives of Walvis Bay residents, including youth development, educational support, scholarships and internships.
Addressing the gathering, the mayor emphasised that political differences should never stand in the way of serving communities.
“People do not eat political parties. People do not eat associations. But we are together as a council,” he said. He thanked residents and contributors for placing their trust in his leadership, saying the achievement demonstrated what could be accomplished when people united behind a common purpose.
Shimbilinga also acknowledged the importance of the governor’s call for accountability, assuring contributors that the municipality would ensure proper oversight of the funds.
With changes to council portfolio leadership and the possibility of a new mayor emerging towards the end of November or beginning of December, he made it clear that his commitment would remain unchanged, even if he returned to the council as an ordinary councillor.
“I may come as an ordinary councillor, possibly not a mayor, but I will advocate for transparency and for this money that was pledged to be used for what it was intended for,” he said. He further indicated that the identification of beneficiaries for scholarships and internship opportunities would be handled through the Office of the Mayor, emphasising that the office belonged to the institution and not to any individual. “I am a councillor for the next five years, and I’m telling you and the nation of Namibia that I will make sure that I defend that the amount pledged today will benefit what was included,” he said.
The mayor concluded by reaffirming his commitment to serving all residents, irrespective of their political affiliations or whether they had voted for him. “We will make sure we serve you. We will not disappoint you,” he promised.
By Rudi Bowe
