Road repair work in Walvis Bay is expected to continue after the High Court of Namibia dismissed an application brought by a prospective bidder who challenged the municipality’s pothole repair tender process.
According to information made available to namib times, the applicant was excluded from the tender process after allegedly failing to comply with certain tender requirements. The bidder subsequently challenged the municipality’s decision, resulting in legal proceedings that temporarily affected the implementation of the pothole repair programme. The dispute centred on a tender awarded for pothole repairs across Walvis Bay. The matter was first subjected to procurement review processes before ultimately being brought before the High Court. Information received this week indicates that the court dismissed the application, the legal obstacle that had delayed the continuation of the repair works. As a result, contractors who were successfully awarded the pothole repair tenders may now proceed with the work. Prior to the court ruling, road repair operations had reportedly been interrupted after legal action was instituted.
Sources indicated that work had already commenced on sections of Nangolo Mbumba Drive before the contractor was instructed to halt operations pending the outcome of the court proceedings. The Municipality of Walvis Bay was reportedly required to respond to the urgent application and had resolved to oppose the matter. The case was heard in the High Court in Windhoek. Namib Times approached the Municipality of Walvis Bay for comment and clarification on the matter last week. However, no response had been received by the time of publication.
The court ruling comes at a time when road infrastructure remains a key focus in Walvis Bay. Earlier this week, Deputy Minister of Works and Transport Hans Haikali visited the town to assess ongoing road infrastructure projects and discuss challenges affecting the local road network. During the visit, municipal officials and engineers briefed the Deputy Minister on ongoing road rehabilitation projects and plans to improve road conditions across the town. Officials highlighted challenges such as high groundwater levels, ageing underground sewer and water infrastructure, and heavy traffic linked to port activities, all of which contribute to road deterioration and complicate rehabilitation efforts. Municipal engineers further indicated that several roads have been identified for future rehabilitation, including Independence Road, Nathaniel Maxuilili Avenue and Pelican Street. Other roads across the town are expected to continue receiving attention through ongoing pothole repair and resealing programmes.
The judgment is expected to provide certainty regarding the continuation of the municipality’s pothole repair programme, which forms part of broader efforts to improve road infrastructure and address deteriorating road conditions in various parts of Walvis Bay.
By Eileen van der Schyff
