The Walvis Bay Municipality has approved a relocation and land management intervention aimed at addressing illegal land occupation in several parts of the town, following a recent Council resolution.
According to the Municipality, the intervention targets areas including Kuisebmond, Build-Together designated zones, National Housing Enterprise land, and selected backyard dwellings within its jurisdiction. The decision forms part of broader efforts to restore order in affected areas, improve living conditions, and ensure structured and lawful land administration. Under the approved plan, portions of land at Farm 37 have been set aside for the temporary relocation of qualifying beneficiaries currently occupying land illegally.
This includes residents from Kuisebmond, Build-Together areas, National Housing Enterprise land, selected backyard dwellers in Kuisebmond, as well as approximately 50 households from Narraville backyard areas. An additional portion of land at Farm 37 has been earmarked as a reception area to assist in managing and implementing the relocation process. The Municipality stated that approved beneficiaries will be required to sign “Permission to Occupy” (PTO) certificates, which will regulate their temporary use of allocated land. Council further resolved that only individuals physically residing in identified structures will qualify for relocation, and verification processes will determine eligibility.
Persons not found occupying structures during verification will not be considered. Residents will be encouraged to voluntarily dis-mantle their structures where applicable, while municipal teams may intervene where necessary. The Municipality also stated that no additional illegal structures will be permitted and that all building regulations will apply. As part of implementation, Council has approved the appointment of 80 temporary workers to support monitoring and enforcement activities, working alongside municipal law enforcement and police reservist structures.
The Municipality emphasised that the intervention is not intended to legalise illegal occupation or bypass the official housing waiting list. It further clarified that the process does not constitute land allocation or confer ownership rights but rather serves as a temporary relocation and settlement stabilisation measure. Affected residents are encouraged to co-operate with officials during the implementation process and to utilise formal channels for land application and allocation.
By Eileen van der Schyff
