The Swakopmund Municipal Council last Thursday approved its 2026/2027 Operational and Capital Budget during their monthly Ordinary Council Meeting. At the meeting it was also announced that Swakopmund residents are set to face a 5% tariff increase on municipal services for the 2026/2027 financial year.

The Operational Budget amounts to N$600.267 million, with the approved Capital Budget is at N$104 million. According to the Municipality, Council has remained mindful of residents’ affordability over the years. “No tariff increase was implemented during the 2021/2022 financial year, followed by a 3% increase in 2023 and 5% increases in 2024 and 2025. Council has never increased tariffs beyond 5%,” the Municipality stated. In explanation on the 5% adjustment, the Municipality says it is necessary due to rising operational costs, including bulk water purchases, fuel, electricity, infrastructure maintenance, and the growing demand for municipal services. The 5% increase will mainly apply to water consumption, wastewater services, refuse removal, fire brigade levies, town hall rentals, sports facility rentals. Senior citizen tariffs will not be affected by the increase.

The Municipality further explained that Municipal bungalow tariffs are seasonal and are therefore excluded from the increase. Rates and taxes are also excluded and remain subject to the 2025 General Valuation Roll. The basic water levy will also remain unchanged, pending NamWater’s tariff determination. The Swakopmund Municipality concluded by noting that Council remains committed to balancing affordability with sustainable service delivery while maintaining Swakopmund as a clean, safe, and progressive town.

By Marshallino Beukes