Isabel Bento 

HENTIES BAY – The coastal town of Henties Bay has inaugurated a series of developments, including the installation of a fully operational Close Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system across the town. 

The event also included the unveiling of the town’s first traffic lights, the commissioning of a new open market and the handover of newly built low-cost houses. Officiating these events on Friday, Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa said the developments reflect the progress that can be achieved when leaders place community service above political affiliation. 

He commended the town council for strengthening safety, economic activity, and local infrastructure, emphasising that unity had been central to reaching this milestone. “When I came to Henties Bay after my appointment, my message was very clear: do not come to me as political party members, but as citizens. Today, we celebrate because we worked together and delivered services that will benefit every residents,” he expressed. Sankwasa further appreciated the council’s decision to name a street in his honour, though he urged that such recognition should not overshadow the core purpose of serving citizens. Erongo governor Natalia |Goagoses described the inauguration as a new chapter of progress for Henties Bay, stressing that the CCTV system, open market, traffic lights and housing units are improvements that speak directly to safety, dignity, and economic opportunity. 

The open market, she stressed, will boost the informal sector and empower local entrepreneurs, while the instal lat ion of the town’s first traffic lights enhances road safety for drivers and pedestrians alike. She added that the low-cost houses handed over represent stability and hope for families who have long awaited a dignified shelter. 

Henties Bay Municipality acting CEO Ignasia Neis detailed the council’s development plans, acknowledging current challenges such as high unemployment, ageing infrastructure and growing informal settlements. 

Despite these constraints, she said the municipality has delivered multiple projects since 2023 and continues to prioritise infrastructure upgrades. Neis said more than 60 low-cost houses are under construction, supported by a brickmaking project employing 25 youth and 16 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). She also added that sewer upgrades, the SME park, and a taxi rank are nearing full completion. 

“Henties Bay is transforming into a vibrant, inclusive and economically active town,” she said. 

The ceremony concluded with the naming of a street in honour of minister Sankwasa and other community influencers in the town. -Nampa