SWAKOPMUND – Newly elected leaders in the Erongo region have highlighted the importance of unity, collaboration, and accountability as they begin their terms in office.
The leaders on Friday pledged to prioritise service delivery and socio-economic development across the region, while also looking into youth unemployment.
Newly elected mayor of Walvis Bay, Johannes Shimbilinga, said that the council’s vision is for the town to be a place where everyone thrives.
He said the current council will also focus on key areas such as boosting tourism, supporting investment, fostering innovation, and ensuring strategic land allocation for development and housing.
Acknowledging the past struggles in council chambers, Shimbilinga urged the newly elected councillors to embrace constructive discussions, transparency, and disciplined decision-making, while maintaining unity and mutual understanding across cultural, religious, and political divides are essential to delivering results.
“I know we are from different backgrounds, being cultural or religious, political parties and others, but be reminded, and I am reminding myself also, that our mandate is to serve the community. This chamber is for the purpose of constructive discussions and making informed that we will serve this community. This chamber is not a battlefield, neither a boxing ring. Therefore, fellow councillors, if you have ideas outside this chamber, or you may leave it at the door of the chamber,” he urged his councillors.
Swakopmund mayor, Suama Kautondokwa, also pointed out that they want to place emphasis on aligning municipal priorities with national development goals, particularly those outlined in the Swapo manifesto.
She added that the council will also focus on strengthening basic service delivery, improving housing and informal settlement conditions, tackling youth unemployment, and stimulating economic growth.
“We want to continue on the foundation and success of the previous council by also expanding apprenticeships, supporting youth-owned businesses, enhancing tourism, and attracting investment, while improving public spaces,” she said.
She also pointed out that collaboration, unity, and commitment are key to ensuring that every resident benefits from inclusive development.
“As your Mayor, I commit to transparent leadership and collaborative governance to build a thriving Swakopmund within a thriving Namibia,” the mayor said.
At the regional level, the newly elected chairperson of the Erongo regional council, Lazarus Kanelombe, also highlighted the importance of collective efforts and disciplined leadership.
“Our shared challenge is ensuring equitable jobs, sustainable development, and efficient service delivery,” the chairperson said.
According to him, the regional council plans to tackle issues such as water management, regional economic growth, and efficient public service while fostering open communication and community engagement.