Isabel Bento

SWAKOPMUND – Residents of Wagdaar in the DRC informal settlement at Swakopmund welcomed the installation of two solar-powered high-mast light towers. 

Valued at over N$800 000, the solar installations use advanced monocrystalline panels and durable lithium batteries designed to withstand harsh coastal conditions, ensuring reliable and sustainable lighting for years to come. 

The project, delivered through the Swakop Uranium (SU) Foundation in partnership with Erongo Red and the Swakopmund Municipality, forms part of the ‘Peace Swakopmund’ initiative aimed at strengthening community security. 

At the recent handover ceremony, Erongo governor Nathalia |Goagoses emphasised that the project goes beyond lighting. “This event is not only about the installation of lights, but also about restoring safety, dignity and hope to the people of this community,” said |Goagoses.

She stressed that improved lighting would allow women and children to walk safely, enable small businesses to operate with confidence and help residents reclaim their public spaces.

The governor further highlighted that the initiative aligns with Vision 2030, the National Development Plans (NDPs) and the Harambee Prosperity Plan II (HPPII), all of which promote safe, inclusive and resilient communities. 

Erongo regional Police Commander Commissioner Nikolaus Kupembona reinforced this message, noting that security cannot be achieved by law enforcement alone.

“Crime thrives in darkness and so proper lighting drastically reduces violence, vandalism and theft,” he expressed.

Kupembona praised the project as a powerful example of collaboration between the community, government and the private sector, urging more organisations to support similar efforts.

SU acting chief executive officer Irvinne Simataa said the towers represent a long-term commitment to community upliftment. 

“We are not just switching on lights, we are lighting the path toward a safer, more peaceful Swakopmund,” he noted. Community representative Carolina Kasende expressed gratitude, noting the lights bring comfort to families who feared walking at night. She added that parents now feel more secure sending children to nearby shops, and young people can move more freely without fear.

The Peace Swakopmund initiative focuses on long-term community upliftment through safety and public infrastructure improvements. The Wagdaar installation marks the first phase of a 10-year plan by SU to promote peace-building interventions across Swakopmund’s most vulnerable communities. 

-Nampa