LÜDERITZ – The Lüderitz Town Council is expected to start with the construction of a shopping centre for the coastal town in the first quarter of 2025.

Lüderitz Town Council spokesperson Elwin !Goaseb in a recent interview told Nampa that the council has been negotiating the project with the Safland Property Group since 2022.

They finalised the deed of sale for the land last month,  where the N$180 million shopping centre will be constructed.

The spokesperson said the investment will boost Lüderitz’s economy and provide new business and retail opportunities for locals and tourists.

“Locals will also benefit from both temporary and permanent job opportunities,” he said.

The shopping centre will be located opposite the Helene Van Rhijn Primary School on Wagenbauer Street.

Lüderitz residents have expressed excitement at the idea of greater variety when shopping, as currently, choices are limited to three grocery stores.

Sarafina Henock told Nampa that she is sometimes forced to travel to Keetmanshoop, a trip that costs roughly N$400, to access more shops.

Another resident, Faustina Hendrick, said the majority of the community would benefit from the construction of a shopping centre.

“It will help us avoid the extra expense of travelling to go shopping. It will be more convenient and economical,” she stated.

The residents expressed hope that the new competition will drive down prices for necessities.

-Nampa