SWAKOPMUND - Independent Patriots for Change’s councillor Dina Namubes was elected the new Swakopmund mayor yesterday morning.

Namubes is replacing Louisa Kativa, who was elected last month as the Swakopmund constituency councillor, during the constituency’s by-election.

Speaking during her swearing-in ceremony, Namubes said she is delighted to serve as the first citizen of the town and will continue with building on the sound relations and positive changes of her predecessor.

“As incoming mayor, my key areas of focus will be to further intensify communication between council and our community on pressing matters. I am also committed to focus on our people’s dignity and will work towards housing and food security,” the new mayor said.

Apart from this, the newly elected mayor said that she will also focus on enhancing tourism, youth development, food security and safety at the town.

She thanked Kativa for positive contribution to the Swakopmund community, especially in the DRC informal resettlement community.

“Indeed, you have set the bar high as per our community’s expectation and I have no doubt that we as councillors will continue to build on the strong foundation this council under your leadership has started. We will ensure that our people’s desire for and housing are met within a reasonable time.

The new mayor also applauded the current council for embracing one another regardless of their political affiliation and social standing to make sure that they serve the community.

A ruling coalition took charge of the town council after the November 2020 local authority elections.