Walvis mayor welcomes new CEO

I would like to take a moment to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to our new chief executive officer (CEO), Victoria Kapenda, who joined the municipality on 2 September. 

We are thrilled to have you join us at this crucial time in our journey.

Your extensive experience and dedication to public service are qualities we’re excited to see in action as you lead us forward.

For the past three years, we have navigated a challenging period that has often felt like drifting on shaky waters. I can confidently say hiring you brings us a much-needed sense of stability and direction. With your leadership, I believe we are finally steering our ship towards calmer seas, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact you will have on our municipality.

In her short time with us, Victoria has proactively engaged in discussions with our line minister to lobby for funds dedicated to servicing farm 37.

This area has unfortunately become a pressing emergency that requires our immediate attention. Victoria’s commitment to advocating our community’s needs demonstrates her determination to tackle the challenges we face head-on.

I believe that with her leadership and the support of our fellow council members, we can secure the necessary resources to address this issue effectively.

Additionally, I would like to inform everyone that we will be witnessing a significant step forward in infrastructure improvements.

I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate two significant events that recently took place, showcasing our city’s commitment to fostering community engagement and collaboration.

Firstly, we commend the successful completion of the Walvis Bay Maritime Week, which was hosted from 1 to 5 October in partnership with Namport.

This event not only highlighted the importance of our maritime industry, but also promoted local businesses and created opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange among participants.

Additionally, we are proud to announce that the City of Windhoek was crowned the overall winner at the SAIMSA Games 2024, which was hosted by the Municipality of Walvis Bay from 22 to 27 September.

Competing against more than 50 other participating local authorities from Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, and Botswana, our athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship.

On 27 September, the Erongo Liquid Petroleum Gas Terminal had a groundbreaking ceremony to signal the commencement of the construction of its terminal.

This terminal, once completed, with its substantial storage capacity, will ensure that Walvis Bay can accommodate current and future demands, paving the way for efficient supply chains and reliable access to energy resources. 

The economic implications are profound.

The construction phase will create numerous jobs, stimulating local economies and providing training opportunities for skilled labour. Upon completion, the terminal will support long-term employment opportunities, thus enhancing the livelihoods of many Namibians.

Thursday, 10 October marks the groundbreaking for the commencement of roadworks by the Roads Authority and Road Fund Administration.

This development is not only a testament to our ongoing commitment to better our roads and transport systems, but it also showcases our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

Finally, I would also like to announce that the CAF African Schools Football Championship will be hosted at Walvis Bay from 11 to 13 October at the Jan Wilken Stadium. We would like to invite everyone to come out in numbers and support the youth in this exciting championship.

With this said, let’s all work together and keep this momentum going and work collaboratively and support Victoria in her new role to ensure we achieve our goals for the benefit of all our residents.

Thank you once again, and let’s proceed with our agenda. –  Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes at the ordinary council meeting for 2024, 8 October