5 August 2024

Honourable chairperson of the Khomas Regional Council and honourable members, it is again that time when we are required to live to the letter and spirit of article 110A subsection (5) and (6) of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia to present our ninth Khomas State of the Region Address (Sora) for 2024.

The ‘Year of Expectations and Elections’ started on a very sorrowful note with the unexpected departure of our beloved president Hage Gotfried Geingob on 4 February. 

May his soul rest in peace!

The ‘Year of Expectations and Elections’ is a year of different expectations and greatly anticipated general elections that require extraordinary preparation for an extraordinary destiny.

Our just concluded census produced the preliminary updated figures of population in different constituencies and the region at large, which reflect an evident population increase of 3,56%, equal to 152 464 people from 342 141 to 494 605 people, giving you a population density of 13,4 people per square kilometre. 

This census reflection is a clear caution or eye opener for us to prepare for the said extraordinary mission of effective and efficient service delivery as a region. It is with this conviction that I now present our 2023/24 performance and our future plans for our collective measurement and assessment to pave our way in responding to the ever-outspreading obligation of service delivery to Khomas residents.

Economic sector: Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises

The government continues with the implementation of the financing strategy as a vehicle for wealth creation and promotion of employment among Namibians, as well as economic growth. At the end of October 2023, an amount of N$40 million was applied through First National Bank and Standard Bank of Namibia under the credit guarantee scheme, with N$21,7 million approved supporting six sectors, creating and/or sustaining 47 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while creating 336 jobs across 10 regions.

The Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises facilitated the screening and identification process in which the following projects were identified for implementation in the Khomas region: The development of a student village (student accommodation) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Technology and Innovation, and a 25MW solar PV project under the City of Windhoek.

Infrastructure sector: Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Achievements in the ICT sector during the 2023/24 financial year: The Ministry drafted the national digital strategy and its implementation action plan that aims to effectively utilise digital technologies. It is through the national broadband policy implementation that the sector noted improved coverage and access to quality broadband infrastructure and services.

The Khomas region has recorded growth in all mobile broadband (3G and 4G) coverage in terms of population coverage.

Compared to other regions, Khomas is the second region with the highest coverage in terms of 4G services.

ICT public enterprises:

MTC Namibia

Since its inception in 1995, MTC has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence, significantly shaping Namibia’s digital landscape.

Key achievements

•   MTC boasts a robust network covering 98% of the Namibian population, extending mobile broadband access to 87,4% of Namibians.

•   MTC is not only contributing to the well-being of the community, but also creating direct employment opportunities through initiatives such as the national internship programme and construction projects. Indirect employment opportunities are also generated through the support for orphaned and vulnerable children, as well as the ongoing activities at Hope Village in the Khomas region, which may require additional staffing and support services.

Powercom

A total number of 20 greenfield communication towers are planned to be constructed between 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial year in the Khomas region to the tune of approximately N$30 million as further outlined below:

•   Three projects to the tune of N$4,5 million at Eros, Rocky Crest and Daan Viljoen are currently underway.

•   Six new sites to the value of N$9 million are planned.

•   Ten sites to the value of N$16,5 million are being prepared for the next FY, and the environmental impact assessment is underway.

•   Six new sites at Ludwigsdorf, Rocky Crest Faith City Rocky Crest Ex 4, Sam Nujoma Stadium, Ongos Valley, and Finkenstein are planned for the Khomas region for the current financial year to cost approximately N$9 million.

Six new sites were approved and planned for the upcoming financial year to the tune of N$16,5 million. The sites are Grysblok, Hakahana, Independence Stadium, Katutura, Khomasdal, Lafrenz Industrial, Northern Industrial, Taublen Glen and Wanaheda, and the impact assessment is underway.

Telecom Namibia

TN plans to modernise its fixed and mobile core switching and control systems, replacing it with a fixed-mobile converged (FMC) core network as per global trends – to support innovative products and services, and to reduce operational expenses.

FTTX deployment is planned for the following areas: Cimbebasia, Elisenheim Phase 2 & 3, Hochland Park Extension 1, Khomasdal, Old Academia, Old Hochland Park, Old Pioneers Park, Rocky Crest Extension 4, Tauben Glen, and Wanaheda.

Mobile Deployment is planned at the following sites:

•       Eros

•       Rocky Crest Ex.4

•       Daan Viljoen

•       Concordia

•       Ongos Valley

•       Droombos

•       Ludwigsdorf

•       Rocky Crest Faith City

•       Rocky Crest Ext 4

•       Katutura Sam Nujoma

•       Finkenstein

•       Mercedes Street MTC

Other projects targeted specifically in the Khomas region were completed, including:

•   Upgrades to MSAN nodes in Klein Windhoek, Sculpture Street, Beijing Street, Andrew Mogalie street, Cimbebasia and Tauben Glen.

•   An upgrade of fixed wireless access network was done at A Shipena.

•   Upgrades on backhaul capacity between Gross Hertzog and Groot Aub to improve services.

The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), in partnership with the Khomas Regional Council (KRC), has commissioned a two-part documentary series titled ‘Khomas Regional Council – Empowering Communities through Good Governance’. 

This initiative involved extensive interviews conducted by the NBC production team with key stakeholders, such as the regional governor, 10 constituency councillors, the top management of the Khomas Regional Council, project beneficiaries, and residents of the Khomas region.

The primary objective of this project is to educate the public about the regional council’s responsibilities, and systematic processes for identifying and planning developmental projects in both urban and rural areas of the Khomas region.

Ministry of Works and Transport

The ministry has employed 5 432 young people through the Association of Unemployed Artisans of Namibia to renovate dilapidated government (GRN) buildings, houses and facilities in the Khomas region.

The association renovated, among others, the:

•       police houses in Robert Mugabe Avenue opposite the old State House,

•       VVIP police headquarters and boundary wall,

•       houses at the old State House, and the

•       interlocking project at the Trans-Kalahari Corridor.

The ministry also successfully completed the maintenance and rehabilitation of the Eros Airport and the Hosea Kutako International Airport.

Roads Authority

The status of ongoing projects in Khomas region are as follows:

1. Windhoek-Hosea Kutako International Airport, Phase 1, which is 8km, the upgrading to dual carriageway freeway standards, including access to Prosperita. This project has been completed and it created employment for 373 people.

2. Windhoek-Hosea Kutako International Airport, Phase 1, which is the 12km southern link to roadblock extension, is completed and it created employment for 115 people.

3. Windhoek-Hosea Kutako International Airport, Phase 2A, which is the upgrading to dual carriageway freeway standards. This project consists of road works for a dual carriageway, road bridges for split-level interchanges at various road intersections, river bridges and other drainage structures where water courses are crossed. This project has created jobs for 254 people.

4. Windhoek-Hosea Kutako International Airport, Phase 2B, which is the upgrading to dual carriageway freeway standards. This project is the third phase of the construction to freeway standards of a new freeway between Windhoek and the Hosea Kutako International Airport, with its alignment located to the south of the existing trunk road 6, section 1 to the airport. It will start at SV 26,0 to the west of the main road, MR33 to Dordabis, and continues to the east of the airport where it joins the existing B6 to Seeis and Gobabis over a length of approximately 21,3km. This project has created employment for 365 people.

5. Windhoek-Okahandja, section 4A extension, upgrading to dual carriageway freeway standards. This project involves the rehabilitation and upgrading to the dual carriageway of TR1/6 between Windhoek and Okahandja, section 4A extension Omakunde interchange to Otjiwarongo interchange. The total length is 21km. This project has provided 310 people with employment.

6. The groundbreaking ceremony, which commenced the dual carriageway of Auas Road, took place on 25 July. The project was solely funded by the Government of the Republic of Namibia through the Road Fund Administration at a total cost of approximately N$138 million. The project will be executed in two phases. Phase 1 will cost approximately N$30 million and Phase 2 will cost approximately N$108 million.

All the above-mentioned projects were fully funded by the government/state.

The following projects are funded by the RFA:

1.          MR49, Windhoek-Kupferberg, the construction of the low-volume seal. The project is ongoing, and 26km was regravelled on the DR826.

2.          MR47, upgrading to low-volume seal. The Roads Authority will be commencing with the construction of 5km shortly.

The way forward: Upgrading to bitumen and dual-carriageway standard of the DR1982, Windhoek-to-Walvis Bay and the TR1/5 (Windhoek-to-Rehoboth) roads..

•  Social sector: Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service

Youth development

During the 2023/24 financial year, the Khomas Regional Youth Office achieved significant milestones that underscore our dedication to youth development and community empowerment.

One notable achievement was the successful implementation of a memorandum of understanding between the One Economy Foundation and the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service. This collaboration led to the initiation and launch of the Be Free Youth Campus.

Furthermore, our region proudly serves as a US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) Dreams region, demonstrating our commitment to supporting the health and well-being of adolescent girls and young women. This was done under the G2G Conference of the Parties (COP) 22, which targeted 209 AGYW, of which we managed to reach 240 young girls.

In addition to our efforts in health and empowerment, our region remains committed to providing essential skills training to our youth. As part of our ongoing Basic Skills Training for Youth programme, we successfully provided skills training in various areas. Specifically, we offered basic computer literacy skills training to 54 young people, and basic tailoring and design training to 32. 

Moreover, we have implemented progressive stakeholder engagements with physically active youth, offering after-school tutoring for in-school youth through programmes like the Basketball Artist School, which provides sport and academic tutoring for vulnerable youth.

Additionally, we have partnered with the Namibia College of Technology and Vocational Training (NCTVT) to offer vocational training opportunities. These include Agriculture Level 2-3 programmes through the National Training Authority and Social Security-funded programmes, enabling young people to acquire valuable skills for employment and self-sufficiency.

Under the Pepfar Dreams project funding, nine adolescent girls and young women benefited from basic business start-up kits, which include beauty salons, mini-shops/takeaways, and other trade initiatives. 

This initiative provides them with the means to start their own businesses, promoting economic independence and sustainability. Furthermore, a youth enterprise from Samora Machel Constituency under the 121 rural youth enterprises received their start up loan as facilitated by the Development Bank of Namibia, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth in our region.

These initiatives reflect our holistic approach to youth development, encompassing education, health, economic empowerment, sport, and entrepreneurship as we continue our efforts to create opportunities and champion the aspirations of the next generation.

Sport development

Sport facilities

The ministry has budgeted N$20 million under the operational budget for the maintenance of ministerial buildings and stadiums, including the Katutura Sport Complex. The Ongos Valley Sport Stadium development, with the capacity of 28 000 plus spectator seats, was launched in the Moses Garoëb constituency this year. 

This development is poised to become a beacon of pride, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to host a diverse range of sporting events and entertainment spectacles. It represents a major investment in the future of our community, promising to bring economic growth, job creation, and an elevated profile for Namibia on the global stage. The project is estimated at a cost of N$2 billion.

Schools sport

In October 2023, the Cabinet approved the Integrated Physical Education and Schools Sport Policy (IPESS). The implementing agency, the Namibian Schools Sport Union (NSSU), has been allocated a budget of N$6 million under the new budget.

Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare social assistance grants

The ministry has spent about N$49 million on social grants (the old-age and

Disability pensions), equating to 35 210 old-age beneficiaries, while N$10,7 million in orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) grants benefited 26 530 people for the 2023/24 financial year.

Gender equality

During the period under review, the ministry conducted eight community sensitisation workshops and meetings on gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and response in the region, which reached a total of 1 327 people (815 women and 512 men), while the male engagement programme reached 125 men and boys.

Childcare services

The ministry provided psychosocial support services to 603 children at the Namibia Children’s Home (NCH) and after-school centre in Windhoek.

Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform

Implementation of agricultural extension services in Khomas region:

The Khomas Dapees managed to successfully implement the projects that were budgeted for during the 2023/2024 financial year. 

The projects are as follows:

1. National Horticulture Support Programme (NHSP): a budget of around N$600 000 was available for the 2023/24 financial year. The total expenditure to date is over N$590 000. A total number of 26 producers (15 men and 11 women) benefited from the subsidy. Producers benefited from products such as agricultural inputs, drip irrigation materials, solar-powered submersible pumps and shade net materials. On advisory services, a total of 67 (25 men and 42 women) horticultural producers were trained or advised on horticultural production. Additionally, 276 (77 men and 199 women) aspiring community members in all constituencies were trained in horticulture production under the Khomas Capacity Building Project.

2. Poultry Value Chain Development Scheme (PVCDS): A budget of around N$500 000 was available for the 2023/24 financial year, of which N$496 000 was spent. A total number of 47 small-scale poultry producers (200 men and 27 women) benefited from the subsidy. Producers benefited from breeding stocks, production stocks (layers), housing materials, poultry equipment and veterinary medicines under the subsidy. A total of 319 (108 men and 211 women) community members were trained under the Khomas Capacity-Building Project on poultry production.

3. Namibia Agricultural Mechanisation and Seed Improvement Project (Namsip): A total of four walking tractors with matching equipment were procured to provide ploughing services of small-scale producers with land of less than one hectare in Windhoek’s rural areas. Demonstrations were made to communities of Nauasport and Groot Aub on the utilisation of the tractors. A big tractor with matching equipment was procured and was stationed at the Windhoek Rural Constituency Office. The tractors provided ploughing services for farmers surrounding Groot Aub. A total of 22 hectares were serviced by the tractor from January to March, whereas, a total of five farmers benefited from the walking tractor ploughing services. Three more big tractors are expected to be delivered in the next financial year to provide ploughing for Dordabis and Nauasport. The tractors will also be used for cutting and harvesting fodder grass during the off season. The project also provides for other agricultural equipment, such as jab seed drillers, transplanters and weeding cultivators. This equipment is available for loaning at the Windhoek Dapees Office.

4. Comprehensive Conservation Agriculture Programme (CCAP): The aim of the programme is to promote the use of conservation agriculture practices. Its core function is to capacitate producers of principles of CA. A total of 67 (25 men and 42 women) horticultural producers were trained on climate-smart agriculture practices (CA/GAP). Six leading farmers were identified to assist with the promotion of CA. A total of N$200 000 was budgeted for CA activities. About N$90 000 was committed to lead farmers’ training and exposure. The rest of the funds will be used to procure trained material and to establish a demo plot at farm Versailles.

Drought situation in Khomas region

The Khomas region, the Windhoek Rural constituency in particular, has agricultural land of 1 206 farms, which are heavily affected by the prevailing drought. The government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, is supporting drought-affected farmers by implementing a livestock support intervention of subsidised activities, such as livestock marketing, the lease of grazing, fodder, and transport to and from grazing areas. In this regard, a total of 156 applications were received and processed.

Resettlement in Khomas region

During the 2023/24 financial year, one farm measuring 800 000 hectares was acquired, but not yet advertised for allocation.

A total of 14 farms were advertised under the National Resettlement Programme, with a total of 24 farming units. A total of 1 065 applications were received and processed by the Khomas Regional Office. Out of the applications received, only two were successfully allotted farming units for resettlement purposes.

Implementation of water-related interventions in Khomas region

1. Seven boreholes were drilled and successfully installed in the Dordabis area to the value of N$1,7 million.

2. Emergency drilling is ongoing on 12 boreholes to the value of N$4,5 million in the Nauaspoort, Dordabis and Satanslocht areas. All these boreholes will be installed based on the water quality and required yield.

3. Seven boreholes were drilled, only five were successful, and one borehole was rehabilitated at Groot-Aub to the value of N$4 million. The main purpose of these boreholes is to increase sustainable water supply to the Groot-Aub settlement and support farmers.

As a way forward, the KRC plans to establish 10 water points in Windhoek Rural and also provide 10 000-litre water tanks and tank stands through the Namsip project support.

National Housing Enterprises (NHE)

During the period under review, the  NHE has completed 21 housing units under the Informal Settlement Upgrading programme at Goreangab and Greenwell Matongo to the value of N$5,2 million.

The way forward

1. Under the low-income apartments project, the NHE plans to construct 171 housing units to the value of N$80,9 million in the areas of Otjomuise, Goreangab and Windhoek West.

2. They also plan to construct 100 housing units under the informal settlement upgrading programme, Windhoek, Phase 2, to the value of N$25 million.

Namibia Housing Action Group and Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia

In alignment with the regional goals for sustainable development, the Namibia Housing Action Group/Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia has been dedicated to advancing housing and community development initiatives in the Khomas region. Our efforts have centred on addressing housing challenges, improving living standards, and fostering inclusive communities.

The Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia has 7199 members, including 6 031 without land, 1168 with land, 54 members at Mix Settlement, 264 members at Dordabis, and 49 members at Groot Aub.

Achievements

Through strategic partnerships and innovative approaches, the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia has successfully constructed six low-cost houses within the informal settlements of Windhoek, namely at Okahandja Park 4 and Havanna 2, enabling families to access safe and dignified living spaces.

During the year under review, the Namibia Housing Action Group/Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia collaborated with esteemed partners, including the Namibia University of Science and Technology and the City of Windhoek, to upgrade two blocks in the Peter Nanyemba informal settlement, consisting of 1 200 households. This transformative initiative aims to enhance infrastructure, improve service delivery, and promote sustainable urban development.

Office of the Governor

1. The office donated an amount of N$25 000 to the Never Walk Alone MTC initiative. The initiative aimed to sponsor less privileged pupils with school shoes.

2. The office also donated material and equipment to upcoming SMEs, a soup kitchen and a day care centre, as follows: Sunano Day Care & Pre-Primary to the value of N$65 700, Anresty Investment CC to the tune of N$40 00, Mr Issy Kasaona to the tune of N$20 000, Darius Clay to the tune of N$48 000, and the soup kitchen to the tune of N$135 000.

3. The office sponsored three students’ studies to the tune of N$58 000.

4. The office sponsored the Windhoek Regional police cells with cooking equipment to the value of N$123 000.

5. The office also procured school shoes to the value of N$79 000 to be handed over to less privileged children through the Back to School programme at Mix Primary School in Windhoek Rural constituency.

6. The Office of the Governor, through Rani Group of Companies, assisted eight students financially to the value of N$100 000 at different institutions of learning.

Khomas Regional Council

1.Education

The Khomas region has 141 schools, with a total number of 106 350 learners. The learner population in the region has grown by 18% in the past six years, from 19 360 in 2019 to 106 350 in 2024, marking an annual growth of 2 665 learners. 

The 2 665 annual learner population growth translates into the annual need of 72 additional classrooms or at least three fully fledged schools in the region every year.

The Namibia Senior Secondary Ordinary level results for 2023 shows an improvement which is spiralling the directorate into an academic improvement trajectory. Some 1 610 learners qualified to proceed to Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Advanced Subsidiary level in 2024 in comparison to 1 290 in 2023. This is an increase of 7,9% from 25,8% to 33,7% in 2022 and 2023, respectively. 

This has seen the Khomas region emerging on the top position on the national ranking on the Namibia Senior Secondary Ordinary level. The region, however, has dropped in the national ranking at Namibia Senior Secondary Certificate Advanced Subsidiary level from position seven in 2022 to position 10 in 2023.

The region continues to implement its regional academic improvement strategies coupled with continued monitoring of quality teaching and learning on a daily basis.

2.   Namibian College of Open Learning (Namcol) scholarship programme

The regional council assisted 103 Namcol students from all 10 constituencies to upgrade their grades 11 and 12 results to the tune of N$147 000 in 2024.

3.  Financial assistance programme

The council assisted 69 students from all 10 constituencies studying at accredited institutions of higher learning, with combined registration fees amounting to N$220 000 in 2024.

4.  Drought-relief programme

The Khomas regional drought relief programme which started October 2023 until the end June 2025 continue to provide the monthly rations of 20kg maize, one bottle of cooking oil 750ml, four tins of 400g fish, or two 750g soya mince packets to 34 localities in Windhoek Rural, which represents 4 334 beneficiaries in total.

5.   Safety and security

To address the safety and security of the residents and combating crime, the Regional Council resolved to allocate resources to assist the Namibian Police to repair some of their grounded eight vehicles, as well as the renovation of the Windhoek regional police holding cells in the region. An amount of N$1,5 million has been allocated.

6.   Minor capital programme

A budget amount of around N$16 million was made available to implement projects of which 12 are completed and eight are at various stages of implementations as follows:

1. Renovation of the Hakahana Clinic is completed to the value of N$1,2 million, and the handover is planned for 7 August 2024.

2. Procurement of equipment for the Rural Information Communication Technology Centres at Groot Aub in Windhoek Rural and Tobias Hainyeko constituencies is completed to the value of N$150 000.

3. Procurement of laboratory equipment for Acacia Secondary School is ongoing, and so far an amount of N$217 000 has been paid.

4. Renovation of four classroom blocks at AI Steenkamp Primary School is completed to the value of N$674 000.

5. Procurement of chairs and desks for Westmont Secondary School is ongoing, and an amount of N$143 000 has been paid so far.

6. Procurement of chairs and desks for Monte Christo Primary School is ongoing, and an amount of N$112 00 has been paid so far.

7. Procurement of textbooks for schools in all 10 constituencies was completed, to the value of N$2,1 million.

8. Procurement of kitchen equipment, chairs and tables for Moses Garoeb and Namibia Primary Schools is completed to the value of N$389 000, and the handover is planned for 6 August 2024.

9. Procurement of Medical Equipment for Mix Settlement Outreach Clinic is completed to the value of N$73 000.

10. Procurement of an ambulance for the Windhoek Rural constituency to the Khomas Regional Health Directorate to the value of N$1,3 million, and the handover is planned for 7 August 2024.

11. The construction of a prefabricated clinic at Mix settlement is completed to the value of N$442 000.

12. The procurement of eight CCTV cameras for the Samora Machel constituency is completed to the value of N$563 000.

13. The construction of three classroom blocks at Monte Christo Primary School is completed to the value of N$1,2 million.

14. Renovations and repairs, including of the air-conditioning system at Katutura Health Centre, are completed to the value of N$1,5 million.

15. Renovations and repairs at Donkerhoek Clinic are completed to the value of N$1,5 million, and the handover is planned for 7 August 2024.

16. The construction of a Module 4 classroom at West Mont Secondary School is ongoing.

17. The provision of community Wi-Fi at the Khomasdal constituency office library is ongoing.

18. The installation of high mast lights in the Samora Machel constituency is also ongoing.

Furthermore, the following projects are approved for implementation in the 2024/25 financial year:

1. The renovation of classrooms and construction of toilets at Immanuel Shifidi, to the value of N$1,5 million.

2. The renovation and upgrading of the A Shipena sports

 field, lawn, toilets and pavilion worth N$1,5 million.

3.  The upgrading of the Berthold Katjimune Entrance to the value of N$300 000.

4. The installation of high mast lights in the Moses Garoëb constituency to the value of N$1,5 million.

5. The refurbishment of school chairs and desks to the value of N$1,5 million in the Windhoek West Constituency.

6. The prefabricated container offices at Klein Windhoek Police Station to the value of N$450 000. The handover is planned for 6 August.

7.  The renovation and upgrading of the sport field at Groot Aub to the value of N$1,5 million.

8. The fencing of education, health and police plots to the value of N$1 million in the Samora Machel constituency.

9. The construction of three rooms for antenatal care at Khomasdal PHC Clinic to the value of N$1,5 million.

10.  Constituency minor capital projects to the value of N$2,5 million.

7.   Water intervention project programme

With regards to the provision of water infrastructure, particularly to the rural residents of the region, the regional council has allocated resources towards the drilling of boreholes and installation of water infrastructure in the Windhoek Rural constituency. 

An amount of N$3,7 million was spent on the drilling of 13 boreholes at Hamis, Opdamm, Hatsamas, Stinkwater, Garib, Audabib, Farm Versailles, /Garib, Satanslocht (Tuseb), Nauaspoort/Neragu, Nauaspoort /Herman, Nauaspoort/Tsoa- Toas and Ueros.

The installation of solar water pumping systems with tank stands, water tanks, taps and tap stands at Hamis, Opdamm, Hatsamas, Stinkwater, Garib, Audabib, Versailles and Dordabis was completed. 

Ten water point committees were also established and trained to ensure the sustainable utilisation and management of water resources under the Community-Based Natural Resources Management Policy of the government.

The council is committed to making budgetary provision every year to ensure the provision of potable water for human and animal consumption, as well as for industries in the rural areas of the region in the form of drilling, installations, the rehabilitation of boreholes and the construction of water pipelines.

8.   Income-generating activities programme

To address unemployment, the council has continued with its small and medium enterprise (SME) support programme, called the income-generating activities programme, under which SMEs are assisted with equipment and material.

An amount of N$1,5 million was spent in 2023/24 to finance 182 SME projects through the income-generating activities programme, ranging from catering businesses, fashion and design, laundry services, arts, crafts and graphics, welding, etc.

9.   Khomas joint informal settlement upgrading pilot project

In an effort to address the housing shortage in the region, the Khomas Regional Council and other stakeholders contributed to the construction of low-cost houses under the informal settlement upgrading pilot project. The Khomas Regional Council has continued with the allocation of N$4,5 million under its capital budget to this noble cause.

10. Rural development programmes

Rural development programmes benefit the most vulnerable, unemployed youth, SME, elderly and previously disadvantaged groups. The projects aim to improve sanitation, create employment, promote entrepreneurship development in rural areas and contribute to the country’s economy and poverty reduction.

The following seven projects were supported to the tune of N$268 000: Two households were supported with 20 goats, three garden projects were supported with materials, and two SMEs were supported with equipment/materials.

11. Rural sanitation programme

The Council constructed 103 toilets in different localities in the Windhoek Rural constituency at a cost of N$1,2 million: 82 at Stinkwater and 21 at Hatsamas.

As part of the pilot programme to improve sanitation for rural communities, a hybrid model of environmental free dry pit latrines and wet (flushing) toilets for the communities with access to running water was implemented. Five septic tanks were constructed with the participation of beneficiaries, and existing VIP toilets were connected at a cost of N$284 000.

12. Food support programme (distribution of food to the needy)

The council distributed 387 food parcels to the most vulnerable individuals in nine constituencies to the tune of N$167 000.

13. Winter safety net programme

The KRC has observed with concern the increase in the number of people living on the streets, under bridges and without shelter. In an effort to assist, the KRC has made available a yearly budget amount of N$500 000 to procure/purchase blankets and winter clothing for people without shelter. For winter, items targeting around 1 100 beneficiaries will be procured and distributed to vulnerable members in all constituencies.

14. Back-to-school programme

The council budgets an amount of N$500 00 yearly for school uniforms, and bags were allocated to all constituencies, based on the needs of their communities. Some 411 learners from 38 schools in the Khomas region have benefited under the programme.

City of Windhoek

Land and housing delivery

The target for the Greenfield township establishment was two townships, and they were achieved 100%. The motivation for the establishment of Khomasdal Extension 17 and 18 was approved by the Urban and Regional Planning Board, paving the way for land servicing.

The target for the Brownfield township establishment was two townships. Only one township establishment was approved in Freedomland B.

The target for the servicing of land was 700 erven. Due to a lack of funds, only 88 erven were serviced at Kleine Kuppe. The remainder of the erven are carried over to the next financial year.

The target for the construction of houses under the Windhoek Housing Programme, formally the Council Housing Programme, was 60 houses. A total of eight houses were constructed at Khomasdal to test the approach and learn lessons, but the remaining 52 houses were not constructed due to a lack of funds.

The target for the construction of houses under the Affordable Housing Programme (quadripartite arrangement – MoU: Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, Khomas Regional Council, National Housing Enterprise, and the City of Windhoek) was 300 houses. A total of 240 houses were constructed. The remaining 60 houses had pending statutory procedures and could not be worked on as a result.

Formalisation and upgrading of informal settlements

A target for leases to be signed in the informal settlement was set at 1 000 leases. A total of 281 leases were signed at various upgraded informal settlements as part of the ongoing electrification programme.

The target for communal toilets was set at 76. A total of 16 toilets were installed in various informal settlements. The remaining 60 were not installed due to contractual delays, the rainy season and construction holidays in December and January.

The target for the communal standpipes (water taps) was set at 54. A total of 21 water taps were installed in various informal settlements. The remaining 33 were not installed due to contractual delays, the changing of sites by the community, and the construction of new illegal structures on the designated pass of water lines.

Roads with a length of 11km were set for construction of upgrading to bitumen standard (tarred road). Due to challenges faced with the approval of new townships and contractual issues only 300m of Sukkot Street was achieved. The remaining part of the target has been moved over to subsequent years when townships are ready for installation of services and infrastructure.

Basic services

A total of 500 electricity connections were planned in various upgraded informal settlements. Due to increased prices, some tenders have been cancelled, and only 109 houses were electrified.

In an effort to secure long-term electricity supply to Windhoek, the council is implementing a revised Electricity Master Plan. About 57% of the plan was implemented during the period under review.

A total of 29MW of renewable energy was targeted in various suburbs of Windhoek through a combination of rooftop installations and single-point installations – a total of 31,3MW was achieved.

Public safety and order sector

Namibian Police

Crime Prevention Operations

During the 2023/24 financial year, the Khomas Regional Police took part in various national crime prevention operations, as well as regional operations, such as Operation Rirongera, Basadi and Festive Season. These operations are grouped as weekend and shift operations, which are conducted by all 10 police stations.

During the said operations, at least 535 liquor outlets were visited, and 203 bars were closed due to non-compliance to the Liquor Act. Individual suspects were arrested for violating various laws such as the Liquor Act, as well as various offences in relation to gender-based violence.

1. During the year under review prohibited substances or illicit drugs to the value of N$1,4 million were confiscated. This includes cannabis, mandrax tablets, crack cocaine, cocaine powder and marijuana.

2. 510 dangerous items and weapons, 70 firearms and alcohol and cigarettes to the value of N$20 653 were also confiscated.

3. 103 illegal immigrants were arrested.

Crime investigations

There is an increase in the number of cases reported in the period under review, which is 36 380, compared to 34 824. The total number of cases pending is 104, 466, and 33 474 cases were cleared during the period under review.

Traffic law enforcement

In the quest to maintain safer roads in the Khomas region, road safety was improved through the implementation of the second decade of Action for Road Safety, by conducting a total number of 10 179 operations. As a result, a total of 1 601 intensified patrols were conducted, which led to the execution of 516 warrants of arrest. A total of 69 009 roadworthy tests were conducted, of which 350 unroad worthy vehicles were suspended, drink-and-drive tests led to the arrest of 1 433, and a total number of 14 424 summons were issued to the value of N$15 million. 

In addition, 2 236 summonses from court were issued to offenders, valued at N$3 million. 

In 2023, the Khomas region recorded a total of 989 serious and fatal road crashes, and public education campaigns were conducted targeting road users, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, and school children.

Procurement and logistics

The following capital projects have been completed:

1. The fencing of land at the police village, and the construction of bulk services at Babylon Police Station.

2. The Namibian Police plan to complete the following capital projects for the next financial year:  the upgrading of Katutura Police Station, servicing of land at the Police village, the construction of a dog school at Olympia, and the construction of Babylon Police Station.

1.Namibian Correctional Service

During the 2023/24 financial year, the focus of the Namibian Correctional Service (NCS) remained on the protection of society by providing safe, secure and humane custody of offenders, their rehabilitation, and their social reintegration as acceptable law-abiding citizens. Our focus remained on strengthening our rehabilitation and reintegration activities to reduce re-offending.

This includes efforts to contribute to food production and self-sustenance, which links to the impartation of much-needed rehabilitation skills.

Recruitment

During the 2022/23 financial year, the NCS recruited 301 recruits across the country, with 87 correctional officers deployed in the Khomas region. The recent NCS 2023/24 recruitment process reflects a total of 280 recruits across the country, with 53 recruits for the Khomas region.

Rolling out of rehabilitation programmes

During the period under review, the Namibian Correctional Service introduced two new rehabilitation programmes, namely an evidence-based programme specifically targeting the unique risk factors of female offenders, as well as pre- release seminars designed to address the reintegration needs and concerns of offenders at the Windhoek and Windhoek female correctional facilities.

Enrolment and completion of inmates in rehabilitation programmes

A total of 461 inmates participated in psychosocial, education and vocational training programmes at the Windhoek female correctional facilities.

During the period under review, a total of 385 inmates completed rehabilitation programmes.

Expansion of community service orders operations

The Community Service Orders Programme involves offenders performing unpaid work for the benefit of the public in lieu of incarceration. The current Community Service Orders operations available at the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court at JP Karuaihe Street. and Mungunda Street and Dordabis will be rolled out to the Windhoek Magistrate’s Court at Simeon Shixungileni Street and the Seeis Periodical Court in the next two financial years.

Reintegration programme completion

Regarding the reintegration of offenders released conditionally on full parole or remission of sentence, 128 out of 129 offenders completed their sentences successfully, translating to 99% of the targeted population. This is above the 97% which was targeted in the 2023/24 ministerial annual plan. One offender breached his release conditions and was rearrested and admitted to the Windhoek Correctional Facility.

With regards to offenders sentenced to serve Community Service Orders, 41 offenders successfully completed their sentences. Two offenders breached and both were re-arrested.

2. Civil registration

The Khomas region is serving around 490 000 people, with four civil registration sites, all located in Windhoek, namely: Khomas Regional Office, Katutura State Hospital, Windhoek Central Hospital and Rhino Park Hospital, which is temporarily closed.

The electronic birth and death notification system is connected in three public and seven private facilities in the Khomas region, which demonstrates the clear collaboration between the public and private sector to achieve comprehensive civil registration.

However, the Katutura Health Centre is not connected, because of a lack of network connectivity.

Achievements

Electronic fingerprint capturing (Live Scan) was successfully piloted at the Khomas regional office. The advantage of the live scan is that it is faster and more accurate for capturing and verification.

Mobile registration was conducted in five constituencies, and 1 262 people were registered for birth, late birth and ID registrations.

International relations

The existing twinning partnership between Jiangsu province and the Khomas region has recorded a reasonable number of exchange visits from our Chinese partners in the field of agriculture, mining, vocational training, trade and investment for the period in question. 

The region received new twinning proposals from Jiangxi and Guizhou province in the People’s Republic of China.

At the African continent level the Khomas region had twinning partnership proposals from the Kunene Province in Angola and Zanzibar in the United Republic of Tanzania. The preparatory arrangements for the development of this envisaged partnership are at a very advanced stage.

The current sound working relationship with the Chinese embassy in Namibia gave birth to many development opportunities in the Khomas region, and has marketed our region as a centre of excellence in friendly sister relations, and made it a destination of choice to many investors in the People’s Republic of China and beyond.

The region had a successful exchange visit to Jiangsu and Jiangxi province this month, and subsequently attended the fifth forum on Africa-China local government cooperation in Guangzhou in the People’s Republic of China.

The Khomas region received an invitation to the Guizhou International Sister Cities Exchange conference and Friendship Day, scheduled for 8 and 9 September 2024 in Guiyang City in the south-western part of the Guizhou province.

The Khomas region also received a fully sponsored scholarship offer from the Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine’s international exchange and cooperation office. The scholarship is for undergraduates in the field of traditional Chinese medicine, clinical medicine of Chinese and western integrative medicine, acupuncture and tuina (massage), pharmacy, nursing, medical experimental technique, biopharmaceutical engineering, pharmaceutical preparations and psychology of integrated traditional Chinese and western medicine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as you all know, as a nation we are again preparing for the upcoming national and presidential elections scheduled for 27 November 2024. Every loyal and patriotic citizen of this country is expected to go to the polls to demonstrate their commitment and dedication to uphold our hard-won democracy and freedom. I therefore urge all the eligible voters of our great Khomas region to prioritise this national call with all the pride, loyalty and patriotism it deserves in the best interest of our present and future generations.

Dear Khomas residents and fellow Namibians, it remains my strongest wish and utmost belief that we will have a peaceful election campaign and ultimate blessed 2024 national and presidential elections in the Land of the Brave, Namibia. 

In addition, as we are approaching the end of our given term of office as regional governing agents as per our respective governing legislations, let us work towards the ultimate completion of all our pending ongoing development projects in the region.

Long live the Khomas region!

Long live the Land of the Brave!