Windhoek to formalise Groot Aub leases

The City of Windhoek has begun engaging farmers in Groot Aub to formalise their occupation of agricultural land through lease agreements.

At a meeting with farmers on Sunday, municipal officials explained the leasing process, the required documentation and how lease payments would be determined.

The initiative forms part of the City’s broader efforts to integrate Groot Aub into Windhoek’s local authority structures and regulate occupation of land in the area.

Elia Shapopi, acting manager of the peri-urban and satellite suburbs division, said Groot Aub fell under the administration of the Khomas Regional Council before Windhoek’s municipal boundaries were extended in 2011.

Ownership of Farm Groot Aub was transferred to the municipality in 2017.

Land business

The City is required to enter into agreements with all parties occupying municipal land in Groot Aub.

Officials cautioned that land allocations made without the required regional council resolutions, including those facilitated by farmers’ associations, settlement committees, traditional authorities and other organisations, are not legally recognised under the resolution.

Farmers who already hold valid title deeds will not be affected by the provision concerning unrecognised allocations.

Municipal officials will inspect each farm portion to establish its boundaries and record its geographical coordinates. The valuation division will then assess the properties to determine their value and inform lease payments.

The City also reiterated its policy of allowing each person to hold only one land parcel, aimed at curbing speculation and extending secure land tenure to more people.

Under the policy, individuals occupying multiple farm portions may have only one portion recognised through the process.