Windhoek battles potholes amid constrained budget

The City of Windhoek has repaired more than 67 000 potholes over the past year at a cost exceeding N$64 million.

Delivering his official address at the March ordinary council meeting on Thursday, mayor Sakarias Uunona said deteriorating roads remain a major concern for residents, particularly following consecutive rainy seasons that have worsened existing damage.

“Windhoek’s road network is ageing, and with limited maintenance funding over the years, it has become increasingly fragile,” Uunona said.

“This was made worse by the heavy rains and flooding during the 2024–2025 rainy season, which caused major damage to our roads, bridges and stormwater systems.”

He noted that potholes have become a “daily frustration” for residents, with the hardest-hit areas including Katutura, Khomasdal, the central business district, Otjomuise, Rocky Crest, and Okuryangava.

Despite financial constraints, the municipality has undertaken extensive patching efforts.

Since February, teams have fixed 67 344 potholes and repaired over 54 000 square metres of damaged road.

“To date, the City has invested N$64.36 million in these routine repairs," Uunona said.

However, he cautioned that such interventions are temporary. “While pothole patching is only a temporary solution, it remains an essential step in keeping our roads usable and our residents safe while we continue to work toward long-term improvements.”

Boosting youth, infrastructure

The council is also stepping up efforts to boost local economic activity through entrepreneurship support.

In February, 21 aspiring entrepreneurs were trained under the Start Your Business programme.

“Participants gained practical knowledge and skills in financial planning, marketing, business planning, cost analysis and effective business management,” Uunona said.

One participant described the programme as a “game-changer,” saying it demonstrated “the essential components required to build a profitable and sustainable business”.

Uunona added that the city would continue working with partners to facilitate access to funding opportunities for small businesses.

The mayor reaffirmed the council’s commitment to social development through initiatives such as the junior council, which leads community outreach programmes including clean-up campaigns, HIV/AIDS awareness, and youth engagement.

He said the Junior Council’s leadership training and elections for the 2026/27 term were successfully conducted earlier this month, with the inauguration set for 28 April. In addition, more than 2 500 learners are expected to participate in the upcoming under-13 mayoral sports league starting in April.

On capital projects, Uunona reported progress on the construction of a new cemetery south of Rocky Crest Extension 8, which is now entering its third development phase.

He also confirmed that refurbishment works at Sam Nujoma Stadium are advancing, with structural work on key sections nearing completion. The project is expected to conclude in October 2026.