Proposed incinerator for Swakopmund sparks concern

A proposed medical waste incinerator at the Welwitschia University campus in Ocean View, Swakopmund, has triggered public concern as residents weigh in during an ongoing consultation process.

The project, outlined in a community information brief under an environmental clearance notice, proposes a “modern medical waste incinerator” to treat hazardous healthcare waste generated by a planned teaching hospital at the campus.

“The Swakopmund landfill does not currently have the capacity or infrastructure to safely manage medical waste,” the project report states, while the Walvis Bay facility is “ageing and undergoing environmental processes, limiting its immediate suitability.”

The proposal forms part of the broader development of the Welwitschia campus in Swakopmund, first launched several years ago under the Welwitchia Health Training Centre (WHTC).

At the time, WHTC announced the construction of its Swakopmund School of Engineering, Marine, Logistics and Health Sciences, expected to accommodate at least 4 000 students.

The multimillion-dollar campus, slated for completion by 2027 and operational by early 2028, includes plans for research facilities and a teaching hospital.

The proponent argues that transporting medical waste between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund “introduces logistical inefficiencies, increased transport-related risks and additional environmental and safety concerns”.

A dedicated on-site incinerator offers a “controlled and compliant solution” and the system would consist of a dual-chamber incinerator “designed specifically for the safe treatment of hazardous medical waste”.

Project consultants maintain that the facility is designed to meet environmental and air quality standards and is “not open burning, a dump site or a general waste facility.”

Concerns raised

However, comments submitted as part of the public participation process reflect strong opposition from some residents.

“Unacceptable in any normal suburb… The emissions from medical and biological waste are harmful when inhaled and contain carcinogens that cause cancer,” a concerned resident claimed.

The resident referred to the state hospital incinerator, which has drawn complaints over black smoke drifting into surrounding areas where people live and work.

Another raised concerns about property values and health risks, saying: “This incinerator in our area will lower our property values and cause cancers in resident populations and other respiratory diseases.”

KPM Environmental Consulting, acting as the environmental assessment practitioner, confirmed that no final decision has been taken.

“The outcome of the consultation will guide further engagement… including the consideration of alternative siting options,” said senior practitioner Emmanuel Hamadziripi.

The public comment period runs for 14 days until 15 April.