Windhoek council backs mental health centre plan

The City of Windhoek council has expressed support for an application to develop a psychological and rehabilitation centre on Portion 340, a portion of Portion 39 of Van Braak Water No. 48, under residential zoning.

The matter was discussed at a council meeting on Thursday. During deliberations, councillor Jesaya Ikali strongly supported the proposal, citing the growing prevalence of mental health challenges in Windhoek.

“The issue of mental health has seriously hit the streets and the corners of the City of Windhoek,” Ikali said.

He further noted that recent incidents and public discussions have brought greater attention to the challenges faced by vulnerable residents, stressing the need for practical interventions.

“If we are indeed striving to ensure that we are creating a caring city, definitely we have to entertain these kinds of initiatives,” Ikali added.

Councillor Toini Ambambi seconded the motion.

However, Maitjituavi Kavetu raised concerns regarding one of the conditions attached to the recommendation, specifically the clause stating that approval would only come into effect following written confirmation of parking requirements by the applicant.

Kavetu said residents often express frustration over approval conditions which, in some cases, can delay projects when additional documentation or written confirmations are required from municipal officials.

He questioned whether making the approval subject to further written confirmation was standard procedure in such recommendations.

In response, it was clarified that the parking requirement forms part of the imposed conditions.

Once the applicant has met the parking requirements, written confirmation must be submitted to confirm compliance before the approval becomes effective.

The council’s discussion reflected broad support for the proposed facility, with members emphasising the importance of addressing mental health needs within the city while ensuring all regulatory conditions are met.

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