Haven Zoological Park closes
Haven Zoological Park in Windhoek has ceased operations permanently due to an alleged ongoing lease dispute with the City of Windhoek.
Established in 2008 by founders Martin and Julie Wiese, the zoo was envisioned as a place where children could interact with animals, serving as both an educational and recreational destination.
Over the years, Haven has played a significant role in providing educational opportunities to schools, particularly those with limited resources for field trips. It offered a hands-on learning experience, enabling learners and families to gain practical knowledge about a wide range of animals.
Troubled times
However, since 2020, the institution has reportedly faced substantial challenges.
A dispute over the lease of its grounds, coupled with the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, led to its closure. Furthermore, the loss of electricity during this period added to the zoo's difficulties.
Efforts were made to address these issues, with the management reportedly engaging in discussions with the City's CEO and former mayor, as well as various municipal departments.
Despite these attempts to find a resolution, operations were deemed unsustainable, and the decision to close up shop was made in February.
No choice
Philip Lotteryman, a member of the zoo's management, acknowledged this difficult decision, adding: "We had a meeting with the City of Windhoek and decided to close down. We already started breaking down the place. It is quite unfortunate that it has come to this point".
Windhoek resident Ethel Jossop expressed her disappointment at Haven's closure.
"It is unfortunate that the zoo is closing down. My family and I have so many good memories at the place; it was generational fun, and it was a good way for children to experience animals without having to go far from home."
Established in 2008 by founders Martin and Julie Wiese, the zoo was envisioned as a place where children could interact with animals, serving as both an educational and recreational destination.
Over the years, Haven has played a significant role in providing educational opportunities to schools, particularly those with limited resources for field trips. It offered a hands-on learning experience, enabling learners and families to gain practical knowledge about a wide range of animals.
Troubled times
However, since 2020, the institution has reportedly faced substantial challenges.
A dispute over the lease of its grounds, coupled with the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, led to its closure. Furthermore, the loss of electricity during this period added to the zoo's difficulties.
Efforts were made to address these issues, with the management reportedly engaging in discussions with the City's CEO and former mayor, as well as various municipal departments.
Despite these attempts to find a resolution, operations were deemed unsustainable, and the decision to close up shop was made in February.
No choice
Philip Lotteryman, a member of the zoo's management, acknowledged this difficult decision, adding: "We had a meeting with the City of Windhoek and decided to close down. We already started breaking down the place. It is quite unfortunate that it has come to this point".
Windhoek resident Ethel Jossop expressed her disappointment at Haven's closure.
"It is unfortunate that the zoo is closing down. My family and I have so many good memories at the place; it was generational fun, and it was a good way for children to experience animals without having to go far from home."
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