City keen to revitalise business district

The City of Windhoek (CoW) is leading an initiative to revive the central business district which it has identified as being in decay. Speaking on efforts to revive the CBD, Windhoek mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja said the adoption of a special rating area would effectively help the private sector partner with the CoW to bring back the spark to the CBD. “This regulation was intended to empower property owners and stakeholders within designated urban areas to collectively invest in maintenance, promotion, safety, and beautification of their respective areas,” Larandja said. According to her, the business community is the backbone of economic growth in the city. Of concern was the level of business activity currently taking place in the CBD, Larandja noted. This included declining food traffic at certain times, competition from suburb malls, decentralisation of offices, and fewer residents living in the city centre.“Addressing these issues is urgent because a thriving CBD is vital for the economic health and well-being of Windhoek and Namibia at large. Moving forward together, our city leadership is committed to a comprehensive approach to revitalisation,” she said. To address revitalization efforts, the CoW would engage with the business owners within the CBD to drive businesses back to the CBD. “This engagement is part of our broader strategy to ensure property owners' voices are heard and integrated into the city's future plans. Beyond the special rating area, we will also focus on moving forward and address present concerns such as safety, lighting, cleanliness, and beautification,” Larandja said. “These elements are critical to creating a welcoming environment for businesses, residents, and visitors to our CBD. The concerns and suggestions you raise today will be compiled and presented to the government so that they can review their decision. Through constructive dialogue and collective advocacy, we can influence policies that support the CBD's revitalisation,” she added.

City keen to revitalise business district

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-19

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City keen to revitalise business district

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Namibian Sun 2026-02-19

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