Swakop announces N$690m budget
The Swakopmund municipality announced a close to N$700 million budget for the 2024–2025 financial year at a 4 June council meeting.
Operating expenses account for 84% of the total budget, totalling N$578 million, while capital expenditures account for 16%, amounting to N$112 million.
Chairperson of the management committee, Blasius Goraseb, said this year's budget priorities are designed with a clear focus on issues that are pivotal to Swakopmund's development.
Among the town's priorities are town planning, provision of serviced land and housing development, roads and street infrastructure, bulk wastewater infrastructure, beach development, bulk water infrastructure and the creation of employment opportunities.
“These are not merely expenses; they are investments in the future of Swakopmund, aimed at ensuring sustainable growth, enhanced quality of life and resilience in the face of future challenges for a very fast-growing town,” Goraseb said.
Detailed outline
Under the current administration, a comprehensive structural plan has been devised to identify socioeconomic opportunities for Swakopmund's growth and development.
This vision emphasises sustainability in terms of living standards and environmental stewardship, envisioning Swakopmund as a livable town characterised by accessibility, community amenities and economic opportunities.
Key initiatives include the development of a beach area for public use, urban planning to enhance connectivity and mobility and the promotion of the tourism, education, healthcare and clean technology sectors.
Moreover, the town is committed to fostering a smart city model that prioritises environmental sustainability and visionary development.
Council allocated N$29 million towards the planning and design of new roads and the upgrading and maintenance of existing roadways to improve safety. New roadways will be constructed to connect serviced areas and facilitate the development of new areas, such as DRC Extension 1. The council also indicated that stormwater systems would be upgraded.
Water matters
Collectively, N$37 million was allocated towards water and wastewater infrastructure.
Included in the bulk water infrastructure are plans to erect a water reservoir.
“We recognise the importance of foresight and planning, which is why we have budgeted for the investigation and design of a water reservoir for Vineta North, Mile 4, Ocean View and Northern Wedge Development. This reservoir will not only cater to the needs of our expanding community but will also ensure resilience in the face of future infrastructure challenges,” Goraseb said.
Similarly, the installation and upgrading of the current sewerage systems will address current deficiencies and mitigate the risk of sewage overflows and infrastructure failures. By funding these projects, the municipality is not only addressing immediate infrastructure needs but also planning strategically for the community’s future growth and resilience.
Social care
The construction of an emergency shelter has also been included in the budget.
The shelter will provide a haven during crises, ensuring the safety and well-being of community members in need. The facility will be equipped to offer essential services such as temporary housing and required care, ensuring that vulnerable people receive the assistance they need in times of distress.
It was also announced that, due to prevailing economic circumstances, the council is considering a tariff increase of 5% for service-related tariffs for the next fiscal year, except for tariffs related to senior citizens.
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Operating expenses account for 84% of the total budget, totalling N$578 million, while capital expenditures account for 16%, amounting to N$112 million.
Chairperson of the management committee, Blasius Goraseb, said this year's budget priorities are designed with a clear focus on issues that are pivotal to Swakopmund's development.
Among the town's priorities are town planning, provision of serviced land and housing development, roads and street infrastructure, bulk wastewater infrastructure, beach development, bulk water infrastructure and the creation of employment opportunities.
“These are not merely expenses; they are investments in the future of Swakopmund, aimed at ensuring sustainable growth, enhanced quality of life and resilience in the face of future challenges for a very fast-growing town,” Goraseb said.
Detailed outline
Under the current administration, a comprehensive structural plan has been devised to identify socioeconomic opportunities for Swakopmund's growth and development.
This vision emphasises sustainability in terms of living standards and environmental stewardship, envisioning Swakopmund as a livable town characterised by accessibility, community amenities and economic opportunities.
Key initiatives include the development of a beach area for public use, urban planning to enhance connectivity and mobility and the promotion of the tourism, education, healthcare and clean technology sectors.
Moreover, the town is committed to fostering a smart city model that prioritises environmental sustainability and visionary development.
Council allocated N$29 million towards the planning and design of new roads and the upgrading and maintenance of existing roadways to improve safety. New roadways will be constructed to connect serviced areas and facilitate the development of new areas, such as DRC Extension 1. The council also indicated that stormwater systems would be upgraded.
Water matters
Collectively, N$37 million was allocated towards water and wastewater infrastructure.
Included in the bulk water infrastructure are plans to erect a water reservoir.
“We recognise the importance of foresight and planning, which is why we have budgeted for the investigation and design of a water reservoir for Vineta North, Mile 4, Ocean View and Northern Wedge Development. This reservoir will not only cater to the needs of our expanding community but will also ensure resilience in the face of future infrastructure challenges,” Goraseb said.
Similarly, the installation and upgrading of the current sewerage systems will address current deficiencies and mitigate the risk of sewage overflows and infrastructure failures. By funding these projects, the municipality is not only addressing immediate infrastructure needs but also planning strategically for the community’s future growth and resilience.
Social care
The construction of an emergency shelter has also been included in the budget.
The shelter will provide a haven during crises, ensuring the safety and well-being of community members in need. The facility will be equipped to offer essential services such as temporary housing and required care, ensuring that vulnerable people receive the assistance they need in times of distress.
It was also announced that, due to prevailing economic circumstances, the council is considering a tariff increase of 5% for service-related tariffs for the next fiscal year, except for tariffs related to senior citizens.
[email protected]
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