•  December 2000February 2001 Local News Headlines

Friday, February 23, 2001 - Web posted at 7:48:51 AM GMT

Exploding population haunts city
CHRISPIN INAMBAO

THE unabated upsurge in rural-urban migration which results in 600 new arrivals in the city each month is a pressing problem which needs to be tackled vigorously, the Mayor of Windhoek said on Wednesday night.

In his acceptance speech shortly he had been re-elected as Mayor, Matheus Shikongo said rapid population growth, the mushrooming of informal settlements and the high unemployment rate are issues that should be "tackled collectively".

He said the unrelenting fight against the spread of the HIV-AIDS virus "which is not only haunting our city, but the region and continent as a whole" remains high on the city authority's agenda.

Shikongo, whose term will run until February next year, acknowledged that a crime-free and safe environment, which is a prelude to business prosperity and promotes investment, is also one of the authority's priorities."

"These pressing social and economic problems are putting considerable pressure on our limited resources as well as retarding development and economic growth," Shikongo told the gathering that included Deputy Prime Minister, Hendrik Witbooi.

The Mayor appealed to the business community to be more active and to play a constructive role in making Windhoek safe and crime-free.

Guest speaker Witbooi said "holding elections on a regular basis is proof of our thriving democracy.

Our cities and towns are the windows through which our country is viewed.

Vibrant cities and towns indeed reflect a healthy economy."

"Therefore it is imperative that we should have dynamic leadership within the local authorities

Councillors who are willing to serve the people with dedication and commitment," said the Deputy Prime Minister.

During Wednesday night's elections Councillor Joseph Auala was elected Deputy Mayor.

Helena Tlhabanello, the outgoing deputy mayor, will serve as the Vice Chairperson of the Council.

The elections also saw members of the five-person Management Committee being chosen.

They are Bjorn von Finckenstein, Olga Katjipi, Hileni Samuels, Hileni Auala and Elaine Trepper.

The Chairperson and the Vice Chairperson of the Management Committee will be elected in March.

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