The management has introduced monthly markets to raise funds for the renovations.
Haven Zoological Park is a small zoo on the southern end of Windhoek, which houses a variety of animal species. The park has been a landmark of the capital since it opened its doors in 2007.
The first market was held in February.
Manager Phillip Loteryman says the markets have been doing great so far and they have attracted new customers.
“As the zoo was closed for a few months due to Covid-19, we also fell into arrears with our City of Windhoek accounts, which is the rent, water and electricity. At the moment, we do not have electricity at the zoo. We are, however, discussing a payment plan with the municipality to clear our arrears and save the zoo,” he says.
Loteryman says most of the funds come from events they host and from sponsors.
Another manager at the zoo, Armand Bergh, says they have decided to upgrade because most visitors are not keen to stay long because of the state of the venue.
“Overall, the place does not look good, and if we upgrade and get more activities and more animals, we believe more people will come and want to stay longer. Our fence, playground and walls are not in the best state,” he says.
Bergh says if they do not upgrade, they might have to close doors permanently.
“Upgrading is important so that customers can spend more time and be eager to come back. We plan to start the upgrading process not later than January 2023. The work will include an overall facelift of the zoo such as painting, upgrading of our animal camps, playground and fence. We want to try and get more animals. The zoo got donkeys about two months ago and ponies. Our animals mostly come from South Africa and Namibian farms,” he said.
