The Ministry of Environment and Tourism will de-proclaim a section of the Walvis Bay landfill from Dorob National Park to enable full management of the site by the municipality.
Environmental commissioner Timoteus Mufeti on Tuesday said the move is necessary to enable the Municipality of Walvis Bay to manage the landfill and enforce its bylaws.
He said only part of the landfill falls under the ministry’s jurisdiction, limiting its ability to take full control of the area.
“The ministry is now engaging relevant stakeholders on a process to de-proclaim the portion of the landfill that falls within the Dorob National Park. This will allow for full administrative control of the entire landfill site to be transferred to the Walvis Bay municipality,” he said.
Mufeti said this will allow the municipality to manage the site in line with the Environmental Management Act of 2007.
The ministry said it also issued a compliance order to stop waste dumping at the site and is now engaging relevant stakeholders.
The ministry said the burning of tyres at the landfill is illegal and poses serious health and environmental risks.
“Such activity releases dangerous pollutants into the air, posing serious health risks to both people and animals, while significantly compromising air quality,” Mufeti said.
“The burning of tyres in or near towns is prohibited under environmental regulations,” he added.
The Namibian previously reported that residents and health professionals had called for government intervention over toxic smoke from tyre burning at the site.
During a recent visit, The Namibian found tyres burning at the landfill, sometimes referred to by residents as a dumpsite, with smoke rising from the area.
The Walvis Bay municipality said about 500 people reside at the site.
Residents say the smoke affects the whole town, with coastal winds spreading it across neighbourhoods such as Kuisebmond, Narraville, Hermes and Meersig. They say it is often worse at night.
The ministry also raised concern about people living near the landfill.
“Living near landfill sites is strongly discouraged as exposure to smoke, odours and other pollutants can have harmful effects on human health,” Mufeti said.
A petition started about 11 months ago, and signed by more than 4 600 residents, has raised concerns about waste management, sanitation and the burning of waste at the landfill.
According to the 2023 national census, Walvis Bay has a population of about 102 704.
“The ministry remains committed to safeguarding the environment and will continue to work with all relevant authorities to find a sustainable and lasting solution,” Mufeti said.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
