Swakop unveils N$685-million budget for 2023/24

Wilfried Groenewald

A budget of N$685 million, designed to address the needs of vulnerable residents, economic pressure on ratepayers, and future planning, was announced by the chairperson of the Swakopmund council management committee, Wilfried Groenewald, on Monday.

This includes a capital budget of N$157 950 000 and an operational budget of N$527 216 000 for the 2023/24 financial year.

Groenewald said the budget reflects a crucial commitment towards the vision of the Swakopmund council – to transform Swakopmund into a smart city and a hub of opportunities, focused on providing safe, efficient, and affordable services and infrastructure for all.

“Every year it is about building the future we want for Swakopmund, being a smart city and the centre of adventure for Namibia,” he said.

“This budget is the result of many months of hard work, and we hope it has succeeded in finding that balance.”

Despite the prevailing economic circumstances, the council has planned for a modest tariff increase of 3% in service-related tariffs for the new financial year, with the exception of tariffs related to senior citizens.

“The government’s own official inflation figure of 7,25% feels like it doesn’t tell the whole story,” Groenewald said.

Focusing on investment, the council plans to fund key infrastructure projects, including upgrading and expanding water and sanitation infrastructure across Swakopmund.

He further highlighted the critical balance between responding to the needs of residents and planning for the future: “We are making possible the most ambitious future planning and investment ever undertaken by this council.”

The future, Groenewald said, includes funds being channelled into key infrastructure and development projects, such as the upgrading of water and sanitation systems, improvement of transport infrastructure, and the further expansion of public utilities.

He outlined a significant investment in technological infrastructure, with the aim of transforming Swakopmund into a fully fledged ‘smart’ city.

“Digital innovation will become a key enabler for our city. We aim to invest in our technological infrastructure to enhance the delivery of municipal services and improve the city’s efficiency and resilience,” he said.

Moreover, Groenewald stressed the importance of creating a city that is environmentally sustainable and resilient to climate change.

For this, the council is planning to boost its investment in green infrastructure, including renewable energy projects and environmentally friendly public transport systems.

He also touched on the council’s commitment to social welfare.

“We will not leave our citizens behind in this development. A significant part of this budget will be allocated to social programmes, housing and healthcare services to ensure everyone enjoys the benefits of our growth.”

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