Namibia’sconstruction sector showed mixed signals in April, with building activity slowing in the capital while coastal Swakopmund showed early signs of a rebound.
According to official data by Simonis Storm, Windhoek recorded a 28% month-on-month decline in approved building plans, down from 205 in March to 146 in April. This downturn reflects a broader cooling trend in the capital’s construction landscape.
In contrast, Swakopmund saw a modest improvement. Approved plans rose slightly from 63 to 64 over the same period, signaling a tentative recovery following previous contractions in coastal building activity.
“A year-on-year comparison reveals a mixed picture. Windhoek recorded a 66% increase in building plan approvals, reflecting strong investment momentum, particularly in residential segments.
“By contrast, Swakopmund experienced a 21% annual decline, suggesting localised constraints and waning development appetite in the coastal town,” says economist Almandro Jansen.
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