City of Windhoek relocates flood-affected residents

In the wake of heavy rains that triggered severe flooding in several informal settlements, the City of Windhoek launched emergency response efforts to relocate affected residents to safer ground
Michelline Nawatises
  • 3 Days Ago
The City of Windhoek has been actively responding to the heavy flooding that affected various informal settlements following a torrential downpour on 4 January.

Lydia Amutenya, Corporate Communications Head of City of Windhoek confirmed that the hardest-hit areas include Otjomuise, particularly residents living near riverbeds behind the Otjomuise Police Station, and parts of Havana along Monte Cristo Road. “The most severe damage was recorded in Otjomuise, where 11 houses were completely washed away, while approximately 300 households were affected overall,” Amutenya said. Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported. In response, the city has been relocating affected residents to a safer location at Farm 508. So far, an estimated 130 people have been moved, with relocations continuing daily. “Many residents were not in Windhoek at the time of the incident, as some were still on holiday, so we are accommodating their needs by allowing time to gather their belongings before relocating,” she added.



Resistance and Risk Management

Despite the city's efforts, some residents are reluctant to move. “We understand that it is their home, but our priority is saving lives. The affected area will be cleared, and riverbeds deepened to discourage further settlement in flood-prone zones,” Amutenya stated.The municipality emphasised that the relocation is a semi-permanent emergency response. “The land was initially occupied through illegal land grabbing, but the council has taken a humanitarian approach by assisting affected residents at its own cost. Over time, adjustments will be made to ensure proper living conditions at the new site,” she said.



Causes and Preventative Measures

According to Amutenya, settling in riverbeds and low-lying areas remains a significant cause of flooding-related disasters. “Many people settle wherever they find space due to desperation. However, such informal structures are highly vulnerable during heavy rains,” she noted. She also highlighted poor waste management as an aggravating factor. “We have found illegally dumped items such as tyres, car engines, blankets, and even cow heads blocking riverbeds. These obstructions prevent proper water flow, worsening the impact of floods,” she explained. To mitigate future disasters, the city has provided orange waste bins and plastic bags for informal settlement residents. In addition, riverbeds are regularly cleared to prevent blockages.



Call for Public Cooperation

Amutenya urged residents to heed the city’s flood preparedness guidelines issued annually before the rainy season. She also condemned reckless behaviour such as crossing flooded roads that have been marked as dangerous.“It is common knowledge that when a road is barricaded with danger tape, it means do not cross. Unfortunately, some people ignore these warnings, putting their lives at risk,” she said.

Looking ahead, the municipality remains committed to disaster risk management through education, awareness campaigns, and infrastructural improvements. “Preventative measures are key. Disaster preparedness is not just about responding to incidents but ensuring that we educate people to avoid such situations in the first place,” she concluded.