Emergency services in Walvis Bay will expand with two new fire stations planned for Tutaleni and Green Valley (Farm 37). The move aims to reduce response times in high-risk informal settlements.
The Municipality of Walvis Bay confirmed that one station will be built at Farm 37, about 10 kilometres east of town. In Tutaleni, the municipality will convert an existing house at Erf 7220 into a satellite fire station.
Walvis Bay mayor Johannes Shimbilinga said the municipal council has set aside N$1.9 million to start the projects. He said WesBank Transport will support the first phase through a donation. The bidding process has been finalised and the tender will be advertised soon.
All firefighting services in Walvis Bay currently operate from the Mautamanene Fire Station in Kuisebmond.
The new stations will improve coverage in areas that experience frequent shack fires.
Tutaleni and surrounding areas have faced repeated fire incidents over the years.
In 2019, former mayor Alderman Immanuel Wilfried raised concern about the need for a fire station in the Kuisebmond area, which records a high number of shack fires.
Fires in informal settlements often spread quickly due to flammable materials such as cardboard, plastic and wood. Illegal electrical connections and the use of open flames from gas stoves, candles and paraffin lamps increase the risk. Overcrowding, especially during winter, also adds to the danger.
The municipality said the new fire stations form part of efforts to improve safety, reduce property damage and protect lives in vulnerable communities.
