Chamwe Kaira
Katima Mulilo is set to see a major transformation through the development of a high-end township and riverside resort.
The project is being led by Foresight Group Namibia (Pty) Ltd as the developer, with Risk-Based Solutions (RBS) CC as the investor.
Sindila Mwiya, representing the two companies, said the resort will be located along the Zambezi River and will cover the current flood channel and swamp in the area. The development is planned around an artificial lake, featuring canals and islands, to create a modern urban and recreational zone.
The project will include riverfront recreational areas, luxury lodges, and high-end residential units. The artificial lake will connect to a network of canals with multiple islands. Landscaped parks, picnic areas, waterfalls, walkways, children’s playgrounds, and designated car parks are also part of the plan.
“Various classes and sizes of residential housing will be developed around the lake to meet diverse housing needs. In addition, the development will include commercial, office, and medical facilities. A standout feature will be a mid-lake restaurant and conference centre, enhancing the area’s tourism and event-hosting capabilities,” Mwiya said.
The project will also include a private river port and marina to support recreational water activities on the Zambezi River. Other features will include a café pavilion, private transport services, a cultural village, an open private market, and a museum. Sports and leisure facilities will include swimming pools, fitness centres, and indoor and outdoor sporting amenities.
Construction is expected to begin in August 2025, with more than 200 people set to be employed during the initial phase. Mwiya stated that the project will prioritise labour-based construction methods to enhance the creation of local jobs.
He described the development as a major socioeconomic opportunity for Katima Mulilo and the wider Zambezi Region. “The development will also improve public health by transforming a currently waterlogged, mosquito-infested swamp into a clean and vibrant community space. It is expected to increase surrounding property values due to the introduction of modern infrastructure and amenities,” he said.
Mwiya said cultural promotion and preservation are key parts of the plan, with dedicated areas for a cultural village, museum, and heritage-supporting platforms. “Overall, the project will contribute significantly to local socioeconomic growth through increased economic activities and both temporary and permanent job creation for the local population,” he added.
