Niël Terblanché
The Swakopmund Municipality will no longer accept unsolicited land applications, and all land intended for sale or lease will henceforth be advertised publicly.
The municipality’s spokesperson, Linda Mupupa, said the change follows a sharp rise in demand for serviced land.
She said this demand is driven by population growth and the expansion of informal settlements around the town.
“Many development proposals have been received, but the uncoordinated influx of applications has overburdened planning resources and led to delays in service delivery,” Mupupa said.
“The strain on municipal systems has made it difficult to process requests efficiently.”
To respond to this challenge, the municipality has introduced a structured process aimed at fairness and transparency.
Under the new system, the Council will decide what types of development are allowed in certain areas. Some land will be reserved for affordable housing, while other plots will be made available to private developers.
Developers will need to meet specific requirements. They must show relevant experience, submit detailed proposals, and prove they can finance and complete projects. The municipality will define the land size and outline how proposals should be submitted. All applications will be reviewed based on set criteria.
“This approach gives all interested parties a fair chance, as land will no longer be allocated through ad hoc proposals or private lobbying,” Mupupa said.
The municipality is finalising a land development framework to support the process. The framework will include a manual, updated town planning procedures, and clear rules for land sales. It will also provide incentives such as reduced land prices or lower rates for investors.
Mupupa said public participation remains important, but interest in residential land must be expressed through formal channels.
“Everyone will have the opportunity to participate, but the correct process must be followed,” she said.
She added that the municipality is open to proposals for innovative commercial projects that match Swakopmund’s development goals.
The revised policy is expected to improve service delivery, manage urban growth more effectively, and create a fairer system for all residents.
