Renthia Kaimbi
More than 4 500 Walvis Bay residents have signed a petition calling for urgent municipal reform, raising concerns over sanitation, infrastructure and service delivery.
The petition, titled “Demand urgent municipal reform in Walvis Bay,” has been submitted to the municipality and outlines what residents describe as ongoing failures that are affecting daily life.
Signatories say poor sanitation in informal settlements has led to open defecation due to a lack of toilets.
“Every day as I drive out of Walvis Bay, I witness the heartbreaking sight of grown men and women resorting to relieving themselves by the roadside,” the petition reads.
“This daily occurrence is not just an affront to human dignity but also a stark reminder of the systematic neglect by the Walvis Bay Municipality in providing the most basic of human necessities.”
Residents report that damaged roads throughout the town pose safety risks and cause vehicle damage.
They also raised concerns about irregular rubbish collection and limited street cleaning, which they say has led to waste piling up in some areas.
The petition also points to waste management at the town’s dump. Residents say the burning of rubbish is affecting nearby communities.
“The municipality’s practice of burning rubbish at the dump produces toxic plumes of smoke that pollute the air, harm residents’ health and create unbearable living conditions in surrounding areas,” the petition states.
Residents also say the municipality has not been clear about its plans or spending.
“The municipality operates with a lack of transparency, failing to communicate plans, budgets, or progress on service delivery,” the document states.
“Residents deserve clear answers and responsible leadership.”
The petition calls for the provision of toilets in informal settlements, regular rubbish collection, and improved street cleaning.
The petition also calls for the cessation of waste burning and the adoption of safer methods.
Residents are also calling for repairs to damaged roads and for the municipality to share clear plans, budgets and timelines on service delivery.
“We call for accountability and a commitment to restoring Walvis Bay as a clean, safe, and healthy town. Failure to act will only deepen the community’s distrust and suffering. Act now to prioritise the needs of your residents,” the petition states.
The municipality had not responded to the concerns at the time of publication.
