Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Swakopmund, known for its German colonial architecture, is grappling with the balance between preserving its historical identity and embracing new developments.
This debate has become prominent as the town expands and modernises to cater to both locals and tourists.
One resident, Ndapandula Matheus, expressed mixed feelings about the ongoing developments.
“I love the history of Swakopmund and its buildings, but I understand the need for progress,” she said.
While she acknowledges the importance of maintaining the town’s unique heritage, she hopes that new projects do not overshadow its charm.
In contrast, another resident, John Kamati, argued that the town needs new developments to reduce unemployment and boost its economy.
“Swakopmund needs jobs. We cannot just rely on our history. New developments will bring much-needed employment and help the town grow,” Kamati said.
He believes innovation is essential to the town’s future success.
Last year, Swakopmund was recognised as one of Africa’s cleanest cities.
The accolade reflects the town’s commitment to urban development while maintaining its cultural heritage.
Established in 1892 by the German colonial authorities, Swakopmund remains a town defined by its architectural history, with its German colonial buildings playing a central role in its cityscape.
However, as Swakopmund grows, tensions have arisen over new projects that some locals fear could erode the town’s historical character.
In 2023 Elena-Dea Burger, a Namibian interior architecture graduate who won Best Graduate 2023 in Western Australia by the Institute of Design in a project focused on transforming Woermann House in Swakopmund into an inclusive space that fosters cultural exchange.
She proposed a food market where residents and tourists could gather while preserving the historical significance of the site.
The German-style Woermannhaus stands out above surrounding buildings. Built in 1905 as the main offices of the Damara & Namaqua Trading Company, it was taken over four years later by the Woermann & Brock Trading Company, which supplied the current name. In the 1920s, it was used as a school dormitory and later served as a merchant sailors’ hostel. It eventually fell into disrepair, but was declared a national monument and restored in 1976.
Swakopmund Town Councillor Heinrich Hafeni has expressed concern about the lack of support for local entrepreneurs in the face of new developments.
Hafeni, also the founder of Hafeni Tourism Group, argues that local and international investors should receive equal treatment from authorities.
“An investor is an investor, whether they are local or international,” said Hafeni.
He believes that policies must create opportunities for all entrepreneurs, regardless of their origin.
He also pointed out that high unemployment rates, as revealed by the most recent census, underscore the importance of development for economic growth.
Hafeni stressed that while Swakopmund must preserve its heritage, it cannot ignore the need for innovation and economic opportunities.
“We must allow innovation to prosper,” Hafeni stated, noting that new developments, such as hotels and restaurants, can create jobs and reduce the town’s unemployment rate.
He also addressed concerns that new projects could destroy Swakopmund’s historical architecture.
“The German architecture draws tourists, but the question is, what’s the harm in new developments that can create jobs?” Hafeni asked.
Community activist Tuhafeni Petrus agreed with Hafeni’s views, calling for a shift in perspective.
Petrus criticised the political nature of debates surrounding development, arguing that the country’s high unemployment rate should be the main focus.
“We must learn to see the positive side of things. Any development that creates jobs should be welcomed,” said Petrus.
He added that Swakopmund should seize new opportunities that foster economic growth rather than letting fear of change hold them back.
Gerhard Van Der Merwe, a property development specialist, has also weighed in on the ongoing debate.
Van Der Merwe, who said he has faced significant resistance to his projects in the town, shared his thoughts on LinkedIn, stating that the fear of change is natural but must not hinder progress.
“While protecting our heritage is important, we must not let it hinder necessary improvements and new developments,” said Van Der Merwe.
Reflecting on his experience with the Beach Hotel project, he noted the initial opposition from local business owners but expressed confidence that public perception can change over time.
“I will always argue that change is not the enemy; stagnation is,” Van Der Merwe added.
Swakopmund Municipality has emphasised the importance of a structured approach to growth.
“Buildings within this area are listed as historical monuments, and any proposed developments must go through a strict approval process,” says the spokesperson of the municipality Linda Mupua.
She said the Aesthetics Committee, a body formed by the municipality, is responsible for reviewing development plans and ensuring that they align with the town’s visual and historical character.
Following the aesthetics review, proposals are further scrutinised by the Build Heritage Committee, a government-driven entity tasked with ensuring that Swakopmund’s identity is preserved while facilitating growth.
Mupupa said to ensure that developments align with the town’s historical character, the municipality has enacted several regulations.
The Council’s Strategic Plan and the 2020-2040 Swakopmund Structure Development Plan serve as frameworks, guiding the direction of growth.
“The Aesthetics Committee is guided by these frameworks to ensure that new projects fit within the town’s overall character,” she said.
Discussions are ongoing to formulate policies that will guide development in a way that respects both the town’s historical importance and the need for modernisation.
The town council plans to hold consultations with residents, businesses, and developers to find solutions that benefit the entire community.
