Niël Terblanché
The Arandis Town Council has launched its 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, unveiling a blueprint aimed at guiding the town toward industrialisation, green hydrogen development, and joint venture participation.
The plan, launched at a special event in Swakopmund last week, is seen as a key instrument to promote sustainable economic growth in the Erongo region.
At the launch, Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Eveline !Nawases-Taeyele highlighted the town’s achievements under its previous strategic plan.
She said notable milestones included the construction of 136 houses, innovative solutions to reduce pensioner debt, and the introduction of prepaid water meters.
“These accomplishments demonstrate the council’s commitment to development, achieving over 80% of its previous objectives despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
Looking ahead, the town council has set its sights on becoming a hub for green hydrogen production and solar energy, positioning itself as a key player in Namibia’s efforts to become a global hydrogen hub.
The council is collaborating with Cleanergy Namibia to establish a large-scale solar and green hydrogen production facility, which is expected to create local employment, reduce the town’s dependency on mining, and contribute significantly to the national economy.
Arandis mayor Risto Kapenda stressed the town’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond its roots as a mining town.
“By providing services to the surrounding industries and optimising land use, the council aims to attract investments and generate additional revenue,” he said.
The chief executive officer, Stanley Norris, reiterated this approach, stressing the importance of leveraging land as a key driver for job creation and municipal service enhancement.
The new strategic plan also includes ambitious industrial development targets and improvements to the town’s logistical infrastructure, further cementing Arandis as a critical player in Namibia’s sustainable development efforts.
“Through these initiatives, the town council aims to pave the way for a future of economic resilience and innovation,” Norris said.
