Allexer Namundjembo
The Ministry of Urban and Rural Development has approved significant zoning amendments in towns across Namibia, including Gobabis, Rehoboth, Tsumeb, Swakopmund, and Windhoek.
The announcement was made by Minister Erastus Uutoni through Government Gazette No. 366 of 2024, under the Urban and Regional Planning Act, 2018 (Act No. 5 of 2018).
Uutoni emphasized the importance of these changes in enhancing urban planning and addressing the development needs of the affected communities.
“These amendments reflect our government’s commitment to structured urban growth, ensuring that towns and cities develop in a way that meets the needs of residents while fostering economic opportunities,” Uutoni said.
In Gobabis, the rezoning of Portion 166 of the Farm Townlands from “undetermined” to “institutional” is set to bolster the town’s capacity for institutional infrastructure, which is critical for public service delivery.
For Rehoboth, several changes in Block F aim to address residential planning. Erven 773, 777, and 779 have been rezoned from “general residential” with a density of 1:100 to “single residential” with densities ranging from 1:300 to 1:500. These changes will allow for more tailored residential developments that align with local needs.
In Tsumeb, amendments include the rezoning of Erf 2537 in Extension 4 from “residential 1” with a density of 1:900 to “residential 1” with a density of 1:300. Additionally, Erf 3106, previously designated as “street,” has been rezoned to “residential” with a density of 1:300.
“Proper zoning is a cornerstone of sustainable urban development. These changes will enable towns like Tsumeb and Rehoboth to optimize land use and accommodate growth effectively” Utoni remarked.
The Windhoek Zoning Scheme has undergone extensive adjustments to accommodate various developmental needs. Among the notable changes is the rezoning of multiple erven in Katutura Extension 14, Klein Windhoek, and Brakwater.
The transformations include shifts from residential to business, institutional, or office designations, fostering both commercial and institutional growth in Namibia’s capital.
In Swakopmund, two key rezoning decisions aim to refine the town’s urban layout. Erf 1266 in Matutura Extension 7 has shifted from “general residential 2” to “single residential,” while Erf 11584 in Extension 39 has been changed from “public open space” to “parastatal.”
Uutoni highlighted the broader vision behind these changes saying: “By aligning zoning regulations with the needs of our communities, we are paving the way for towns to become hubs of growth, opportunity, and improved living standards for all Namibians.”
These zoning amendments are expected to spur development and improve land use management, contributing to Namibia’s long-term urbanization and development goals.
