Martin Endjala
City of Windhoek (CEO) Chief Executive Officer, Moses Matyayi, said the city council has observed with great concern the theft of newly planted flowers, trees and shrubs throughout the city.
Matyayi said all trees and shrubs planted along Independence Avenue in celebration of Arbor Day 2023 were illegally uprooted and stolen.
This deliberate removal of greenery intended to enhance the public spaces according to Matyayi, is a setback in their ongoing efforts to beautify the city.
The City’s Corporate and Communication Manager Harold Akwenye, said the plants cost an estimated N$ 70 000 to replace the stolen and damaged plants.
“As a city, we are dedicated to creating a more vibrant and aesthetically pleasing environment for our residents. The diligent work and dedication of our team in planting and maintaining these green spaces aim to enhance the quality of life for everyone in our community. Unfortunately, the recurring incidents of theft severely hinder our progress,” said Matyayi.
The CEO is calling on the support and cooperation of all residents in preserving the communal efforts while arguing that the removal or theft of planted greenery not only obstructs the city’s beautification initiatives but also undermines the sense of community and pride that it aims to foster among its residents.
He is therefore imploring everyone to respect the hard work and resources invested in the public spaces for the benefit of all. Thereby calling on the safeguarding of the city’s beauty and fostering a community that cherishes and respects the green spaces that contribute to the essence of home as a collective.
Community members have been urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to the theft of planted greenery to the City Police.
The City recently planted trees along Independence Avenue in Katutura to celebrate Arbour Day in Partnership with First Nation Bank of Namibia last month.
During the celebration, CoW Mayor Joseph Uapingene, said the trees are part of the 400 indigenous trees or shrubs and 100 flower boxes that FNB pledged to donate to the city over three years.
“Arbour Day is celebrated worldwide on various dates, depending on the climate and suitable planting season as a call to individuals and groups to plant and care for trees, and demonstrates the commitment to combined efforts to combat climate change and create awareness amongst Windhoek’s residents and appreciate the importance of trees in the city and around public open spaces, “said the Mayor.
