Kalkrand: The Kalkrand Village Council has unveiled its strategic priorities and development roadmap for the next five years, expressing its commitment to improving service delivery and driving local economic growth. Presenting the plan during a community meeting here on Saturday, chairperson Magrietha Kharas said the council's vision is to transform Kalkrand into a well-managed and competitive local authority, guided by national frameworks such as the Local Authorities Act and development plans.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Kalkrand, with a population of 1,602 residents and about 602 ratepayers, aims to prioritize housing, infrastructure development, economic growth, and social progression. Among the key focus areas outlined is the promotion of affordable housing through the decentralised Build Together programme, as well as positioning the village as an attractive investment destination.
Plans include the establishment of business parks, hosting the Kalkrand Expo in 2026, and the development of an open market to support small and medium enterprises. Infrastructure development will focus on upgrading informal settlements with basic services such as water, electricity, sanitation, and roads, alongside planned electrical works and expansion projects in Extension 2 and Extension 3.
Kharas also highlighted urban agriculture as a strategy to boost food security and local economic activity, with ongoing poultry and crop production initiatives in the townlands. In addition, the council reaffirmed its commitment to participatory governance through community engagement structures and development committees, while also seeking funding for recreational facilities to promote social cohesion and youth development.
However, several challenges were noted, including limited financial resources, lack of tertiary and vocational training institutions, inadequate healthcare facilities, youth unemployment, and limited economic diversification. During the engagement session, residents raised concerns over the absence of banking services in the village and called for more support programmes targeting youth who do not qualify for tertiary education or recruitment into the national security services.
Kharas said the council will seek partnerships with government agencies, development partners, and the private sector to mobilise funding and accelerate implementation of its strategic goals. 'Capital projects for the 2026/2027 financial year include the construction of a new council office building with a community hall, informal settlement upgrading, and infrastructure expansion,' Kharas explained.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council leadership to incorporate community input into future planning and ensure inclusive development.