City of windhoek: City of Windhoek Chief Executive Officer Moses Matjayi has defended the municipality's partnership with KeyPlot Investment (KPI) Parking Management, stating that the city's cashless parking system is a necessary response to technological change, operational challenges, and safety concerns. In a recent interview with Nampa, Matjayi urged residents to be patient as the City continues refining the system amid growing public criticism.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Matjayi explained that KPI Parking Management operates under a formal service agreement with the municipality and within a legal framework established by the City of Windhoek. The City shifted away from traditional coin-operated parking meters due to obsolescence and high maintenance costs. Matjayi highlighted issues such as vandalism of meters and the scarcity of replacement technology.
The legal foundation for parking management is rooted in the Regulation on the Installation, Establishment, Maintenance, and Control of Parking Meters and Parking Places, issued in 2016 under Government Gazette No. 5942. The City's agreement with KPI was a result of a competitive procurement process aligned with the Public Procurement Act. Matjayi addressed concerns about the legality of parking tickets issued by KPI, affirming that the company operates on behalf of the municipality within a regulated framework.
Matjayi further clarified that motorists who do not pay parking charges may face enforcement measures, including interventions by City Police and other authorized officials. The municipality collaborates with City Police and the Roads Authority's registration system to trace vehicle owners.
He also defended the cashless payment system, which has faced criticism for requiring electronic payments for minor parking fees. The decision was driven by factors such as public convenience, operational efficiency, and safety concerns for parking marshals. Challenges under the previous system included coin shortages, difficulties in making exact payments, and security risks associated with handling cash.
Matjayi noted that the cashless system was partly introduced to reduce revenue losses and minimize risks linked to cash handling. Despite public complaints, he asserted that the parking management model is achieving its objectives, citing smoother mobility in the city center.
While declining to disclose financial details of the agreement with KPI, Matjayi emphasized that the municipality regularly reviews public feedback and engages with KPI to enhance service delivery.