The City of Windhoek is facing intense scrutiny over the deteriorating condition of Zoo Park, a public recreational space. Members of parliament have questioned the municipality's handling of the park, citing concerns about safety, maintenance, and its long-term revival. The criticism comes as the local authority continues to pursue improvements at the park.
Chief executive officer Moses Matyayi told the parliamentary standing committee on economy and industry, public administration, and planning that the municipality could no longer guarantee safety in certain areas of the park. He warned that members of the public could be injured and that the municipality could face legal claims. Matyayi made the remarks during a briefing on the council's economic development.
The municipality has advertised a procurement process to prequalify service providers for horticultural landscaping, greenery enhancement, and irrigation upgrades over six months. The tender, which closes on 17 November 2026, aims to improve the park's condition. However, members of parliament have questioned the deterioration of public recreational spaces and the lack of safe areas for residents to relax and participate in social activities.
MP Vaino Angula raised concerns about the Zoo Park amphitheatre, which had reportedly remained unused for more than 15 years. Matyayi said the council was considering measures to address immediate safety concerns while exploring options to finance a comprehensive revamp, including possible private-sector involvement. However, he did not provide a cost estimate or timeline for the full rehabilitation.
The latest procurement follows a November 2023 council decision to enter into a memorandum of agreement with Innovate Group to coordinate private-sector financial or technical support for the park's renovation. The proposed arrangement included a maintenance component intended to reduce the municipality's maintenance and security costs over 10 years. However, details about the agreement's implementation and funding secured are not publicly available.
Historical financial data shows that in 2023, the park's annual revenue was reported to be less than N$15 000, while monthly security costs stood at about N$12 000 and horticultural maintenance at N$25 700. These figures do not establish the park's current income or expenditure. The municipality has also advertised an expression of interest for feasibility studies to assess the viability of parks and recreational business opportunities across Windhoek.
The City of Windhoek's efforts to revive Zoo Park have raised questions about the project's timeline and funding. The municipality is seeking to mitigate the current situation while exploring long-term plans for the park's revival. Key issues include addressing safety concerns, securing funding, and implementing a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Key points
- The City of Windhoek faces criticism over its handling of Zoo Park.
- The municipality plans to upgrade the park's landscaping and irrigation systems.
- A comprehensive revamp of the park is being considered, including possible private-sector involvement.
