Ondangwa Town Council has launched a document which consists of the town’s strategy for local economic and tourism development.
The document was launched on 28 August at an event attended by various stakeholders including Ondangwa Urban’s councillor Mr Leonard Negonga standing in for the regional governor who did not attend.
In a statement read on his behalf Ondangwa Mayor Mr Paavo Amwele, who also did not attend, said that the Local Economic Development and Tourism Strategy “marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward a more inclusive and prosperous future”.
Amwele stated that Ondangwa holds a unique place in Namibia’s history as a transit point for Aawambo contract workers (okaholo) who travelled to work in the central and southern regions of the country.
“This legacy has shaped a rich cultural heritage, offering immense potential for tourism development,” Amwele said.
He stated further that Ondangwa’s economy is primarily service-driven, with limited industrial activity.
“However, we are fortunate to possess strategic infrastructure such as the Andimba Toivo ya Toivo Airport, a railway station, oil depots, and well-developed road networks.
“Ondangwa is a key connector via the B1 road, with routes leading to Windhoek, Angola, Zambia, and Botswana—positioning us as a potential logistics and transport hub.”
The mayor said that the vision of the Ondangwa Town Council “is to transform our town into a centre of industrialization and sustainable development.
“To realise this vision, we have crafted several strategic frameworks, including the LED and Tourism Strategy, which aims to stimulate business growth and strengthen our local economy.”
Ondangwa’s Manager for Local Economic Development and Marketing Ms Rauna Ndapanda Shipunda presented a snapshot of the local economic development and tourism strategy.
Shipunda said that the strategy serves as a blueprint to innovative interventions and it positions Ondangwa to become a global competitive town.
“Ondangwa Town Council took a bold step to develop a Local Economic Development and Tourism Strategy in 2023/24. It’s a 5-year plan,” Shipunda stated.
“The document was completed toward the end of November 2024.
“The purpose of developing the LED and Tourism strategy is to address the fundamental challenges facing the town such as unemployment, poverty, inequality and limited industrialization.
“The Council decided to take a holistic approach aimed at developing a sustainable local economic growth.”
The strategy focuses on areas such as inclusive growth through jobs and skills; trade promotion and sector development; tourism development consolidated one shop; and sustainable growth.
“The LED and Tourism Strategy sets a clear path for inclusive, sustainable, and competitive growth in Ondangwa.
“By focusing on infrastructure, skills, trade, and tourism, the town is positioned to unlock its full economic potential.
“Strategic partnerships, innovation, and community empowerment are key to achieving our vision of becoming an engine of industrialisation and sustainable development.
“The Council’s commitment to this strategy reflects a bold vision for a resilient and thriving local economy.”
In the photo: Ondangwa leadership launching the town’s local economic development and tourism strategy.
