Windhoek: The City of Windhoek (CoW) has launched an emergency pothole repair programme following extensive road damage caused by heavy rainfall earlier this year. The programme costs a total N.dollars 324 million and started on 12 May 2025.

According to Namibia Press Agency,CoW public relations officer Lydia Amutenya stated in an interview last week that two contractors have been appointed for a period of three months. Each contractor is deploying six repair teams that are operating in the western suburbs, including Katutura, and six in the eastern suburbs through an approved procurement process.

Amutenya explained that Namibia experienced significant rainfall this year, leading to widespread road damage within Windhoek. The repair work prioritised high-traffic routes, including distributor roads and key public transport corridors, before extending to residential and access roads. This approach aims to maximise the impact on mobility and public transport efficiency.

She highlighted that preliminary cost estimates for the repairs include pothole repairs of N.dollars 15.2 million, gravel road restoration of N.dollars 38 million, and rehabilitation of severely damaged roads at a cost of N.dollars 226 million. Despite the inconvenience and damage caused by potholes, direct compensation for damages is not currently provided by the City of Windhoek.

Amutenya emphasized that the focus remains on urgent and sustained repair efforts to improve road conditions. Residents are urged to report damaged roads or drainage issues and to provide feedback that helps guide service delivery and prioritisation.