Rehoboth: After three years of planning and extensive community engagement, the Rehoboth Town Council has unveiled an ambitious informal marketplace project aimed at transforming Block E into a vibrant hub of economic and social activity. The announcement was made during a well-attended community gathering at the Oanob Community Hall over the weekend, where residents filled the venue in anticipation of the long-awaited update. According to Namibia Press Agency, portfolio councillor Jacky Jackson Khariseb, alongside councillor Lelanie Uiras, addressed the crowd, highlighting the project's vision and potential impact. 'This isn't just about building structures. It's about empowering each of you, creating a space where our community can grow stronger, together,' said Khariseb. The marketplace project aims to provide more than just trading stalls. It will include a children's playground, a police station to enhance safety, a food court featuring local cuisine, and a green park space designed with environmental sustainability in mind. Khariseb emphasised the dual purpose of the initiative - to create economic opportunities while fostering a safe, inclusive public space for the Block E community. GIZ is supporting the planning phase, and its representative at the meeting, Nere Guarrotxena, reiterated the project's community-driven nature. 'This project belongs to you. Your voices guide us. Your feedback shapes the future. Together, we're building something meaningful,' he said. While the project still awaits full funding, the atmosphere at the meeting was one of optimism and unity. Khariseb thanked the task team for their dedication and encouraged residents to remain active participants in the development process. 'When the time comes, we'll meet again,' he said, 'But don't just come to listen, come to be part of the conversation,' he added.