Beefing up community safety

The mayor of Swakopmund, Dina Namubes, has called on businesses including hotels, restaurants, shebeens, and other outlets selling alcohol in the town to enhance their security services in support of a council initiative and in order to address safety concerns in the central business district and Swakopmund as a whole.

“I urge establishments to have security personnel recruited by the end of October and encourage residents to join and make use of the neighbourhood watch by calling 085 999 for added security and vigilance within the community,” Namubes said at a meeting during which members of the public were provided with insights on how to establish and administer community policing initiatives.

The mayor also emphasised that business owners, whom she said directly benefit from customer spending, bear a responsibility to ensure the safety of their patrons. “By taking proactive measures, we can work towards alleviating issues of poverty and unemployment while safeguarding the lives and property of both local residents and visitors.”

Namubes further acknowledged the importance of current efforts and said communities and business owners alike should not solely rely on the police for security. “We all need to join the crime-fighting efforts and to take a proactive approach in fighting crime.”

The event fostered a sense of collective responsibility and encouraged residents to contribute their ideas and experiences, which can be invaluable in developing effective crime-fighting strategies. With an increase in criminal activities experienced in the coastal town, the Swakopmund municipal council initiated activities to engage stakeholders to enhance safety and security in all the neighbourhoods.