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Participation in platforms of this nature is a critical component of strengthening local governance and service delivery. It provides municipalities with direct access to tested solutions, financing mechanisms and partnerships that can be adapted to improve infrastructure provision, housing delivery and overall urban management.
In this context, the Mayor of Walvis Bay, Councillor Johannes Shimbilinga, is leading a Namibian local government delegation to the Second Africa Urban Forum (AUF2), taking place from 8 to 10 April 2026. His appointment as Head of Delegation by Hon. James Sankwasa, Minister of Urban and Rural Development, reflects the confidence placed in local leadership to contribute to and benefit from continental urban development initiatives.
The delegation brings together a collective of local government leadership, including the Mayors of Ondangwa and Mariental, the Chairperson of Tsandii Village Council, as well as technical and administrative officials. This blend of political and technical expertise ensures a well-rounded engagement with the forum’s programme.
Convened by the African Union Commission and hosted by the Government of Kenya, AUF2 gathers African leaders, development partners and urban practitioners under the theme: “Adequate Housing for All: Advancing Socio-economic and Environmental Transformation towards the Realisation of Agenda 2063.” The forum places strong emphasis on practical implementation, collaboration and innovation in addressing the evolving challenges facing African cities.
During the forum, Mayor Shimbilinga is engaging in high-level plenary discussions, technical sessions and bilateral meetings focused on:
Importantly, the knowledge exchange at AUF2 enables municipalities to benchmark their approaches against continental best practice, while identifying practical interventions that respond to local realities. This ongoing learning and collaboration process is essential in ensuring that cities remain responsive, resilient and better equipped to meet the needs of their communities.
The Municipality of Walvis Bay remains committed to continuously improving service delivery and urban development outcomes. Engagements such as AUF2 form part of broader efforts to enhance planning, attract investment and implement sustainable solutions that will have a lasting, positive impact on residents.
Mayor Shimbilinga’s participation underscores Walvis Bay’s active role in shaping and adopting forward-looking urban strategies, with the ultimate aim of translating these engagements into tangible improvements in the daily lives of its residents.