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The Association of Local Authorities in Namibia (ALAN), the umbrella body representing local authorities across the country, officially opened its 2026 Elective Congress in Walvis Bay on Wednesday. Held under the theme “Empowering Communities: Local Government as Catalyst for People-Centred Development, Inclusion and Social Justice”, the Congress brings together local authority leaders, government officials, development partners and regional representatives to discuss key issues affecting local governance, service delivery and community development.
Although the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Honourable James Sankwasa, was unable to attend the opening ceremony, his keynote address was delivered on his behalf by the Governor of the Erongo Region, Honourable Natalia /Goagoses.
In the Minister’s address, delegates were reminded of the critical role local authorities play in bringing government closer to the people and advancing national development. He called for improved service delivery, stronger financial accountability, effective revenue collection and greater transparency within local authorities. The Minister further urged local authority leaders to prioritise the needs of communities, improve access to land and housing, and work collaboratively with government, the private sector and development partners to drive sustainable development and economic growth.
Walvis Bay Mayor, Cllr Johannes Shimbilinga described the ALAN Congress as more than a routine gathering, but rather a strategic platform where local authorities come together to formulate policy, strengthen service delivery and shape the future direction of local government in Namibia. He encouraged delegates to focus on practical and measurable outcomes, emphasising that resolutions must translate into tangible improvements.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Mrs Amanda Serumaga, highlighted the importance of strengthening local planning and data systems, building sustainable municipal financing models and fostering practical partnerships between government, communities, the private sector and development partners. She noted that strong local governance institutions and effective collaboration are essential to addressing development challenges and ensuring that local authorities remain responsive to the needs of citizens.
Delegates will participate in a range of presentations, panel discussions and engagements focused on strengthening local governance and service delivery. Topics include local authority reform, project management and leadership, fiscal devolution, public sector capacity building, auditing and accountability, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, as well as partnerships and regional integration. The programme also features contributions from local and international experts, representatives from Malawi and Zimbabwe, government institutions, development partners and local government leaders from across Namibia.
The three-day Congress, which ends tomorrow, will also provide a platform for the election of ALAN leadership and discussions on matters relating to local governance, digital transformation, financial sustainability and regional cooperation.
The successful hosting of the ALAN Congress was made possible through the valued support of its sponsors and partners, including the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Namibia, Namport, NamWater, Erongo RED, the Municipality of Walvis Bay, the Retirement Fund for Local Authorities and Utility Services in Namibia, and Nictus.