Walvis Bay’s Journey and Strategy Toward Sustainable Urban Innovation
In this episode of the 'Local Government Innovation Series' Mayor Trevino Forbes of Walvis Bay Municipality shares how they're turning urban challenges into opportunities through sustainable development, digital transformation, and innovative governance strategies.
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Episode Overview
Welcome to the Local Government Innovation Series on Future Cities Africa, presented by Business Engineering.
In this episode, Mayor Trevino Forbes of Walvis Bay Municipality discusses how the municipality is addressing urban challenges through innovative and sustainable initiatives. Key highlights include the launch of a pilot green hydrogen plant aimed at powering clean cooking and transport fuel in the new Green Valley suburb. This suburb is part of a broader effort to decongest densely populated areas and create a climate-resilient community. Additionally, the municipality is partnering with entities to explore waste-to-energy solutions at its landfill site.
Mayor Forbes emphasises efforts to enhance service delivery despite challenges like the absence of a CEO (now resolved) and strained infrastructure, such as roads impacted by unusual rainfall in the desert town. A stormwater study has informed plans to integrate drainage systems into new developments. Community engagement is a priority, with open-door policies, WhatsApp channels, and public meetings ensuring residents' voices shape governance and budgeting.
While digital transformation is currently limited, the municipality aims to automate processes and reduce paper reliance in its upcoming budget. Looking forward, Mayor Forbes sees opportunities in fostering an investment-friendly environment, twinning with regions like the Western Cape, and exploring water security and renewable energy solutions like desalination and solar power to position Walvis Bay as a leader in sustainable urban progress.
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