Rundu residents criticize proposed N$100,300 smart city conference trip for mayor
Rundu residents and leaders have voiced strong criticism over a proposed N$100,300 trip for mayor Andreas Jikerwa to attend the 15th Smart City Expo World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, from November 3 to 5. Critics argue that the funds should instead be allocated to address the town's pressing challenges, such as water, sanitation, waste management, and infrastructure. The proposed expenditure includes N$54,776 for subsistence and travel allowance, N$20,449 for air tickets, N$12,000 for transport, N$8,784 for a driver's daily subsistence allowance, N$2,000 for a visa, and a N$2,336 clothing grant. The proposal aims to expose Jikerwa to international best practices and innovative solutions. However, parliamentary committee member John-Louw Mouton called a smart city project for Rundu a "waste of resources" given the town's current needs. Independent Patriots for Change shadow minister Armas Amukoto highlighted Rundu's severe challenges and questioned the value of spending N$100,000 on such a trip when basic municipal services are lacking. Residents like Poulus Shampapi and Kandunda Gellasius expressed shock and suggested that a town planner, rather than the mayor, might be more suitable to attend, or that the town should focus on learning from other Namibian towns first. Urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa previously stated he would not approve "joy rides" without demonstrated value. The final decision on the trip is pending approval from the council and the li
