By Sostenus Wilherm
Cabinet has approved plans to amend the boundaries of the Dorob National Park and the Namib-Naukluft National Park to allow for the expansion of the Walvis Bay town boundary, a move aimed at addressing growing urban development and infrastructure demands in the coastal town.
The proposed amendment is expected to create additional space for residential, industrial and economic development as Walvis Bay continues experiencing population growth and increased investment activity linked to the port, logistics and tourism sectors.
The expansion is necessary to accommodate the town’s long-term development needs while ensuring that environmental considerations remain part of the planning process.
The amendment to the park boundaries is beleived to facilitate the expansion of the Walvis Bay town boundary in response to increasing demand for land for urban development, housing, infrastructure and economic activities.
Walvis Bay remains one of Namibia’s most strategic economic hubs due to the presence of the Port of Walvis Bay, which serves as a key gateway for regional and international trade. Authorities say pressure on available land has intensified over recent years as the town continues attracting businesses, industries and job seekers.
Government indicated that the proposed changes will follow legal and environmental procedures to ensure that the expansion does not unnecessarily compromise conservation objectives within the protected areas.
 The process will be undertaken in accordance with applicable environmental and legal frameworks to ensure a balance between national development priorities and environmental protection.

The Dorob National Park and the Namib-Naukluft National Park are among Namibia’s most significant conservation areas, attracting tourists from across the world and supporting biodiversity conservation efforts along the country’s coastline and desert ecosystems.
Environmental stakeholders are expected to closely monitor the process amid concerns that reducing protected land could have ecological implications if not carefulLy managed. However, authorities maintain that the amendment is intended to support sustainable urban growth while minimising environmental impact.
Officials further stressed that consultations with relevant stakeholders and affected parties will form part of the process before any final decisions are implemented.
The expansion seeks to support the future growth of Walvis Bay while ensuring that environmental sustainability and conservation considerations remain central to the planning and implementation process, they stressed.
The proposed boundary amendment high- lights the growing challenge faced by many urban centres in balancing rapid economic and population growth with environmental conservation, particularly in areas located near protected ecosystems and national parks.
