Supporting urban change in Lüderitz and Aus

Context

Lüderitz, a town in southern Namibia with around 16,000 inhabitants, is attracting the interest of various companies looking to invest in the region. This presents significant opportunities for the town and its residents, but it also poses some major challenges for the authorities in Lüderitz and the nearby settlement of Aus.

An influx of new residents is expected, which will increase demand for public services (e.g. drinking water, electricity), land and affordable housing. The local authorities are therefore working to develop sustainable and equitable solutions to manage urban and demographic change (a just transition).

Objective

The town of Lüderitz and the settlement of Aus are driving urban transformation with a long-term and inclusive approach.

Approach

In cooperation with Namibia’s Ministry of Urban and Rural Development (MURD), the project is helping Lüderitz und Aus to implement urban development in a way that benefits all sections of the population. This includes providing advice and training to the local authorities to help them manage urban transformation effectively. There is a particular focus on digitalisation.

The project also promotes integrated and participatory spatial planning. For example, it is working closely with local decision-makers to help develop an urban structure plan and define an urban vision.

To ensure a just urban transition, the local governments are involving disadvantaged groups in the process. This includes women and young people in particular. Together with the town of Lüderitz and the settlement of Aus, the project is developing measures to improve urban safety and provide better access to information about local job opportunities and training programmes.

Last update: March 2025