The coastal town of Henties Bay is facing mounting social and infrastructure challenges as the once-small town continues to grow at an unprecedented pace. 

This was revealed by the town's Acting CEO, Ignasia Neis, during the official opening and handover ceremony of the town's new open market, taxi rank, low-cost housing units, traffic lights, CCTV cameras, and brick-making project.

Neis said Henties Bay has transformed significantly over the past three decades, from just over 1,600 residents in 1991 to an estimated 12,000 today, with the population growing at roughly 3% per year. 

While the expansion reflects the town's growing appeal, it has also placed pressure on housing, job creation, service delivery, and public infrastructure.

The town's economy is largely dependent on fishing, agriculture, sand and salt mining, construction, manufacturing, tourism, trade, and general services. 

However, despite activity across these sectors, unemployment remains alarmingly high at around 70%, limiting household income and slowing local economic growth. 

Neis noted that although Henties Bay has experienced a property boom since 2004, much of it has benefitted holiday-home development rather than the permanent residents who continue to struggle with housing shortages and access to basic services.

Among the key challenges outlined were high youth unemployment, expanding informal settlements, ageing sewer and water systems, overloaded infrastructure, limited funding for capital projects, and a lack of economic diversification. 

"I committed myself to accelerating infrastructure development and creating real opportunities for Henties Bay residents. I firmly believe that progress begins with strong infrastructure, strategic partnerships, and community-driven action. Over the past year, our team – supported by councillors, stakeholders, and the community – worked tirelessly to turn this vision into reality, some of which we are witnessing today."

Despite these hurdles, Neis commended the municipal council for maintaining discipline and commitment under difficult circumstances. 

She encouraged continued partnership as the town works to address its growing needs and unlock broader economic opportunities for its residents.