City of Windhoek (CoW) has extended the voluntary exchange of the 1959-1960 Katutura and Khomasdal houses to 28 February 2025.

This is to encourage submissions from areas that have not yet been represented.

In a media statement, the City of Windhoek says the extension only applies to homeowners who missed the original deadline in September and does not affect those who have already submitted their application.

Out of the 102 applications distributed, only 23 completed applications have been received. 

The applications are from a variety of locations in Katutura; however, there is a gap in applications from certain locations and townships.

The initiative seeks to celebrate Namibia's history by recognising, protecting, and conserving the city's heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.

This year the council invited homeowners of houses built between 1959 and the 1960s in the townships of Katutura in areas of Herero, Damara, Nama, Ovambo, Donkerhoek, Gemengde, and Khomasdal to participate in the voluntary exchange. 

In exchange, the City of Windhoek is offering them modern homes through the Council's Affordable Housing Project.

Houses must be older than 50 years and in their original state with minimal or no renovations or upgrades. 

Selected houses that meet the criteria may be considered for designation as city heritage resources.