The residents of the John Pandeni constituency have raised concerns over the increasing crime rate.

This and other concerns were discussed during a |Khomas Regional Council public session aimed at promoting transparency, civic education, and community engagement. 

The session, led by Councillor John Moonde, took place in the John Pandeni Constituency, home to about 25,000 residents of Grys Block, Soweto, Freedomland, Maroela, and part of Wanaheda.

The platform allowed residents to raise key concerns, with safety and security topping the list. 

Aron Negongo, a community member, expressed frustration over rising crime and a lack of police vehicles.

"I'm actually very happy to hear that our constituency has contributed about N$1.5 million to the police force to fix their cars and pay for services. I have actually learned with disappointment that the crime has gone up in our constituency. And just less than two months ago, a friend of mine was almost robbed in her house. She actually called me when I was at our house."

Councillor Moonde responded that "if crime is high and when it comes to transport and unavailability, it's just something I will have to take up with the station commander, and I will have to consult the police. I know the 1.5 was through my office because then the former station commander, Shapaka, came to introduce himself and said, If there is any assistance you need, knock on my door. The money is only for Wanaheda, but we, as management, have realised that it's not only the Wanaheda police station that should benefit, but we also engage the regional office."

Another concerned community member, Dennis ||Gowaseb, expressed concern over safety and security.

"Councillor would know, almost every other day, between five and seven, people's phones are grabbed there by Barmozzi. And we also have a prostitution issue on the street. I would like to know what specific plan you have to curb these issues? Thank you very much."

Moonde once again admitted that crime is a concern, but assured the community that it is receiving the necessary attention. "I know the Pamodzi case. You know, it's an old club; it's an abandoned building. We wrote a letter to the City of Vinduk two years ago. I engaged the owner, too. He promised to come back and put up a shop. This one, I think, again, we need to take up with the City of Windhoek. But concerning the prostitutes, we have a neighbourhood group in the area. During our public meetings, we consistently engage with the city police, Nampol, who are aware of these social problems. It's again something that our office needs to take up with the police and law enforcement agencies."

Other issues discussed were youth unemployment and improving access to healthcare, safety of local playgrounds, and access to information from the constituency office. 

Councillor Moonde pledged to improve communication channels and committed to continued service.