The Windhoek City's Central Business District embraces a mixed-use development, which is the integration of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

The CBD was established during the German colonial rule in the late 19th century.

Over the decades, it has evolved into a political, economic, and cultural heart, with businesses, government offices, and cultural institutions clustering in the city center. 

The Post Street Mall emerged as a key commercial hub and developed into a pedestrian-only area in Windhoek, featuring a variety smaller shops, craft markets, and restaurants. 

At the same time, it also serves as a major employment center as the area is a key destination for commerce, tourism, and cultural activities, contributing significantly to the city's economic development. 

The NBC News team spoke to some business operators within the CBD to understand how business has evolved over the years.

Founder of Lavital Investment Vilho Shifotoka is optimistic that his business will expand to employ more Namibians.

“I would say it’s going better because I have been here for seven years. It was a very small company with a few machines and one employee, and I would say the business is growing.”

Another business operating is Broll Namibia, involved in some major strategic developments and upgrades of buildings.

Although its Managing Director Karen Keys also noted poor service delivery and some dilapidated buildings, there is still an increase in rental agreements. 

The Spokesperson for the City of Windhoek, Lydia Amutenya says after independence the city attracted international investment, which helped modernize infrastructure and expand the CBD economic activities. 

Amutenya noted that there is a decay in the CBD activities, which is caused by large shopping malls pulling feet away from the CBD area, while some major corporations have decentralized to less congested areas. 

However, she added that there are signs of renewed investment and revitalization, such as the construction of new landmark buildings. 

The City of Windhoek is pursuing several initiatives to encourage business activities in the CBD through Special Ratings Area.

This is a Mixed-Use Development strategy aimed at promoting the integration of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within the CBD and Tourism Mile which actively promotes tourism in the city.