Monarch Lifeguard has reported that the coastal beaches in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay were generally calm during the holiday period, despite the large crowds. 

However, three tragic drowning incidents have renewed calls for stricter water safety awareness.

Namibian police have reported seven suicides across the country during the New Year period.

The incidents occurred between December 31 and January 4.

The Municipality of Walvis Bay has reiterated that the use of fireworks within the town is prohibited unless prior authorisation has been obtained from the relevant authorities.

Christmas cheer has taken over Independence Beach in Walvis Bay, where families and friends are spending the day by the ocean.

The beach was buzzing with music, food and holiday spirits as its residents celebrated Christmas.

NBC News reporter Renate Rengura gave an update from Independence Beach.

Shopping malls in Walvis Bay were filled to capacity as residents and holidaymakers spent money on gifts and food for Christmas and Family Day festivities.

When driving to the malls, convoys of cars can be seen, and finding a parking spot becomes a challenge.

There is progress in the implementation of the National Informal Settlement Upgrading Project at Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

This is according to the National Housing Enterprise (NHE), which has appointed a pool of contractors to speed up the construction of houses.

A new N$200 million port terminal, owned by African Global Logistics (AGL), was commissioned at the Walvis Bay Multipurpose Terminal. AGL has collaborated with the Namibian Ports Authority (NAMPORT) to enhance operations at the port.

The fight against gender-based violence took centre stage in Walvis Bay as the community joined the Correctional Service, which led a GBV Walk aimed at raising awareness and mobilising community action.

The fishermen who undertook a crippling strike in 2015 at Walvis Bay have distanced themselves from the group of fishermen currently demonstrating in Windhoek.

The Chairperson of the Ex-Striking Okapare Fishermen, Godfried Kuhanga, made the clarification alongside other former striking fishermen.

The Walvis Bay Municipality is constructing a new N$25.5 million sewer pump station at Kuisebmond to improve sanitation and wastewater management.

Built in the 1960s, the existing sewer pump station at Kuisebmond, Walvis Bay, is nearing the end of its life.