Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja is redefining urban governance in Windhoek with a focus on development, sustainability, and community upliftment. Discover her inspiring journey.
A New Era of Leadership in Windhoek
In January 2025, the city of Windhoek entered a new chapter under the dynamic leadership of Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja, a resolute and forward-thinking figure who is reshaping the capital city’s development trajectory. As the Mayor, she has emerged as a beacon of hope, transformation, and accountability in local government.
Councillor Larandja’s leadership is more than a political title—it’s a symbol of deep commitment to governance, service delivery, and community empowerment. From her grassroots political journey to her academic and professional accomplishments, she exemplifies the qualities of a modern public servant dedicated to sustainable urban progress.
From Council Representative to Mayor: A Journey of Purpose
Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja’s political journey began in earnest in December 2020, when she was elected to the Windhoek Municipal Council as a representative of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC). Her swift rise is a testament to her ability to connect with community needs while pushing for policy reform and inclusive governance.
As part of the IPC, she served—and continues to serve—as the Chief Whip and a Regional Executive Committee member. These roles have equipped her with a keen understanding of party strategy, political negotiations, and how to translate political ideologies into practical outcomes for citizens.
Empowering Local Government through Committee Leadership
Within the Municipal Council, Mayor Larandja has played a pivotal role in shaping governance policies and driving operational improvements. Her leadership extends across multiple crucial committees:
Chairperson of the Disaster Risk Management Committee: where she led preparedness strategies and response frameworks.
Member of the Financial Sustainability, Performance Management & Policy Committee: focusing on budget efficiency and performance evaluation.
Member of the Land Delivery & Provision of Affordable Housing Committee: tackling Windhoek’s pressing housing crisis and advocating for equitable land allocation.
Each committee reflects her multi-sectoral approach to governance, emphasizing risk mitigation, fiscal responsibility, and inclusive urban planning.
Driving Development: A Mayor for the People
Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja’s vision is anchored in Local Economic Development (LED), which prioritizes creating sustainable livelihoods through support for key sectors. Her administration focuses on:
Arts, Culture & Tourism: Leveraging local identity for economic and social growth.
Food Security: Enhancing urban agriculture and nutrition initiatives.
Waste Management & Sustainability: Championing cleaner cities and green innovation.
Social Welfare & Integration: Empowering informal settlements and marginalized communities.
Under her leadership, Windhoek is becoming a city where growth is not just measured by infrastructure, but by the well-being and participation of its residents.
Championing Youth and Inclusion
A staunch advocate for youth empowerment, Councillor Larandja works to increase young people’s participation in local governance, ensuring their voices influence decisions shaping their future. She understands that sustainable development cannot occur without an engaged and motivated younger generation.
Whether through policy support, community outreach, or leadership mentoring, her administration prioritizes inclusive platforms for youth innovation, civic education, and entrepreneurship.
Academic Excellence and Professional Integrity
Behind her political success is a strong foundation in education and professional experience. Mayor Larandja holds:
A Master of Commerce in Governance & Strategic Leadership (Midlands State University, Zimbabwe)
An MBA in Business Management (International University of Management)
A B-Tech in Business Administration
A National Diploma in Commerce
An Honours Degree in Procurement Management (Namibia University of Science and Technology)
Currently pursuing certification as an International Procurement Specialist, she showcases an ongoing commitment to professional growth and sectoral excellence.
Balancing Public Office and Financial Accountability
In addition to her mayoral duties, Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja serves as a Senior Auditor at the Office of the Auditor General. This dual role enhances her ability to bridge public service with rigorous financial oversight.
Her experience in auditing and procurement offers invaluable insights into budgetary discipline, public fund management, and transparency—skills that underpin her push for sound governance in Windhoek.
A Future-Focused Vision for Windhoek
Mayor Larandja is deeply committed to aligning Windhoek’s development goals with both national priorities and international frameworks, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her administration promotes a people-centric, sustainability-driven agenda that includes:
Affordable housing and infrastructure
Climate resilience and energy transition
Accessible education and healthcare
Technology in urban services
Her leadership is grounded in the belief that Windhoek can become a model African city—one that balances growth with equity and tradition with innovation.
Ndeshihafela Larandja
FAQs about Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja
Q1: Who is the current Mayor of Windhoek? A: Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja has been serving as the Mayor of Windhoek since January 2025.
Q2: Which political party does Mayor Larandja represent? A: She represents the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC).
Q3: What committees has Mayor Larandja served on? A: She has served on the Disaster Risk Management Committee, Financial Sustainability & Policy Committee, and the Land Delivery & Affordable Housing Committee.
Q4: What is her educational background? A: Mayor Larandja holds multiple degrees including a Master of Commerce, MBA, B-Tech, and Honours in Procurement Management.
Q5: Is she involved in any youth empowerment initiatives? A: Yes, she actively champions youth participation in local governance and development.
Q6: What are her top priorities as Mayor? A: Her priorities include economic development, sustainability, basic service provision, and informal settlement upgrading.
A Servant-Leader Shaping the Future
Councillor Ndeshihafela Larandja exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose, knowledge, and compassion. Her deep roots in governance, policy, and community service make her a standout figure in Namibian politics.
By placing people at the heart of policy and aligning local goals with global standards, she is laying the foundation for a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Windhoek.
