A controversial land transaction between the Katima Mulilo Town Council and Windhoek-based company Risk-Based Solutions (RBS) CC has come under fire, with Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa demanding the reversal of the deal.
The transaction involved the exchange of 31 hectares of prime land located near the riverbank northwest of Katima Mulilo for a package of movable assets, including two SUVs, five quad bikes (two new and three used), a survey drone, and two high-quality laptops. The deal was formalized in a letter dated 15 June 2023, signed by Katima Mulilo Town Council’s chief executive officer, Raphael Liswaniso, confirming the land acquisition by RBS CC, a company owned by Dr Sindila Mwiya.
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Sankwasa, during a visit to Katima Mulilo on Friday, criticized the council’s decision, arguing that the trade was inappropriate and violated principles of asset management. He emphasized that land appreciates in value over time, unlike vehicles, which depreciate.
“All land belongs to the State. Just because it’s within your control doesn’t mean it becomes disposable,” said Sankwasa. “You cannot equate immovable property like land with depreciating assets such as vehicles.”
The council’s resolution to dispose of the land was approved during its meeting on 8 June 2023, as documented in the official communication sent to Dr Mwiya. While the transaction was conducted under the Local Authorities Act, concerns have since been raised about its legality and the ethics of such an exchange.
The agreement required RBS to not only provide vehicles and equipment but also to support the council’s land management system with digital tools, including laptops. However, the minister’s directive now casts uncertainty over the future of the arrangement.
As the matter continues to attract national attention, questions remain about accountability, proper valuation procedures, and how municipalities handle public resources.
