Construction of the new Wanaheda NaTIS centre has begun, with the project expected to create around 200 jobs as government moves to ease congestion and improve access to licensing services in Windhoek.
Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi said the contract has been awarded to August 26 Construction, with both skilled and unskilled workers set to benefit alongside small and medium-sized contractors.
“The construction of the Wanaheda NaTIS Centre is expected to employ approximately 200 workers, and the contractor has been encouraged to prioritise local expenditure to ensure economic benefits extend into the surrounding community,” Nekundi said.
The project is aimed at bringing vehicle and driver licensing services closer to residents of Katutura and surrounding areas, following persistent congestion at the existing NaTIS facility in the Northern Industry area.
“It was a regrettable experience. The facility was overwhelmed, and this compromised service delivery. Many people have to walk long distances just to access basic services,” Nekundi said.
He added that the new facility will be developed as a fully fledged one-stop centre, offering services including learner and driver testing, roadworthy testing and vehicle licensing under one roof.
The project has been designed using in-house expertise from the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Roads Authority and the Road Fund Administration, reducing consulting costs.
“By utilising our own in-house expertise, we have reduced costs, ensuring better value for the public,” he said.
The new centre will also incorporate modern systems, including an intelligent driver testing system to improve fairness, consistency and efficiency in the licensing process.
Roads Authority board chairperson Martins Kambulu said the development responds directly to growing demand for more accessible and efficient services.
“The Wanaheda NaTIS centre will consolidate key services in one location, improving convenience and reducing pressure on existing facilities,” he said.
He added that digital systems such as book-and-pay services and computerised learner licence testing will be introduced to reduce waiting times and improve customer experience.
