Windhoek — Swakopmund Mayor, Rosina //Hoabes, is concerned about the escalation in the number shack fires at the shanty town of DRC and Mondesa, despite efforts by fire-fighters and ongoing information dissemination on fire protection.

//Hoabes said it was disheartening and distressing to witness people's possessions and at times lives being lost in shack fires, which are preventable if only people can pay attention to the information that "we are getting out".

"Please, please I beg you, make sure that your burning candles and cooking fires are put out and gas stoves are shut off before you go to bed or leave your house," she pleaded at a recent council meeting.

She urged the communities of DRC and Mondesa, which are vulnerable to shack fires, to be extra cautious due to the prevalence of strong winds this time of the year.

The mayor said the council is committed to infrastructural upgrading.

She appealed to the community to be patient, since some road intersections will be closed during upgrading work.

"The intersection of Daniel Kamho Avenue and Smith Street will be upgraded and traffic lights will be installed to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and to address the concerns of pedestrians and motorists using that particular road," she said.

//Hoabes said Swakopmund will host a Fun Fair Festival to celebrate its 120th anniversary from August 4 to 5, which is "indeed a special occasion for Swakopmund".

"As the mayor, I am sure that this event will enrich the cultural diversity and social life of our town. This is your event and you must make it a success," she concluded.