Crime and Pollution in Windhoek

Crime Data in Windhoek

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, the crime landscape in Windhoek suggests high levels of concern among residents. The overall crime index indicates a high risk, with particular emphasis on the rise of certain crime types.

Safety perceptions vary significantly between day and night, as many residents feel relatively safe during the day but express significant concerns about their safety at night.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes are a significant worry in Windhoek, with high levels of anxiety around home burglaries and car thefts. The elevated levels of worry highlight the need for effective crime prevention strategies.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related problems remain a moderate concern among residents, though they are less pressing than other crime issues. Nonetheless, these concerns contribute to an overarching sense of insecurity.
• Violent Crimes - Violent crimes are a major concern in Windhoek, considerably affecting residents' sense of safety. These crimes include muggings and attacks, which are perceived as substantial threats.
• Public Safety - During the day, Windhoek's public safety perception is moderate, but this drops significantly at night. The contrast suggests a strong need for enhanced safety measures after dark.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - There is a strong perception that crime is increasing, which is reinforced by high levels of concern regarding corruption and bribery affecting daily life.
• Specific Fears - Residents express significant fears of theft, burglary, and assault, with less concern about being insulted. Additionally, racial or ethnic tensions are not seen as a primary threat.

Summary of Crime in Windhoek

Windhoek faces significant crime challenges, with a perceived rise in both property and violent crime. Addressing these issues through community engagement and improved policing is crucial for enhancing public safety.

Crime Rankings

Windhoek ranks 1st on the Crime rankings in Namibia. The crime ranking by city for Namibia is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Windhoek

Namibia

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Windhoek enjoys generally high air quality, which is appreciated by its residents. The city is managing to keep particulate matter levels low, contributing to its moderate pollution index.

Residents express satisfaction with the air quality, which supports overall health and wellbeing in the city.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - PM2.5 levels are negligible, reflecting Windhoek's effective control of fine particulate matter, enhancing the city's air quality.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - Similar to PM2.5 readings, PM10 levels are also low, indicating clean air that supports respiratory health for most residents.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is a concern for some residents, with dissatisfaction largely in busier urban areas. Conversely, garbage disposal services are generally well-regarded.

Efficient waste management contributes positively to the perception of cleanliness and environmental stewardship in the city.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - Residents in Windhoek largely commend the city's garbage disposal efforts, which aid in maintaining tidy urban environments.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Some levels of noise and light pollution are present, resulting in occasional disturbances to residents' quality of life.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Windhoek's green spaces are limited, which may impact residents seeking recreational areas. However, the drinkable water quality is highly satisfactory, contributing positively to the city's livability.

The accessibility and purity of Windhoek's drinking water are valued by its residents, highlighting an important health and environmental success.

• Green and Parks Quality - The availability of green and parks spaces in Windhoek is minimal, indicating potential areas for urban development to enhance recreational options.
• Drinking Water Quality - The drinking water in Windhoek is of high quality, with residents expressing satisfaction over its accessibility and safety.