The long-dormant Ramatex textile factory, once a beacon of industrial productivity and employment for over 10,000 Namibians, who were predominantly women, is once again at the center of high-level discussions among Windhoek city leadership. Once a hub of manufacturing activity under a joint venture between Namibian and Malaysian investors, the sprawling 43-hectare property now lies abandoned. However, the tides may be turning.
Windhoek Mayor, Ndeshihafela Larandja, convened an urgent meeting with key internal stakeholders to deliberate on the future of the Ramatex site. This dialogue follows the conclusion of a protracted legal process that began when the Malaysian partner entered provisional liquidation in 2008, effectively terminating the 99-year lease prematurely and leaving many Namibian workers without any compensation.
Since then, the facility has seen intermittent use, occasionally hired for events such as boxing matches, music concerts, gala dinners, and awarding conferences. Despite this, the majority of the property remains idle, gradually deteriorating. According to the terms of the recent legal settlement, the liquidators were given three years to dismantle the remaining infrastructure and restore the land. With that deadline now expired, the City of Windhoek is reviewing its next steps, including possibly appointing a contractor to clear the site.
The renewed focus on Ramatex comes at a time when Namibia is preparing for the next phase of its economic development. As the nation eyes industrialization, the need for skilled labor is increasingly urgent. A growing chorus of voices is advocating for the site to be transformed into a vocational training center—one that would equip young Namibians with the technical skills needed to thrive in the emerging industrial revolutions.
Alternative proposals for the site include converting it into a trading center, exhibition venue, or commercial and industrial hub. These options were presented by various business entities during the City’s internal consultation process. A site inspection has already been carried out to evaluate the condition and potential of the land value.
“The Ramatex property holds immense promise, not just for Windhoek but for the entire country,” said Mayor Larandja. “It is our responsibility to ensure that this asset is developed in a way that brings long-term economic and social benefits to our people.”
While no final decision has been made, the ongoing consultations mark a significant step in reimagining Ramatex’s role in Namibia’s future. The City’s leadership is committed to a transparent and inclusive process that ensures the property’s transformation aligns with national development goals.
As the revitalization of Ramatex moves from discussion to actual planning, Windhoek’s residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged. The transformation of this once-thriving economic landmark could serve as a powerful symbol of the country’s resilience and vision for the future.
Stay tuned for updates as Windhoek takes decisive steps toward revitalizing Ramatex and shaping a more prosperous, inclusive economy. Follow Namibian Times: https://t.me/