Windhoek City Police Service offices renamed to honour chief Kanime

The Windhoek City Police Service (WCPS) headquarters has been renamed in honour of its first chief, Abraham Kanime.

In a ceremony on Monday, the building, which was previously known as the P A de Wet building, was renamed the Chief A K Kanime building.

Windhoek mayor Queen Kamati said the renaming coincides with the 18th anniversary of the WCPS and honours Kanime’s legacy.

“Today, we are not just renaming a building but celebrating the legacy of a leader whose impact on our city’s safety and spirit is immeasurable.

“Chief Abraham Kanime’s leadership laid the foundation for the success of the [WCPS], and his contributions continue to inspire the future of this service,” she said.

Kamati highlighted that the building was previously named after Katutura’s first administrator during the apartheid era – a period marked by segregation and division.

The building’s former name symbolised a painful chapter in Windhoek’s history, when communities were forcibly separated under the apartheid segregation laws, she said.

“For decades, the name P A de Wet was a reminder of a period when our city’s spirit was wounded by division. Today, we replace that symbol with one that stands for inclusion, protection and peace. The renaming of this building to honour chief Kanime is a testament to our commitment to a liberated society.”

Kamati further said Kanime, who retired in April 2023, was lauded for his unwavering dedication to public service and the safety of Windhoek’s residents.

“Chief Kanime’s vision was not just administrative; it was deeply personal. His loyalty to the residents of Windhoek, his commitment to justice and his passion for peace exemplified the values we uphold as a city,” Kamati added.

According to the mayor, the decision to rename the building was formalised by the City Council.