I’m Charlene Hartung, a proud Swakopmunder, devoted mother, and visionary entrepreneur who has steered her family business, Benguella Butchery, to remarkable growth and expansion. Her professional journey, shaped over two decades of corporate and business experience, makes her a skilled candidate to champion a new era for our town. She stands for a Swakopmund that thrives through unity, where every voice – young, old, or entrepreneurial – is heard and valued.
She is committed to transparent, accountable leadership, drawing on her personal journey to inspire collective progress. Her vision unites residents to build a future where businesses flourish, families prosper, and our rich heritage is cherished.
1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and share what inspired you to enter local politics?
I am Charlene Hartung, a proud resident of Swakopmund, mother, philanthropist, and business owner. My journey from growing up here, going to school to leading businesses and supporting my community through the SRA has shown me the power of unity. What inspired me to step into local politics is seeing the potential in our town and the need to ensure every voice, especially those of families and businesses, is heard. I want to give back, and represent the place that shaped me, turning challenges into opportunities for all. I want a seat at the table that shapes the community we live in.
I specifically joined SRA, which is not a political Party, but rather a community-driven initiative. A Civic Movement. Because I, too, believe in transparency and accountability.
2. What unique qualities or experiences do you bring to the Swakopmund Town Council?
I bring a blend of hands-on business experience, both in corporate and as an entrepreneur and a deep commitment to community upliftment through my foundation, The Blush Foundation. As a woman who’s navigated corporate challenges and rebuilt my life, I offer resilience and empathy. My role as a mom gives me insight into our youth’s needs, while my stake as a business owner ensures I understand the economic growth that benefits every household.
3. What are the top priorities you would like to address if elected?
My top priorities are creating a thriving environment where local businesses flourish and keeping our youth engaged with events and activities. Safety for our children and tourists, a key component of our local economy, is vital, as is giving businesses a voice in council decisions.
4. How do you plan to engage with residents and remain accountable to the community?
I have been engaging one-on-one with the community of Swakopmund by sharing about SRA and leveraging my following on TikTok and other social media platforms to ensure a stream of information and transparency. Accountability means listening and acting. Because I am from Swakopmund, I live here, grew up here and have businesses here, I have a vast network of contacts both personal and business.
Engaging the community at sporting events and at schools.
5. In your view, what are the biggest challenges facing Swakopmund right now?
With the large influx of people from all over Namibia, housing is a big challenge in Swakopmund. Not only is it difficult to find, but even if you do find it, it is also pricey.
Homelessness and kids on the streets are becoming an alarming problem.
Crime is a huge problem. Our domestic workers are targets. Tourists. Kids. We have to do more to keep our community safer.
Healthcare is also a big challenge in Swakopmund. Cues at clinics are long and with Mondesa clinic still closed due to a fire, people are all going to Tamariskia. If we can have more clinics, even mobile ones. Or where they dispense chronic medicine, it would be a big help. Currently, people have to go sit in queues for the whole day. This takes them out of work, which may have an effect of their earnings.
6. What message would you like to share directly with voters as election day approaches?
As November 26 nears, my message is simple: Swakopmund can only thrive if we stand united.
Your vote for SRA is a step toward a safer, stronger town where businesses thrive, families flourish, and every voice is heard. Let’s build this future together and let’s make a difference.
Charlene,
Without doubt you bring along a wealth of Snr Corporate and hands on Business experience and skills coupled with your “We can do it” attitude you will be a star in SRA and Council. May you have a blessed future!