Few people showed up for TotalEnergies' community meetings in Lüderitz on Wednesday. One venue attracted about 50 visitors; another had just 15 attendees. The poor turnout raised questions among locals about whether these events make any difference.
Deputy Mayor Brigitte Fredericks blamed inadequate publicity. She said social media posts aren't enough because many residents lack smartphones or internet access. She suggested returning to older methods like church announcements that worked better in the past.
People who did attend were left disappointed with the presentations. Some wanted information about community benefits but heard only technical details about drilling processes instead. One participant, Jody Coetzee, left early because he couldn't learn what interested him at the Waterfront conference room.
Mayor Phil Balhao called the situation disheartening but noted it follows a pattern of low engagement. He pointed out that many events happen during working hours when people cannot attend. He also mentioned that residents often feel their input doesn't matter anyway.
The mayor encouraged everyone to join these discussions despite past frustrations. The consultation meetings began Tuesday and will finish tomorrow, after three days of sessions throughout the coastal town.
Deputy Mayor Brigitte Fredericks blamed inadequate publicity. She said social media posts aren't enough because many residents lack smartphones or internet access. She suggested returning to older methods like church announcements that worked better in the past.
People who did attend were left disappointed with the presentations. Some wanted information about community benefits but heard only technical details about drilling processes instead. One participant, Jody Coetzee, left early because he couldn't learn what interested him at the Waterfront conference room.
Mayor Phil Balhao called the situation disheartening but noted it follows a pattern of low engagement. He pointed out that many events happen during working hours when people cannot attend. He also mentioned that residents often feel their input doesn't matter anyway.
The mayor encouraged everyone to join these discussions despite past frustrations. The consultation meetings began Tuesday and will finish tomorrow, after three days of sessions throughout the coastal town.
