Hertta-Maria Amutenja
The City of Windhoek (CoW) has disclosed that it is finalising a submission to the council for a debt write-off program for qualifying debt-stricken residents.
Mayor, Joseph Uapingene, at the ordinary council meeting this week said that as of 31 October 2023, the city has accrued debt of N$1.2 billion.
Uapingene said the city sees the initiative as a step in alleviating financial burdens and aiding residents.
“We believe that our work around this will conclude before the end of the year, and I regard this as a vital step towards alleviating financial burdens and helping our residents get back on their feet. Our goal is to ensure that our community remains strong and resilient. I undertake to communicate the outcomes of our work in this regard in due course,” he said.
Uapingene stated that the city is aware of and acknowledges the financial challenges residents are facing while stressing the importance of unity.
“In these challenging times, I understand that many members of our community face financial difficulties. It is essential that we come together as a community to support one another,” said Uapingene.
The mayor stressed the urgency of water conservation as the Von Bach Dam’s water volumes have dropped to 17.9 percent, with residents surpassing water consumption targets.
He urged residents to adopt water-saving practices.
“At the moment we are exceeding our monthly water consumption target and this is not sustainable. By implementing water-saving practices, we can reduce our consumption and help preserve this valuable resource. Let us make a conscious effort to be more responsible with our water usage,” he urged.
He stated that last year during the month of August the water level stood at 51 percent, but this year during the same month, it plummeted to 21 percent.
Moreover, Uapingene also provided updates on the city’s informal settlement electrification project, which he says has electrified more than 3,500 households in the last five years.
With plans to extend the project for another five years, Uapingene said the city aims to electrify approximately 4,000 households in various informal settlements, stressing the importance of access to electricity for improved living conditions.
“The project was extended this year to run for another five years, with a target of electrifying over 4,000 households in various informal settlements, including Havana Extension 1, Kilimanjaro, Okahandja Park, Okuryangava, Otjomuise, Mix Settlement and Groot Aub. The project will also see the installation of five high mast lights at the Havana Dumping Site, the Goreangab Soccer Field, Behind Frans Indongo Primary School, Eehambo dhaNehale Interlocks and Sonder Water,” said Uapingene.
