Stefanus Nashama
Flooding after heavy rains on Friday left many Windhoek residents in informal settlements homeless, as their shacks and properties were washed away.
Areas most affected include Otjomuise in the Khomasdal constituency, as well as Goreangab and Havana in the Samora Machel constituency.
City of Windhoek spokesperson Harold Akwenye said plans for the relocation of victims and at-risk residents are being considered.
“We intend to prioritize their safety and well-being. Plans for relocation will depend on several factors, including the availability of resources, suitable alternative housing, and input from the affected communities,” Akwenye explained.
Akwenye said the city will communicate its timeline for assistance in the coming days as more information becomes available.
“In addition to emergency response measures, we are exploring long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of rain-related events in vulnerable areas. This may include infrastructure improvements and community engagement initiatives to promote better preparedness for similar incidents in the future,” he said.
He added that the city is committed to supporting affected families through disaster management protocols to address their immediate needs
“Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted by this disaster. The city is currently assessing the extent of the damage and the needs of the affected residents,” he said.
Akwenye encouraged residents to stay informed through official city communications and to reach out for support as needed.
Samora Machel constituency councillor Nestor Kalola highlighted the challenges faced by his community, particularly those relocated from Otjomuise to Goreangab a few years ago.
“These people were relocated to the other side of the riverbed. During this time of rain season, they find it hard to cross the river to go to work, schools, hospitals and search for other daily needs,” Kalola explained.
Kalola added that the situation is particularly challenging for children returning from school while their parents are away at work.
“Imagine kids come from school and parents are at work. They may take the risk to cross the riverbed which is a risk for them,” he said.
He criticized the unfulfilled promise by the municipality to construct a bridge in the area, noting that officials have cited the high cost as a barrier.
“All they say is that the bridge would cost a lot of money,” he stressed.
Khomasdal constituency councillor Samuel Angolo, on Sunday, described the situation as severe.
He was on-site alongside officials from the Windhoek Municipality’s disaster risk management unit, assessing the impact.
“We have been here since yesterday. The situation is worse and I have never seen it before since I became a councillor,” he said.
Angolo explained that they were busy assessing the situation to obtain comprehensive statistics to act on the matter officially.
“We need a comprehensive report to be able to assist the victims with necessary items. This report would be used by the ministers, different offices, the government and the general public,” he said.
According to him, the report would be completed by today (Monday).
Angolo said he has engaged the Office of the Prime Minister and the Khomas Regional Council to provide temporary assistance such as tents, food, blankets, clothes and other items.
