Niël Terblanché
Swakopmund is grappling with a severe housing crisis exacerbated by rapid urbanization and a burgeoning population in the sprawling DRC informal settlement.
This settlement, established in 2001, has seen a continuous influx of Namibians from various regions seeking job opportunities, resulting in over 20 000 residents living below the poverty line.
In response to this pressing issue, Swakopmund Mayor Dina Namubes has said the need for targeted approaches to affordable housing.
“To make our town inclusive and spur economic growth, it is imperative to adopt new strategies that address the housing needs of low-income earners,” Namubes said.
Against this backdrop, the Swakopmund Municipality and the National Housing Enterprise (NHE) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at developing comprehensive housing plans for the town.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in tackling the housing shortage and improving living standards for many residents.
The agreement includes the construction of 805 affordable houses in the DRC informal settlement, with prices ranging from N$90,000 to N$200,000 per unit.
These homes will benefit various vulnerable groups, including the disabled, elderly, street vendors, and security personnel.
The project is fully funded by the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development and aims to provide dignified housing to those earning as low as N$3 000 or less per month.
Namubes highlighted the critical role of local authorities in national development through quality service delivery.
“This collaboration with NHE underscores our commitment to making homeownership a reality for many Swakopmund residents,” she said.
She also noted the importance of cooperation among local authorities to share resources, knowledge, and expertise to address the housing crisis effectively.
In addition to the new housing units, the municipality has also facilitated the provision of erven or plots of land to residents, enabling them to build brick structures and apply for electrical connections.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the housing crisis within the next three years, with support from various stakeholders and housing groups, such as the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia and the Build Together programme.
Namubes said that the partnership between the municipality and NHE represents a proactive approach to urban planning and housing development, aiming to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all residents.
