Niël Terblanché
The City of Windhoek is reaching out to its senior citizens with a new initiative aimed at providing financial relief to pensioners burdened by outstanding municipal debts. Announced on November 30, 2023, by the city council, a comprehensive debt relief programme is set to roll out, targeting residents aged 60 and above.
Starting February 15 and running through April 15, 2024, eligible pensioners are encouraged to register for the programme, designed to alleviate the financial pressures faced by Windhoek’s elderly population.
Registration venues are conveniently located across the city, including the City of Windhoek Head Office, available on weekdays from 08:30 to 19:00, and three additional locations open on Saturdays from 8:30 to 15:00 for broader accessibility.
To qualify, pensioners must have reached the age of 60 by the cutoff date of November 30, 2023.
A key component of the programme includes the transition to prepaid meters for both water and electricity services, aiming to streamline future payments and consumption.
Eligible participants have the option to pay for the installation of these meters either upfront or through a manageable five-year instalment plan.
This initiative reflects the City of Windhoek’s commitment to supporting its most vulnerable residents, ensuring they have access to essential services without the burden of accumulated debt.
By facilitating the switch to prepaid meters, the programme not only offers immediate financial relief but also promotes more sustainable usage patterns among pensioners.
The debt relief programme is a testament to the city’s ongoing efforts to address social and economic challenges within the community, providing a lifeline to those in need while fostering a culture of responsibility and support.
Eligible pensioners are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to secure a more stable and worry-free future.
