Swakopmund tackles property transfer rights in DRC

The Swakopmund municipal council continues to grapple with the issue of property transfer rights in the DRC settlement, where registered tenants have passed away leaving behind direct or distant relatives seeking to continue residing on the premises.During a recent ordinary management committee meeting held on 7 March, a submission aimed at seeking approval for applications submitted by direct or distant relatives of deceased registered tenants residing in the DRC informal settlement was brought forward.The meeting highlighted a challenge faced by the municipality&#039;s housing department, which frequently encounters applications for the change of ownership in the DRC informal settlement due to the passing of registered tenants.According to the council, the term ‘ownership’ in this context signifies the continuous residence on the property for numerous years without the completion of the transfer registration process.Guidelines adoptedCouncil&#039;s prior engagement with the matter on 1 July 2021 resulted in the adoption of a resolution by the DRC planning committee.This resolution outlined conditions under which the transfer of rights of use could be considered. The conditions include the provision of sufficient proof of relationship for family members, including spouses, adult children, or legal guardians of minor children residing on the same erf, and dependent parents.In light of this resolution, the municipality&#039;s housing department has received new applications from both direct and distant relatives of the deceased registered tenants. These applications, accompanied by supporting documents, were submitted to council for approval.The discussions during the meeting revolved around adherence to the previously established resolution, ensuring that the transfer of rights of use are conducted in a fair and transparent manner, considering the familial ties and the need for continued residency on the premises.Criteria under discussionHowever, a critical point of contention has arisen regarding the requirement for beneficiaries to be on the master waiting list.The list primarily caters to residents who applied to the Mass Housing Development Programme. In addition, an alternative criteria has been proposed, considering factors such as the length of time relatives have lived in Swakopmund, possession of a voter&#039;s card in Swakopmund constituency, or employment in Swakopmund.Furthermore, applicants falling within a specific income bracket may be considered for the right of use of the erven, while those below a certain income threshold will be informed of relocation options or allowed to lease the erven.precious@erongo.com.na

Swakopmund tackles property transfer rights in DRC

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-04

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Swakopmund tackles property transfer rights in DRC

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-04

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