Otweya housing project kicks off

LEANDREA LOUWWALVIS BAYThe ground-breaking ceremony and construction commencement of 121 houses at the Otweya informal settlement took place in Walvis Bay on Monday morning.The minister of urban and rural development, Erastus Uutoni, officiated, along with his deputy minister Derek Klazen, Erongo governor Neville Andre and Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes.Uutoni said central government made funds available for the servicing and construction of houses at Otweya, for families that suffered after a fire destroyed their homes.“Congestion will now be a thing of the past since the settlement is properly demarcated with proper roads for easy access, giving space to individual households. Also, residents will also have access to services such as water, sewerage and electricity.”The minister encouraged beneficiaries to not sit idle but to be ready to help build their houses.“Don't wait for someone to come and do these things for you. When construction starts, I want you to jump in and help and see to the construction of your houses. I will be back in two weeks to check!” Appeal“The successful and timely completion of this housing project will be a source of hope and pride for homeowners in Otweya. I appeal and encourage the contractors [the Shack Dwellers Federation] to make sure that this project comes to pass as per the expected time frame,” Uutoni said.Furthermore, he encouraged the municipality of Walvis Bay to intensify these kinds of projects, adding that as “a line ministry, I will continue to lobby for more funds for local authorities”. Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes said that the 121 houses to be constructed should be a beacon of hope for every homeless person in Walvis Bay.“This project should signify that one day, they too will be able to own a brick house. It should be a symbol of what collective collaboration can achieve.He added that council wants to assure residents that a shack-free Walvis Bay is a dream they are working hard towards achieving.“Our collective commitment towards improving residents' lives is given expression once again today and remains one of our priorities. I can assure you that with the help of central government, many more projects like this are coming.”Erongo governor Neville Andre said the area would also receive a playground and a small sport facility, while Naftal Utoni of the Shack Dwellers Federation committed to having the homes completed within two and a half months.

Otweya housing project kicks off

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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Otweya housing project kicks off

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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