Shack dwellers reap fruits

LEANDREA LOUWWALVIS BAY Member of the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) were in high spirits last Saturday when they broke ground for the construction of houses on 68 plots in Narraville. The ceremony took place almost 10 years after the federation was established to give low-income earners the chance to become homeowners. Members at Narraville have been saving money since 2007 to build their homes. Members of the ministerial delegation assessing the Covid-19 situation in the region officiated the ceremony. Derek Klazen, the deputy minister of rural and urban development, encouraged the SDFN members to share their knowledge with others so that more Namibians can acquire their own homes. The ministry also allocated N$1 million for the provision of roads and other services in the designated area. Joint effort The Walvis Bay municipality allocated 268 plots in 2012 and assisted the federation in completing the plans for the 68 erven in Narraville. Earthworks started in 2019 with various businesses sponsoring earthmoving equipment. Erongo governor Neville Andre emphasised that the challenge of housing requires a concerted effort. “Government cannot address this challenge alone. With partnerships such as these we can address the housing challenge and bring hope to our people. I can assure you that we are working around the clock to address the housing crisis.” He urged coastal residents to stop accommodating people in backyard shacks and to start backyard gardens instead. Building communities Hafeni Ndemula, the deputy minister of labour, said housing assistance provides children in low-income households with an opportunity to improve and succeed academically, maintain their health and well-being, and achieve financial success later in life. “Low-cost housing is absolutely vital and in the midst of our housing crisis, is as important as ever. It builds communities and gives people support which helps them to live healthy, happy lives. The ceremony will be followed by the construction of roads, which will lead to the installation of services and ultimately the construction of houses.

Shack dwellers reap fruits

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-10

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Shack dwellers reap fruits

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-10

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