Windhoek rains a gift and a curse

ESTER KAMATI WINDHOEKAlthough many Windhoekers are happy about the rain received over the past few days, there are some negative effects that come with the weather.Over the weekend, Namibian Sun visited the Goreangab Dam informal settlement, where residents raised concerns over the consistent showers and others saw opportunity in the conditions.One resident, who preferred not to be named, mentioned that the rain has caused economic setbacks for him.When approached, he was sitting under a small makeshift stand made from a plastic bag and wood, selling items such as potatoes, apples and chips.The vendor shared that his income had been reduced by the frequent rain, which forced him to pack up his wares and hurry back to his corrugated-iron home, where he feeds a family of five.The showers have also disrupted traffic on one of the access roads the surrounding community uses to travel between Otjomuise and Goreangab Dam. They prefer to use this road because it has less traffic than the popular Otjomuise road.During the rainy season, however, the road sometimes becomes so flooded that people fear driving through the deep water.“It is inconvenient and we have to endure the traffic of the Otjomuise road,” George Andreas, a taxi driver, said.Some houses in the informal settlement are close to a riverbed, and community members fear that creatures such as snakes might crawl into their homes to seek shelter. SchoolThe rain also makes it difficult for learners to walk to and from school.“The children sometimes have to take a longer route to avoid the deep water or risk drenching their uniforms and facing whatever is in the water,” said ‘Ouma Grace’, who lives with her three grandchildren, who are all in primary school.She said although the children usually walk to school in groups, it is difficult for them to cross the water.Flash floodsMeanwhile, several residents have reported flash floods, which have destroyed their belongings, including precious items such as schoolbooks and clothes.Despite these challenges, community members say they benefit from free water they collect from nearby puddles or capture with buckets and basins when it rains.“This is a free gift from God and we make the most of it,” a woman, who identified herself as Sharon, said.She said rainwater is free and safe to use for various purposes, including drinking, cooking and washing clothes.ester@myzone.com.na

Windhoek rains a gift and a curse

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Namibian Sun 2022-05-26

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Windhoek rains a gift and a curse

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Namibian Sun 2022-05-26

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