New home restores dignity for Oshandi wheelchair user

Ohangwena regional governor Kadiva Hamutumwa has handed over a newly constructed one-bedroom house to Lucia Petrus, a resident of Ondobe constituency who uses a wheelchair.

The house, built under the government’s Cash for Work programme, was officially handed over on Monday at Oshandi No.1 village.

Petrus had been living in difficult conditions since her home was severely damaged during heavy rains in 2023, forcing her to rely on neighbours for shelter.

“Providing her with a safe and secure home is not just an act of support, but an investment in her resilience and well-being,” Hamutumwa said.

Petrus, who is the breadwinner of her household, was identified as a priority case by Ondobe constituency councillor Hilaria Ndjuluwa after funding constraints delayed earlier efforts to rebuild her home.

The newly constructed house includes a bedroom, as well as indoor sanitation facilities such as a shower and toilet, designed to accommodate her mobility needs.

The project also created employment for nine local youth, who were engaged through the Cash for Work programme. The workers produced bricks locally and completed construction within two months under the supervision of local contractor Vilho Kaulinge.

Hamutumwa also expressed gratitude to the family that accommodated Petrus following the destruction of her home, describing their support as an act of compassion that did not go unnoticed.

Addressing Petrus directly, the governor said the house represents her rightful share of national resources, in line with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's call to ensure equitable distribution of benefits to all Namibians.

Expressing her gratitude, Petrus said the handover marks a significant milestone for her and her family, who now have a permanent and safe place to call home.