Africa-Press – Namibia. The National Housing Enterprise (NHE) has forged partnerships with three key northern town councils, Ondangwa, Oshakati and Ongwediva to address the growing housing backlog and uplift informal settlements.
The signing of agreements, which took place on Friday, marked a major step forward in collaborative efforts to provide affordable housing and improve living conditions in the region’s urban centres.
Ondangwa town council CEO Ismael Namugongo said the partnership was long overdue.
He revealed that around 7 000 people are currently on the town’s housing waiting list, many of whom live in informal and semi-formal areas.
“We cannot solve the housing crisis in isolation. Collaborations such as this one with the NHE are necessary to effectively address the needs of our people,” he stated.
He noted that the demand continues to rise due to the economic opportunities that attract more people to Ondangwa.
The agreement aims to roll out low-cost housing solutions and upgrade settlements, giving hope to thousands of residents awaiting shelter.
NHE board chairperson Toska Sem highlighted the urgency of the situation, saying similar projects in Swakopmund and Otjiwarongo have already shown successful outcomes.
“We are pleased to enter this partnership with the Ondangwa Town Council. Our housing backlog as a nation can only be addressed through the joint implementation of upgrading projects across all informal areas,” said Sem.
Oshakati mayor Leonard Hango reaffirmed the council’s dedication to ensuring every resident has access to a decent home.
He said the agreement will pave the way for structured development and formalisation of informal settlements.
“Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where every resident can have a place to call home. This partnership is more than a piece of paper.
It is a promise to our people,” he remarked.
Ongwediva also entered into a similar agreement with the NHE earlier the same day, reinforcing the region’s unified stance on resolving housing challenges and promoting dignified living for all residents.
Through these newly formalised partnerships, NHE and the town councils are expected to initiate housing projects that will not only reduce the backlog but also create jobs and stimulate local economies in the process.
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