Isai Sipunga
In a move that has stirred waves of gratitude and relief among Windhoek’s elderly ratepayers, the Windhoek City Council last week announced the complete write-off of all municipal debt and accrued interest for pensioners aged 60 and above.
This decision was unveiled during an engagement between the Katutura Residents Committee (KRC) and City of Windhoek (CoW) officials on Wednesday at the CoW’s debt division.
During the meeting, council member, Sade Gawanas, articulated the council’s commitment to alleviating financial burdens, saying, “the council’s resolution, enacted on the 30th of November last year, embodies our dedication to our senior citizens. Recognising the hardships faced not only by pensioners but also by other residents struggling with municipal bills, we have taken decisive action to provide pensioners with a 100% capital and interest write-off, subject to necessary verifications.”
Gawanas further disclosed the measures undertaken by the council to address pensioners’ challenges, including the installation of prepaid water and electricity meters in their residences, ensuring greater control and transparency over utility expenses.
While pensioners bask in the newfound relief, the broader community can also rejoice in a significant concession: a 50% reduction in interest on outstanding debts.
Gawanas encouraged non-pensioner residents to seize this opportunity by engaging with City officers to negotiate favourable terms, echoing the council’s unwavering commitment to fostering financial stability and inclusivity.
However, pensioners who had petitioned the council earlier were still unhappy with the decision to retain Red Force as a debt collector.
Amidst the jubilation, tensions simmered among some members of the Katutura Residents’ Committee (KRC) regarding unresolved issues, notably the contentious matter of Red Force, the City’s contracted debt collector.
Gawanas elucidated the complexities surrounding contractual obligations, affirming the council’s inability to unilaterally terminate agreements with Red Force. Nevertheless, she assured the community of proactive steps to transition pensioners from Red Force to the City’s debt management system, safeguarding their interests and dignity.
Also speaking at the same meeting, KRC chairperson, Benestus Kandundu, expressed cautious optimism while underscoring the need for transparency and community consultation in decision-making processes.
“We demand clarity regarding the origins and selection process of Red Force,” Kandundu asserted, emphasising the community’s right to participate in shaping policies that directly impact their lives.