A USSENKEHR – Workers of the Namibia Grape Company (NGC), who have lived in sub-standard reed houses for decades on the grape farm in Aussenkehr will soon be relocated to new plots, where they can construct their own brick or zinc houses. 

Currently, those working on the grape farms live in harsh conditions of makeshift reed houses with no electricity or potable water. When nature calls, they are forced to defecate in the open or nearby mountains. 

Around 20 000 farmworkers look after the vines and harvest the grapes. Currently, the Orange River, which borders Namibia and South Africa, continues to serve as their only lifeline from where they fetch water for cooking, washing and drinking. 

Magdalena Shalauda, who has worked at the grape farm for decades, cannot wait to set up her own decent zinc house, which she can finally call home. 

“Living in these reed houses is very dangerous and unhygienic because we do not have basic services like water, electricity and sanitation. At night hours, it becomes even more dangerous,” Shalauda told New Era recently. 

Shalauda noted they were also promised that Namwater would supply them with clean water through solar-powered water pumps once they were settled at the new plots. 

For this service, they will be required to only pay a monthly fee of N$51, she said.

“The area where the plots are earmarked for us was previously connected to the electricity grid. But some people stole the electric cables – and now, we are still waiting on whether it will be reconnected again or maybe an alternative will be communicated to us. But we are ready to move there and live in much better conditions,” she added. 

Fellow worker Kamunima Sitareni, who has lived there for the past 16 years, said he has always had plans to buy a television, radio and refrigerator for his family. However, the lack of electricity and related services at the reed houses has made that dream impossible. 

Once they are relocated to the new plots, where electricity and water will be available, he will build himself a decent house and fulfil his dream of owning a TV, radio and refrigerator, so that his children can also enjoy these privileges like others.

Meanwhile, Kavengere Matumbo lamented the deplorable conditions in reed houses, saying it has exposed them to fire outbreaks almost daily, which has been their biggest challenge over the years.

“We are very happy that we can move now to safer areas and secure a roof over our heads. We have waited for years, and I hope we can finally move out of this unsafe place.” 

- sklukowski@nepc.com.na