KEETMANSHOOP - Keetmanshoop mayor McDonald Hanse said the provision of civil services is a crucial step in ensuring that the town’s community thrives and their needs are met with efficiency and effectiveness.

He articulated this earlier this week during a ground-breaking ceremony for the provision of civil services at the Extension 7 informal settlement, situated at the outskirts of the town and opposite the B1 national road. 

“I stand here, filled with pride and excitement, as we mark the beginning of a new chapter in the growth of Tseiblaagte, Extension 7 and Keetmanshoop at large. “As we break ground today, we are not just laying the foundation for buildings and infrastructure, but we are also sowing the seeds for a brighter future for our residents,” the mayor enthused.

He said the ceremony is all about building a stronger, more connected community which will stand the test of time. 

“Our priority remains, and it is to bring the much-needed services to the residents of Keetmanshoop. We are serious about service delivery,” he reiterated. 

Hanse said the only way to restore someone’s dignity is by giving them a roof over their head, a place which they can call “my house”. 

On his part, the council’s management committee chairperson Johannes Vries said the project’s scope encompasses a range of essential services, from road infrastructure to water supply, sewerage systems and other amenities which will contribute to the overall well-being of the community. 

“This initiative reflects our commitment of creating a sustainable and liveable environment for all,” he added. 

Vries said together, they will embark on a journey to transform the informal settlement into a model of sustainable urban development. 

“I would also like to express my gratitude to the contractors for their dedication to this project, and additionally thank Keetmanshoop residents for their patience and understanding during the planning phase of the project,’’ he noted.

Meanwhile, the owner of Sebke Civil Construction Kef Majiedt promised those present that they will complete the project within the required time, and with dedication and quality work.

Seventy-one erven, to which electricity was already connected, will now be provided with water and sewerage services at a cost of N$4.3 million. Funds for the project have been allocated by the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development as part of the council’s budgeted capital projects for the current financial year. The qualification criteria for expected beneficiaries for these serviced erven still needs to be determined, whilst the expected completion time for the project is end of February 2024.

- sklukowski@nepc.com.na