LÜDERITZ – Residents of Area 7 informal settlement in Lüderitz are demanding improved sanitation facilities from the town council.

The residents Nampa spoke to alleged that out of the 200 public toilets built by the town council over 10 years ago, only 80 are operational, but are in poor condition.

They said this forces people to relieve themselves in the open, which poses health and safety risks.

One of the residents, Leo Simon, alleged in a recent interview he has not had access to proper toilet facilities since he moved into the area in 2006.

“How do they expect us to maintain health in this situation? The smell from the toilets that do not flush sometimes gets so bad you can’t even eat food, at times you feel like throwing up,” he said.

Another resident, Haipinge Hangila, described the living conditions as unbearable and urged the council official to visit the area and see the situation firsthand.

“Even though some restrooms are full, we are forced to use them at night,” he said.

Approached for comment, Lüderitz Town Council spokesperson Elwin !Goaseb said the allegations are not a true reflection of the reality on the ground.

He said the town council has erected and installed approximately 200 communal toilets in Area 7 but due to vandalism and theft, only 150 are functional.

“Council inspects and repairs these toilets periodically,” he added. -Nampa