Residents of a section of Windhoek’s informal settlements erupted in Havana joy as they witnessed their homes being connected to electricity after 17 years of living in darkness.
The electrification initiative is part of the City of Windhoek’s formalisation and upgrading of informal settlements.
Its recent delivery was met with overwhelming enthusiasm by the local community.
Last week, New Era, accompanied City councillor and electricity committee chairperson Fransina Kahungu and other officials on an inspection visit and to witness the provision of electricity in the Samora Marchel, Tobias Hainyeko, Moses //Garoeb, and Khomasdal constituencies.
Residents were elated by the long-awaited development.
One of them was Isaak Nekongo who said: “It’s a welcome development. We have been living in Windhoek for 17 years as if we are in rural areas. We were using candles for years and lately, we started buying small solar panels, thanks to the Chinese who are selling them at affordable prices.”
Despite other challenges confronting him in the informal settlements, he expressed gratitude for finally having power in his home.
Another resident from Havana informal settlement echoed similar sentiments: “We are happy because who does not show joy when they get electricity? We have been using solar power, but now we are happy to use national grid electricity, especially now that we are selling things for income to survive.”
Victor Namugongo, a senior electricity official present during the inspection, acknowledged the department’s efforts but pointed out that several factors were hindering the electrification process.
“Although most of these areas are electrified, people are not coming forth to submit application forms and sign a lease agreement with the city for the houses to be electrified. If applications were reaching our office, most of these houses would have been connected to power,” Namugongo said.
The resistance to relocate and the absence of homeowners also complicates the electrification process, he said.
A total of 989 connections had been made in various areas since July last year. Havana Extensions 6 and 7 Phase 2, Otjomuise Extension 6 and 7 Phase 2, Babilon Block 3216 in Okuryangava, Havana Extension 1 MV Network and Block Erven 322, 358 and 359, Okahandja Park B and C in Okuryangava, Kilimanjaro Block ERF 3315, Babilon Block Erven 3192 and 3193, as well as Havana Extension 1 Block 411-413, 301-319 and 321 are among the locations that have had electricity connections done.
Out of the total connections, 339 households are now enjoying the benefits of a reliable power supply.
Information revealed during the inspection tour showed that while 531 electricity meters have been installed, but lease agreement applications are yet to be submitted, delaying the formalisation process.
In addition, 119 connections were delayed due to the erratic supply of materials.
An excited Kahungu commended the electricity department: “I am happy that people have electricity and there is progress. However, I want people to work together with the City Council to ensure that the informal settlement is formalised.”
The project cost N$9 million, and these funds were from the central government.
Conflict
Amidst the positive developments, conflicts have arisen as some individuals are now claiming housing spaces they once abandoned, now that the electricification programme has started.
“We are now dealing with issues of people fighting for places they abandoned for the past 15 years. It cannot be like that. We have reported the matter to councillors as it is beyond our control,” said Werner Kaili, a community leader in the informal settlements.
He added that while the electrification of informal settlements is a significant achievement, it is crucial to effectively address the challenges and conflicts arising from this development.
Caption: Lights on… Fransina Kahungu pictured at Jonas Sheya’s residence in Havana, Samora Machel constituency where electricity was connected in January.
Photo: Loide Jason