Auleria Wakudumo
Joy, relief and pride filled the air in Outapi as 184 residents finally received title deeds to their land after waiting nearly 25 years.
The historic ceremony, held under the Flexible Land Tenure System, transformed years of uncertainty into a new era of ownership, dignity, and opportunity.
The Flexible Land Tenure System (FLTS) was established by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform under the Flexible Land Tenure Act of 2012.
The purpose of FLTS is to offer affordable, secure land tenure for people living in informal settlements or low-income housing by developing alternative land title options that are easier and cheaper to manage than traditional freehold.
For beneficiaries, the title deeds were more than just documents; they were proof of belonging and a foundation for future generations.
Community triumph
Among the proud recipients was Tuyenikelao Paulus, a 55-year-old mother of four who had been waiting since the late 2000s for her plot to be officially recognised. Holding her land title high for all to see, she could not hide her emotions.
“I feel like I am finally free,” she said with a trembling voice filled with joy.
“We waited so long, and at times I thought this day would never come. Now I know this land is truly mine, and I can build a safe and permanent home for my children. This is my children’s future as well.”
Her words echoed the sentiments of many in attendance, who ululated, sang, and embraced one another as they left the venue, proud landowners at last.
The mayor of Outapi, Selma Asino, described the day’s joy as a reflection of progress.
“The happiness on the faces of our beneficiaries shows we are on the right path. This is not just land, but it is an opportunity to build homes filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories,” Asino stated proudly.
Omusati Governor Immanuel Shikongo reflected on his personal connection to the program, recalling its origins during his time as Chairperson of the Management Committee of the Outapi Town Council.
Shikongo said it was a proud moment to see the programme bear fruit. He noted that it demonstrated what could be achieved when local authorities, government, and communities worked together.
Representing the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, his advisor, Boniface Mutumba, praised the town council’s leadership.
“This initiative is a model for the country. Secure land tenure improves lives, builds communities, and strengthens the economy. Other towns must take inspiration from Outapi’s success,” he added.
Ministry of Agriculture’s Executive Director Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata emphasised the national importance of the day.
Nghituwamata said that with 184 titles handed over, the programme had transformed the lives of ordinary citizens and added that Outapi had now joined the ranks of local authorities pioneering sustainable, inclusive development.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Outapi Town Council, Mateus Ananias, emphasised the deeper meaning of the program. “This is not just about land. It is about ownership, pride, and creating opportunities for citizens to dream and to build,” Ananias explained.
Under the Brownfield and Greenfield blocks, several associations were formed to oversee the newly titled land. In Extension 5 (Onhimbu), the Tulongeni and O.O Namakalu associations cover a total of 139 erven, all fully serviced and developed with residential homes.
In Extension 13 (Oukwa-Wananyanga), the Tutungeni and Petrus Kalipi Associations include 62 erven, which are currently undeveloped and lack services.
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