Low temperatures ranging between -3°C and 2°C, accompanied by strong winds, this week left Namibians at the mercy of the inclement weather, with those without shelter being hardest hit.  

As a mitigation measure, the Khomas regional council donated 40 new blankets and 40 x 20-litre jerrycans to people accommodated at the Khomasdal stadium. 

During the handover ceremony, Khomasdal constituency councillor Samuel Angolo gave an assurance  to the beneficiaries that they will be catered for in terms of food and other necessities although he did not specify when.  

“We heard their pleas that they are suffering in this cold weather and we brought 40 blankets, and 40 jerrycans. This is not the end, we will see how best we can assist them further,” promised Angolo. 

He said when his office receives food or other necessities, it will be redirected to the destitute people at the stadium who requested the councillor to provide them land for land for relocation.  

“The council does not have land but we are negotiating with the City of Windhoek to see how best we can relocate these people. They are dissatisfied with the condition of the tents they live in as some are falling apart and I’m sure the City of Windhoek will come up with a tangible plan for them,” he said. 

One of the residents’ committee members, Mario Gowaseb (21) said he appreciates the gesture from the council, as it will help in keeping them warm. 

“I have been here since the outbreak of Covid-19. When winter comes it’s a big challenge for us since it’s cold in our old tents. I am very grateful to our councillor who provided us with blankets,” said the founder of MG Charity Organization. 

He added: “We also have sick people who are on medication and the environment is simply  not conducive for them.” 

David Bernadu (52), who has been at the stadium for the past four years said he does not need a blanket but a place to call home. 

“I need the government to give us land as this place is not fit for human beings. Just look at those small children, they don’t deserve to be here and to be exposed to this unhealthy and dangerous environment,” he said. 

Bernadu who lives alone complained about the threat of a disease outbreak at the stadium as people have no proper sanitation facilities and  defecate anywhere. 

“People relieve themselves anywhere and this is not healthy. So, I am not happy with this blanket,” he complained. 

In contrast, Benny Goaseb (19) appreciateed the blanket donation. 

He told New Era all he needs now is a piece of land. 

“I would like to have a piece of land to build a house but if I get money now, I would love to buy vegetables like tomatoes and onions for sale,” said the soft-spoken Goaseb. 

Although he is not educated, he dreams of becoming a motor mechanic and assists at a nearby auto repair shop. 

The Khomsdal stadium accommodates close to 100 people with the initial number having steadily increased. 

What started off as a temporary shelter during the initial stages of the Covid-19 pandemic has now become a permanent home for these people. 

- psiririka@nepc.com.na