SWAKOPMUND – Despite challenges, Swakopmund remains committed to providing affordable housing and land for its residents. 

The town has a housing backlog of approximately 20 000 units, but efforts are underway to address the demand, including a new land servicing project in the Wagdaar area. 

The project is valued at N$38 million.

Linda Mupupa, spokesperson for the Swakopmund Municipality, said the municipal council has officially handed over the site to 065 Trading JV Mawila Technical Services to begin servicing the land for Extension 42 in Wagdaar.

“The Wagdaar project will see the servicing of 310 erven, ensuring that this part of Swakopmund transitions from an informal settlement to a properly serviced area,” Mupupa said.

The municipality is committed to addressing the housing backlog, and this project is part of a broader effort to provide residents with essential basic services.

Wagdaar, situated northeast of Swakopmund, currently lacks essential municipal and electrical infrastructure. 

While some community facilities have limited access to services such as streetlights and communal taps, most of the area remains unserviced. 

In 2023, land ownership certificates were granted to eligible individuals, securing their right to occupy the land.

Clarence McClune, general manager for engineering services, stated that the project represents a step forward in enhancing living conditions for Wagdaar residents.

“We have also officially signed the contract for the provision of water, sewage, semi-purified roads and other essential infrastructure for Extension 42,” he said.

He added that “Wagdaar consists of five extensions, and this project focuses on the southernmost part, where 270 erven will be used for single residential housing. 

The project, valued at N$38 million, is expected to be completed within eight months.”

“We aim to complete this phase by 1 December 2025. This is a significant investment towards improving the living conditions of our residents, and ensuring they have access to basic services,” he said.

The development is part of Swakopmund’s broader efforts to address the increasing housing demand, and enhance service delivery. 

A report released last week by the council states that housing is a basic human need, and an international human right for everyone to have an adequate standard of living.

“Land and housing are crucial as they promote social and economic diversity, where residents have access to quality services such as water, flushing toilets and electricity, which will enhance personal growth and the development of the country,” it states.

The provision of land and housing is a fundamental pillar of the municipality’s growth and development strategy. The council has adopted various mechanisms through the implementation of different projects.

-klerk@nepc.com.na