WALVIS BAY – Urban and rural development minister Erastus Uutoni has commended the Seafarers United Land Housing Federation for initiating efforts to fight poverty and address the housing issue at Walvis Bay. The federation was established in 2021 to address the housing shortage among fishermen by providing tangible solutions through the purchase and development of land in municipal areas.
Uutoni, during a fundraising gala dinner on Friday where the federation launched its fishermen’s village and investment trust fund at Walvis Bay, re-emphasised that all citizens of the country have a right to decent and affordable housing and shelter.
“This initiative clearly demonstrates that you have not forgotten your fellow human beings, and it is impressive that the federation offers hope and meaning to the lives of men, women and children who share the very same hopes we all have for better, safer and more promising lives,” he noted.
He said the government’s continued support for the work of community-based organisations, such as the Seafarers Housing Federation, aim to contribute to the national drive towards providing affordable housing and proper sanitation, especially for those in the ultra-low and low-income categories.
The federation has an active membership of about 600 fishermen, most of whom lost their jobs during the illegal strike held in October 2015.
Since 2021, they have managed to raise N$880 000. Fisheries minister Derek Klazen noted that given the high housing backlogs, local authorities should work with organisations and associations who want to help themselves and others to provide housing, ensuring the processes are smooth.
The federation’s president, Matthias Ndeulita, described how, from the groundwork laid in 2021 to the formalisation of the federation, every step was guided by a shared vision of stability and a brighter future for all involved.
He said the federation aims to buy portion 18 of Farm 37, where the construction of 150 houses is anticipated for the first phase of the project on a land mass that covers close to 464 754 square metres.
The federation raised about N$200 000 during the gala dinner.
-Nampa