Loide Jason
Urban and rural development minister Erastus Uutoni said although the informal settlement upgrading project was progressing well, there were some challenges affecting the successful implementation.
Uutoni who was speaking during the handing over of 50 houses constructed under informal settlement upgrading pilot project yesterday at Otjomuise, explained that some of the contractors are not adhering to the set deadlines in completing the houses, including the quality and the standard.
He further pointed out that some beneficiaries are also hindering the progress of the project, claiming they were delaying the signing of the deeds of sale.
“Some of the beneficiaries are not available to sign the deeds of sale during working hours and are also reluctant to commit to typologies that they qualify for based on the affordability and as such refuse to sign,” he said.
The minister further stated that several cancellations by beneficiaries after drawings of plans approved affected progress in meeting the deadlines in terms of completion of several houses.
“It is important to keep in mind that the various housing typologies or categories of houses being built under the project is designed in a way that allows for incremental development for the owners to upgrade and extend when their income allows,” he maintained.
He said that another 50 houses are near completion and will be handed over to the rightful owners next month.
He urged all the stakeholders involved in the projects to be hands-on, as housing has gained prominence, as one of the key national development priorities for addressing poverty and inequality as well as for bringing about social harmony, economic advancement and ensuring political stability.
“This is why as a nation we have made the provision of access to decent housing as one of the key development priorities as encapsulated in our Vision 2030, National Development Plans and the Harambee Prosperity Plan,” he stated.
Speaking at the same event, Sam Shivute, chairperson of the National Housing Enterprise board, urged stakeholders and the community at large to have a positive attitude toward the project and render their support to the contractors to speed up the process to achieve the targeted number of 1 200 houses.
He said the project started in Windhoek before being extended to other towns.
So far, 86 houses have been completed since October.
Alma Ndjiharine, a resident of Otjomuise who spoke on behalf of other beneficiaries said they were grateful for what the government has done for them.