By Lylie Happiness,
Tsandi, Omusati Region, July 11 — In a momentous event held on July 10, 2023, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, the Honorable Erastus Uutoni, inaugurated 33 newly built houses in Tsandi. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in addressing the housing needs of the community and showcased the successful collaboration between the National Housing Enterprise (NHE) and the government.
Speaking at the event, Minister Uutoni emphasized the importance of focusing on the social benefits of housing development projects rather than simply profiting from residential land. He acknowledged the escalating costs of housing, which have made affordable housing inaccessible for many middle- and low-income individuals. Minister Uutoni urged all stakeholders, including local authorities, to work together to make reasonably priced land available, ensuring that affordable housing options can be constructed by the NHE.
“The existence of these houses provides the municipality an opportunity to generate revenue from rates and taxes every month for a lifetime,” stated Minister Uutoni. He emphasized the need for collaboration between the NHE, local authorities, and contractors to deliver quality yet affordable homes to the Namibian people. Minister Uutoni reiterated that the NHE and local authorities serve the same government and the same people, aiming to achieve a common goal of improving housing provisions.
Mrs. Toska Sem, the Board Chairperson of the National Housing Enterprises (NHE), also addressed the gathering. She highlighted the NHE’s ongoing projects in various regions, including Okahao, Outapi, Ondangwa, Omuthiya, Gobabis, and the Informal Settlement Upgrading Program in Windhoek. These projects, with a total value of 10 million Namibian dollars, not only provide much-needed housing but also create job opportunities and foster business development for the residents.
The handover ceremony of the 33 houses in Tsandi signifies a step forward in fulfilling the housing needs of the community. It showcases the commitment of the NHE, the government, and local authorities to collaborate in providing affordable and quality homes to the people of Namibia. Through such partnerships, it is hoped that more families will have access to decent housing and a better quality of life.
As Minister Uutoni concluded his remarks, the atmosphere was filled with hope and anticipation for the positive impact these new homes will have on the lives of Tsandi residents. The official handover ceremony serves as a reminder of the power of effective collaboration and a shared vision in addressing pressing social issues such as housing. – Namibia Daily News
