The article outlines the challenges faced by over 720,000 urban shack dwellers in Namibia, emphasizing the urgent need for compassionate governance from President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. It calls for a national initiative to improve housing and land access, aiming to eradicate slums and foster equitable growth for all Namibians, while highlighting past failures and successful examples in urban development.
The author expresses that many Namibians are optimistic about President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s leadership. There is a hope that she will implement compassionate policies to address pressing issues faced by the population. The article underscores the urgent need for governance centred around public service and humanity, emphasizing concerns over recent governance which has primarily benefited a select few while neglecting the greater populace.
As Nandi-Ndaitwah prepares to assume office, it is crucial to consider the plight of over 720,000 urban shack dwellers in Namibia. These individuals inhabit makeshift structures, colloquially referred to as uumbashu, and statistics reveal a concerning increase in their numbers, with a significant surge from 10,288 uumbashu in 1991 to 217,069 by 2023. This figure is expected to reach approximately 257,000 by 2025 if the current trend continues.
The living conditions for these populations are dire, as many are forced to occupy land without secure rights, leading to inadequate access to essential services such as water, electricity, and sanitation. The lack of stable housing also prevents families from accumulating wealth and using their properties for economic advancement. Furthermore, the health risks inherent in these informal settlements are considerable, as they are susceptible to numerous diseases due to overcrowding and poor living conditions.
The plight of shack dwellers reflects a deep-seated issue of inequality in Namibia, where socioeconomic disparities have relegated many to a marginalized status despite the nation’s resources. Public funds have been misallocated, highlighting a need for transparent governance and accountability to ensure that financial assets are directed toward substantive construction and development efforts rather than superficial measures.
Despite past failures in housing policies, the author points out that successful examples exist, such as the efforts in Okahao, demonstrating that it is possible to eradicate slums. Nandi-Ndaitwah is encouraged to prioritize a national initiative aimed at improving housing and land access by 2035, thereby creating a sustainable framework for urban development.
The author concludes by urging President-elect Nandi-Ndaitwah to champion the rights of marginalized communities, emphasizing that with effective leadership and the right initiatives, a brighter future can be cultivated for all Namibians.
In summary, the article emphasizes the significant challenges facing shack dwellers in Namibia while calling for transformative leadership under President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. The need for compassionate policies that address the root causes of poverty and inequality is paramount. By focusing on inclusive development and effective governance, there lies the potential for substantial improvement in living conditions for the most vulnerable segments of the population.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
