An empty and neglected section of the Single Quarters was re-developed into 81 two-bed family units and 50 single bed units at a cost of N$6,2 million.

Gurirab called the transformation "a breathtaking development". He said he was pleased the Walvis Bay Town Council had taken on the challenge of the Cabinet decision of 1999 that no more State funds would be made available to renovate Single Quarters.

"The Hostel Redevelopment Project brings to an end decades of anguish caused by the unhygienic and generally unsafe living conditions facing our hostel dwellers," Gurirab said.

"Today heralds a new day for the beneficiaries of these housing units - a day that speaks of a better life and a better future that keeps hope alive."

In all, 176 families will be relocated to the new units. The Single Quarters they will vacate will be demolished. Phase II of the project includes further re-development of more Single Quarter sections.

"We need more than N$5 million for that," said Augustinus Katiti, CEO of the Walvis Bay Municipality. "That is where we are going to need some assistance from the private sector."

Katiti said approximately 250 people a month moved to Walvis Bay in 2000. "We estimated that figure to be 262 per month in 2001, which meant more than 3 000 came to Walvis Bay last year."

The average household size at Kuisebmond is 3,2 people, while approximately 18 per cent live in backyard shacks. "This meant we required more then 10 000 units of housing in 2000," he said.

Theresia Samaria, Mayor of Walvis Bay, said her Council had to decide in 1996 on the fate of the Single Quarters - whether to demolish it or reconvert the existing structure.

Numerous meetings were held with the tenants, a committee was established and the public was kept informed of resolutions taken by the tenants.

"Today we enjoy the fruits of Independence," said Natanael Longeinge, Chairperson of the Single Quarters Committee.

"The status quo of the Single Quarters always reminded us of the apartheid system. Today we can relocate to a healthy place which we can call our own."

The Prime Minister urged the beneficiaries "to take care of the wonderful gift from your very own Town Council. You have the overall responsibility to maintain these houses and improve them for your own good."

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