The City of Windhoek says it cannot write off pensioners’ debts due to financial sustainability risks.
Windhoek chief executive Moses Matyayi said this in response to a petition of the Khomas Ratepayers and Residents Association, which addressed concerns relating to pensioners’ debts, housing models, infrastructure development and municipal service delivery.
Matyayi on Friday urged pensioners to get prepaid utility metres to avoid future arrears and announced ongoing consultations with members of the Build Together housing groups.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by savings groups, including the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia, and advised groups seeking individual land titles to pursue either the flexible land tenure system or apply for exemptions through the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development.
Matyayi said the City of Windhoek is working on extending water, sanitation, road access and lighting to farm 508.
“The relocation of flood-affected households from Otjomuise and Agtste Laan to farm 508 was a necessary emergency measure, and the city, in collaboration with the Khomas Regional Council, has been working to extend water, sanitation, road access and lighting services to the area,” he said.
Residents were also reminded that illegal electricity connections and meter tampering are crimes.
“The city has noted the proposal to establish a formal link between the electricity and debt management divisions, with internal consultations underway to explore this idea,” Matyayi said.
He reaffirming the city’s commitment to inclusive urban development and encouraged residents to engage the relevant ministries for timely service delivery.
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