Money problems delay low-cost housing

THE Keetmanshoop Town Council has put on hold the building of 93 low-cost houses under the Government-funded Build Together Programme because of a lack of developed plots.

The plots could not be developed because the council is unable to meet its financial commitments, it emerged at a council meeting this week.It needs N$24 million to develop plots for the Build Together Programme.Town CEO Paul Vleermuis admitted that the town is grappling with major financial problems, but said it is at least able to honour agreements with its creditors.He added that debt collection and legal action against defaulters have been stepped up to improve the council’s financial position.The council has started submitting proposals to the Local Government Ministry to fund capital projects, Vleermuis further said.’I am confident that the mechanisms put in place will yield results, not necessary within a year but in the long run,’ said Vleermuis. Asked whether a lack of developed plots is impeding economic growth at the town, Vleermuis replied: ‘Lack of investors is the key delaying factor.’He said the town is now competing for investments with growing southern towns such as Rosh Pinah and Oranjemund.At the meeting councillors complained that the council management is not providing them with detailed financial reports.’We want a breakdown of the council’s finances,’ said Mayor Basil Brown.The council’s Management Committee chairman, Moses Titus, said the councillors have not indicated how they want the financial reports. ‘The CEO gives what he thinks is correct,’ said Titus. luqman@namibian.com.na