Otjomuise residents decry lack of basic services after relocation following torrential rains

Otjomuise residents whose homes were washed away by torrential rains last week have expressed their dissatisfaction over being relocated to an area lacking basic services.

The affected families, who are temporarily housed in tents at Goreangab Dam’s Green Mountain location provided by the City of Windhoek, say the new settlement lacks water supply, sanitation, nearby schools and healthcare services.

Many describe the relocation as an unjust solution to their plight.

Ivan Kaherere says he is devastated by the conditions they are forced to endure.

“First we lost everything when the rains destroyed our homes. Now we are being dumped in an area with no water or toilets. How are we expected to live here? Even just getting a normal taxi to a shopping mall is a big struggle,” he says.

Vezemba Hange (29), the mother of a three-month-old baby, says the area’s lack of sanitation is saddening. Additionally, there is no electricity.

“Raising a baby in this area seems impossible. We are literally in the mountains.

“I’m sure there are baboons in this area. It’s just a matter of time before we see them or they attack us.

We are already vulnerable after losing our homes. Now they expect us to survive here without toilets,” she says.

Maria Iindongo says she is grateful that the City of Windhoek relocated the group and gave them land.

“I’m very happy to be placed here, and I cannot wait for all my children to come to their new home. We will hopefully not be washed away by heavy rains any more,” she says.

City spokesperson Lydia Amutenya says the City of Windhoek remains deeply committed to the welfare and safety of all its residents.

She says the recent heavy rains have presented significant challenges, particularly for residents of Otjomuise.

“As an immediate response, the city facilitated their relocation to a safer area to minimise risks posed by ongoing and unpredictable weather conditions.

“We understand the concerns raised regarding the lack of basic social amenities in the relocation area,” Amutenya says.

She says the city, in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Khomas Regional Council and the Office of the Prime Minister, is actively working on a phased plan to address these challenges.

“This includes the installation of essential services, such as access to clean water and sanitaton facilities, along with efforts to ensure other critical amenities, including healthcare and education, become accessible to the relocated residents.

“It is important to emphasise that returning to or remaining in the unsafe area is not an option. While residents will not be forced to relocate, it is crucial to recognise that the area poses significant safety risks, especially as the rainy season has only just begun,” she says.

Amutenya says the intensity and frequency of future rains cannot be predicted, making it vital for residents to carefully consider their options and make informed decisions for their safety and well-being.

“We acknowledge that these interventions require time due to logistical complexities.

However, the city prioritises providing dignified living conditions for all and is committed to enhancing the quality of life for the relocated families as swiftly as possible.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding of the affected residents as we work tirelessly to implement these measures.

We would like to thank those who have agreed so far to be relocated. We appreciate their cooperation and understanding,” she says.

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