Members of the Walvis Bay Backyard Tenants group have managed to pay off most of their N$2.3 million debt to the Walvis Bay municipality after being allocated portion 19 of farm 37.
The 46-hectare land with 686 residential plots was allocated in March 2024, and the group have paid N$2.1 million over the last 11 months.
Group vice chairperson Immanuel Festus told The Namibian on Friday the group began fundraising activities upon its founding in 2023.
“We promised the municipality about 11 months ago that we will succeed in no time if they allocate the land. The plan was for members who contribute N$350 per month to start contributing double, as they are not paying rent anymore … The more we contribute, the faster we pay off the amount. There were also fundraising activities throughout last year, including selling food and beverages at the beach. We are only left with N$250 000 to finish paying off that amount to the municipality,” Festus said.
The group also purchased two quantum buses that provide transport to Walvis Bay for 43 pupils, as well as for employees throughout the day.
Monthly transport fees range from N$350 (per child) to N$450 (per adult), and households with more than three children are eligible for a discount. The revenue from this venture is used to pay the drivers, maintain the buses and add to the fund. Festus said the group plans to settle the debt with the municipality by 26 March, when the organisation celebrates the second anniversary of its founding. He said the group is well-managed, adding that teamwork and transparency are important.
The group, which currently has 2 400 registered members, also recently applied for portion 23, which is close to portion 19.
“We will continue to apply for land until all our members are finally accommodated. We are hard workers who only needed this chance. We have proven that we can meet the municipality halfway in solving this housing crisis, if we only have a chance,” said Festus. Walvis Bay deputy mayor Saara Mutondoka yesterday said she was impressed with the group. “They asked for a chance and they did really well. People are determined to realise their dreams if only they receive the necessary assistance. There is a need to support such groups. They achieved a lot in such a short time,” she said.
Farm 37, also known as Green Valley, is situated about 10km east of Walvis Bay.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
