Reflecting on the Challenges of Urban Poverty: An Open Letter to Namibia’s New President

The article discusses the substantial issues stemming from urban poverty and housing crises in Namibia, specifically highlighting the struggles of over 720,000 shack dwellers. As President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah assumes office, the call for reform in housing policy and public service emerges. The author urges a national strategy to eradicate slums and implement community-managed housing while emphasizing the government’s capacity to create solutions for impoverished citizens.

President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s appointment has garnered optimism among Namibians, transcending political divides. This satisfaction stems from a shared hope that her leadership will prioritize policies rooted in humanity and wisdom, steering away from self-serving political motivations that have plagued the nation. Particularly, public services reflecting compassion and practicality are desperately needed in Namibia’s governance structure.

As she assumes the presidency on March 21, it is crucial for Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah to remain mindful of the dire circumstances faced by over 720,000 Namibians, living as urban shack dwellers. Many reside in corrugated iron houses, referred to as uumbashu, mostly lacking basic amenities and facing increasingly precarious living conditions. The number of urban shacks has surged alarmingly, from 10,288 in 1991 to approximately 217,069 in 2023, with projections indicating further growth.

These informal settlements pose significant health risks due to poor sanitation and overcrowding, creating an environment conducive to diseases such as cholera and pneumonia. The lack of secure land ownership leaves families without the means to build wealth, consequently entrenching poverty and contributing to societal issues, including crime and conflict. The current state is deemed a moral failing for a nation that aspires to be equitable and just.

Failure to address these pressing issues stems from misallocation of public funds, with substantial investments often diverted towards projects that fail to improve living conditions for the less fortunate. For instance, a budget allocation of N$750 million for land servicing remains largely unutilized while public resources were used to conceal day-to-day realities instead of rectifying them.

While limited housing projects exist, their combined effect has amounted to merely slowing the expansion of slums, rather than providing viable solutions. Namibia, however, does possess the economic resources and, more critically, the ability to create transformative change and offer secure land tenure to its citizens. This presents an opportunity, not just an obligation, for the new administration to enact systemic reforms.

As Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah steps into her presidential role, it is imperative that she contemplates the plight of the impoverished and works towards eliminating the slum conditions existing throughout Namibia. A national strategy to eradicate slums by 2035, including the provision of affordable urban plots, could vastly improve living conditions. Controlled development in informal areas could empower communities by incentivizing home ownership.

With commitment, integrity, and effective planning, the prospect of improving life for many Namibians is not an unreachable dream but an achievable objective. Such accomplishments would positively define Ms. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s legacy as Namibia’s leader, warranting the respect and title of Her Excellency.

In summary, President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah inherits significant challenges related to urban poverty and housing inadequacies in Namibia. The high number of urban shack dwellers, along with poor living conditions, presents an urgent need for comprehensive reforms. By prioritizing public service and addressing land rights, her administration has the potential to redefine the social and economic landscape of Namibia, fostering an environment of equity and dignity for all citizens. Success in this endeavor could establish a lasting legacy for her presidency.

Original Source: www.namibian.com.na