The Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development (MURD), Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele has commended Otjiwarongo Municipality for progress made in addressing basic services and urbanization.

She expressed this at the Otjiwarongo Settlement access road ground-breaking ceremony held in DRC informal settlement. 

Over `N$57-million has been budgeted for the construction of a 1,8 kilometer gravel stretch to upgrade it to tar.

It also includes the construction of bulk sewer infrastructure and water supply, installation of water meters and the development of a community park. 

!Nawases-Taeyele says, "We also take note of the steps that Otjiwarongo has taken on land security and settlement upgrading, giving families the chance to hold land titles and eventually full ownership, which is one of the most effective ways to stabilize a community. The access road upgrade I believe, will help with issues of decongestion, which will result in infrastructure development. It will provide better accessibility and transport connectivity for existing and future residential and other commercial developments within the informal settlement."

The minister urged the incoming council to build on the foundation laid by the previous council to build a safer and more resilient town.

"The work ahead will take coordination, accountability and consistent supervision,and Government through the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development will continue to support the local Authorities such as the Otjiwarongo Municipality, to ensure that what is started here today, will be completed at the standard our communities deserve."

Otjiwarongo Mayor, Gottlieb Shivute says the current council has worked tirelessly to strengthen the foundations of Otjiwarongo's sound financial management and strategic planning to service delivery oversight.