A memorandum of understanding on housing development has been signed between Helao Nafidi Town Council, the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia, and the Namibia Housing Action Group in Helao Nafidi, Ohangwena Region.

Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa said Namibia respects the right to adequate housing, adding that it should be safe, affordable, and habitable.

Hamutumwa said housing is not just a privilege but a human right, as it provides security and shelter and access to basic services such as water and sanitation.

She says housing is central to human dignity, equality, and social justice, and every Namibian is entitled to live in a safe and decent environment.

The memorandum of understanding, Hamutumwa added, thus reminds the parties that development must be shaped by the people it is meant to serve.

"So the 8th administration is fully committed to making sure that every Namibian is not left out in the process of ensuring that we have a roof over our heads. It also directly supports the goals of NDP6, which calls for increased access to serviced land, improved housing delivery and upgrading of informal settlements through sustainable and people-centred approaches."

The Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia has 30,000 members across Namibia who save together to support one another to build houses, and thus far, over 8,000 houses have been built.

Programme Coordinator for Namibia Housing Action Group, Hendrina Shuunyuni, says when communities are empowered, organised and supported, they are able to lead their own development, and it is thus vital to partner with local authorities for better housing.

"This MoU is therefore more than just a document. It is a shared commitment to continue working together to strengthen collaboration and to scale up efforts in informal settlement upgrading and low-cost housing delivery. It represents our collective belief that inclusive towns are possible."