The Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) has received a partnership renewal with an amount of N$3 million from the First National Bank of Namibia, Ohorongo Cement and the Pupkewitz Foundation.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Pupkewitz Foundation, Meryl Barry, said the foundation, together with its partners, has supported the construction of over 500 houses.
"The foundation firmly believes that addressing Namibia's housing backlog requires a coordinated effort among the government, organised communities, civil society, and responsible private sector partners. It illustrates how empowered communities can be effective development partners."
The Special Advisor to the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Boniface Mutumba, said the government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing housing challenges through strengthened partnerships with the private sector and community organisations.
"Government alone cannot meet all societal needs. It is through partnerships like these that we can bring hope and dignity to our people. It addresses governments' resolve to provide housing to the needy members of society and to restore their dignity as equals in society."
Hans-Willem Schutte, the Chief Executive Officer at Ohorongo Cement, stated that access to land, services, and, most importantly, homes has improved thousands of lives.
"Over the past decades, this partnership has delivered real results. Results that delivered 533 houses since 2016 at the cost of N$26.5 million, with another 60 houses on the cards for 2026 at Karasburg, Oshakati and Otjinene."
The Chief Executive Officer of First National Bank, Phillip Chapman, said nearly 42% of the population lives in informal settlements.
He said this figure is an indication that there is still a long way to go in fully meeting one of the most fundamental basic rights of the people.
"Housing represents more than just shelter. It is dignity, it is security, and it is the foundation upon which families build their future. This is why ensuring that all Namibians have a safe and secure place to call home must remain a priority for all of us."