KEETMANSHOOP— Keetmanshoop Mayor McDonald Hanse is calling on pensioners to sign up for a new social electricity tariff designed to ease their financial burden by offering reduced rates. The initiative is part of a broader effort to support the town's elderly population amidst economic challenges.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the municipality aims to enroll at least 2,000 pensioners in the program, which currently has 150 participants. The social tariff allows pensioners to purchase their first 50 units of electricity at a significantly lower rate than the standard charges applied to other residents, with additional savings on subsequent usage.

The mayor highlighted that the Electricity Control Board (ECB) had approved an increase in the cap for these social tariffs from 15 to 40 Amps, further aiding pensioners by enabling them to buy electricity at more affordable rates. This adjustment is part of the municipality’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its older residents, especially considering there will be no increase in electricity tariffs for the 2024/2025 financial year.

Pensioners are encouraged to register for the tariff at the Keetmanshoop Electricity Business Unit, bringing necessary documentation such as identification and title deeds. Mayor Hanse also urged the community to assist those unable to register themselves, suggesting that municipal staff might visit their homes to facilitate registration.

Looking forward, Mayor Hanse mentioned that the municipality is exploring additional ways to extend these benefits to pensioners who do not own homes, ensuring that more elderly citizens can enjoy reduced electricity costs.