SWAKOPMUND: Namibia is set to embark on an ambitious housing project with plans to construct over 200,000 houses within the next five years. This initiative is part of the revised National Housing Policy and Implementation Action Plan, approved by the Cabinet in November 2023. According to President Hage Geingob, speaking at Swakopmund during the handover of 89 houses built under the Mass Housing Development Programme (MHDP), the policy also aims to accelerate the servicing of 340,000 new plots and upgrade at least 60% of existing informal settlements nationwide between 2024 and 2029.
The President emphasized the government’s commitment to improving living conditions, especially for those in informal settlements, as part of its broader efforts to provide affordable housing and serviced land. Urban and Rural Development Minister, Erastus Uutoni, highlighted the progress of the MHDP, with 4,238 houses completed nationwide since its inception in 2014. He also mentioned that 200 units have been completed in the current site, with an additional 119 expected to be ready by April 2024. Beneficiary Sara Tsaes expressed gratitude, particularly noting the inclusivity of the housing design for her child with a disability.