Rundu: Residents of Tuhingireni informal settlement in Rundu are expressing frustration over the lack of essential services, accusing local and regional authorities of ignoring their persistent requests for basic amenities such as roads and electricity.

According to Namibia Press Agency, community spokesperson Sarafina Shifafure voiced concerns about the prolonged absence of electricity, which residents have endured for nearly two decades. Despite repeatedly petitioning local and regional offices, little progress has been made. Shifafure highlighted that the lack of electricity not only affects livelihoods but also compromises safety, making the area increasingly susceptible to criminal activities. Furthermore, poor road conditions exacerbate the situation, as the sandy streets hinder law enforcement access to the settlement.

Efforts by the community to tackle these issues have achieved limited success. In 2017, residents collectively contributed N.dollars 750 each, amassing about N.dollars 120,000 towards electrification, following a pledge of N.dollars 292,000 from the Rundu Urban constituency office. However, the Rundu Town Council did not allocate a budget for the project in subsequent years, resulting in the withdrawal of funds and reimbursement of residents.

In response to continued inaction, the community has taken it upon themselves to improve road conditions by graveling sections of the settlement. Nevertheless, the electricity issue remains unresolved.

Beyond infrastructure challenges, Shifafure emphasized the health implications of the lack of electricity. She shared that her husband, who suffers from psoriasis eczema, struggles to manage his condition without proper lighting and access to powered medical equipment. The absence of electricity hampers effective skin checks and the use of necessary devices, increasing the risk of flare-ups and infections.

The community has exhausted all avenues in seeking assistance from authorities. Last year, the Northern Regional Electricity Distributor stated that the responsibility for identifying areas for electrification lies with the Rundu Town Council, while the utility focuses on installation and maintenance.

Hamunyera Hambyuka confirmed meeting with Tuhingireni residents and NORED officials last year, during which the community was informed that electrification is anticipated this year, although no specific timeline was provided. Hambyuka has since urged residents to remain patient while the electricity distributor finalises the tender process for the project.