By Sostenus Wilherm
At a time when nearly half of Namibia’s population lives in informal settlements, a growing coalition of public and private sector partners is proving that the most effective solution to the country’s housing crisis may lie not only in funding or policy but in empowering communities themselves.
The partnership between FNB Namibia, Pupkewitz Foundation, Ohorongo Cement and the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) have, over the past decade, reshaped how housing delivery can work.
With about 42 percent of Namibians, nearly one million people, living in informal settlements, the scale of the challenge is immense. Rather than relying only on top-down solutions, this model ensures communities are active builders of their own future.
Advisor to the minister of rural and urban development Boniface Mutumba said this reflects a broader national vision aligned with NDP 6. He added that the model should expand beyond housing into other sectors.
A key feature is that beneficiaries contribute physically by digging trenches, laying foundations and participating in construction, helping reduce costs and ensure resources reach those most in need.
This approach has already delivered results. In Gobabis, more than 1,100 plots in Freedom Square have been serviced, allowing families to move toward formal housing.
Across the country, over 3,000 homes are under construction through the Federation’s model. Members pool resources, organise themselves and build their homes, reducing costs while fostering ownership and pride.
Representing FNB Namibia, Philip Chapman said housing is more than shelter but about dignity, security and a foundation for families. The bank has committed N$1 million through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation to support the initiative, aiming to move families from vulnerability to stability and create environments where children can thrive.
Pupkewitz Foundation chief executive officer Meryl Barry highlighted the sustainability of the model, noting that funds are managed responsibly, outcomes are measurable and repayments strengthen a revolving fund that expands reach. She added that the initiative also supports job creation and local economies.
Ohorongo Cement chief executive officer Hans-Wilhelm Schütte said the real drivers are the communities themselves, whose discipline to save and determination to build make the partnership meaningful.
Over ten years, about N$26.5 million has been invested, resulting in more than 533 homes, with more planned.
Beyond the numbers, the success lies in shifting from dependency to empowerment, with the Federation expressing confidence that even more homes can be achieved.
