Allexer Namundjembo
The City of Windhoek ( CoW) has extended essential services to Farm 508, where over 300 households were relocated earlier this year following floods that destroyed homes in parts of Otjomuise.
The relocation aimed to provide a safer environment after flash floods damaged residents’ previous homes.
In an update issued on Friday, the city stated , “The emergency relocation was a necessary intervention to safeguard the lives and dignity of displaced residents.”
Since the relocation, the municipality, working with the Khomas Regional Council and other partners, has made progress in bringing infrastructure and services to the area.
Two communal prepaid water taps and an additional tap near the prefabricated clinic have been installed. Six more taps are under construction and expected to be completed by early August.
The municipality stated that residents can apply for prepaid water tokens at a cost of N$300 through the human settlements section by submitting a copy of the owner’s ID and structure number.
“These water facilities will ensure equitable and convenient access for residents,” the municipality said.
Sanitation efforts have included installing 40 of the 76 Amalooloo dry toilets donated by NamPower. UNICEF has pledged an additional 100 toilets. Before installation, the City provides user training to ensure proper and hygienic use. Waste from the toilets is treated and converted into compost.
Access to Farm 508 is currently via Eneas Peter Nanyemba Drive and Matshitshi Road. While a phased road upgrade plan exists, implementation depends on available funding.
The City is also exploring temporary routes to improve access for emergency and municipal vehicles.
“Improved access is key for efficient service delivery. We’re doing all we can to facilitate movement within the area,” CoW stated.
The Khomas Regional Council coordinates social services. A new primary school opened on 22 April 2025 and currently serves 372 learners from pre-primary to Grade 7.
A prefabricated clinic, supported by the ministry of health and social Services, operates as a health outreach point. The outreach team was present during the City’s recent visit and will return on 26 July.
Land has been secured and fenced for permanent infrastructure development, including a police station, clinic, and school. Procurement for the police station is underway.
“The CoW, together with its partners and stakeholders, remains committed to supporting the residents of Farm 508 through a phased, resource-driven approach,” the City emphasised.
Earlier this year, over 250 homeowners displaced by the floods expressed appreciation to CoW for relocating them to a safer area behind Okapale in Goreangab.
However, they continue to face challenges related to school enrollment and transportation.
Kenneth Auchamub, who relocated from Otjomuise 7 de Laan with his wife, mother, and six children, expressed gratitude for the new land but noted a lack of nearby schools, clinics, sanitation, and electricity. He also raised concerns about increased transport costs.
Sylvia Skywer, also from Otjomuise 7 de Laan, praised the City’s efforts but said the distance to schools and shops remains a problem, especially for families with children.
Taxi driver Engelhardt Kahuva pointed out safety concerns due to the bushy terrain and called for a mobile clinic.
University student Aiden van Wyk said many families are financially strained due to longer travel distances and losses suffered during the floods.
CoW’s spokesperson Lydia Amutenya, acknowledged ongoing transportation, sanitation, and electricity challenges. She said plans are underway to improve services and that the Khomas Regional Council and the education directorate are working to integrate displaced learners into nearby schools.
