On Tuesday 08 August 2023, the National Housing Enterprise signed a memorandum of understanding with the Otjozondjupa Regional Council at its offices in Otjiwarongo. The aim is for the two institutions to work together as housing development partners in the Kalkfeld settlement, situated about 80km west of Otjiwarongo and under the Regional Council’s administration. The signing was done by the NHE Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gisbertus Mukulu and the Otjozondjupa Chief Regional Officer Mrs Agatha Mweti. The event was graced by the Governor of the Otjozondjupa region Hon. James Uerikua, as well as the Chairperson of the Regional Council, Hon. Marlyn Mbakera and senior officials of Regional Council.

We plan to jointly develop over 90 low-income housing units in the Kalkfeld settlement, replicating the concept of informal settlement upgrading designs that the NHE has implemented in Windhoek together with the City of Windhoek, under the custodianship of the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development. This concept comprises houses that are tailor-made specifically for individuals at the lower end of the income bracket.  Houses in this concept come with limited finishes as per beneficiaries’ affordability, which gives them the freedom to add all finishes at their own pace and within their individual financial means. This significantly reduces the housing loan amount, while still providing beneficiaries with a decent and safe dwelling.

The NHE and the Otjozondjupa Regional Council looks forward to making a difference in Kalfeld with this cooperation, which is the first attempt on the concept outside of Windhoek.