Staff Reporter
THE Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, urged the private sector to follow FirstRand Namibia’s example and to contribute to development of quality, affordable houses in the country, adding that the government takes note of significant contributions towards such causes.
“Given the current economic hardships, the government alone cannot bear the cost of servicing land for housing and are counting on the support of the broader society. Churches, NGOs, associations, universities, the private sector and the banks all have a role to play towards the provision of affordable land and housing delivery,” he said.
Uutoni said this during a handover ceremony, where FirstRand Namibia through its Foundation contributed N$5 million to the Development Workshop Namibia (DWN) Land and Housing Project.
DWN is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on sustainable urban development, informal settlements and disadvantaged communities.
The contribution was accepted by DWN trustee, Tedd Rudd, who said that the investment will go a long way towards the provision of affordable serviced land. Referring to the investment as a “breakthrough for DWN”, he added that it will also provide significant support in terms of making housing loans accessible for beneficiaries.
According to the FirstRand Foundation Chairperson, Clara Bohitile, the foundation recognises that it has a responsibility to not only deliver financial value, but positive social outcomes as well.
“We understand that delivering shared value requires innovation, deep thinking, constant change and unrelenting commitment. Our journey to that place began many years ago and our commitment to the destination is firm. We believe the outcome in properly partnering with others who do what matters – has proven it consistently delivers value, both financial and social, and earns the trust of all our stakeholders,” she added.
