Staff Reporter
THE Oranjemund Town Council’s Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Festus Nekayi, emphasised that the council is still committed to ensuring all residents have access to safe, affordable, and comfortable housing.
“Council adopted a decongestion strategy in 2021 to address the pressing need for housing, especially in densely populated areas such as contractors’ camps and the existing mining hostel. As part of this plan, council serviced Extension 10, and Extension 11 is earmarked for high-density housing,” he said.
Nekayi further explained that the Oranjemund Town Council’s second five-year strategic plan, adopted earlier this year, prioritises the continued development of the town to accommodate its growing population. This, he revealed, includes providing adequate housing for various income groups in Extensions 8, 9, 12, and 13 in the near future.
“As part of the plan, Extensions 8 and 9 are designated for middle- to high-income areas, allowing us to cater for diverse housing needs. We also have Extensions 12 and 13, which are earmarked to provide low- to middle-income housing in the future, ensuring that all residents, regardless of income, can find a place to call home,” he said.
Nekayi made these remarks at the 2024 Oranjemund Diamond Festival, which began on Wednesday, 30 October 2024, and will continue until Saturday, 2 November 2024. The festival aims to celebrate the town’s heritage, highlight achievements, and showcase future opportunities.
“The Diamond Festival is more than just an event; it is a platform where we as a community showcase our local talents, our creative spirits, and our ambitions to open new doors. The Oranjemund Diamond Festival has become a beloved tradition, a time when we come together to recognise our history, celebrate our vibrant present, and envision our bright future. It is a moment to invite visitors, investors, and partners to see what makes Oranjemund special,” Oranjemund’s Deputy Mayor, Sekunda Tsheya Petrus, added.
