Placido Hilukilwa
LUCIA Petrus, a wheelchair-bound resident of the Oshandi-1 village in the Ondobe constituency of the Ohangwena Region, received a newly built one-bedroom house on Monday after her home was destroyed by a storm three years ago.
Regional Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa handed over the house, built through the Government’s Cash for Work Programme.
The programme aims to create employment in rural communities while addressing urgent social needs. Hamutumwa said her office remains committed to improving the lives of vulnerable residents.
PICTURED: Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa and the beneficiary, Lucia Petrus. Photo: Contributed
“Meekulu Lucia Petrus lives with a disability and uses a wheelchair. Her home’s roof was destroyed during heavy rains in 2023. Since then, she has lived under difficult conditions, relying on neighbours for shelter,” said Hamutumwa.
She said: “Today is a special day for Meekulu Lucia and her family. She once again has a place to call home. Although it is a one-bedroom house, it was thoughtfully built with an indoor shower and toilet for her comfort and dignity, in a disability-friendly design.”
The Governor said that past efforts by the Ondobe constituency office to rebuild her home were hindered by limited funding. When funds finally became available, the Governor’s office asked all constituencies to submit cases of critical need, and Ondobe constituency councillor Helaria Ndjuluwa identified Petrus as a priority, recognising the urgency of restoring shelter and dignity to her family.
“Meekulu is not only living with a disability but is also the breadwinner of her household. Providing her with a safe home is an investment in her resilience and well-being,” said Hamutumwa.
She noted that the intervention aligns with the Sixth National Development Plan and government objectives on inclusive development, poverty reduction, and social protection for persons with disabilities.
The construction project employed nine youth from Ondobe village under the Cash for Work Programme. The bricks were made locally, while other materials were purchased from traders. Local contractor Vilho Kaulinge led the team, completing the project within two months.
Handing over the house, Hamutumwa told the beneficiary: “Meekulu, this house is your rightful share from the Government of the Republic of Namibia.”
