Austria proposes construction of affordable houses in Namibia

An Austria-based Global Housing Solutions company has proposed to build affordable houses in Namibia, through a government-based loan of N.dollars 1.4 billion (70 million Euros).

This is according to Austria’s 10th Federal Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer who during a courtesy visit to President Nangolo Mbumba on Monday said through their facilitation the Namibian government could enter into a contract with an Austrian commercial bank with a grace period of three years without repaying the loan.

He said for export guarantees the loan will be controlled by the Austria State-owned bank and partners.

“We can replace slums and bring very modest living conditions for people through our affordable houses and it’s possible because the cost of construction is very low compared to other technology,” he said.

Gusenbauer indicated that the company has built affordable houses, including schools and hospitals in 10 African countries, 21 in South America, and eight in Europe, noting that when building houses, the company equally invests in a local production plant (factory) with local partners which can offer jobs to around 200 people.

On his part, Mbumba suggested that the delegate consults the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development and Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises on the matter, indicating that Namibia needs affordable houses, schools, vocational training centres, and clinics.

“The President does not decide on money issues, but I can indicate that we need the product, and we need them like yesterday. I hope that it will be possible to really have direct negotiations on money issues with the ministry of finance who can advise the government which can further advise the cabinet,” Mbumba said.

(NAMPA)
LD/EK

(NAMPA)