informal settlements

In S.A, the DA to Lodge Complaint Against Ekurhuleni Water Dept

In South Africa, the DA in Gauteng says it will today lay a complaint against the Ekurhuleni Department of Water and Sanitation to the South Africa Human Rights Commission. This is for the non-payment of bucket toilet suppliers at informal settlements. The DA’s, Refiloe Nt’sekhe, says the department has not been consistent in paying suppliers. She adds that consequently, the suppliers are struggling to maintain the toilet facilities, leaving […]

10 February, 2025 26

South Africa

South Africa’s COPE Raises Concerns Over Gauteng Education Department’s Online Registration System

In S.A, the Congress of The People in Gauteng says it is concerned by the provincial Department of Education's online registration system, especially its impact on communities and parents. The party’s, Tom Mofokeng, says the online system has failed to effectively serve the people. He says the system is particularly disadvantageous to parents and learners from townships, rural areas, and informal settlements:

15 January, 2025 28

Interview Transcripts

Anonymous Interview: Challenges Faced by the Community in Havana, Windhoek: A Closer Look at Municipal Services, Healthcare, and Unemployment

November 18, 2024 – Havana, Windhoek Life in Havana, a settlement located in the outskirts of Windhoek, presents its residents with a range of challenges, many of which stem from systemic issues that persist despite promises from political parties and government institutions. Living in a community where resources are scarce, Anonymous X Hakahana—a local resident—shared valuable insights into the everyday struggles faced by the people in Havana, shedding light […]

18 November, 2024 200

Opinion Pieces

Affordable Housing: A Key Driver for Sustainable Development

Monday, 4 November 2024 - Affordable housing is one of the key aspects for development in Namibia. In response to the country's pressing housing needs, Old Mutual Namibia launched its Housing Fund in August 2024. With an initial capital of N$50 million, the initiative is set to provide critical financial support for affordable housing projects, aimed at addressing the growing demand for accessible and affordable housing in the […]

4 November, 2024 20

Namibia

Census report to guide policy and development

The Namibia Statistics Agency has officially launched the main report of the 2023 Census, providing an in-depth view of the country's population demographics, housing conditions, and essential statistical indicators. This comprehensive release will support informed decision-making for policies and resource allocation across various sectors. Speaking at the launch event, Ndiyakupi Nghituwamhata, Chairperson of the Statistics Board Committee, highlighted the importance of the report in driving evidence-based policy. […]

30 October, 2024 46

Namibia

Walvis Bay Council faces challenges identifying Otweya fire victims

Walvis Bay Rural constituency councillor, Florian Tegako Donatus says the process of identifying the true victims of the Otweya informal settlement fire is delayed due to false claims from people pretending to need aid. The council, alongside the government, is working to ensure assistance, such as food, blankets, and clothes, reaches those genuinely affected. Donatus also mentioned that strategies are being developed to prevent future fires.

15 October, 2024 47

Namibia

Windhoek approves 5-year electrification plan

The Windhoek Municipal Council has approved a five-year plan to bring electricity to 4,000 homes in informal settlements. The project, which started on Wednesday, is part of the City’s effort to improve living conditions in these areas. It includes providing power to 249 households and installing street lights, along with medium- and low-voltage networks. Here’s the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni.

19 September, 2024 34

Africa

Fire safety tips at home: the risks and how to avoid them

By Rhoda Afriyie Mensah, Luleå University of Technology In many African communities, fire hazards are a concern due to the materials used for building and daily activities such as cooking and heating. The risks are increased by the use of highly flammable materials in homes and the absence of fire prevention measures. A major fire in a Johannesburg building in 2023, for example, claimed dozens of lives […]

12 September, 2024 29

Africa

Kenya is badly prepared for floods: four steps to reduce devastation and deaths

By Augustine Kiptum, University of Sussex Floods in Kenya in April/May 2024 led to the deaths of over 250 people and caused damage estimated at 4 billion Kenya shillings (US$35 million). Not for the first time, Kenya’s lack of preparedness was apparent as flooding rampaged through rural and urban landscapes. There was also confusion as to who would deal with the disaster – the national […]

22 May, 2024 33