Government’s housing expansion programme is being held back by a N$2.5 billion funding shortfall for sewer infrastructure, limiting the rollout of new housing across local authorities.
Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa said the ministry failed to meet its target of constructing 3,000 houses in the last financial year due to capacity constraints in ageing sewer systems.
“About 80% of the 59 local authorities have sewer infrastructure that cannot accommodate new housing developments due to ageing and dilapidated systems,” he said.
The shortfall is affecting towns including Okahandja, Rundu, Grootfontein, Ongwediva, Oshakati, Ondangwa, Katima Mulilo, Eenhana, Mariental, Tsumeb, Okahao, Opuwo, Windhoek, Henties Bay, Omaruru, Usakos and Walvis Bay, all of which require urgent bulk infrastructure upgrades.
Sankwasa said many sewer systems were built during the colonial era and are no longer suited to current population levels.
“Most sewer systems were designed for much smaller populations, and in many cases population sizes have tripled, overwhelming existing capacity,” he said.
The ministry warned that the lack of investment in sewer and water treatment infrastructure is constraining housing delivery and increasing public health risks, particularly in fast-growing urban areas.
“Construction of new housing and the upgrading of informal settlements depend on sewer system upgrades to avoid health hazards in local authorities,” Sankwasa said.
Despite the constraints, the ministry reported progress in sanitation interventions, including the construction of 16 communal toilets in informal areas of Windhoek and 2,664 ventilated improved pit latrines nationwide since the 2024/25 financial year.
The projects created 815 temporary jobs, supporting short-term employment while improving sanitation access in underserved communities.
Sankwasa said local authorities are being encouraged to explore alternative financing mechanisms, while government continues to seek additional funding for infrastructure upgrades.
