Government failed to meet its target of constructing 3,000 houses in the previous financial year after a N$2.5 billion funding shortfall for sewer infrastructure upgrades constrained housing delivery across local authorities.
Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa said capacity limitations in ageing and inadequate sewer systems prevented new housing developments from proceeding.
“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 constraint affects 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 most sewer systems were constructed during the colonial period 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 underinvestment in sewer and water treatment infrastructure is not only slowing housing delivery but also increasing public health risks, particularly in rapidly 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, contributing to 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 engage central institutions to secure additional infrastructure funding.
