Buy-a-Brick delivers four new homes in Okahandja
Four families in the Oshetu 1 community of Okahandja today received the keys to newly constructed homes through Standard Bank Namibia's Buy-a-Brick Initiative, a partnership that continues to create sustainable housing solutions for low-income households across Namibia.
The handover forms part of Standard Bank Namibia's N$2.5 million investment in the Buy-a-Brick Initiative, implemented in partnership with the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) and the Namibia Housing Action Group (NHAG), to support the construction of houses in communities across the country.
The four homes handed over in Okahandja were made possible through the support of VIVO Energy Namibia, BodyWise, Standard Bank Private Bank and Ninety One Namibia, whose contributions have helped provide deserving families with safe, secure and dignified housing.
Speaking at the ceremony, Standard Bank Namibia's Executive Officer: Corporate and Investment Banking, Nelson Lucas, said the initiative demonstrates the transformative power of partnerships in improving lives and strengthening communities. "Today is not simply about handing over houses. It is about creating a place where families can build their futures with greater security and peace of mind. A home provides a foundation from which people can pursue opportunities, support their children and plan for the years ahead," said Lucas.
Lucas added that the Buy-a-Brick Initiative is an example of what can be achieved when corporate partners, community organisations and residents work together towards a common goal. The initiative has supported housing delivery in three communities across Namibia. This year alone, fifteen houses were handed over in Okongo, 16 houses are earmarked for handover in Opuwo, and the four homes handed over today complete the Okahandja allocation. In total, 35 families will benefit this year from Standard Bank Namibia's N$2.5 million contribution to the programme.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, Special Advisor, Boniface Mutumba, described housing as a national priority requiring urgent and collective action from government, the private sector, local authorities, civil society and communities. Mutumba commended Standard Bank Namibia and its partners for their contribution towards addressing Namibia's housing challenge and improving the quality of life for vulnerable households. He further acknowledged the important role played by the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia and the Namibia Housing Action Group in advancing community-led housing solutions and ensuring that affordable housing remains accessible to low-income Namibians.
Standard Bank also recognised the longstanding contribution of the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia in empowering communities through savings groups, collective action and self-help housing initiatives, which have enabled thousands of Namibians to access decent housing opportunities.
"As Standard Bank, we remain committed to initiatives that create measurable impact and contribute to stronger communities across Namibia. Through programmes such as Buy-a-Brick, we continue to support solutions that improve lives and create positive change where it matters most," Lucas said.
The Buy-a-Brick Initiative forms part of Standard Bank Namibia's broader commitment to driving inclusive growth and supporting sustainable community development through strategic partnerships that deliver lasting social impact.
