Private sector backs shack dwellers fund
A coalition of public and private partners has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling Namibia's housing crisis, with FNB Namibia contributing N$1 million towards the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN) as part of a renewed collaboration that also includes the Pupkewitz Foundation and Ohorongo Cement.
The reaffirmation, made at an event in Windhoek on 23 April 2026, comes against the backdrop of nearly 42% of Namibia's population, close to one million people, living in informal settlements.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of urban and rural development minister, James Sankwasa, ministerial adviser Boniface Mutumba commended the collaboration and called for it to be replicated across other sectors.
"This is an example of the public-private partnerships that we, as Government, continue to advocate for in line with NDP 6. We must ensure that this model expands beyond housing into other sectors where our people need support," Mutumba said.
He also called on beneficiary communities to remain actively involved. "I also call upon the beneficiary communities to continue contributing to this initiative by lending their time and energy in digging trenches and laying foundations. Through our own efforts, we can reduce costs and ensure that resources directly benefit those who need housing the most," he said.
The impact of the partnership is already visible. In Gobabis, the servicing of more than 1,100 plots in the Freedom Square informal settlement has enabled SDFN members to transition into formal housing. Nationwide, more than 3,000 homes are currently under construction through the Federation's community-driven model, which is rooted in savings groups, collective planning and active participation by beneficiaries in building their own homes.
Philip Chapman, CEO of Commercial at FNB Namibia, said housing was the foundation on which families built their futures.
"Housing represents more than just shelter; it is dignity, security, and the foundation upon which families build their futures. Ensuring that all Namibians have a safe and secure place to call home must remain a shared priority," Chapman said.
"As part of our continued commitment, FNB Namibia, through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, is proud to contribute N$1,000,000 towards the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia. This partnership is about moving families from vulnerability to stability, creating environments where children can grow and thrive, and ultimately securing futures for generations to come," he added.
Meryl Barry, the CEO of the Pupkewitz Foundation, pointed to the sustainability of the model.
"A defining strength of this partnership is its sustainability. Funds are responsibly managed, outcomes are measurable, and repayments reinforce a revolving fund that continuously expands reach. Beyond housing delivery, the model stimulates local economies, supports job creation, and enables asset formation for low-income households. This partnership demonstrates how empowered communities can be effective development partners," Barry said.
Hans-Wilhelm Schütte, the CEO of Ohorongo Cement, said the true heroes of the initiative were the Federation's members.
"Your discipline to save, your willingness to organise, and your determination to build, often under difficult circumstances, are what make this partnership meaningful. Real, lasting development begins with ownership and collective effort," Schütte said.
Over the past decade, the partners have invested N$26.5 million into the partnership, with more than 533 homes constructed since 2016 and additional homes planned for the coming year.
The SDFN Board, delivering the vote of thanks, expressed appreciation for the sustained support. "For over a decade, your support has strengthened the role of the non-governmental sector in driving social development. Through your partnership and solidarity, you continue to encourage us. We believe that together, we can achieve even more homes for the nation," the Board said.
