Epukiro: The councillor of the Epukiro Constituency, Pineal Pakarae, has announced a series of initiatives aimed at supporting the San community in the Otjimanangombe settlement. This comes in response to a report highlighting the poor living conditions faced by the San people in the area.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the San community in Otjimanangombe is currently residing in makeshift plastic structures near a riverbed, lacking permanent housing. Mbeurora Gustav, representing the affected group, expressed the need for a permanent place to call home, emphasizing the challenges they face, including the lack of secure storage for their belongings and the necessity of a proper environment for their school-going children.

Pakarae noted that the San group has been living in the area for four months, having moved from Okatumba Gate in search of temporary work. Their nomadic lifestyle presents a challenge in establishing permanent shelter. The issue has been referred to the Otjimanangombe Waterpoint Committee for site allocation to provide a suitable residence for the community.

Ruth Tjonga, chairperson of the Otjimanangombe Waterpoint Committee, recognized the urgency of the situation and assured that steps are being taken to address it. She mentioned that provisions are being made for those with school-going children to build structures near Omuhaturua Primary School.

Pakarae also outlined additional initiatives in the Epukiro Constituency to support the San community. These include the establishment of permanent housing sites in various villages and the development of Osava village. Furthermore, a new waterpoint was recently handed over to the San Traditional Authority, signaling progress in infrastructure development.

In collaboration with the Harnas Foundation, the constituency plans to allocate plots for constructing 40 houses for San community members at the Epukiro Post 3 settlement. Efforts are also underway to relocate the Rooiland location to a newly established site, Extension One, with consultations involving traditional leaders.

Pakarae reiterated that these initiatives aim to provide sustainable housing and enhance the quality of life for the San community, marking a significant step towards their long-term welfare and stability.