Mariental:Hardap Governor Riaan McNab has welcomed a team of volunteers from Ireland to the region to explore potential collaboration on affordable housing projects in Mariental and Kalkrand. The initiative aims to address the region's housing backlog and improve living conditions for vulnerable communities.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the team is led by Damian O'Kane, founding partner of Build It Together. They met with the governor and local authority councillors to discuss the proposed initiative. During the meeting, McNab highlighted the significant housing shortage in Hardap, similar to other regions in Namibia, and expressed appreciation for the volunteers' willingness to assist.

McNab emphasized the importance of providing decent housing to vulnerable residents, describing it as a matter of dignity and a basic human need. He encouraged local authorities and regional administration to collaborate with the visiting team to identify suitable sites and establish a timeline for the proposed projects.

O'Kane explained that Build It Together relies on volunteers who raise funds in Ireland to cover their travel, accommodation, insurance, transport, and meals, ensuring no additional costs for host communities. Three volunteers from the organization are currently in Namibia, providing free labor for six days to assist with housing construction.

The approach could accelerate housing construction while promoting volunteerism and attracting corporate support by raising awareness of housing needs. However, the proposed housing initiative in Hardap will require further consultations, site assessments, and coordination with local authorities before construction can begin.