The Otjiwarongo Municipality on Saturday launched its Mayoral Fund aimed to financially assist the impoverished residents of the town.

Launching the fund during a gala dinner here, Otjozondjupa Governor, James Uerikua emphasized the importance of the municipality to have a financial plan in place in order to assist the destitute residents, the physically challenged or school learners from impoverished households who obtain good symbols in Grade 12, with no financial backup.

“This is a good idea since the majority of our residents are in the informal areas and at many times they will need us and a hand carrying cash. I urge the municipality to use the fund for intended purposes, mostly in assisting everyone who might need it to survive,” said Uerikua.

Meanwhile, a total of N.dollars 428 500 was raised in pledges and in cash at the event, with the Cheetah Cement factory pledging the highest amount of N.dollars 100 000, followed by Standard Bank Namibia with N.dollars 70 000, towards the fund.

Also speaking at the event, Otjiwarongo Municipality Chief Executive Officer Moses Matyayi promised to supervise the fund and to see to it that it benefits residents who suffer shack fires, and those in need of wheelchairs amongst others.

The event was attended by Otjiwarongo Mayor Gottlieb Shivute and his deputy, Julienda Kampungu as well as officials from the local authority councils of Mariental, Oshakati, Gobabis, Outjo and Otavi amongst others.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency