The Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia has transferred 65 hectares to Mariental authorities to address severe accommodation shortages affecting more than 3,000 households on municipal waiting lists. Outgoing mayor Cherien Kock disclosed that geographic constraints prevent further expansion, with agricultural worker retrenchments accelerating urbanization and intensifying demand for residential plots.
Former bishop Sageus /Keib stipulated that families already occupying the donated property receive priority placement, followed by other low-income applicants. Municipal leaders are pursuing the acquisition of Farm Kahas No 89, portion 16 and negotiating a five-hectare purchase from the agriculture ministry for N$5 million to accommodate residents displaced from Aimablaagte and Empelheim developments.
Former Hardap governor Solomon April, who brokered the church donation, anticipates official property transfer ceremonies during early 2026. Meanwhile, Empelheim extension five completed re-blocking procedures, yielding 730 parcels averaging 200 square meters for informal settlement occupants previously residing on sites exceeding 500 square meters.
Former bishop Sageus /Keib stipulated that families already occupying the donated property receive priority placement, followed by other low-income applicants. Municipal leaders are pursuing the acquisition of Farm Kahas No 89, portion 16 and negotiating a five-hectare purchase from the agriculture ministry for N$5 million to accommodate residents displaced from Aimablaagte and Empelheim developments.
Former Hardap governor Solomon April, who brokered the church donation, anticipates official property transfer ceremonies during early 2026. Meanwhile, Empelheim extension five completed re-blocking procedures, yielding 730 parcels averaging 200 square meters for informal settlement occupants previously residing on sites exceeding 500 square meters.
