The Walvis Bay Backyard Tenants group has taken a proactive step toward securing their future by launching a series of fundraising initiatives aimed at servicing their newly allocated plots at Farm 37. The group began their efforts last Friday, setting up stalls at Independence Beach to raise funds through the sale of food and beverages.
This fundraising drive is part of a larger plan by the tenants to meet the municipality halfway in covering the cost of land servicing. After years of appealing to the Walvis Bay Town Council for land, the group was thrilled to be allocated portion 19 of Farm 37 in July—a 33-hectare plot that will eventually become home to about 1,000 people.
The tenants have shown their commitment by pledging to contribute N$500 per month per member and to organize monthly fundraising activities to ensure the land is properly serviced. The group has already received its first planning quotation, which estimates the cost at N$1.5 million. Their immediate goal is to raise N$750,000 to kickstart the process.
“We are serious about fundraising,” said group representative Immanuel Festus during the kickoff event. “We want to fulfill the conditions set by the council to access our land. We invite companies in Erongo to support us. Do not wait for ghettos (shacks) to burn and come with mattresses. This is the opportunity for social responsibility.”
The event saw group members like Andreas Mvula, Dina Cornelius, Riana Hakskeen, and Cristiana Paulus passionately selling chicken, bread, and sausage to raise money for their plots. Their determination reflects the urgency and importance of the cause. “I am tired of burning shacks. We now have hope at Farm 37. We are fundraising to buy our plots. We are waiting for supporters to come and support our fundraising efforts,” said Paulus.
The group also emphasized that this is just the beginning. Additional fundraising initiatives are already being planned, with details to be revealed soon. The Walvis Bay Backyard Tenants are calling on the community and local businesses to support their efforts in making Farm 37 a reality for its future residents.
This is not just a fundraiser; it’s a movement to secure a stable, safe, and permanent home for hundreds of families who have long struggled with inadequate housing conditions. Every contribution counts toward building a better future for the members of the Walvis Bay Backyard Tenants group.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and how you can support this vital cause.