On June 19, 2023, tensions flared at Farm 37 when Walvis Bay backyard tenants, frustrated by delays in their relocation process, attempted to camp at the site. Mayor Trevino Forbes intervened, urging the tenants to return home and exercise patience while their housing needs are addressed through the proper channels.
The demonstration began early Friday morning when tenants gathered outside the Kuisebmond Stadium and were transported to Farm 37, armed with a petition demanding faster action on their housing situation. Immanuel Pombili Ya Festus, spokesperson for the tenants, read the petition and expressed frustration over the slow pace of the relocation process and the perceived lack of response from the council.
Ya Festus highlighted that despite submitting their petition on April 3, 2023, and a follow-up on May 9, 2023, the council minutes indicated that no petition was received, further delaying their plans. The tenants are seeking land allocation, whether serviced or unserviced, and have suggested financial contributions to expedite the process. However, they claim the council’s reluctance to discuss their petition has hindered their progress.
Mayor Forbes responded firmly, emphasizing that the council is committed to handling the situation procedurally and transparently. He reiterated that the relocation will proceed step by step, starting with moving the first 50 residents as a benchmark. Forbes stressed that the council is working to ensure affordability and avoid mistakes, and is negotiating terms to accommodate everyone.
Forbes also criticized the committee leaders for their actions, accusing them of instigating land grabs despite being involved in the registration process. He urged the association to broaden its leadership and address the backlog of housing needs that existed prior to his administration.
While some tenants complied with Forbes’ request and left the site, others initially resisted but eventually moved. A community meeting is planned to allow residents to ask questions and seek further clarification on the relocation plans.
For more details on the ongoing housing situation in Walvis Bay and the latest updates on the relocation process, read the full article by Taati Niilenge on The Namibian here.