Government denies claims of vacant old-age homes

The Ministry of Health and Social Services has responded to concerns regarding vacant units and living conditions at state-run senior citizens’ housing facilities, clarifying that while some units are currently unoccupied, they have not been vacant for years as alleged.According to ministry officials, 14 units - 11 at Senior Park Old Age Home and three at Eastern Court - are currently empty. However, they assert that these vacancies only arose in 2024. Both facilities are in Windhoek.Senior Park, which houses 154 elderly residents, operates under a cost-sharing model where tenants contribute 4% of their monthly income toward rent. For pensioners relying solely on the government’s N$1,600 grant, this amounts to N$64 per month, with an additional N$12.45 for water. However, tenants must cover their electricity bills, which range from N$400 to N$500 monthly.The ministry shoulders the remaining operational costs, which amount to between N$400,000 and N$600,000 per month. Delays in placing new tenants have been attributed to outstanding debts left by previous occupants who either relocated or passed away. Some tenants defaulted on rent and utility bills, leading to financial complications.A ministry representative confirmed that a debt write-off was conducted in 2023 and that new tenant placements are underway. However, no timeline has been provided, leading to growing frustration among elderly citizens awaiting housing. Many claim to have applied years ago without receiving feedback.A current resident at Senior Park, who requested anonymity, described the desperation of those seeking accommodation.“They come here asking if there’s space, but all I can tell them is that they should follow up with the ministry of health and social services,” the resident said.In Swakopmund, similar grievances persist. Resident Rita Bronkhorst expressed her frustration:“Citizens are responsible for maintaining these houses, yet they remain closed. My brother has been on a waiting list for six years. He even offered to repair one himself, but he’s been denied every time. Meanwhile, homes seem to be allocated to those who bid first.”Brigitte Thaumüller, who collected rent for Senior Park and Eastern Court for over 20 years until 2011, believes mismanagement is a significant issue.“Both places were in good condition until then. I think the officers responsible for allocating flats are incompetent. A person I know was told that if she paid N$3,000, she would stand a chance of getting a place. I reported it personally, but it was probably swept under the carpet,” she claimed.Namibia has 17 private old-age homes registered under the ministry, located in Windhoek, Swakopmund, Keetmanshoop, Okahandja, Lüderitz, and other towns. Additionally, seven state-managed housing units cater to low-income elderly citizens, including Senior Park, Eastern Court, and facilities in Outjo, Gobabis, Keetmanshoop, and Swakopmund.The Ministry of Works and Transport, which oversees maintenance and repairs for these state-run homes, has acknowledged the need for renovations at Senior Park. However, they stated that such work falls under capital projects and depends on budget allocations.

Government denies claims of vacant old-age homes

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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Government denies claims of vacant old-age homes

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Namibian Sun 2025-03-17

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