EDITORIAL: Aussenkehr’s appalling housing conditions threaten lives

A recent fire that left hundreds of people destitute at Aussenkehr is a reminder of how employers who rake in billions of dollars through their operations continue to turn a blind eye to the appalling living conditions of their employees.

Official figures from the Namibian Police indicate that 72 thatched houses were destroyed, and affected community members lost all their belongings such as documents, food, clothes, blankets and mattresses.

For years, there has been public outcry over the inhumane living conditions of people working at the lucrative grape farms in Aussenkehr, with most of them living in reed houses that are prone to natural hazards.

The country's export of table grapes was valued at N$1.7 billion during the previous harvesting season, with 9.3 million cartons (4.5 kilograms per carton) exported.

Despite this, the lives of those working to ensure that the grape industry remains afloat do not reflect its lucrativeness.

Government is also to blame for the situation because the relevant authorities are not using their powers to compel employers to provide better housing conditions for their workers. In fact, the government was quick to donate items to those affected by the fire, while remaining oblivious to the harsh realities on the ground.