Katima Mulilo targets servicing 200 plots a year

Katima Mulilo mayor Kabende Kabende has proposed servicing 200 residential plots annually to address a housing backlog exceeding 6 000 units and to curb informal urban growth. Apart from the housing backlog, over 2 000 applicants find themselves on a waiting list dating back to 2008. Kabende, during an ordinary council meeting on Wednesday, said his motion of servicing 200 plots annually for the next five years would address the serviced land demand that continues to rise at unsustainable levels.

He said if this is not addressed with urgency, it would worsen the existing inequities and increase long-term costs associated with unplanned urban growth. “A lack of serviced plots results in a growing housing backlog, increased informal settlements, and puts pressure on existing infrastructure and basic services. “The absence of structure and an adequately funded, time-bound land servicing programme have significantly constrained the council’s ability to respond effectively to this demand.