Govt flats become bars, salons and ‘kambashus’

The mismanagement of government flats has turned balconies into “kambashus” (shacks), prompting the works ministry to demand stricter oversight and commercial management of state properties.

This comes after works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi ordered the newly appointed interim board of the Public Assets Management Agency of Namibia (Pama) to hit the ground running and turn non-public service delivery assets into profitable government properties.

These include government houses, flats and nursing homes, but exclude facilities used directly for public service delivery such as government offices.

“If you go to those flats, one room is a barbershop, another one a bar, a cash loan and a balcony is a kambashu. People are renting out garages to their friends and some rent out government flats to friends,” Nekundi says.

Government flats have recently come under scrutiny over their management, occupancy and maintenance.

Nekundi says the management of government flats is chaotic and must be urgently addressed.

He says tenants who have retired must vacate government accommodation within 30 days and settle outstanding municipal bills.