Broke Gobabis ‘approves’ 100-plot sale for N$8.8m

Zebaldt Ngaruka

GOBABIS – Gobabis mayor Elwin Gariseb on Friday differed with the community after receiving an objection to the proposed sale of 100 erven in Extension 6 to a sole applicant. It is reported that the municipality plans to sell more than 13.4 hectares of land to Mbatjiua Construction CC for N$ 8.8 million to develop 100 residential plots.

This proposed sale of land raised an outcry from residents and activists, who argue that long-waiting local individuals should be given priority over private developers. This prompted the community to show dismay to the municipal council and handed over their objection on Friday.

However, Gariseb, together with two other Swapo councillors, left the group standing.

She said he was expecting to receive a petition and not an objection letter. He explained to the community that there are procedures to be followed and laws when petitions or objection letters are to be handed over. “I was expecting a petition at 14h00 and not an objection letter. That was my understanding, and if that is not the case, you will make me leave early and do my other assignments,” Gariseb said before leaving.