70 Walvis Bay fire victims not Namibians

Approximately 70 victims of a fire at Walvis Bay on Friday are not Namibians.

This was discovered by members of the fire response team on Saturday.

According to Municipality of Walvis Bay spokesperson Anita Kaihiva, the municipality will engage the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security next week to pave the way forward.

“The council will take a firm approach against illegal land occupation, as these actions are the cause of these catastrophes and loss of life. Our team established that most of the shacks are owned by people who have homes at or outside Walvis Bay and erected these structures for leasing purposes,” she says.

The fire occurred on land belonging to the National Housing Enterprise that was illegally occupied.

One person died in the fire and approximately 80 informal structures were destroyed.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual who lost their life in this tragic incident. The municipality coordinated temporary shelter for the affected families at one of the municipal buildings to ensure their immediate safety and comfort.”

Kaihiva says two large tents were made available as temporary shelters on Saturday morning to give the affected families time to plan accordingly. These structures will be up until Friday, after which the affected persons are expected to make alternative living arrangements.

Round Table Namibia has supplied the victims with mattresses, blankets and other necessary items, while a soup kitchen has been established by Twaloloka Aid Support and Kindness.

All donations to the victims will be coordinated through the municipality.