STDM was introduced to National Housing Action Group (NHAG), affiliated to Shack Dwellers International (SDI), working with local communities in Freedom Square informal settlement, Gobabis municipality in 2015. This was a step taken by the Namibian government to catalyze the implementation of the Flexible Land Tenure System (FLTS) process. The local community in Freedom Square has resided in this settlement for more than 15 years without security of tenure. This project was thus aimed at registering their land rights using the STDM as a trial to upscaling the FTLS. Prior to STDM implementation, the Freedom Square Community had been negotiating with the local government in Gobabis against relocation from this land.
This project, as reported by the NHAG has brought benefits to the local community and stakeholders alike. It has provided for the installation of water services with financial support from the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development and has shown how a community-driven upgrading process can indeed lead to successful improvements in a poor community. As a pilot, Freedom Square has laid the groundwork for the upgrading of other settlements. Additionally, the relationship between the Gobabis Municipality and local residents has really improved through meaningful dialogue between the two aimed at improving the living conditions in the settlement.
It is also important to note that the GLTN/UN Habitat has been supporting the Government of Namibia in the implementation of the Flexible Land Tenure System (FLTS). The support includes technical assistance in drafting the Flexible Land Tenure Act Regulations: Flexible Land Tenure Act 2013 (ACT 4 of 2012).
Key Partners
Namibia Housing Action Group (NHAG), Ministry of Land Reform and Resettlements, Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development, GIZ, Gobabis Municipality, University of Science and Technology, Freedom Square Settlement.
