By: Mathias Hangala
The Chief Executive Officer of the Pupkewitz Foundation, Meryl Barry, says that beyond providing housing, the organisation’s model plays a significant role in stimulating local economies, creating jobs, and enabling asset formation for low-income households.
Barry made these remarks during the N$1 million pledge renewal event held in Windhoek on Wednesday.
This decade-long initiative is a partnership between the Pupkewitz Foundation, First National Bank (FNB), and Ohorongo Cement. While FNB contributes financially, the other partners provide in-kind support.
Barry emphasised that addressing Namibia’s housing backlog requires coordinated efforts between government, organised communities, civil society, and responsible private sector partners.
According to her, this renewed collaboration demonstrates how empowered communities can become effective development partners.
“The renewal reflects continuity, institutional confidence, and a shared commitment to scalable, community-led housing solutions that are accountable, sustainable, and development-orientated. Access to adequate housing is a cornerstone of social stability, health, and economic participation. It is also integral to Namibia’s broader development objectives,” she said.
Barry noted that since 2016, the Pupkewitz Foundation has partnered with FNB and Ohorongo Cement to support the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia.
She highlighted that the federation’s approach shows that effective housing delivery is achieved when communities actively participate through savings mobilisation, disciplined repayment, and involvement in planning and construction.
She added that this model combines financial governance with social empowerment, ensuring long-term impact rather than short-term relief.
Each year, the Pupkewitz Foundation contributes N$1 million towards building materials supplied through its 23 Pupkewitz Megabuild branches nationwide.
“This approach ensures accessibility, flexibility, and direct support at project level wherever communities are building. A defining strength of this partnership is its sustainability. Funds are responsibly managed, outcomes are measurable, and repayments reinforce a revolving fund that continuously expands its reach,” remarked Barry.
Meanwhile, Ohorongo Cement Chief Executive Officer, Hans-Wilhelm Schütte, said the partners are investing not only in housing, but also in dignity, opportunity, and the power of people.
He praised federation members as the true drivers of success, citing their discipline in saving, willingness to organise, and determination to build despite challenging circumstances.
“You have shown that real, lasting development does not begin with handouts, but with hard work, ownership, and collective effort,” he said.
Schütte noted that over the past decade, the partnership has delivered 533 houses valued at N$26.5 million.
Looking ahead, he said 60 additional houses are planned for 2026 and 2027, contributing to government’s housing objectives.
“Homes are not just structures, but foundations for families, stability, and future generations. This is about enabling communities to stand on their own feet and shape their own lives. When partnerships are built on trust, accountability, and shared purpose, the impact is not only measurable but lasting,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, FNB Namibia Chief Executive Officer Philip Chapman said nearly 42% of Namibians – approximately one million people – do not live in formal housing, despite it being a fundamental human need.
He stressed that housing represents more than shelter, describing it as a foundation for dignity and opportunity, values that the partnership continues to uphold.
Chapman highlighted progress in Gobabis, where over 1,100 plots have been serviced in the Freedom Square informal settlement through the Shack Dwellers Federation.
He added that similar developments are spreading across the country, with approximately 3,300 homes currently under construction.
“This is about moving families from vulnerability to stability, ensuring that mothers, fathers, and children no longer have to endure harsh living conditions. It is about creating an environment where children can grow, learn, and dream, knowing they have a place to call home,” he said.
He reaffirmed FNB’s broader role as a corporate citizen committed not only to financial services, but also to addressing societal challenges.
“Through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, we are proud to contribute N$1 million to the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia. This partnership allows us to be part of meaningful, sustainable solutions that directly impact lives. Together, we are working towards a future that is more stable, inclusive, and prosperous for all Namibians,” concluded Chapman.
