Community Perspectives and Institutional Dynamics in Water and Sanitation Access in Havana Informal Settlement Windhoek

This study examines challenges faced by the City of Windhoek Municipality in delivering water and sanitation services to Havana informal settlement residents. It emphasizes the importance of safe sanitation facilities and joint responsibility of the Municipality and Government. Despite recognition of this responsibility, the Municipality encounters obstacles in service delivery to Havana. Using a quantitative approach, data was gathered from 35 adults aged 20 to 50 via survey questionnaires, revealing impediments to service delivery including inadequate monitoring mechanisms and operational inefficiencies. The study suggests a community-based advocacy program to raise health awareness among residents and addresses challenges such as vandalism, theft, rural-urban migration, and outdated policies affecting service delivery. It also highlights issues like insufficient household income, political interference, and a lack of qualified personnel hindering effective service delivery. In conclusion, the study underscores the Municipality’s insufficient funds to address water and sanitation challenges in Havana, proposing measures like additional flushing toilets, capacity-building, employing skilled personnel, public-private partnerships, and pre-paid meters to mitigate issues and improve service delivery.