James Sankwasa Proposes Write-Off of Outstanding Municipal Bills for Vulnerable Groups
By TUW
The potential relief of vulnerable residents’ municipal debts took centre stage at the 2026 Regional and Local Authorities Induction Training in Swakopmund this week, where Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa called on councils to submit outstanding accounts for possible write-offs.
Addressing regional and local authority leaders, Sankwasa urged councils to identify and forward arrears linked to pensioners and people living with disabilities. He said the move is intended to cushion groups who are often the hardest hit by rising living costs and limited income opportunities.
The minister emphasised that the request is not a blanket cancellation of debt, but a process that would allow qualifying cases to be reviewed for consideration. Councils, he noted, play a critical role in ensuring that the information submitted is accurate and reflects genuine need.
While highlighting debt relief for vulnerable residents, Sankwasa also reminded councillors of their own financial responsibilities. He stressed that elected leaders must remain in good standing with municipal payments and set a standard for accountability.
“Let us lead by example. Councillors who owe municipalities must settle their bills – even through deductions,” he said.
Recently, Sankwasa disclosed that he would personally settle his own municipal debt, reinforcing his message on ethical leadership and compliance. His speech was delivered on his behalf by Deputy Minister Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele.
The induction training, attended by regional and local authority representatives from across the country, focuses on strengthening governance, financial discipline, and service delivery. Discussions this year include revenue collection challenges, and strategies to balance municipal sustainability with social responsibility.
The minister’s call for councils to submit accounts for possible write-offs signals a policy direction that seeks to protect vulnerable residents while maintaining fiscal oversight within local authorities.
