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10HOUSEFINDER SPECIAL EDITION - PIPF | NOV 2025GIPF%u2019s investment in housing projects yields positive resultsThe Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF)%u2019s strategic investment of N$250 million into the Preferred Investment Property Fund (PIPF), a private housing and infrastructure development initiative managed by Preferred Management Services (Pty) Ltd, has proven to be a significant milestone, meeting investment objectives and delivering on socio-economic impact.The GIPF, which first partnered with PIPF in 2011, is supporting the large-scale housing developments in Osona Village, as well as in Omuthiya and Otavi. These projects aim to address Namibia%u2019s acute housing shortage while ensuring sustainable financial returns for GIPF members.According to Mr Martin Inkumbi, GIPF Chief Executive Officer, the investment forms part of the Fund%u2019s property mandate. Regulation 13 of the Pension Funds Act, 1956 (Act No. 24 of 1956), requires pension funds to allocate a minimum of 45% of their assets to Namibian investments. Property remains an attractive asset class that affords GIPF local investment opportunities. The investments into affordable housing are part of the wider commitment to fund the entire housing value chain, ensuring affordable housing for the civil servant base. %u201cPension funds can be catalytic in addressing Namibia%u2019s infrastructure and housing needs,%u201d the CEO said. %u201cTo date, GIPF%u2019s investment in PIPF has supported the Osona Village development of 2 272 residential units already erected and occupied, created more than 600 jobs through Preferred Management Services (Pty) Ltd, and stimulated local economies in three other key regions.%u201dThe Osona Village offers affordable homeownership opportunities to low- and middle-income families. It was designed as a fully integrated community, featuring schools, clinics, shops and recreational facilities, with the aim to uplift underserved communities. The development is expected to eventually accommodate over 15 000 residential units. Similar developments are taking shape in Omuthiya in the Oshikoto region and at Otavi in the Otjozondjupa region. The Fund has successfully serviced 279 erven in Omuthiya and 232 erven in Otavi. These projects are being developed with a long-term vision, focused on delivering serviced land, affordable housing and basic infrastructure to underserved communities across Namibia.GIPF monitors that the governing board of the PIPF plays an active role in overseeing the performance and governance of the fund while enabling the development team to effectively execute projects as per the terms set.%u201cWe are pleased with the progress thus far and are encouraged by the high demand. These are not just houses, they are the foundation for stable families, functioning communities and economic growth.%u201dLooking ahead, GIPF intends to continue supporting similar initiatives, particularly in regions still grappling with a significant housing backlog. Osona Village has become a national case study in effective public-private collaboration for affordable housing. PThe GIPF, which first partnered with PIPF in 2011, is supporting the large-scale housing developments in Osona Village, as well as in Omuthiya and Otavi. \\Mr Martin Inkumbi, GIPF Chief Executive Officer