Tragedy in Okahandja Park: Two Children Die in Devastating House Fire. A devastating house fire in Windhoek’s Okahandja Park informal settlement has claimed the lives of two young siblings, Elias Jonathan Ndapwoita (6) and Laimi Penohamba Ndapwoita (4), leaving a community in mourning and a family shattered.
The incident occurred on Saturday night, 12 April 2025, between 20:00 and 21:00. According to emergency services, the City of Windhoek’s Fire Brigade at Maxwilili Centre received the call at 21:41 and responded promptly, arriving on scene at 21:47. Despite their swift arrival, the fire had already engulfed the home, leaving nothing to be salvaged.
The children were reportedly alone at the time. Their older brother had briefly stepped out, and their mother, Saveria Shidimbwa (45), was on night shift at a local service station. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Dr. Elijah Ngurare and Windhoek Mayor Cllr Ndeshihafela Larandja visited the family to offer their condolences and assess their immediate needs. They were accompanied by Emergency Services Chief Raymond Kapia, Tobias Hainyeko Constituency Councillor Christopher Likuwa, and former councillor Mathilda Ukeva.
Describing the event as a “deeply sorrowful moment,” the Prime Minister urged national solidarity, while the Mayor emphasised that no parent should face such a loss alone.
In response, the City of Windhoek has provided emergency relief, including a tent, mattresses, and blankets. The Khomas Regional Council also contributed food parcels to assist the family during this tragic time.