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RESEARCH DISCUSSION PAPER Number 32 March 1999 ______________________________________________________________________ A preliminary environmental assessment of Namibia's resettlement programme by Environmental and Geographical Science Masters Students University of Cape Town (ed. Rob Blackie) ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ Directorate of Environmental Affairs Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Private Bag 13306, Windhoek, Namibia This series of Research Discussion Papers is intended to present new, preliminary, or topical information and ideas for discussion and debate. The contents are not necessarily final views or firm positions of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Comments and feedback are welcomed. Abstract This paper is adapted from a study done on resettlement schemes in Namibia by the Masters students at the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in 1998. The full report is available under the title "A retrospective assessment of the environmental implications of resettlement in the Oshikoto and Omaheke regions of Namibia", published by the Directorate of Environmental Affairs' Namibian Programme to Combat Desertification (NAPCOD). The full report gives more details on the methodology of the study, the particular characteristics of the schemes visited and the reasons for selecting these schemes. The main findings of the report are on the general process of resettlement, illuminated by five case studies in the Oshikoto and Omaheke regions. The process of resettlement of purchased land has speeded-up significantly in recent years, allowing the comparison of older ad-hoc schemes and newer better-planned schemes. All schemes are found to have fulfilled a social role by providing land to landless individuals, who are often displaced farm labourers. The purchasing of land adjacent to communal lands and in blocks, an official government policy since April 1998, is likely to lower the support costs of resettlement schemes and reduce pressure on communal land. Negative aspects of resettlement that were studied were focused on weak participation by resettlement beneficiaries and lack of coordination by different institutions involved in resettlement. More recent schemes such as the Vasdraai and Excelsior farms appear to be performing better than older schemes in this respect. A preliminary costing of some different resettlement schemes is shown, with a brief discussion of why costs vary so much between schemes. Recommendations are made on how to improve participation further, how to improve coordination between institutions, and further research to improve the process of resettlement. ii PREFACE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The report was done as part of the NAPCOD coordinated programme of research in support of its work to combat desertification, funded by the German Ministry of Economic Co-operation (BMZ) through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ). It is part of a larger series of pieces of research that aim to provide policy orientated research on the costs and benefits of different land use options, systems and tenure arrangements. The UCT team and Rob Blackie acknowledge the assistance of the following individuals who went out of their way to ensure the successful completion of the study: • Sunny Shuuya for providing botanical expertise • Mr Kanyemba, Mr Vergotine, Mr Shuumba and all others at Ministry of Lands Resettlement and Rehabilitation (MLRR) offices in Windhoek for providing valuable information and contacts and assisting with the logistics of the research • MLRR staff and settlers interviewed on the schemes visited for giving patiently and generously of their time and sharing their experiences with us • Dr. Chris Brown (previous Head of the DEA and currently Director of the Namibian Nature Foundation), Peter Tarr and all the staff at the DEA who provided much needed support, information and encouragement during the study • Dr. Helmut Woehl of GTZ for his capable support and organisation of the project's contractual and financial arrangements • DRFN for the loan of their trailer and further logistical support • Mr Mark Dummett for providing valuable anthropological insights during the field research • Alice Jarvis for reviewing the draft discussion paper and providing many valuable comments The UCT team extend their sincerest appreciation to those in Tsumeb for their generous support and care following their car accident. Special thanks go to the Beyer and Friedrich families. We wish to acknowledge the Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, UCT, especially Professor Richard Fuggle, Mr Richard Hill, and Ms. J.Barker for their valuable support and supervision of the study and Ms. Sharon Adams, Ms Sue Sayers and Mr Kevin Winter for their indispensible asssistance. Finally a special vote of thanks goes to Mr Darryll Killian of the EEU for his guidance and encouragement throughout the study. iii Table of Contents 1. The context of resettlement and land reform 1 2. Findings 1 3. Discussion of Findings 8 4. Recommendations 14 5. Research related recommendations 22 References 24 Appendix 1 25 Appendix 2 29 iv 1. The context of resettlement and land reform Land and its control are major political and economic issues across the developing world. Distribution of land is strongly influenced by history and economics. In many parts of the world current land distribution is the result of historical processes by which ruling elites have seized large areas of land from small-scale farmers. In Namibia this was initiated under German colonial rule and continued under South African rule until approximately 43% of Namibia's land area was controlled by white settlers. A long-running economic debate has raged over whether this is efficient and what action governments should take, if any. Governments in several African countries, most notably Kenya, Zimbabwe, Namibia and South Africa have decided that redistributing land (commonly known as land reform) to poorer members of society will be a way to both reduce rural poverty and reverse historical injustices. Redistribution of land has been a common government policy across Asia, Latin America and to a lesser extent Africa during the past 50 years. Two broad models of land reform exist. The most common, as implemented in Namibia and Zimbabwe, is to resettle people on land bought by the government. Less common, but gaining acceptability internationally, is the market-based model by which the government provides finances and services (such as agricultural extension) to allow people to buy land themselves and establish small farms. This is being piloted at present in Brazil, Colombia and South Africa. Since market-based approaches to land reform in South Africa have only recently been initiated, there is little evidence from the region to compare this new approach with the more traditional resettlement schemes. The Namibian government instituted a land reform programme in 1990. This aims to resettle people on both communal land and on commercial farms bought by the government and hence improve the quality of life of the resettled communities by provision of land for settlement and agricultural practices. The main target groups so far have been ex-combatants, the San community, landless people, the disabled and retrenched farmworkers. 2. Findings The aim of this section is to draw out the main issues pertaining to resettlement in Namibia as 1 identified in the case studies of the resettlement projects. Specific criteria were used to characterise the case studies in order to achieve clarity and ease of assessment (Appendix 1). However, during this process it was observed that descriptive characteristics were intricately linked and could be narrowed down to a number of common issues. This discussion collates the descriptive characteristics from the case studies and concludes with the issues which are fundamental to the successful implementation of resettlement at the case study projects. Implications of these findings are discussed in section 3. This discussion leads to recommendations (presented in section 4), which are intended to enhance the strengths and mitigate weaknesses of the resettlement programme as identified by the study. 2.1 Progress since 1990 In the immediate post 1990 period, which saw the establishment of the Ministry of Lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation, the resettlement of people on farms and communal land occurred without any supporting legislative or policy framework. Milestones in public debate have been the 1991 National Land Conference and the 1994 People's Land Conference. The Resettlement Policy was approved in 1996, and the Agricultural (Commercial) Land Reform Act in 1995. Increased funding was announced for land purchase in 1995, with the commitment of N$20 million a year (Werner, 1997). Progress in acquiring land for resettlement has increased since then (Table 1). Table 1 – Farms purchased for resettlement Period No. of commercial farms purchased Percentage 1990–5 17 43% 1996–7 22 57% Total 39 100% The primary objective of the redistribution of land to the landless has been relatively successful so far with the resettlement of about 16,000 people, of whom about 2,000 have been resettled on former commercial farms (Shanyengana, 1998). The Land Policy which was passed by the National Assembly in April 1998 confirmed government's commitment to land redistribution. It emphasises that future purchases of commercial farmland will focus on buying blocks of land, or land adjacent to communal areas. 2 The land tax, which was provided for in the Agricultural (Commercial) Land Reform Act, will be introduced and is likely to make land much cheaper by inducing sales by many farmers who are not farming profitably. Lastly, the provision for community tenure, amongst other types, will provide a legal framework within which to transfer land to settlers. The final legislative components, namely the Agricultural Communal Land Reform Act, the Amendment Agricultural Commercial Land Reform Act (which aims to simplify the process of allocating land for resettlement) and the Resettlement Act are expected in the near future. 2.2 Dependency on government provision The success thus far of Namibia's Resettlement Policy to "uplift the living standard of all Namibians" is questionable on the basis of the evidence presented in this report. Contrary to the policy's aim of creating self sufficiency among the settlers within a 5 year period, continued dependency of the majority of registered people on government provisions, such as food and clothing, was apparent. Many of the problems raised by both settlers and administrators of the projects pertain to difficulties encountered by them in attempting to comply with the objectives of the resettlement policy, while satisfying individual needs. The majority of poorer settlers continue to rely on provisions from the government. However, many settlers are unable to improve their standard of living, due to circumstances beyond their control. This, however, does not mean that settlers are unable to provide for themselves. Many strategies are employed on the schemes to suit local changing requirements and individual aspirations. Problems arise when these strategies conflict with the objectives of the schemes. The following discussion presents examples of the complex and interconnected nature of such strategies and conflicts. It should be emphasised that the issues and linkages among them are by no means mutually exclusive but have, for purposes of clarity, been presented as separate discussions. 2.3 Alternative income generating strategies Apart from government run income generating activities such as the sale of produce from communal gardens and small scale knitting and sewing projects, no formal strategies for the 3 generation of income for individual gain are evident on the schemes. Limitations associated with a lack of access to income are expressed by settlers as an overriding constraint to self- sufficiency. Major social implications are evident in the lack of money necessary for such requirements as school fees, medical emergencies, transport, supplementary food, house furnishings and financial security for the future, to mention but a few. One of the consequences is the domination and exploitation by "those who have" over "those who need". This is evident in cases both within the settler community, and between settlers and entrepreneurs not registered with the projects. Situations occur where goods and services which are difficult for poorer settlers to access are provided at unrealistic prices by the more affluent. The below-average financial situation of many of the settlers is exacerbated by institutionally imposed regulations. Food for Work, the system on which most schemes are based, serves to preclude the potential for gainful employment of the settlers. Requiring that the settlers spend a substantial amount of time on the scheme for communal activities with minimal financial reward (the system observed on the majority of schemes visited during the study) prevents individuals from becoming economically independent. The applicability of the Food for Work scheme to the specific resettlement projects is complex and involves a number of other dimensions. Thus, it cannot be categorically stated that the system itself is inappropriate. The manner in which it presently operates on many of the projects, does, however, appear to be detrimental to the improvement of general living standards of the settlers. Another factor contributing to the lack of interest in government projects is the control of the process by those in positions of power. Marketing of the products of most government projects is typically controlled by project administrators. Apparent confusion by many settlers over allocation of profits from the sales, instils mistrust, anger and ultimately disinterest in continuing with the project. This socio-economic environment has led to the resettlement schemes becoming an accessible source of cheap labour for surrounding farmers. Settlers resort to employment which provides below average salaries and benefits in order to supplement their income. The sustainability of the resettlement process relies to a large extent on the ability of settlers to 4 become financially independent. As discussed above, some factors inherent in the implementation of the resettlement process on certain schemes may prevent, rather than encourage, sustainability. 2.4 Government services It should be emphasised that these are not unanimous feelings expressed by settlers about provisions on all projects. Complaints often referred only to certain aspects of provisions. Some examples of general dissatisfaction include complaints that: • the food is not nice/sufficient • no furniture is provided for the houses • houses are too hot or do not have enough rooms • water, diesel and/or transport provisions are insufficient • food rather than money is received for working. Examples of disuse and abuse of services and provisions include the fact that: • many of the partially-constructed houses remain incomplete • theft or damage of materials and equipment or infrastructure occurs. It is not possible to determine from such a restricted research period the reasons for the above circumstances or even whether the explanations given by either the authorities or the settlers are valid. What is clear, though, is the exacerbation of the problems by the lack of tenure security or rights of ownership. This contributes to low motivation levels to contribute to communal activities such as working in communal vegetable gardens or, in some cases, the completion of houses. Uncertainty over specific rights of the settlers was observed. Both settlers and administrators were often unclear as to specific allocation of plots, lease and activity requirements and project objectives. The unwillingness to invest time and effort in activities on many of the schemes is closely associated with insecurity of ownership rights. Personal benefit from such communal activities is limited, particularly when there is a lack of a sense of community on the projects. Often the manner in which these activities are managed (settlers are supervised rather than 5 encouraged to take initiative) further serves to decrease incentives. Such uncertainty frustrates attempts at self-improvement and runs counter to the stated objectives of the resettlement policies. The settlers do not possess formal documentation which specifies the rights they have over their land. It is not necessary that the settlers be given full private ownership, but rather that they are certain of their rights and have a written document which can be used as security. Agribank will consider lending to people with long term leasehold agreements. 2.5 Use of natural resources The primary natural resources relied upon by the resettlement schemes visited are wood, water and pasture. There are many facets to this issue. From a purely technocratic view, there is a general absence of monitoring, evaluation and control of the use of natural resources, particularly on the more established schemes visited. Access to these resources also involve complex socio-political issues such as: • The lack of community-based maintenance of facilities on most schemes • Limited ownership of certain resources by those who most use them limits responsibility for misuse or overuse. Some strategies associated with the use of specific natural resources may be linked to further issues on the resettlement schemes and are discussed below. 2.5.1 Water Although it was not possible to determine the extent of water usage on the projects many complaints emerged citing the lack of availability of water as a major limitation to self- sufficiency and the failure of crops. As an arid country, such climatic constraints to activities are to be expected. Issues surrounding access to water on many schemes reflect social circumstances such as the theft of equipment and lack of community-based water management systems. 2.5.2 Pasture Exceeding the carrying capacity of the land in terms of overgrazing does not appear to be a 6 constraining factor on the resettlement projects. This could be attributed to the relatively low numbers of livestock owned by the majority of settlers as well as the relatively recent establishment of some of the schemes visited. Further, the fact that the schemes are developed on previously established farmland makes it difficult to determine how much of the environmental impact is due to resettlement. The lack of clarity and control over rights of the "grazers" is an important issue on the schemes. Grazers include residents who are not registered with the projects but who have generally obtained permission to graze livestock on this land. 7 3. Discussion of findings Most problems are related in some way to the lack of empowerment of the settlers due to the top-down approach of the majority of schemes visited. The failure of most of the settlers thus far to achieve self sufficiency is aggravated by the imposition of an inappropriate "development" system on them which completely disregards not only their wants and needs, but also existing skills and abilities to provide for themselves. Inherent in any development process is the underlying assumption that the existing situation is inadequate. Blaming this situation on social and cultural deficiencies of those constrained by it, serves only to lower confidence levels and further alienate the poor from the rest of society. This is particularly pertinent to the dominating approach of government employees, adopted in aspects of the resettlement process evident on most of the schemes visited. A number of underlying institutional trends were observed during the research. These common issues are relevant to the approach or manner in which the resettlement process is implemented, and may, if amended, contribute to the greater possibility of a sustainable resettlement process. These are discussed below. Many of these institutional shortcomings of the Ministry of Lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation (MLRR) are already recognised by the ministry itself. Steps have recently been taken to train staff, further involve settlers in decision making and improve transparency. In many cases, it is not possible to determine single underlying causes of the problem issues due to the complex and interconnected nature of the issues. However, the discussion below attempts to link the issues of resettlement and to provide possible solutions to problems encountered. The amalgamation of information used for this section was gathered from the case studies, observations, interviews and literature review. 3.1 Co-operation and co-ordination of institutions Co-operation between, and co-ordination within, the various sectoral line ministries at all levels greatly increases the chances of a successful implementation process for resettlement. 8 The same is true of co-operation between governmental organisations and non-governmental organisations and community-based organisations. The degree of fulfilment of formal activities outlined in the Resettlement Policy, with respect to the various roles required by different ministries is unclear. A certain amount of co- operation between these various sectors appears to exist (both formally and informally) on a regional and local level. Where clear co-operation does exist, the results have generally been extremely positive. A good example is the Excelsior resettlement scheme which operates on the basis of co- operation between an international donor agent, EPTISA and the MLRR. Further examples include the provision of education, health and agricultural services on or near some resettlement schemes. Problems encountered with provision of services generally relate to the manner and regularity with which they are provided or the costs of using them. For example the lack of income presents an obstacle to school children who are denied access as fees charged by the individual schools cannot be paid or school uniforms cannot be bought. Vasdraai is also an example of co-ordination between government and NGO's, in that NANGOF has been involved in consultation with settlers and the government prior to the settlement of people on the farm. Resettlement shares some common goals with areas of interest such as rural development, education, agriculture, environment, water and health. Since the ministries involved have agreed to the Resettlement Policy they should make clear budgetary provisions to support resettlement schemes, and enhance co-operation. Similarly duplication of effort could be avoided if organisations in resettlement projects communicate and share information and experiences. For example, although veterinary services provided to livestock owners on the schemes record the number of livestock present, no attempt is made to adhere to the carrying capacity on the farms. A lack of co-operation and integration is evident between ministries at national level. Further, repercussions of the control of the resettlement process primarily from the level of central government are most felt at the specific programme and project implementation of schemes. 9 Repercussions from this approach include lack of maintenance and repair of boreholes, inappropriate agricultural training, and increased marginalisation of settlers due to insufficient and irregular goods and service provision. The lack of support for resettlement from partner ministries also contributes to this. Opportunities to improve the situation exist in the forthcoming decentralisation of the government as well as increased encouragement of community-based management projects so that those most affected have the power to improve their situation. This would go a long way to promoting self-sufficiency as well as considerably reducing the overwhelming workload of the MLRR. 3.2 Communication links Communication is integral to all aspects of resettlement. In order for planning, co-operation and co-ordination, participation and capacity-building to be effective, communication between all parties involved is essential. Communication problems are evident at the various levels between: • settlers themselves • settlers and local, regional and national authorities • different levels of the MLRR • other involved ministries. Communication problems between the settler communities on the schemes are compounded by linguistic social, cultural, and economic differences. Increased awareness of these differences would improve the situation somewhat, as would a representative community committee to which settlers could go to settle disputes or problems. This is however, a complex topic involving a range of socio-political factors not exclusive to problems of resettlement. Channels of communication on the schemes, especially for complaints are often not clear or are perceived as not working. This limits interaction between settlers and authorities. Language is often an additional obstacle to clear communication between the settlers and authority figures. The situation is often worsened by both cultural and gender insensitivity on the part of both authorities and settlers. Whether or not they are justified, preconceptions and 10 judgements based on differences preclude understanding and co-operation. Reflections of this lack of communication are evident in the over-simplified justifications often given by authorities for failures of government activities on the schemes. This regularly manifests itself as a perception of the culture or attitude of the settlers as being lazy and ungrateful or that they are simple, unadaptable or traditional. This derogatory view limits the likelihood of settlers expressing their concerns and resignation over problems and contributes to the lack of motivation. Relatively effective verbal communication seems to exist at various levels within the MLRR in day to day activities. Dissemination of information followed by appropriate actions does not however, appear to function optimally. Instances of this include the lack of implementation of recommendations made in reports on some of the schemes written by employees of the MLRR itself. In addition lack of information may prevent employees of other ministries from being aware of their intended role in resettlement programmes. 3.3 Consultation and participation Improvements to the resettlement process, with respect to prior consultation with settlers, are evident on the more recently established schemes visited, especially the Excelsior and Vasdraai case studies. Certain aspects of participation, particularly on Excelsior and Vasdraai are also improving. Given the country's climatic, social and economic constraints, there are limitations to the range of activities that can be undertaken. Activities of the settlers on most of the schemes are still prescribed by the ministry and strict control over certain activities is maintained. Examples of this include control over: • agricultural methods such as what crops to plant and when to plant them • income generating activities such as knitting, sewing, brick-making and agricultural schemes, marketing of the products and in many instances control of the proceeds • distribution of goods and services such as the Food for Work scheme • type and amount of training or capacity enhancement of the settlers, such as agricultural training 11 • housing design and sometimes housing location. Settler participation in the decision making processes is rare. Instances in which participation does occur have the potential for a far greater increase in the standard of living of the settlers. Previously mentioned issues such as dissatisfaction with government provisions and a lack of motivation, have the potential to be mitigated through increased consultation and participation. However, a major limitation in the approach to resettlement on the schemes visited remains. This is the lack of choice available to the settlers in terms of alternatives or complements to the agriculturally based resettlement programme. These include access to alternatives such as jobs in urban areas. There is awareness of the limitations to the MLRR's present approach to resettlement and the situation is apparently under review (Kandjii, pers. comm.) Most problems are related to the immediate meeting of basic needs and therefore the opportunity to develop an ability to meet future needs is neglected. Clerks see themselves as supervisors who have to control the schemes and do not seem to encourage the settlers as decision-makers or right-holders. 3.4 Planning Due to the political and social urgency of land reform, the planning of the resettlement schemes in some places has been on an ad hoc basis. The chances for the successful implementation of a policy increase when strategic policy goals are converted to measurable objectives with allocated responsible functions within realistic time frames. At present, much confusion exists on implementation issues resulting in ad hoc management and decreased efficiency. Of all the resettlement schemes visited, only Excelsior, a project with strong MLRR support as a pilot, has a management plan and is operated according to longer-term, yet relatively flexible objectives. Monitoring and evaluation of the success of the resettlement schemes forms an essential part of planning future schemes. An agreement presently exists between the MLRR and NANGOF to evaluate some of the schemes, which presents a useful opportunity for an independent assessment of the resettlement programme. 3.5 Capacity enhancement The MLRR recognises the lack of capacity within their institution and is, with assistance from 12 foreign aid organisations such as IBIS and ITC, in the process of addressing such weakness. At a project level, capacity enhancement of both the MLRR administrators and the settlers through participation and effective communication rather than imposed training methods promise to increase the likelihood of achieving the goals of the resettlement policy. Capacity enhancement with respect to human resource skills and technical skills is required at all institutional levels. This would go a long way to reducing conflicts arising from social and cultural differences and may improve the co-operation and communication on the projects. 3.6 Conclusion Given the legacy of inequitable land distribution in Namibia, the government has instituted a resettlement programme to rectify this imbalance and thereby alleviate poverty. Because of the political urgency of the land issue, an ad hoc approach to resettlement has been followed in the schemes which were undertaken in the years immediately following Independence. As a result, implementation has not always been carried out with adequate planning or capacity. Although the objective of land redistribution has been addressed to some extent, the manner in which it has been implemented, and the long term nature of resettlement programmes means that success in addressing aims such as poverty alleviation is difficult to assess. To an extent this depends on how poverty is defined. Most residents of resettlement schemes expressed gratitude for being resettled, hence poverty has been alleviated in the sense that their livelihoods have been improved. However whether long term objectives of development are met will require more analysis over a longer period of time. 13 4. Recommendations The recommendations in this section are based on the conclusions of the research undertaken as described in sections two and three and the main report. The limitations of extrapolating the results of five specific case studies (as described in the main report) to the policy level are acknowledged and taken into account. In order to achieve the long term success of resettlement in Namibia it is necessary that the priorities, goals and government policies be reviewed in terms of the aims they wish to achieve. The government currently does not have a consistent method of comparing policies across the sectors, partly as a consequence of having limited information on the value of different approaches to development in Namibia. In reviewing government policy, it is imperative that the realities and challenges which face resettlement in Namibia be acknowledged. Namibia has an arid and harsh climate which makes crop farming a difficult and risky (if not impossible) occupation in most areas. The increasing price of water for irrigation means that in many areas only livestock production will be feasible. 4.1 Strategic environmental assessment All developments need to be assessed at a strategic level in order to consider alternatives to, and the mitigation of, impacts on the environment and the people that are potentially involved. The most strategic level at which to make decisions is that of policy and legislative development. This is because strategic decisions provide the opportunity for the consideration of the widest range of alternatives (Hansen, et al., 1997). The consideration of alternatives can be done by means of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). In Namibia such strategic issues are usually dealt with at project level by feasibility studies. Strictly speaking, an SEA should consider the 'no go' alternative. Similarly feasibility studies, such as those undertaken recently for the Epupa and Möwe Bay projects, must establish whether the project satisfies a minimum economic rate of return, usually set at 8% or 10% in Namibia. Resettlement projects by their very nature are long term and, due to the lack of information on pre 1990 schemes in Namibia, assessing the long term benefits is 14 not yet possible. One appropriate approach is to quantify the costs per household for different schemes to facilitate easier comparison of the benefits produced. This is done below, showing the gross costs to the government (e.g. what must be paid now to establish resettlement schemes) and the net costs (taking into account planned cost recovery). Table 2: Costs of resettlement Scheme Gross cost per household Net cost per household (N$) (N$) Namatanga/ Elandsput 122,667 34,945 Klein Huis 212,000 44,468 Stilte 148,500 45,869 Vasdraai 10,000 10,000 Excelsior 187,673 187,673 Gam 79,670 79,670 See Appendix 2 for derivation of these estimates. Note that all of these are on commercial farms except Gam. These projects compare favourably to many large capital intensive projects undertaken by the government. Further analysis would be needed to assess how they compare to other livelihood generation strategies. What stands out though is the much lower costs of the schemes such as Vasdraai and Namatanga, due to their limited costs beyond land acquisition, and the degree of cost recovery they are attempting. In addition it appears that they are cheaper than a project on communal land such as Gam. Namibia's Environmental Assessment Policy (1995) states that all listed policies, programmes and projects, whether initiated by government or the private sector, should be subject to the established Environmental Assessment procedures. "Human resettlement" is defined as a listed activity in terms of the policy. The Environmental Management Act which is intended to give legal effect to this policy, is currently in the draft stage (For more details see Research Discussion Paper 28). Strategic environmental assessments under the Act will not be done as stand alone studies, but rather involve broad stakeholder participation in the policy and legislation formulation process, as has already occurred to some extent for the Resettlement Policy and the Land Policy. 15 4.2 Assessment of the resettlement programme Resettlement in Namibia has political, economic and social benefits in terms of returning land to the landless in order to alleviate poverty. However, the success of resettlement is constrained by a number of limitations inherent in the policy. These limitations pertain to: • what resettlement is trying to achieve • who resettlement is intended to benefit • where resettlement is to take place. 4.2.1 Aims of the Resettlement Policy The policy needs to specifically state its aims and the manner in which it intends to achieve them. This means setting measurable objectives and targets, the time frame in which these objectives and targets should be achieved and the accompanying responsibilities of departments and divisions. It is important that targets be process oriented rather than product oriented. Settlers should be involved in the setting of targets such as the rate at which houses should be built. 4.2.2 Target groups The policy needs to be more specific about target groups to be resettled. Currently there is a wide range of target groups each with a diversity of needs. The policy identifies the San as the group most in need of help, and yet the case studies have shown that their needs are not being adequately addressed and in some cases they are being further marginalised. 4.2.3 Selection of Areas for Resettlement The "Agricultural Potential Assessments" carried out by the Land Use Planning Unit of the MLRR for some of the resettlement projects are useful and appropriate. It is recommended that these assessments take place before, and not after, a farm has been bought. The recommendations of these assessments should be taken into account and in areas unsuitable for crop farming resettlement in its current form is not recommended. 4.2.4 Tenure arrangements The policy is not clear on the forms of tenure that are expected to be established, however it 16 seems that individual tenure arrangements are to be promoted. There are however certain natural resources which should not or cannot be subdivided such as water and grazing land. Studies across southern Africa that have compared the efficiency of "ranch" systems and "communal" systems have consistently found "communal" systems to be more productive (Scoones ed. 1995: 12). Hence tenure should support the key characteristics of these systems which are flexibility and mobility. The new land tenure system for Namibia, currently being developed by the MLRR will contain new legal options for rural areas, including forms of tenure that may be appropriate for resettlement schemes. It is recommended that these options be considered. 4.2.5 Framework Approach The policy is very general and while this allows for a broad and flexible approach to resettlement, it does not give much guidance in terms of practical implementation of the resettlement programme. The flexible nature of the policy is important in terms of responding to the variety of conditions within Namibia and a rigid policy would not be practical. It is recommended that a framework approach in terms of provision of guidelines for resettlement be adopted. This framework would not dictate the exact manner in which resettlement should be implemented, but could include options on tenure, services and infrastructure, appropriate technology, housing and sanitation, land use and agricultural practices. The options could be made available in the form of guidelines. The framework approach would necessarily promote a 'bottom up' approach as decisions would be taken at a local level rather than imposed from 'above'. One option could be, that when a resettlement scheme is started, the community could be given a 'shopping list' and a finite 'budget' to which they could assign their highest priorities and in so doing participate in decisions which affect them. 4.3.Institutional issues 4.3.1 Capacity The MLRR acknowledges its limitation in terms of capacity and has implemented a number of 17 capacity building programmes to improve technical and planning skills. It is recommended that these programmes be continued and in expanded to include a more holistic approach to human resource development. Management, interpersonal and conflict resolution skills should be included in the programmes. 4.3.2 Communication and co-ordination Inter-ministerial communication was identified as a major weakness in the successful implementation of resettlement. In order to facilitate better communication it is recommended that: • Clear channels of communication and procedures for communication be established • Regular meetings between ministries should be arranged • Reports should be regularly produced and distributed to the relevant ministries to indicate progress and share information • Reports should be available to the public in order to improve the transparency and accountability of ministerial actions • Reports by partner ministries should also be produced to show how they are assisting the resettlement process. 4.4.1 Project level-Environmental Impacts Both policies and programmes, as well as projects with regard to human resettlement are subject to an Environmental Assessment according to the National Environmental Assessment Policy. With this in mind it is recommended that the Environmental Assessment Procedure as stipulated in Namibia's Environmental Assessment Policy (1995) be carried out on all government farms prior to the resettlement of people. Farms which are being considered for purchase should also be subject to such scrutiny. Where resettlement schemes are already in existence it is suggested that an evaluation be conducted to identify current problems. It is recognised that conducting a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for each farm would greatly increase the costs of resettlement and would require an increased capacity in terms of manpower. For this reason it is suggested that a 'pre-feasibility' study or Initial 18 Assessment be undertaken. This Initial Assessment would indicate whether significant impacts were expected or if the environment is unsuitable for the anticipated development. If significant impacts are identified during the Initial Assessment, a full Environmental Impact Assessment should be carried out. In terms of an Initial Assessment (or evaluation where a resettlement scheme already exists) it is recommended that the following issues be addressed: The biophysical environment • wood and water usage • bush encroachment • biodiversity loss • desertification. The socio-economic environment • types of people to be resettled • ethnic relations • specific needs of the settlers • opportunities for settler participation in the resettlement process • access to services and infrastructure • types of training required by settlers • skills of settlers which could be utilised on the project • ability to enhance nearby resettlement schemes. Alternatives and appropriate technology • Appropriate technology and alternatives in terms of housing, pumps for boreholes, agricultural equipment and crops, and waste management. Mitigation measures • The Initial Assessment or Evaluation should provide mitigation measures to minimise any negative environmental impacts of the resettlement project. 19 Monitoring and evaluation • The Initial Assessment should set up a baseline of information for the purpose of monitoring and evaluation. Information should include data on rainfall, carrying capacity, vegetation cover, borehole water levels, water quality and erosion. • Where resettlement projects are already in existence, it is recommended that studies be done to monitor and evaluate the project so that, where necessary, mitigation measures can be implemented to minimise environmental impacts and maximise the chances of success. Carrying Capacity • It is recommended that carrying capacity of farms be established and reviewed on a regular basis. This will facilitate effective management of natural resources on these farms. Livestock control would be much easier and self enforcing if the carrying capacity is determined. Management plans • The Initial Assessment or Evaluation must lead to the development of a management plan. It is necessary that this management plan be flexible enough to allow for changes at later stages as well as include participation by settlers. • The management plan should contain an agricultural plan for the farm with measurable objectives and targets and the means to achieve them. Participation of settlers should be encouraged in the setting of targets and objectives. • The manager/caretaker of the farm must have the necessary skills/training to be able to implement the management plan. This does not require that they are agricultural experts, but rather that they can communicate with and motivate the settlers. 4.4.2 Role of Managers/Clerks/Caretakers It is recommended that at each individual resettlement project the role of managers and clerks be tailored to suit the needs of that particular project. As a general recommendation, the role of these officials should be that of facilitation (in a similar way to an extension officer) rather than management or supervision so as to encourage a "bottom up" approach to decision making as well as to encourage settlers to take charge of their situation. 20 It is further recommended that official supervision and management be eventually phased out so that settlers can be increasingly empowered to take charge. 4.4.3 Participation and Empowerment Empowerment of settlers through participation in decision making needs to be encouraged. It is recommended that participation be improved via: • regular meetings initiated by both settlers and officials • consultation before decisions are taken, for instance in layout of the houses, house design, types of crops to be grown • promoting flexibility in terms of the options available to settlers • where applicable, skills other than agricultural skills should be recognised and utilised. For example, some settlers have mechanical skills which could be used for maintenance and repair of equipment. Settlers' committees at resettlement schemes should be fully representative of the community in terms of ethnic groups, sex and age groups, since these committees are intended to represent the community as well as facilitate participation in decision making processes. There is potential to co-ordinate committee training with the Community Based Management of Rural Water Supply training of waterpoint committees. It is recommended that: • committees should have voting powers in terms of decisions and should not be purely advisory • the clerk (or any other government official) can not be a member of the settler's committee. 4.4.4 Education and Training Participation and empowerment can be achieved or enhanced by prioritising education, adult literacy and skills training. In addition to this settlers need the opportunity to use their initiative and to take control of, and responsibility for, the resettlement projects. 21 It is recommended that considerable focus be placed on developing the management, financial and marketing skills of the settlers if the projects are to develop into commercially successful ventures which are sustainable in the long term. It is recommended that training be in the form of 'hands on' practical training and not just by demonstration. 5. Related research recommendations 5.1 Rights of farm labourers A substantial number of settlers on the resettlement projects seem to be displaced farm labourers (i.e. who have lost their jobs and hence their homes), thus increasing the numbers of people who apply to be resettled. This was especially evident at the case study farms in the Gobabis region. It is thus recommended that further research be undertaken into securing the rights of farm labourers. 5.2 Food for work programme The manner in which the Food for Work Programme is currently operating on many of the case study schemes appears to be detrimental to the improvement of general living standards of the settlers. The Programme was initially intended as a drought relief mechanism with a finite time span, and was adopted by the National Resettlement Policy with the stipulation that food for work be terminated after five years of each resettlement projects' initiation. At Tsintsabis the programme is still running and there is evidence that it has created a degree of settler dependence on the government, constrained settlers in the choices that they could make and to some extent, reduced the incentive to become self sufficient. It is recommended that research be conducted into the necessity of this programme and mechanisms for implementing it more efficiently. 22 5.3 Tenure options It is suggested that further research be conducted into other tenure options, including communal tenure and group tenure options, individual tenure, and a combination of individual and communal tenure - for instance, individual plots for crop gardens and communal tenure for grazing land. 5.4 Target Groups Further research into the specific needs and behaviour of target groups is needed to alleviate poverty on an equal basis. 5.5 Credit for settlers Settlers have difficulty obtaining credit because of their high risk of default. • Research needs to be undertaken into the possibilities of developing joint ventures between credit organisations and the Namibian government in order to provide financial assistance to settlers. An example already exists in the Ministry of Agriculture's Northern Livestock Development Programme's arranging for small numbers of goats to be handed over to the poorer members of communities to allow them to become self reliant. • The options of NGO assistance be considered (e.g. the Namibian NGO RISE). • Close attention should also be paid to the South African Land Bank's scheme of making very small amounts of money available to settlers and allowing them to build up a positive credit rating. If this is successful a similar model could be applied in the Namibian context. 5.6 Economic costs of resettlement A prerequisite to research into the economic costs of resettlement is that increased transparency, monitoring and record keeping is required in order to make the necessary information available. It is essential that a more accurate figure of the cost per person can be obtained for resettlement projects. This should include land purchase costs, capital and running costs of the resettlement projects and the operational costs of the resettlement division of the MLRR. This will allow more accuracy in assessment of the different types of schemes that are being undertaken. 23 REFERENCES Hansen, G et al. 1997 Early Strategic EAs: Three case studies. Proceedings of the IAIAsa conference on Integrated Environmental Management in southern Africa: The state of the art and lessons learnt. September 1997. NAPCOD, 1996 Policy factors and desertification - analysis and proposals. Namibian Programme to Combat Desertification, Desert Research Foundation of Namibia, Ministry of Environment and Tourism and Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Rural Development, Windhoek. 127pp. Republic of Namibia, 1995 Namibia's environmental assessment policy. Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Windhoek. 17pp. Republic of Namibia, 1996 The National Resettlement Policy. Ministry of Lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation, Windhoek. 18pp. Scoones, I 1995 Living with uncertainty: New directions in pastoral development in Africa. Intermediate Technology Publications, London, UK. 207pp. Shanyengana, M 1998 th An overview of resettlement in Namibia. Paper for a workshop on resettlement, Windhoek 6–7 July 1998. 30pp. Werner, W 1997 Land reform in Namibia: The first seven years. Namibia Economic Policy Research Unit, Windhoek. 17pp. 24 Appendix 1: Assessment Criteria: Example of the main study findings from Drimiopsis Assessment of Drimiopsis in terms of the Criteria 1. Assessment of Policy-related Criteria at Drimiopsis Policy-related Criteria Discussion Achievement of policy's aims and objectives in The lack of formal, regular access to income is the main factor terms of: limiting the achievement of poverty alleviation at Drimiopsis and • poverty alleviation one of the main roles served by the camp is that of a transitory location for settlers between part-time jobs. Poverty alleviation with regard to the satisfaction of basic needs is achieved on Drimiopsis to the extent that settlers are regularly provided with food parcels, shelter, water, basic health and education facilities. There is no regular access to clothing. Many settlers however, remain on or just above the poverty line. • self sufficiency within five years Initially as a temporary resettlement camp, and more recently a transitory camp, the main purpose of Drimiopsis was not to assist settlers to achieve self-sufficiency. However, some settlers are now permanent residents on the camp and have not achieved self sufficiency in the six years on the camp as they still rely on the government for the goods and services presented above. • achievement of the political goal of access to Some of the previous settlers of Drimiopsis have been relocated to land farms such as Skoonheid, and have therefore achieved access to land. However, some settlers have been waiting for six years to be relocated from Drimiopsis. • employment through full-time farming Employment through full-time farming has not been achieved at Drimiopsis. Many of the residents are relatives of farm-workers who work part-time on farms in the region. • integration of settlers into the market economy Settlers are integrated into the market economy only through assistance of the clerk who is responsible for the marketing and sale of produce from the communal garden. Projects attempting to achieve this aim, such as sewing and knitting projects for women have been discontinued at Drimiopsis. • access to credit via documentation of secure Access to credit via documentation of secure tenure has not been tenure achieved as none of the settlers have received written contracts with regard to their tenure at Drimiopsis. 25 2. Assessment of Socio-economic Criteria at Drimiopsis Socio-Economic Criteria Discussion Written advertisement and application procedure Advertisement of the application procedure was not a topic broached with the settlers interviewed, however, settlers waiting to be relocated from Drimiopsis had completed MLRR application forms. Security of tenure in terms of unchallenged access Due to the size of the camp, settlers at Drimiopsis had restricted to and use of land access to land for purposes of agriculture. Individual properties seemed to be limited to small plots with housing. Use of these plots is unrestricted in terms of allowing the settler to choose whether and what crop they want to plant. Use of settlers' skills for their benefit as well as for Settlers were required to work in the communal garden, however, the benefit of the project maintenance of services and infrastructure is done primarily by government employees. Awareness of illnesses such as TB and Malaria is taught by the mobile clinic as are basic methods of treatment. In all other respects activities of settlers in terms of requirements on the camp are supervised by the clerk. Education is encouraged on the project which teaches pupils certain skills such as literacy. Access to services and infrastructure Access to School is provided for some of the younger settlers. Access to water is limited due to the general lack of water in the region. Permanent toilet facilities are under construction at the camp. Access to permanent electricity, transport, security and health facilities is problematic for the settlers at Drimiopsis. A shop is located near the camp. Settler expectations which match the government's Evidence that the expectations of settlers exceeded government ability/willingness to provide provisions included general discontent of the settlers with provisions such as food, housing, and water provision amongst others. Access to supplementary forms of income and Access to supplementary forms of income and employment employment opportunities opportunities was problematic to determine at Drimiopsis due to the transitory situation of many of the settlers at the camp. Self- help projects on the camp are irregular in nature and fail to provide any income. Proceeds from the communal garden are not distributed directly to the settlers. Further income is provided by part-time work on neighbouring farms. Strong community links There is a community committee at Drimiopsis but its representation can be questioned by the negative views expressed by some settlers. The fluctuating numbers of people at the camp reduces community cohesion and violent crime is common at the camp. 26 3. Assessment of Institutional Criteria at Drimiopsis Institutional Criteria Discussion Communication and co-ordination between Communication between institutions at a regional and local level institutions appeared ineffective in that one borehole pump had been broken for a long time. Security at the camp was low and crime was a problem. Participatory decision making A small amount of participatory decision-making was evident at Drimiopsis in that the community committee was consulted in deciding what to do with proceeds from the communal garden. However, as the chairperson of the committee was the MLRR clerk, the degree of this participation is questionable. Transparency and accountability The MLRR representative at Drimiopsis appeared open and willing to provide information where possible. Constraints of the inability to provide certain of information were admitted. and was attributed more to a lack of coordination than lack of transparency. Most questions posed by the research team were answered. The same was true of teachers at the two schools at Drimiopsis. 4. Assessment of Biophysical Criteria at Drimiopsis Biophysical Criteria Discussion Location of resettlement project on land suitable for The area surrounding Drimiopsis has little to no suitability for crop farming crop farming, and livestock is suggested as the land which is suitable for crop farming, and livestock is the preferred alternative. Biophysical assessment prior to land acquisition No known biophysical assessment was undertaken prior to the purchase of Drimiopsis Agricultural background of settlers Most of the male settlers at Drimiopsis were previously displaced farm workers. The extent of their agricultural knowledge or experience is undetermined by the research team. Monitoring of resettlement project No monitoring is done of the Drimiopsis resettlement project Carrying capacity The carrying capacity of Drimiopsis is undetermined as no agro- ecological study has been done specifically for Drimiopsis Clerk's agricultural experience The clerk at Drimiopsis had attended agricultural training, but the extent of his experience was unknown. Suitability of farming activities for the land Large scale farming activities were not present at Drimiopsis. Seeds and an agricultural plan were provided by the MLRR at a national level, therefore the suitability of farming activities can be questioned. Utilisation of appropriate technology An effective irrigation system was in place in the communal garden at Drimiopsis. No tractor was used for the garden due to its size and layout. Functional design of houses and other structures Housing designs were based on standard prefabricated and brick such as boreholes and pumps houses provided by the MLRR. No attempt was made to enhance the design according to settler needs. Water points from which settlers obtained water was inappropriate and contributed to water loss due to the lack of a tap. Limited technology was available for the irrigation of individual gardens. 27 5. Assessment of Sustainability Criteria at Drimiopsis Sustainability Criteria Discussion • Improvement of the quality of settlers' lives In terms of access to basic facilities, land and education, settlers believed that their lives had been improved. Problems cited, however remained at the level of the satisfaction of immediate needs. With regard to self-determination and ability to exercise choice over their future, settlers appeared restricted and their ability to maintain the quality of life imposed by the project is questionable. • Promotion of social self determination The promotion of social self determination has not been fulfilled at Drimiopsis as the settlers are still "administered" by a government official and are limited in terms of being able to exercise freedom of choice over most aspects of their lives. • Implementation skills training and capacity The schools at Drimiopsis theoretically provide access to capacity enhancement enhancement project. However problems discussed in the description of the case study reveal that full advantage of these capacity enhancement facilities is not being taken by the settlers for various reasons, most of which are beyond their control. Further skills training is provided for the promotion of health, however, in terms of improving the settlers chances of obtaining income from skills, training is limited. • Appropriate design of buildings and Building and infrastructure could be improved at Drimiopsis in infrastructure terms of consultation with the settlers to determine what their needs are, or encouraging the settlers to take responsibility for providing their own facilities with assistance in the form of training and materials. Much of the infrastructure does not make use of the most environmentally appropriate technological option, for instance, water points lack a sealing facility, and water is lost. • Maintenance of earth's vitality and ecological This criterion is not being achieved at Drimiopsis in that no diversity monitoring and evaluation of any kind is done at the camp. Further, no baseline data exists for Drimiopsis for analysis of the current environmental condition of the camp. The presence of large numbers of people on the limited space available at Drimiopsis does not fulfil this criterion, particularly as the population relies primarily on natural resources for the provision of basic needs such as wood for fuel. 28 Appendix 2: Derivation of cost estimates for Table 2 The figures in Table 2 have been derived in the following way: Namatanga, Elansput, Klein Huis and Stilte future revenues to the government from rent have been discounted over a 50 year period to a present benefit. This has then been subtracted from the gross costs to give a net cost, which is then divided by the number of households. Gross costs are derived by adding the value of the land for each plot. Vasdraai: A cost to the government of N$810 000 of purchasing Vasdraai has been assumed, split between 81 families equals N$10 000 each. However the land probably cost more than this, and is probably insufficient at present. Hence a more realistic estimate might be substantially higher, possibly giving a gross value of N$50 000 per household. Deeds Office data could not be used due to absence of cross referencing of the farm records to the transactions data. Excelsior: Farm purchase costs from the Deeds records have been inflated to January 1998 prices using the GDP deflator index and then added to the cost of the project itself. The total has been divided by the 14 families on the project. The purchase of more land as planned by the project would probably lower these costs substantially. Gam: The N$39 million quoted in NDP1 has been divided by 2986 people quoted resettled in page 35 of the main report. This has then been multiplied by the average of 6.1 people per household for rural Namibia (National Household Income and Expenditure Survey 1993/4). 29
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subset: commoncrawl


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gate opener went nuts!!
My old Stanley swing gate opener went dead one day. I sent the motherboard for repairs. Repair company replaced Capacitor and Transistor and repaired Cold Solder Join. I got it back yesterday. Plugged it in... It worked! I was soooooo happy ...for an hour.. then when I heard my gate opened and closed...than opened a little, than stopped..than opened a little bit more..stopped.. then closed.. then went quiet for 5 min... then all over again, but no pattern. It begin to open and close who knows when and does who knows what. It can just stop for couple hours 3/4 closed. than would open 1/4..then it just stops for 10 min..Really NO PATTERN at all.. I called the company and ask them what could it be, but they just think I am crazy :((
I thought one of my remote controls got stuck or something, than I figure out that you can't open gate a little, than close it with remote control, because with remote control it needs to finish the cycle. You can stop it on the way to closing, but it would go first to full close, before you can open it again. When it's doing it itself it can go both way :open a little, than close.
Any ideas?


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All Schools
(22) All Schools
(22) High Schools
(7) High Schools
(7) Elementary Schools
(21) Elementary Schools
(21) Preschools
(18) Preschools
(18) Public Schools
(42) Public Schools
(22) All Schools
(22) High Schools
(7) High Schools
(7) Elementary Schools
(21) Elementary Schools
(21) Preschools
(18) Preschools
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(42) Public Schools
There are 22 private schools in Homestead, FL, serving 2,518 students.
Minority enrollment is 66% of the student body, which is more than the FL state average of 35%.
59% of Homestead, FL private schools are religiously affiliated (most commonly Christian and Church of Christ).
The student:teacher ratio of 11:1 is equal to the state private school average of 11:1.
Homestead, Florida Private Schools
- School Location Students Grades
HomesteadAim High SchoolLearning Center
1013 N Redland Rd
Homestead, FL 33034
(305)248-3400(Christian)71 students | Gr. PK-6
HomesteadAtala Montessori School For Creative Expression
240 N Krome Ave
Homestead, FL 33030
(786)738-1210Montessori School56 students | Gr. PK-7
HomesteadBarrington Academy
1055 Nw 6th Ave
Homestead, FL 33034
(305)242-4343(Christian)138 students | Gr. PK-12
HomesteadBethel Sda Elementary School
32920 Sw 187th Ave
Homestead, FL 33034
(305)248-4973(Seventh-Day Adventist)34 students | Gr. K-6
HomesteadCCLC at South Dade
10190 SW 344th Street
Homestead, FL 33034
(786)243-4705Daycare / Preschooln/a students | Gr. NS-PK
HomesteadChristian Family Academy
27500 Old Dixie Highway
Homestead, FL 33032
(305)248-9598(Christian)52 students | Gr. PK-11
HomesteadChristian Preparatory Academy Of South Dade
815 N Homestead Blvd # 145
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)246-4094(Christian)64 students | Gr. PK-9
HomesteadColonial Christian School
17105 SW 296th Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)246-8608(Baptist)196 students | Gr. PK-12
HomesteadCountryside Early Learning Center
15395 Sw 288th Street
Homestead, FL 33033
(305)246-5315Daycare / Preschool (Non-sectarian)55 students | Gr. PK-K
HomesteadDecroly Learning Childcare Center
1541 Se 12th Ave
Homestead, FL 33034
(305)248-2533Daycare / Preschool (Christian)48 students | Gr. PK-KG
HomesteadFaith Fellowship School
28945 Sw 187th Ave
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)246-5534Special Education School (Christian)18 students | Gr. 3-9
HomesteadFirst United Methodist Christian School
622 North Krome Avenue
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)248-7992(Methodist)263 students | Gr. NS-8
HomesteadHope Academy
1100 Old Dixie Hwy
Homestead, FL 33030
(786)573-4435218 students | Gr. K-12
HomesteadKingswood Montessori Academy
20130 Sw 304th Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)248-2308Montessori School121 students | Gr. PK-6
HomesteadLincoln Marti School & Day Care Center
137 Nw 10th Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)643-4888(Non-sectarian)205 students | Gr. PK-2
HomesteadLincoln-Marti Child Care Center
15270 Sw 288 Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)245-5533(Non-sectarian)301 students | Gr. NS-12
HomesteadLovely Star Academy
24953 Sw 135th Ave
Homestead, FL 33032
(305)257-002827 students | Gr. PK-2
HomesteadPrinceton Christian School
Po Box 924916
Homestead, FL 33092
(305)258-3107(Church of the Nazarene)339 students | Gr. PK-12
HomesteadRedland Christian Academy
17700 Sw 280th St
Homestead, FL 33031
(305)247-7399(Church of Christ)n/a students | Gr. PK-12
HomesteadSt John's Episcopal School
145 Ne 10th St
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)247-5445(Episcopal)164 students | Gr. PK-8
HomesteadSteve's Academy
28901 Sw 137th Ave
Homestead, FL 33033
(305)245-3777Daycare / Preschool46 students | Gr. PK-KG
HomesteadThe Thinking Child Academy
155 Nw 4th St
Homestead, FL 33030
(305)247-3036(Christian)102 students | Gr. K-8
Area Statistics
Recent Articles
Updated March 26, 2015
Small private schools often feel that they cannot afford to market their schools. Facebook is free. Here is how to use it effectively.
What are the attributes which make 21st century military schools so special? We find out in this article.
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Wadeer v. N.J. Mfrs. Ins. Co. - Recovery of Damages for "Phantom Vehicle" Accident
Uninsured motorist coverage in North Carolina provides a way to recover damages sustained in an auto accident when the at-fault driver doesn't have insurance. (In cases where the driver does have insurance, but it's not enough to cover the damages, the type of coverage sought is underinsured motorist coverage.)
These policies do cover hit-and-run accidents, where one vehicle strikes another and the at-fault driver is never identified or located. However, "phantom" vehicle situations are tougher.
These are cases in which one driver causes another to leave the roadway, but there is never an actual impact and the at-fault driver does not stop. It is not necessary for the unidentified vehicle to make contact with yours in order to collect coverage. However, it's likely the insurance company will challenge your claim to coverage, particularly if there were no other witnesses to the incident.
Continue reading "Wadeer v. N.J. Mfrs. Ins. Co. - Recovery of Damages for "Phantom Vehicle" Accident" »


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Jean M. Smolen, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Karen Snetselaar, Ph.D.
Graduate Director and Professor of Biology
Michael Solomon, Ph.D.
Professor, Director, Center for Consumer Research
Sangcheol Song, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
David R. Sorensen, D.Phil.
Professor, Associate Director Honors
Suzanne Sorkin, Ph.D
Associate Professor and Chair of Music, Theatre and Film
Teri Sosa, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Cathleen G. Spinelli, Ph.D.
Jenny Spinner, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Director of The Writing Center
Clint J. Springer, Ph.D.
Paul St. Amour, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair of Philosophy
E. Kent St. Pierre, Ph.D.
A.J. Stagliano, Ph.D
John L. Stanton, Ph.D.
David S. Steingard, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Associate Director of the Pedro Arrupe Center for Business Ethics
Rachael L. Sullivan, Ph.D.
Eileen L. Sullivan, Pharm.D.
Assistant Professor
Tim Swift, Ph.D.
Jean Smolen, Ph.D.
Haub Graduate Programs Ranked Among the "Best"
From the Hawks' Nest to Print
Student Marketers Win Top Honors at National Conference


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Does anyone have a gas slide in range that they love?
I was looking at GE Profile with convection, but some of the reviews were not great. Anyone have it?
Any other suggestions, seems like there are not too many options for slide ins. I need to put a microwave over it too.
I posted on the appliance forum, but thought I'd try here.
Hi All! I haven't posted here in while. I really love my Jennair Model #JGS8860BDP . We have been using it for about 4 months and not a problem with it (my DH has even started cooking!). It has two high power burners, convection oven and warming drawer. It is a slide in and has more of a professional look (without pro. $$)This was taken a few months ago, one day we will pick out a backsplash so I can post my finished pics!
I like the dual fuel Bosch (Model # HDI7052U/03) that we put in the garage apartment at our lake house at the beginning of this year. It has one high power burner, two medium, and one low. The high power and low power burners also have a low simmer feature which I really appreciate. It's easy to slide pots across the continuous grate. The convection/normal oven has three racks, one of which can be converted to a half rack. Although I didn't get it, the range is also available with a warming drawer. Here's a picture (hope I do this right....):
I'm usually just a lurker here but for once I might actually have something to contribute.
I have a KitchenAid Pro Line Dual Fuel Range. I'm not sure, but this may be part of the Architect series. I have been very happy with it. It cooks great and I love the way it looks.
If I could change one thing it would be to make one of the burners a simmer burner - something that doesn't burn quite as hot. I miss that feature on my old GE Profile.
I would also mention that this thing can put out some heat! As you can see from the pictures (assuming I actually attach them properly) we only have a very old microwave with a fan above the range. This really is not adequate (and may even be unsafe). I would strongly recommend using a proper range hood with this range. We hope do that in our next kitchen overhaul.
Thanks all for posting the pictures and the information. I wanted to get the Kitchenaid, but all the reviews were so bad. I guess there are problems with self cleaning and the grates are so high that it takes a long time to boil water.
I'll look into the JennAir and Bosh. They both look great!
I have a GE slide in range. It is gas and does not have a convection oven. It was the cheapest GE slide in I could get and although I don't regret my purchase, I wish I saw the product in person before I ordered it.
My concern and what I would look for in the future is the ease of cleaning. The grates on this GE slide in are connected on each side and meet in the center (only 2 large grates). That means if I just use one burner say to make an omelet and want to clean after, I need to take off the grates for both the front burner and the back burner because it is all one piece. Not only is this cumbersome, but the grates are very heavy and I worry they will crack my granite if I put it down too hard.
I'm sorry if my comments are confusing. It probably would help enormously if I had a picture but I don't own a digital camera or scanner. What I'd recommend is seeing in person whatever slide in you decide on and seeing how easy it would be to clean up after cooking.
Good luck with your decision!
I did see the GE in person and know about the grates. I saw reviews where owners said the grates didn't come together properly and made the pans wobble. You have a great point about cleaning. Thanks for the info.
NClakehouse- can you tell me anymore about the Bosch? Would I be able to put a microwave above it? Or does it need a powerful hood? Do you enjoy cooking on it?
Hi Positano,
I am really surprised to hear that anyone has complained saying that the oven fan on the Bosch is noisy. When you turn on the oven, there is a quiet hmmmm from what I guess is an exhaust fan, but that's all. I think it's a fairly unobtrusive noise, and is even quieter than my overhead exhaust ventilator fan - which I think is quiet. I think there must be some pretty noise sensitive people out there!
I can't tell you whether you can install a microwave above it, as I only have a ventilator fan/light combo above (See photo below). I suppose if you got a combo microwave/ventilator fan (they make those don't they?), you could do that, but best check with a Bosch dealer.
The cooktop surface is black glass and is fairly easy to clean using glass cooktop cleaner. I occasionally use GlassPlus or Pledge Multisurface cleaner on it, just to remove dust etc. My cooktop at home has a stainless surface, and I prefer cleaning this black glass one, although it does tend to show dust/dirt more easily than the stainless one.
Hope this helps.
Photo showing cooktop and inside of oven (with silicone mat on floor of oven):
Ooops. I forgot to address your other questions.
The electronic controls are pretty straightforward. Since I'm not here at the lake all the time, I occasionally have to check the manual to remind myself how to reset the clock if we've had a power outage, but that's about it.
One nice feature that I neglected to mention is that the oven automatically adjusts the oven temperature downward by 25 degrees if you select to "convection bake." I was initially confused when this happened, but after reading the owners manual (duhhh) I understand why it's happening; it's nice to not have to make this adjustment. The adjustment can be overriden, if you so desire.
I LOVE my Kenmore Elite gas slide in range (model #36723)! It has gas on glass top with sealed burners, a 27,000 btu bridge burner, a 17,200 hi output burner, convection oven and warming drawer. Everything I need!
My microwave (model 80823) is also a convection oven that is great! It allows me to cook 'oven' meals during the warm summer without heating up my large oven. It is quick and easy to use.
Both appliances got great reviews at ConsumerGuide products. I got a great price on both at Great Indoors (Sears) on sale at a better price than Sears. Good Luck!
I think I have the same GE profile that Karen has, and I don't like it. It came with this kitchen. I'm a serious cook, and have some experience of stoves...
All four burners are different sizes...the larger ones are in front, which I don't like...all of them are slow to heat. The flame on the larger two sits so far out toward the rim of even my largest saute pan that it heats unevenly and slowly. It takes so long to get a pot of water to boil, even on the smaller burners, which can be cranked up high to place the flame where it ought to be, that I just boil a kettle full in my electric kettle and pour it in to get started.
It's also very hard to achieve a good low simmer on any of them.
As you see, I don't recommend it!
I suspect that it came from one of the big box hardware places, which means it is a stripped-down version of the model...so I can't comment on the better versions. I had a GE Profile electric range before which came from a good appliance dealer, and I liked it very much.
nclakehouse- THanks for the extra pictures and all of those reviews! Glad to hear its not noisy. I love your backsplash, care to share the details?
ngng- I'll look into the Kenmore too, sounds wonderful. It's nice to hear someone say they love it!
bronwynsmom- I appreciate the info about the GE, its very similar to the reviews I read.
I'll let you know what we decide!
I have the Bosch slide in dual fuel pro range. I have only cooked on it a couple of times since it was just installed. So far, I love it!
Yes, I read on the appliance forum the fan was noisy. It isn't. I love the full extending rack. Mine came with the warming drawer, which I used for the first time tonight. It is great! Kept my hazelnut crusted trout warm while the rest of the dinner was finishing. Mine is total stainless except for the top which is glass. It has a proofing mode, convection oven, and a ton of other features. I bought mine sight unseen as it has the biggest oven in a 30 inch stove.
You can tell I still don't have the hood yet. Maybe someday, that will finallly show up!
I don't have a gas range, but I do have the electric Bosch and can attest that the fan is NOT loud. As mentioned above, it's a humming noise that does not interfere with conversation, radio, or TV volume in that you must turn it up.
I love our range (1+ years) in use now, and would highly recommend this brand. It's a nice looking range too in the SS. The Sears repairman was here the other day to check out our OTR GE microwave and he commented on what a great range the Bosch is.
Just thought I'd tune in since many have complained about the supposedly noisey fan, perhaps turning others off to a wonderful product.
Good luck.
If you can tolerate Lowes--they are not on my good list, I found them to be the cheapest. Go on a weekend where they give an additional 10% off or ask for it. They will sometimes give it to you. I can't recall what I paid. Lowe's gave me the wrong product and I ended up getting it from Sears with Lowe's making up the difference since they were the ones that messed up.
I am reading this with interest and hope someone can help me. I have a GE dual fuel cafe and I like it OK. This is the first time I have ever used gas and I am still learning. My concern is how to clean grease splatters on the stainless top beneath the grates. This is also my first experience with stainless and I am so afraid I will ruin it. Grease needs more than water and rubbing.
Can someome tell me what they use for grease splatters that will not harm the stainless?
Hi Positano,
Glad that others are seconding what I said about the fan on the Bosch NOT being noisy. I don't think you will be disappointed if you choose this range.
Not to hijack this thread, but to answer your question about my backsplash -- Thanks, we have received many compliments on it. It is a porcelain tile made by Edimax, color: Ramata, series: Materia Forte. I like it because it looks like stone (chiseled edges) and is "quiet," but has more variation in it than most tile. A couple of close-ups of the tile are available at the link below. In real life it is more gray/green in tone (with some beige/brown) than these pictures make it appear. It also comes in another colorway called Bronzea which is also quite attractive.
Here is a link that might be useful: Link to Photobucket pictures of tile backsplash
this is my Kitchen Aid mdmc...we must have different models. I wanted as least black as possible after having an all black front on my old range.
Here is a link that might be useful: kodak kitchen pic
I have the same KA that fourtogo has. It's at my weekend place not my house. I've been very happy with it for a little over a year. In fact I've thought to myself how much I like it compared to my Wolf cooktop and Dacor ovens at home and how much less expensive it was. I like what I have at home but I'm quite satisfied with the much less expensive KA range as well.
I have the "gas on glass" GE Profile convection slide-in range, and I love it. No problems with wobbly pans on grates, the self-cleaning cycle works wonderfully (and I let it get really dirty between cleanings) and I have no problem keeping it clean. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Hi Positano,
Re: Sussex "Cambria"
I love it. All the usual benefits of a quartz countertop: stain resistant (nothing has stained or etched it), heat resistant (I'm careful not to test the limits of this), and doesn't require sealing (as most granites do). This was installed in our garage apt. that will be occupied by houseguests once our main lakehouse is completed, so we didn't want to put in anything that had to be fussed over or protected. The color reads gray most of the time, with a subtle variation so it is not flat and boring. My only caution would be to be aware that it comes in specified lengths, so if you have a turn or a long counter run, you'll will have to seam it. I wish our contractor had consulted me on the location of the seam, which I notice, although no one else seems to!
Subsequent to my installation I have read some postings on GW about "pooling" of the resin in some quartz countertop materials, so if you choose this, you might want to make sure you inspect your slab first. I didn't have any problem, but why take a chance?
BTW, there is another Cambria color that also works well with the Ramata backsplash (sorry I don't remember the name), but it was almost too "matchey-matchey" so the interior designer helping me and I both nixed it...but to each his own.
Good luck!
Wow, NClakehouse. That is a garage apartment? I would love to be your guest. Can't wait to see the real lakehouse. Thanks for responding about the Cambria.
Couple more questions about the slide in. Did you put the Countertop behind it or just the filler from the range? What happens with the bottom? Do you put some sort of toe kick to cover the opening so things don't get stuck under it? With a freestanding range you could move it to sweep under there.
I also "have the 'gas on glass' GE Profile convection slide-in range."
Oh, how do I loathe thee, let me count the ways. The grates allow small pots to fall in, the simmer burner doesn't work right - its diameter is too small for the heat produced on even the lowest setting, the diameter of high power burner is so large that only a canning pot or larger would heat well, the oven porcelain is flaking off and rust is appearing after less than three years of use.
PLUS everything that bronwynsmom said except mine didn't come from a big box store and was the top of the slide in line for GE Profiles.
Hi Positano,
Our contractor installed a strip of the Cambria countertop in back of the range. To be honest, when I selected the range I thought that it would fit snug against the wall. It never occured to me that it wouldn't but I should have known this, since there has to be room for the gas connection. Anyway, the strip of countertop material looks fine and has functioned well. I didn't even know Bosch made a filler strip. Here's a photo:
There is approximately a one inch gap between the bottom of the stove and the floor. Perhaps you're a more obsessive cleaner than I am, but I'm happy with cleaning as far under it as my vaccuum, Swiffer Wet Jet, or mop will go and leaving the rest. Hmmmm...now that you've brought it to my attention maybe I'll use that long vaccuum attachment once or twice a year, but that's all! Shhhh - don't tell on me. BTW, remember that mine does not have a warming drawer; I'm not sure what the gap is on that model.
I guess I'm the only one with a white range! I love mine, a Kenmore Elite #36712, gas on glass, sealed burners, 27,000 btu bridge burner, convection oven and warming drawer. This was a switch going from all electric to gas and I'm loving it.
I am one of the posters on the Appliance forum complaining about my Bosch range. My range is loud!
I was first sent a range which was very noisy and I suspect was defective. (It was also the wrong model#, but that is another story...). This was replaced by the correct model#, and it is quieter that the first, but I still find it loud. I have had a serviceman out here and he told me that my range is not louder than other Bosch ranges.
I just went and turned it on right now to compare it to other appliances... It is louder than my six year old microwave. It is louder than the low setting on my exhaust fan (a Kenmore 500 CFM). It is louder than my Cuisinart toaster/convection oven. I don't have to raise my voice to talk while it is running, but my kids do turn up the volume a little bit on little TV sitting on the counter ten feet away.
My research suggests that the quietest dual-fuel slide-in is the Kenmore Elite. After debating this for months, I ultimately decided to stay with the Bosch because I love how it looks. It is Titanium (stainless with white glass) and it looks terrific with my white cabinets. It's that whole form over function thing!
The burners are fine and the oven bakes nicely. I am just perplexed as to why a company that boasts of having such quiet dishwashers can't make a quiet range!
nclakehouse, I don't think you are supposed to have a silicone oven liner above the heating coils. The one I bought - and returned - stated that it must be placed under the coils - which is hard to do with the hidden elements!
Thanks for watching out for me, but there aren't any heating coils on the bottom of my Bosch oven. My drip mat sits directly on the floor of the oven and the heating coils are at the top of the oven. (I pulled the mat back in the photo below to show you)
Sounds as though you might have a different Bosch dual fuel oven than the one I have. Mine is definitely not as noisy as what you describe.
nclakehouse, we have the same range. The only difference is the color. Your oven has a hidden bake element, which means that the heating coils are underneath the false bottom that appears to be the floor of your oven. So, your heating elements are underneath what you posted a photo of.
(I have included a link to the specs of the Integra dual-fuel ranges. You can find underneath "oven" that the range does indeed have a True Hidden Bake Element.)
However, I don't know why you aren't supposed to put an oven liner on the oven floor - I just know the one I bought instructed me not to. So it seems like it is working for you after all!
Really, your range is not as noisy as I described? I have talked to so many appliance people and they all assured me that all convection ranges are noisy and mine is exactly how they expect it to be. I finally gave up and accepted it (which is not something easy for me!). So now you have me wondering if I should call thne Great Indoors yet again to discuss my concerns with this range.
Here is a link that might be useful: Bosch specs
You had ME worried about putting the spill mat in the oven. I went into town today (that may sound funny to some, but our lakehouse is in a very remote part of western NC) so I went by the cookware shop where I bought the spill mat. According to the directions on the box, if the oven floor is flat the mat should be placed directly on the floor. It cautioned that if there are vents in the floor (which there are not on this Bosch), the sheet should not block the vents, but that is the only caveat. It is guaranteed to 600 degrees. Obviously, it needs to be removed prior to self cleaning, but that's it. I've been using it since January and have had no problem. Maybe you had a different brand of spill mat??? I hope I'm not creating a fire hazard, but honestly I've noted no problems.
Really wish I could hear your oven so I could compare it to mine, but obviously that's not possible. People do have different noise tolearances, so it's hard to say if what I consider quiet is the same as what you consider quiet. I can honestly say that my oven is quieter than my brand new Twister overhead ventilator fan at its lowest speed, if that gives you any basis for comparison. I don't want to send you on a wild goose chase, but maybe you can locate another Bosch range owner in your area and compare the sound of your oven to theirs?


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Hampton Inn Portland-Airport
Situated in Portland, Hampton Inn Portland-Airport is close to Portland Air National Guard Base, Grotto, and Colwood National Golf Course. Also nearby are Mt Hood Community College - Maywood Park Campus and Leatherman Factory.
Hotel Features.
Hampton Inn Portland-Airport has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a seasonal outdoor pool. Wireless and wired high-speed Internet access is complimentary in public areas. There is a 24-hour business center on site. Guests are served a complimentary breakfast each morning. Additional amenities include gift shops/newsstands, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Guests have complimentary access to a roundtrip airport shuttle (available on request). Self parking is complimentary. This is a smoke-free property.
The 129 air-conditioned guestrooms at Hampton Inn Portland-Airport include coffee/tea makers and complimentary weekday newspapers. Complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access is provided. Televisions are equipped with cable channels and pay movies. All accommodations provide phones along with free local calls (restrictions may apply). Bathrooms offer shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries. Housekeeping is offered daily.
Just needed a hotel near PDX airport. We use Hampton Inn & Suites SEATAC regularly.…
Good hotel for the price. Close to airport. Nice staff. Thin walls.
Enter dates to check prices
Hotel Info: 866-539-8117from $109
- Studio, One King and One Sofa Bed, Non-Smoking
- One King Bed, Non-Smoking, Accessible
- Studio, One King Bed, Accessible
- Two Queen Beds, Non-Smoking
- King with sofabed
Recommended hotels
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 129 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 4 floors
- Check-in time starts at 4 PM
- Check-out time is noon
- Express check-in
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
- Minimum check-in age is 18
Travelling with others
- Children (18 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
- Pets not allowed
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- Free airport shuttle (available on request)
- Free self parking
- Accessible parking
Other information
- Smoke-free property
In the hotel
- Free hot/cold buffet breakfast daily
- Outdoor seasonal pool
- Outdoor pool
- Fitness facilities
- 24-hour business center
- 24-hour front desk
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Elevator/lift
- ATM/banking
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Disabled parking
- Accessible path of travel
- Braille or raised signage
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- Roll-in shower
In the room
- Air conditioning
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- Private bathroom
- Shower/tub combination
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- Hair dryer
- Pay movies
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- Free weekday newspaper
- Free WiFi
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- Daily housekeeping


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Results tagged ' July 21 Maine Shut-Out photo gallery '
Loving my Cliffy with different colored hair clips.
Mr. Met hair.
See what you get when batting practice is rained out?
Follow Your Dreams
Rob says he'll buy a wrist band for Delgado's charity every time he gets a home run for the rest of the season!
Starting pitchers first out of the dugout
To congratulate our boys–especially our complete game shut-out pitcher!