More than 400 000 Namibians lifted out of poverty

Lusia Lukas

WINDHOEK, MARCH 22 – The period between 1994 – 2010 saw more than 400 000 Namibians lifted out of poverty, according to President Hage Geingob. Geingob was speaking during the 29th celebration of Namibian independence in the capital yesterday.

He added that the introduction of targeted social safety nets, including old age and social grants for people living with disabilities; as well as orphans and vulnerable children, have played a significant role in reducing poverty levels in Namibia.

However, Geingob stressed that income inequality remains a problem in Namibia; a remnant of the apartheid legacy that lingers as a thorn in the flesh and a hindrance to the development efforts. He added that the government will continue to formulate a legal framework focused on reducing the income gap.

“While we are committed to upholding the principle of fundamental rights as enshrined in our Constitution, which include the protection of private property, we recognise the urgent need for land delivery as a means to reduce poverty in the country,” said Geingob.

The president also hailed the successful Second Land Conference of October 2018 as a pivotal moment in the nation’s history and a definitive step toward addressing the land issue in Namibia.

Kenya’s president Uhuru Kenyatta also spoke at the celebrations and he said Kenya commended the Namibian government for its steadfast commitment to democracy, good governance and an adherence to a rules-based international system.

“Today, Africa is borrowing a leaf from the Republic of Namibia, on policies that promote gender equality, which have elevated women to decision-making positions since the adoption of the 50/50 gender policy in 2013. This will go a long way in the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of African women,” he added. – lusia@namibiadailynews.info