INTERVIEW: Youth Activist Lloyd Bock Discusses Poverty and Meeting with Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi on Budget Consultation

In a recent conversation, Youth Activist Lloyd Bock sheds light on the upcoming budget consultation with Iipumbu Shiimi, Namibia’s Finance Minister. The discussion delved into key aspects surrounding the budget, its presentation, and the underlying motives. Here’s an overview of the insightful dialogue:

The discussion revolves around crucial elements such as the budget, its intended audience, and the overarching purpose.

According to Lloyd, the House of IPP, in collaboration with Civic Plus 264, conducted a briefing with civil society organizations on the mid-term budget review done last year, the Finance Minister was set to engage with these organizations to gather input on priority areas for the budget. The primary focus being on emphasizing the necessity of basic income grants, especially given the prevailing high unemployment rates and social instability in Namibia.

When asked about expectations from the Finance Minister during and after the meeting, Lloyd emphasized the need to reframe the social protection policy, particularly in the context of basic income grants. He highlighted the urgency of addressing issues like youth unemployment, social injustice in the distribution of aid, and the need for equal and widespread benefits.

Drawing a parallel with the swift passage of the same-sex marriage bill, Lloyd stressed the importance of willpower and urgency in implementing policies. He argued that the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, including households struggling with utilities, make social protection grants a matter of urgency.

In conclusion, Lloyd expressed the importance of treating the social protection grant with the same priority afforded to other legislative matters. He urged for an expedited response to address the pressing needs of Namibian society.

As the general elections approach, this conversation provides valuable insights into the priorities and expectations of civil society, setting the stage for a crucial engagement with the Finance Minister.