EXCLUSIVE: Namibia’s Path to Nourishment: Insights from Ben Schernick on Aili Angula’s Proposal

In the realm of nutrition and food security, every initiative counts. As Namibia grapples with issues of malnutrition and food insecurity, the proposal put forth by Aili Angula, a presidential candidate, has sparked significant interest and debate. Ben Schernick, Director of the Namibia Nutrition and Food Alliance, shares his insights on Angula’s suggestion for a universal basic income grant and its potential impact on the nation’s well-being.

Schernick, speaking on behalf of the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance, underscores the transformative potential of Angula’s proposal, which suggests a substantial grant per person. He highlights the profound impact such an income boost could have on households, particularly in addressing severe malnutrition and food insecurity prevalent across Namibia. Citing global studies, Schernick emphasizes the responsible utilization of such funds, making a compelling case for its efficiency in providing social protection.

However, amidst acknowledgment of the proposal’s merits, Schernick advocates for broader political commitment. He stresses the importance of not singularly relying on one candidate or party to champion such initiatives. Instead, he calls for a collective embrace of the concept of an unconditional, universal basic income grant by politicians and parties across the spectrum. In his view, this approach represents the most effective means of reaching those in dire need of basic income support.

The director presents two key recommendations to enhance Angula’s proposal. Firstly, he proposes extending the grant’s coverage from birth, recognizing the critical nutritional needs of children during their developmental stages. By starting the support from infancy, Namibia can establish a robust foundation for nurturing healthy individuals, thereby fostering long-term socioeconomic development.

Secondly, he advocates for a shift in perspective regarding the eligibility criteria, suggesting that the grant should not commence solely at adulthood but rather encompass individuals from birth onwards. This adjustment acknowledges the ongoing needs of children and aligns with the absence of general support mechanisms tailored specifically for them within Namibia’s current social welfare framework.

Looking ahead to 2024, Schernick articulates a vision where the universal basic income grant becomes a cornerstone of Namibia’s development agenda, endorsed by an array of political actors. By broadening the scope to include individuals from birth and fostering widespread political support, the nation can pave the way for a brighter, more nourished future.

In conclusion, Ben Schernick’s insights shed light on the potential of Aili Angula’s proposal to address Namibia’s nutritional challenges comprehensively. By advocating for inclusivity from infancy and urging political unity, Schernick underscores the transformative power of collective action in advancing the nation’s well-being. As Namibia navigates its path towards nourishment and prosperity, the dialogue sparked by Angula’s proposal offers a promising avenue for positive change.