INTERVIEW: Rinaani Musutua Calls for Universal Basic Income Grant Amid UN Report on Extreme Poverty

Prominent social activist Rinaani Musutua has strongly criticized the Namibian government’s decision to extend the Harambe grant, which provides a conditional N$600 monthly allowance to select recipients. Musutua argues that this approach mirrors the failed food bank concept, as highlighted by the Auditor General, due to difficulties in identifying intended beneficiaries.

Musutua emphasized that the extension, which excludes communities like Huachanas, will lead to an administrative burden, high costs, and the exclusion of deserving individuals. Instead, she advocates for a universal basic income grant, aligning with recommendations from the United Nations’ special rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Olivier de Schutter. His report confirms that economic insecurity, stemming from a lack of financial resources, contributes to increased mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

The activist highlighted studies showing that unconditional grants, such as a universal basic income, significantly reduce psychological distress, improve mental well-being, and even lower hospitalization rates. According to Musutua, the government’s insistence on conditional grants is only likely to perpetuate existing challenges, with exclusionary practices adding unnecessary stress to the most vulnerable members of society.

She also noted that the UN report advocates for unconditional social grants, which foster a sense of security and reduce the mental health burdens of financial instability. Musutua urged the government to heed the recommendations from global research and make Namibia a pioneer in implementing universal basic income grants to ensure no citizen is left behind.