Interview: Ben Schernick Urges Government to Implement Universal Basic Income Grant

By: Leonard Witbeen

The Director of the Nutrition Alliance of Namibia, Ben Schernick, has called on the government to reconsider its approach to social protection, arguing that targeted grants are inefficient and fragmented. His remarks come in response to Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi’s commitment to increasing social protection investments.

Schernick highlighted that Namibia’s current social grant system requires significant administrative effort and is prone to corruption. He advocates for a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG) as a more effective alternative, stating that an unconditional grant of N$600 per person between the ages of 0 and 59 would stimulate local economies and provide much-needed relief to struggling Namibians.

To ensure sustainability, Schernick suggested exempting taxpayers earning over N$100,000 per year from receiving the grant. He also proposed the removal of VAT exemptions on white and brown sugar, which have been in place since 2010, to encourage healthier consumption habits while generating additional revenue for social programs.

He emphasized that UBIG would not only alleviate poverty but also reduce reliance on pensioners, who currently bear much of the financial burden for struggling families. Additionally, he pointed out that removing sugar subsidies could lower healthcare costs related to diabetes, non-communicable diseases, and cancer, further benefiting the economy.

Schernick’s remarks add to growing calls for the government to prioritize UBIG over inefficient, bureaucratic social welfare programs that fail to make a meaningful impact on Namibia’s economic and social challenges.