INTERVIEW: Dr. Basilius Kasera on SONA and Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG)

In a candid interview, Dr. Basilius Kasera shared his thoughts on the government’s response to the concept of a Universal Basic Income Grant (UBIG), particularly in light of recent discussions following the State of the Nation Address (SONA). He critiques the government’s current approach to addressing economic inequality and offers his perspectives on the importance of a nationwide basic income system.

Dr. Kasera begins by emphasizing the distinction between the current Conditional Basic Income Grant (CBIG) and the broader concept of UBIG. He argues that while the CBIG is a localized, conditional system that only benefits certain regions and communities, the UBIG aims to provide an unconditional income to all Namibians, whether employed or not. He clarifies that the BIG is not just an extension of the food bank project but a comprehensive approach to reducing economic inequality by directly supporting individuals and families across the nation.

Kasera draws attention to the issue of poverty, particularly for elderly individuals who are raising grandchildren due to family abandonment. He highlights how the current support systems fail to provide sufficient assistance to families in need, which could be addressed by the UBIG. “UBIG provides financial independence and dignity, enabling families to make choices beyond basic survival,” Kasera explains.

He criticizes the government’s approach, arguing that it overlooks the ethical and social justice aspects of economic inequality. By focusing on localized programs like the CBIG, the government misses the larger picture of nationwide poverty alleviation. Kasera believes that the UBIG could help bridge this gap by addressing the widespread issues of unemployment and lack of access to resources.

Furthermore, Kasera underscores the potential of UBIG to stimulate small businesses and entrepreneurship. By providing a basic income, individuals could invest in small-scale projects, such as starting businesses or engaging in informal markets, which would contribute to local economies. He believes that this could be a stepping stone towards reducing unemployment and creating sustainable livelihoods for many Namibians.

While Dr. Kasera applauds the government’s stance on free education, he questions the long-term impact of such policies in addressing Namibia’s unemployment crisis. “The education initiative is commendable, but the reality is that many young people are entering universities hoping that they will find jobs upon graduation. The biggest problem remains unemployment, and UBIG could be a crucial part of the solution,” he adds.

Dr. Kasera suggests a trial period for the UBIG, urging the government to test the system nationwide for a few months to assess its effectiveness. “Let’s run a nationwide trial for three to six months and see if it works. If it doesn’t, we can adjust. But to only concentrate on specific groups or regions is to perpetuate the very inequality we are trying to eliminate,” he concludes.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Kasera calls on the government to reconsider its approach to income inequality and to view UBIG as a tool for promoting economic justice, dignity, and growth. He believes that with adequate funding and political will, the implementation of UBIG could be a game-changer for Namibia’s economy and its most vulnerable citizens.