Interview: Calls grow for annual job data to hold government accountable and guide effective policy

Labour expert and social justice advocate Herbert Jauch says the absence of up-to-date employment statistics is crippling the country’s ability to address its mounting unemployment crisis. Speaking to Future Media, Jauch said government has not released a full Labour Force Survey since 2018 — leaving policymakers, citizens, and researchers in the dark.

Jauch explained that while the Namibia Statistics Agency had once aimed for biennial labour updates, financial constraints and the COVID-19 pandemic have caused long-term delays. “We need at least annual updates to know whether job creation efforts are working. If government wants to be serious about employment, it must begin with evidence-based planning,” he said.

According to Jauch, current unemployment may exceed 50% when factoring in those who’ve stopped actively seeking work. He believes this alarming reality underscores the urgent need for regular labour market data. “The idea that no data means no problem is dangerous. Politicians cannot solve what they won’t measure.”

Looking ahead, Jauch advocates for an annual Labour Force Survey and more transparent reporting frameworks. He also suggests that Namibia consider implementing a universal basic income grant, arguing it would be more efficient and impactful than short-term unemployment benefits.

“If we want to tackle unemployment and rebuild the economy from the bottom up, we need bold ideas and accurate numbers. Everything starts with knowing where we stand,” Jauch concluded.

By Leonard Witbeen | Future Media News