Interview: Basic Income Grant Coalition Urges Urgent Action on Universal Grant

The Basic Income Grant Coalition has voiced deep disappointment with the Nandi-Ndaitwah administration for failing to implement a universal basic income grant or expand social grants as promised in its election manifesto. Coalition activist Rinaani Musutua highlighted the struggles of 1.6 million Namibians who face daily hardship just to secure a decent meal, warning that poverty, unemployment, and inequality remain persistent decades after independence.

Musutua expressed frustration that the government continues to ignore evidence from more than 130 pilot studies worldwide showing that a universal basic income grant is the most effective way to combat poverty and hunger. She added that poor citizens bear the brunt of crime, unable to afford security measures such as cameras, high fences, or razor wire, while those in leadership enjoy well-protected lives.

“Poverty and inequality are not abstract numbers—they are lived realities,” Musutua said. “We hope the administration will urgently implement a universal basic income grant of 500 Namibian dollars for all Namibians aged 0 to 59, ensuring people can afford basic necessities and reducing crime in our communities.”

Musutua stressed that Namibia is a resource-rich country, with abundant fisheries and mineral wealth, and should have no excuse for leaving citizens to struggle. She called on the government to transform promises into action, expanding social grants to cover more people and deliver tangible relief for those most affected by poverty.

“The words of our leaders must be matched by deeds,” Musutua said. “Implementing a universal basic income grant is not just a policy—it is a necessary step toward fairness, security, and prosperity for all Namibians.”