By Sostenus Wilherm
The Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) has questioned whether the national budget will bring real change to the lives of ordinary Namibians, warning that large spending plans mean little without strong implementation.
Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the national budget, NEFF deputy president and Member of Parliament Kalimbo Iipumbu said the N$104 billion budget must be judged by its results, not by figures on paper.
“Budgets are not judged by speeches or allocations on paper, but by the material change they bring in the lives of our people,” Iipumbu said.
The budget projects government revenue of about N$89.8 billion, leaving a funding gap that will have to be covered through borrowing. Namibia’s fiscal deficit is expected to reach around 5.5 percent of GDP, while public debt currently stands at about N$174.5 billion, equal to roughly 65 percent of the country’s GDP.
Economic growth is projected at about 3.1 percent in 2026, which the NEFF says is too slow to reduce unemployment and create opportunities for young people.
Iipumbu said the figures show that government has limited fiscal space, meaning every dollar spent must create strong economic and social impact.
The party also raised concern about the structure of the budget. Of the more than N$104 billion in spending, about N$81.3 billion is allocated to operational costs, while only about N$6.5 billion goes to development projects.
“This shows that most government money is being used to maintain the system rather than transform the economy,” he added.
The NEFF acknowledged that the social sector continues to receive the largest share of funding. Education alone is allocated about N$28 billion, while the Ministry of Health and Social Services receives more than N$13 billion.
The party welcomed the policy direction toward free tertiary education but warned that funding alone will not solve the country’s education challenges.
Iipumbu questioned whether universities have enough infrastructure funding, whether hospitals are properly equipped and staffed, and whether vocational institutions are producing the skilled workers needed by industry.
He warned that without proper implementation, education spending could produce graduates who struggle to find jobs.
The NEFF also highlighted Namibia’s heavy reliance on the mining sector, particularly uranium, gold and diamonds, and warned that the country still exports raw minerals instead of building industries that create jobs.
The party said the budget should focus more on industrialization, agriculture and support for youth entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Despite its concerns, the NEFF said it supports the overall direction of the budget but stressed that implementation will determine its success.
“Our people do not live in spreadsheets or budget tables. They live in communities where unemployment, poverty and inequality remain real challenges.”
