Namibian MPs debate budget focusing on productivity and economic challenges

Namibian MPs debated the national budget, highlighting the need for productivity investment over borrowing amid declining diamond revenues and emphasizing job creation and support for local businesses.

During the recent budget debate in Namibia's parliament, Affirmative Repositioning MP George Kambala stressed that borrowing alone cannot drive prosperity without investing in productivity. He highlighted the sharp decline in diamond taxes and royalties, which fell from N$5.8 billion to just over N$400 million, exposing the economy's vulnerability to global commodity cycles.

Swapo Party MP Ephraim Nekongo praised government efforts to manage inflation and maintain a positive trade balance, noting allocations such as N$40 million for a green reserve and N$179 million for disease containment. Other MPs, including leaders from NDP and NEFF, called for infrastructure projects to focus on employment, support for local businesses, and enhancing productive capacity to address poverty and unemployment in Namibia.