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Namibia launches ten-million-dollar food and cash for work programme

By Africazine

Namibia launches a significant initiative to combat unemployment.

Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa announced a ten-million-dollar food/cash for work programme aimed at providing immediate income support and creating community assets in rural Namibia. This initiative comes in response to the country’s staggering unemployment rate of 36.9%, particularly affecting youth aged 15 to 34, with a youth unemployment rate of 44.1%.

Namibia’s New Programme Targets Rural Unemployment

The food/cash for work programme is designed to address immediate income needs while fostering community development. Sankwasa emphasized that while this initiative is not a permanent fix for unemployment, it plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable households. The programme aims to create community assets that can enhance local resilience.

During the announcement at the 2026 Annual Rural Development Progress Review and Planning Workshop in Swakopmund, the Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele, reiterated the importance of collaboration between the ministry and regional councils. Effective planning relies on accurate and timely information, which is essential for the success of such initiatives.

Namibia: Key figures on unemployment

  • Unemployment rate: 36.9%
  • Youth unemployment rate: 44.1%
  • Programme budget: ,000,000

Strengthening Community Resilience Through Collaboration

Sankwasa highlighted the need for increased resources to ensure that more communities can benefit from the programme. He called for stronger cooperation between the ministry and regional councils to enhance the effectiveness of the initiative. The government is committed to advocating for additional support to tackle the pressing issue of unemployment.

Next Steps for the Programme

  • Advocacy for increased resources to expand the programme.
  • Strengthening cooperation with regional councils.
  • Continued follow-ups to ensure effective planning and decision-making.

This initiative marks a vital step in addressing unemployment and supporting rural communities in Namibia.

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