Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Tracy Tafirenyika
Published on 2024-03-12 17:00:00
Analysts have criticized the N$8 billion budget allocated to the defense ministry by Finance and Public Enterprises Minister Iipumbu Shiimi on 28 February. In a recent interview with Desert Radio, analyst Tjipura Tjipura expressed his opinion that the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs’ budget is akin to funding a kindergarten without children. He emphasized the need for the government to reevaluate its policies and prioritize investments in sectors that generate revenue.
Tjipura argued that investing in addressing unemployment and supporting the youth should take precedence over allocating such a large budget to the military, especially when the country is not currently at war. He pointed out that focusing on employment creation, particularly in the private and informal sectors, is crucial for economic growth and addressing the issue of unemployment.
Analyst Angelique Bock echoed the sentiment that the defense budget serves a critical purpose and cannot simply be taken away. She emphasized that reducing the budget allocation could result in job losses within the defense ministry, leading to further unemployment issues. While questioning the allocation of funds is important, Bock highlighted the need to consider the implications of such decisions on employment opportunities.
Finance Minister Shiimi unveiled a N$100.1 billion national budget, representing a 12.4% increase from the previous year’s estimates. The budget aims to protect livelihoods and sustain progress in social sectors, with provisions for development projects funded through external loans and grants, as well as interest payments.
Revenue collection for the upcoming financial year is estimated at N$90.4 billion, reflecting an 11.5% increase from the previous year. Despite criticisms regarding the defense budget, Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Frans Kapofi emphasized the ministry’s role in creating employment opportunities for Namibian youth. He defended the budget allocation by highlighting the ministry’s contributions to national security and crisis management.
Kapofi pointed to the defense sector’s involvement in various national events and crisis response efforts, underscoring its essential role in safeguarding the country. While acknowledging the need to address unemployment and support youth employment, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong defense capability to protect the nation’s interests.
In conclusion, while analysts have raised concerns about the allocation of funds to the defense ministry, government officials have defended the budget as necessary for national security and crisis preparedness. The debate highlights the need for a balanced approach to budget allocations, ensuring that investments support economic growth, social development, and national security priorities.
Read the original article on The Namibian
