Windhoek: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Budget and Finance said the 2026/27 National Budget must move beyond fiscal balancing to actively dismantle Namibia's high levels of social inequality and ensure equitable allocation of public resources. Speaking at a workshop here on Monday themed 'Analysis of the National Budget 2026/27: To what extent does it address social inequalities in Namibia?', the committee chairperson Hilaria Mukapuli stated that the budget's success will be measured by its tangible impact on the lives of ordinary citizens rather than just the figures contained in the Appropriation Bill (No. 1 of 2026).According to Namibia Press Agency, the committee, which was established in April 2025, operates under Article 63(2)(a) and (b) of the Namibian Constitution. Its primary mandate involves the oversight of budget approvals, revenue collection, and taxation matters.Mukapuli noted that the committee is tasked with a rigorous examination of state revenue estimates and expenditure, inclu ding the scrutiny of supplementary budgets and the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). 'The broad strokes of policy must be tested against the reality of fiscal allocation,' she added, highlighting that Rule 43 of the committee's standing procedures governs the critical 'Committee Stage' of the Appropriation Bill. During this stage, Cabinet ministers are required to appear before the committee to justify their respective expenditure and departmental allocations.The discussion takes place against the backdrop of Namibia's status as one of the most unequal societies globally, where wealth remains concentrated within a minority segment of the population. The committee emphasised that the 2026/27 budget must be assessed on whether it addresses gaps in social protection, youth unemployment, gender disparities, and living conditions in informal settlements.Key areas identified for scrutiny include allocations to social safety nets, job creation initiatives, labour market interventions, and gender-responsi ve budgeting. The committee further emphasised that public participation remains a cornerstone of the review process. Input from civil society, academic researchers, and various stakeholders will be used to inform the committee's final recommendations to the Ministry of Finance.Mukapuli concluded by urging all stakeholders to engage critically during the committee stage to ensure the final Appropriation Bill reflects the aspirations of all Namibians.