Mariental: The Ministry of Finance is actively conducting an outreach programme in the Hardap Region to educate residents about the new social grant system. This initiative, which commenced on 28 July and is set to conclude on Monday, 04 August, is part of a larger national effort aimed at raising awareness, dispelling any confusion, and ensuring inclusivity as the government undertakes reforms to the social grant system, according to the ministry's chief public relations officer, Johnathan Swartz, who spoke to Nampa.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the change, directed by a presidential mandate, is intended to make the social grant system more efficient, secure, and economical. The new system will replace the current cash-based payment model with direct digital transfers into beneficiaries' bank accounts. Swartz elaborated, "The outreach sessions, which have included community leaders, councillors, and local organisations across the Hardap Region, are also intended to gather feedback and input from citizens."

The transition to a digital system is also expected to enhance transparency and significantly reduce fraud. Additionally, Swartz highlighted that automating the grant system will drastically decrease administrative costs previously incurred through third-party agents and temporary cash pay terminals.

Swartz announced that the Epupa cash payment system would be phased out by 30 September 2025. Beneficiaries are scheduled to receive a double payment in September, covering both September and October, and will need to collect it at the Epupa pay points. Starting 01 October 2025, Nampost will assume responsibility for all grant payments, which will be conducted at virtual cash counters in urban and serviced areas or through mobile payment vehicles servicing rural pay points.

During registration, beneficiaries and their appointed representatives are required to present a valid identification document and, if applicable, official appointment letters. The Ministry of Finance initiated its Hardap outreach programme in Mariental, with subsequent events held in Stampriet, Gochas, and Kriess on Tuesday, 29 July. The programme continued in Aranos and Hoachanas on Wednesday, followed by Kalkrand and Rehoboth on Thursday. The outreach proceeded in Klein Aub and Schlip on Friday and will conclude in Maltah¶he and Gibeon on Monday.