Ashipara: Swapo Party Member of Parliament Modestus Atshipara has backed the N.dollars 17 billion security budget, saying it is crucial for national stability.According to Namibia Press Agency, last month, Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah allocated the security sector the second-largest share (19.5 per cent) of the budget, emphasising the government's dedication to peace and security. Atshipara stressed that this funding equips law enforcers to combat gender-based violence effectively."This reflects the government's commitment to peace, security and stability. This budget sends a strong message to perpetrators of gender-based violence and child abuse, while equipping our men and women in uniform with the resources they need to perform their duties effectively," he said.During the National Assembly budget debate on Tuesday, Atshipara highlighted that the 2026/27 budget aligns with the country's long-term objectives, including NDP6 and Vision 2030. He emphasised its focus on industrialisation, poverty all eviation and inclusive growth despite global economic challenges.He pointed out that the Namibian Correctional Service's Food Production Directorate serves as a model for transforming social protection funding into economic productivity. "By producing over 1 500 tonnes of maize meal and 1 166 tonnes of wheat flour per year, this initiative can successfully feed 12 000 inmates across correctional facilities and police holding cells for three years with further harvest," he said, highlighting that self-reliance and food security are examples of how social welfare investments boost economic growth.The security budget allocation reveals that the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security received N.dollars 8.1 billion, including N.dollars 158 million for the training of 2 033 NamPol cadets and N.dollars 108 million for recruitment in the Namibian Correctional Service. The defence department was allocated N.dollars 7.5 billion, with N.dollars 587 million of the budget going for development proj ects.Veterans Affairs received N.dollars 1.5 billion, while the Judiciary was allocated N.dollars 512 million, of which N.dollars 78 million is aimed at addressing the shortage of judges and magistrates. The Ministry of Justice received N.dollars 460.8 million, and the Anti-Corruption Commission was allocated N.dollars 109 million.Moreover, Atshipara emphasised the need for discussions on driving economic and revenue growth in Namibia by leveraging natural resources through strategic initiatives outlined in NDP6, the Swapo Party manifesto, and its 2025-2030 plan. He called for expediting a beneficiation policy to increase Namibia's mining stakes beyond 10 per cent, proposing a national task force for renegotiation and direct reporting with clear milestones.