Windhoek:Swapo Party lawmakers have expressed their support for the Mid-Term Budget Review, emphasizing the need for sufficient funding for government priorities, enhanced service delivery, and stronger worker protections.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Sebastian Karupu, in his remarks on the Appropriation Amendment Bill, characterized the budget as a cautious approach to the country's difficult economic conditions. He noted that the government's revenue has been impacted by slower economic growth and reduced diamond earnings, leading to an anticipated collection shortfall of about N$1.5 billion. Meanwhile, ministries had requested over N$13 billion in additional funding.

In response to these challenges, Karupu stated that the government has maintained its deficit target by reducing ministry spending limits by two percent and reallocating resources to urgent needs. Key allocations have been made towards combating Foot-and-Mouth Disease, providing sanitary pads for vulnerable learners, offering drought relief, addressing soil erosion, and maintaining the public servants' medical aid scheme. Progress was also noted in housing projects, electricity connections, and classroom construction, with a call for Parliament to ensure that funds for infrastructure projects are utilized effectively.

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Trade, Jenelly Matundu, emphasized the necessity of adequate and predictable funding for Namibia's diplomatic missions, citing increased operational costs due to inflation and foreign exchange fluctuations. Although the strengthening South African Rand has helped, it has not fully offset these rising costs. Matundu praised the Ministry of Finance for allocating N$179 million to the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Support Fund to bolster efforts in containing the outbreak and protecting the livestock industry.

Justina Jonas also voiced support for the mid-term budget, focusing on the welfare of workers. She called for enhanced labour inspections, better occupational health and safety standards, equitable employment, and expanded social protections. Jonas stressed the importance of enforcing labour legislation in every workplace to combat unfair labour practices and ensure timely justice for workers. She highlighted the broader economic impact of declining worker purchasing power and urged the government, employers, and trade unions to foster social dialogue and empower workers in decisions affecting their livelihoods.