Swapo Member of Parliament Justina Jonas-Emvula has expressed strong support for the 2026/2027 national budget, stating that it directly aligns with the Swapo Party manifesto.
During the parliamentary debate on the budget on Thursday, Jonas referred to the budget as a social contract between Swapo and the Namibian people, asserting that it turns the party’s manifesto into a vehicle for service delivery.
“This balanced approach reflects the Swapo manifesto’s commitment to responsible economic management that safeguards national development while protecting the social welfare of our people, and this budget is advancing the commitment to improving the welfare of our people,” she said.
She said the ruling party supports enhancements to civil servants’ salaries and benefits, with Grades 14 and 15 set to receive an increase of N$700, and employees in Grades 1 to 13 benefiting from a 5% salary adjustment, effective April 2026.
Jonas-Emvula emphasised that these measures acknowledge the essential contributions of all public servants, including uniformed personnel, and assist in mitigating the rising cost of living.
“Leadership in public service must be fairly compensated to strengthen accountability, professionalism and effective governance. When those entrusted with national responsibility are properly supported, the quality of governance improves, and the confidence of our people in public institutions is strengthened,” she noted.
She stated that job creation is a key focus of the Swapo Party’s action plan, and the budget reflects that commitment through direct hiring in essential public services.
The unionist praised the allocation of N$259 million for recruiting health professionals, emphasising that it will enhance the health system and provide job opportunities for qualified Namibians, particularly youth.
Additionally, N$78 million has been designated for appointing judges and magistrates. She continued: “The allocation of N$108 million for recruitment within the National Correctional Service, while additional resources will support the training and recruitment of NamPol trainees.”
Jonas highlighted the need to honour commitments to decent work and fair pay, despite the budget’s focus on labour for economic growth.
She pointed out that workers in Namibia, particularly in mining and fishing, experience low wages, insecure contracts and job instability, which contradicts Swapo’s manifesto.
“Economic growth should always be supported by robust labour protections,” she concluded. -Nampa