SWAKOPMUND – The government, through the gender ministry, has allocated over N$300 million for grants to be to be paid to pensioners, people living with disabilities, orphans, and vulnerable children.
Erongo governor Neville Andre said there are currently 11 261 vulnerable and orphaned children in the region, and the government allocates N$2.8 million per month for their support.
“Approximately 14 300 elders receive old age grants, with N$18.5 million disbursed to them monthly. Additionally, N$4.1 million is provided to 3 178 individuals living with disabilities. These figures are cumulative and vary each month due to new registrations added to the system after approvals,” explained Andre.
He said these amounts to a total government expenditure of over N$300 million on social grants in the Erongo region alone, with N$33.7 million allocated annually for orphans and vulnerable children (OVCs), N$49.6 million for disability grants, and N$223 million for old age pension grants.
The governor shared the figures on Monday while giving an update on the region’s affairs. He also highlighted the government’s continued efforts to improve the quality of life for all Namibians, particularly those within the Erongo region.
He said the government is providing assistance to vulnerable members of society which demonstrates its dedication to addressing poverty and improving the lives of Erongo residents.
In addition to these efforts, he said the ministry’s community development division has been supporting various income-generating activities (IGAs) in both rural and urban areas, aiming to reduce poverty and uplift the living standards of community members.
“Viable projects were selected from the seven constituencies, and beneficiaries received materials and equipment for their projects. During the review period, materials worth N$68 000 were provided for nine projects,” said Andre.
He further said the division provides an allowance to early childhood educators serving in rural and peri-urban communities, with the aim of alleviating some of their financial burdens.
“This ensures that quality early childhood development programmes are available to all children and their families. Currently, the division supports 70 educators, at a cost of N$1.2 million annually. Caregivers also receive a monthly allowance totalling N$107 500,” said the governor.
-edeklerk@nepc.com.na
Caption: Grateful… Erongo governor Neville Andre.
Photo: Nampa