Query: I fully support the veteran comrade who stated that only those veterans who have connections at the ministry are being paid the project money. I have not heard of anyone, especially in Kunene Region, whose project has been approved. I really fail to understand why it should take so long, comrade vice president.
Response: Veterans Affairs conducts its business in a fair and transparent manner and is against favouritism with regard to carrying out its mandate of improving the welfare of veterans of the national liberation struggle. According to our records, 109 veterans in the Kunene Region had their projects approved and funded since 2011.
Out of the 109 veterans, 20 are women, who were politically active inside the country during the national liberation struggle, and they are currently reaping financial rewards from their projects in the Epupa Constituency.
Veterans Affairs acknowledges that the process of projects funding is slow. That, however, can solely be attributed to budgetary constraints, as opposed to allegations of favouritism towards some veterans by Veterans Affairs.
Those with evidence of favouritism are encouraged to contact the permanent secretary’s office on (061) 296 3003.
Edson Haufiku, senior public relations officer in the Office of the Vice President – Veterans Affairs. Email: Edson.Haufiku@mova.gov.na. Tel: (061) 296 3028.