The Basic Income Grant (BIG) Coalition of Namibia organized a march on Saturday morning to call for a universal and unconditional Basic Income Grant of N$500 per person each month.
Rinaani Musutua, the BIG campaign coordinator, stated that the purpose of the march was to address deep-rooted poverty affecting multiple generations.
Musutua emphasized that for nearly two decades, the coalition has been pushing for this grant but has been consistently ignored. She highlighted that people are tired of sifting through trash to find food and want the government to fulfill its duty of care.
The group’s main call is for the government to adhere to Article 95 of the Namibian Constitution, which they believe obligates the state to implement the grant.
The coalition’s petition stressed the precarious situation facing the youth, who are disproportionately impacted by unemployment.
They argue that an unconditional and universal Basic Income Grant could be a significant measure to ensure the jobless youth are supported and foster youth development.
- Objective: The march aimed to spotlight the crucial need for a universal Basic Income Grant in Namibia.
- Duration of Advocacy: The coalition has been advocating for approximately 19 years.
- Constitutional Obligation: The petition emphasizes the government’s duty as outlined in Article 95 of the Namibian Constitution.
- Focus on Youth: The call for the grant is centered on supporting young, jobless individuals to boost their development.
