Africa-Press – Namibia. Staff Reporter
PRIME Minister Dr. Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare has unveiled a significant policy shift with the launch of a new voluntary initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable elders and veterans of the liberation struggle, particularly those living in rural areas. Addressing the National Assembly, the Prime Minister described the program as a landmark move to institutionalise care for Namibia’s elderly and war veterans, highlighting the government’s commitment to social protection and community-driven support.
“Caring for the elderly is a timeless human duty. It is an act of kindness expected especially from the young,” Dr. Ngurare said. He highlighted that the initiative will involve deploying unemployed youth, including trainees from the government’s TVET program, to assist in rehabilitation, construction, and maintenance of households for elderly citizens and veterans. The program will source materials from local entrepreneurs and will be coordinated in partnership with traditional authorities, the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, and other stakeholders.
The Prime Minister clarified that the initiative is meant to complement—not replace—family care. “Many elders are already cared for by their families, or reside in old age homes. But in rural areas, some vulnerable elders require additional support for basic amenities such as water, sanitation, and food,” he explained.
Dr. Ngurare also referenced community gardens being established in villages, such as in Otjombinde in the Omaheke Region, where unemployed youth will cultivate food to support local households. Similar gardens are being encouraged in other areas as part of a broader effort to address food security while empowering young people.
On the welfare of war veterans, the Prime Minister stressed Namibia’s historic responsibility to honour their sacrifices during the 23-year armed struggle for independence. He urged Parliament and the nation to ensure veterans are treated with respect and dignity, particularly those living in challenging conditions.
“Our independence was paid for with the blood and sweat of many brave Namibians. Their basic needs must be met while waiting for cash payouts or government assistance,” Dr. Ngurare said. He further condemned any acts of mockery or vilification directed at veterans, calling such behaviour “sheer wickedness.”
Dr. Ngurare explained that government support for this initiative will be provided through the Food for Work and Cash for Work programs, enabling youth to earn compensation while assisting elders and veterans. He invited private-sector partners and communities to participate, emphasising that the program is driven by humanity and not political affiliation.
Answering questions from Parliament, the Prime Minister reiterated that the program’s focus is purely humanitarian. “An elder is an elder, regardless of political membership or association. This initiative is about ensuring that no elder suffers avoidable hardships,” he said, adding that trained youth and veterans possess the skills necessary to carry out repairs and assistance programs with proper support.
Dr. Ngurare concluded by calling on all Namibians to embrace this collective effort, stating, “The clock of humanity must be unleashed without delay. This is about dignity, care, and respect for those who built our nation.”
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