Namibia faces economic scrutiny over job creation promises

Namibia faces significant economic challenges as the nation grapples with high unemployment rates, which stood at 36.9% in 2023, with youth unemployment reaching 44.4%. Discussions have emerged regarding the necessity of transitioning from political independence to meaningful economic freedom to address issues of poverty, housing, and job scarcity.

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has formally questioned President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s pledge to create 500,000 jobs. IPC shadow minister Rodney Cloete argued that job creation requires tangible industrial expansion, such as factory production and market access, rather than diplomatic agreements alone.

Concerns were also raised regarding Namibia’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area, noting a low number of certificates of origin issued for exports to Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. Additionally, the IPC highlighted infrastructure concerns, specifically citing a lack of recent train movements on the TransNamib rail line and the potential for regional competition from the Lobito railway in Angola.