Namibian trade ministry job creation claims face scrutiny

The Namibian Ministry of International Relations and Trade is facing parliamentary scrutiny over its claims regarding job creation linked to investment projects. The ministry reported that 28 projects, which attracted N$66.85 billion in investment, resulted in the creation of 9,343 permanent jobs.

Rodney Cloete, the shadow minister of international relations for the Independent Patriots for Change, challenged these figures, arguing that only 951 permanent jobs were actually recorded. In response to inquiries in the National Assembly, officials clarified that the ministry’s role is to facilitate trade, investment, and export opportunities rather than directly creating employment.

According to the ministry, the investment sectors include:

- Agriculture and food processing: 11 projects, N$4.67 billion investment, and 2,142 jobs. - Metals, mining, and adjacent industries: 7 projects, N$18.25 billion investment, and 2,910 jobs. - Renewable energy: 5 projects, N$38.35 billion investment, and 4,138 jobs. - Other sectors: Chemicals, digital services, tourism, and real estate.