Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs has tabled a proposed budget of N$1.52 billion for the 2026/2027 financial year under Vote 31 in the National Assembly, aimed at improving the welfare of liberation struggle veterans while preserving Namibia’s liberation history. Deputy Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs (MoDVA), Charles Mubita, emphasised that the government remains committed to honouring veterans and improving their living standards, adding that the peace and unity enjoyed today are the result of their sacrifices.
Presenting the budget in Parliament, Deputy Minister Charles Mubita said the allocation will support key programmes addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by veterans, including access to medical care, psychosocial support, and the settlement of outstanding Individual Veterans Projects (IVPs), particularly for an ageing beneficiary base.
Mubita added that the ministry utilised 94.16% of its N$1.535 billion allocation during the 2025/2026 financial year, with the bulk of expenditure directed towards monthly financial assistance for veterans. By March 2026, about 23,694 veterans were receiving monthly grants, accounting for more than two-thirds of the previous budget.
Additional spending during the past financial year included payments for IVPs, once-off gratuities to beneficiaries granted veteran status on appeal, funeral assistance, and limited medical support.
For the 2026/2027 financial year, the largest share of the budget—about N$1.38 billion—has been allocated to the Veterans Welfare Programme. This programme will cover monthly subventions, welfare grants, gratuities, IVPs, medical assistance, psychosocial support, and the operations of the Veterans Board and National Honours Advisory Committee.
A further N$13.8 million has been earmarked for the Liberation Struggle Heritage Programme, which focuses on preserving the country’s liberation history through research, documentation, and the maintenance of heritage sites, including the erection of tombstones and the reburial of fallen heroes.
An additional N$126.3 million has been allocated to policy coordination and support services to ensure effective administration and implementation of programmes.
He called on Members of Parliament to support and approve the proposed budget, stressing that it is essential for sustaining veterans’ welfare and safeguarding Namibia’s liberation heritage.
Photo: Parliament of the Republic of Namibia
