Nearly 380,000 Namibians depend on government grants for survival
Approximately 378,000 Namibians, representing 20.8% of the eligible adult population, rely primarily on government social transfers, such as old-age pensions, child grants, and disability grants, according to the 2025 Namibia Financial Inclusion Survey. Old-age pensions constitute the largest share, supporting 14.6% of adults, while child grants account for 4.1% and disability grants for 2.1%. Monthly grants are N$1,700 for old-age, N$350 for child, and N$1,600 for disability. Economist Abraham Eita notes that these grants are often shared among several people within households, indicating significant financial pressure and highlighting weaknesses in the broader economy, including unemployment and low incomes. Economist Nghiinomenwa Erastus points out that a large portion of these transfers goes to individuals not expected to be in the labor market, like pensioners and people with disabilities. He warns that this large dependent population puts pressure on the national fiscus and creates vulnerability if government revenue falters. Both economists agree on the necessity of social protection but emphasize the need for economic growth and job creation to reduce dependence.
