There is no UN money, says Mbumba

Swapo secretary-general Nangolo Mbumba yesterday laughed off talk among those who returned from exile that money allegedly donated by the UN to help sustain returnees was invested by the Swapo government and has now grown to billions.
“I have heard the rumour, that is why I am laughing,” Mbumba said.
For years now, there has been talk about the United Nations money among those who returned to Namibia shortly before independence.
The rumour is that the money was given to Swapo and was invested in China.
“Most of the UN’s funding comes from America. Why would the US allow it to invest their money in China? There is no money,” Mbumba said. He said the UN provided those who returned with mattresses and blankets. “The UN did enough, their part in helping us attain independence. Why would they also give money,” he said.
Asked where the rumour comes from, Mbumba said he did not know. “It is false, untrue and impossible,” he said.
He urged those who have pinned their hopes on the alleged investment to “study, work or start their little business and earn money”.
“There is no free money,” he said.
Mbumba said he didn’t know what those who were spreading this rumour were getting out of it. “They know why they are doing so, but I don’t know what benefit they get. Money just doesn’t come like that,” he said.

GORDON JOSEPH