UDF calls for sweeping reforms in resource management

Hendrik Gaobaeb, the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) presidential candidate, has laid out his vision for a reformed and equitable Namibia, placing a strong emphasis on responsible resource management, anti-corruption measures, economic equality and accessible social services.During a recent rally in the Erongo Region, Gaobaeb criticised the current government’s handling of Namibia’s abundant mineral resources, saying mismanagement and corruption have hindered the nation’s progress.He stressed that Namibia, one of the richest nations in mineral resources, still grapples with high levels of poverty. Under a UDF-led government, Gaobaeb vowed to renegotiate mining deals to ensure that the wealth generated from natural resources directly benefits Namibians.“The governing party lacks the political will to manage our resources for the benefit of the people. They prioritise self-enrichment schemes instead,” Gaobaeb said.UDF plans to enact policies that would make these resources accessible to all citizens, with transparent governance as the foundation, he added.Basic income grantAdditionally, Gaobaeb outlined a plan to address Namibia&#039;s economic inequalities. In an attempt to reduce poverty and support those in need, the UDF manifesto includes the implementation of a basic income grant, amounting to N$500 per month. This grant would be available to unemployed Namibians aged 18 to 59.According to Gaobaeb, “Namibia is among the most unequal nations globally in terms of living standards and economic status. We need a safety net for our people.”He believes that a basic income grant would provide crucial support to struggling families and help bridge the economic divide across Namibia’s regions.Gaobaeb highlighted the UDF’s commitment to ensuring fair and equitable development in all regions. He criticised the centralisation of resources, which he argues leads to favouritism and uneven growth. The UDF proposes a policy of decentralisation, allowing local constituencies to manage their development budgets and prioritise projects that meet regional needs, he said. This approach, he argued, would ensure that wealth and resources are more equally distributed, avoiding the concentration of benefits in only a few regions.Healthcare reformThe UDF candidate addressed the need for a comprehensive healthcare overhaul, aiming to bring quality services closer to the people. Gaobaeb promised to modernise state hospitals, improve medical supply chains and ensure that each region has fully functional healthcare facilities equipped with skilled staff. In addition, every clinic in the country would be provided with ambulances to transport patients swiftly during emergencies.“We cannot ignore healthcare. Every region should have access to well-equipped hospitals staffed with skilled professionals,” he said. The UDF’s healthcare reform plan includes building more hospitals across the country and providing consistent access to chronic medications, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly.More equitable economyIn what Gaobaeb described as a “social democratic overhaul,” he called for a shift toward a governance system that balances capitalism with state regulation. He envisions a government that maintains a stake in key industries, using revenue generated from these sectors to fund social welfare programmes. This approach, he said, would reduce reliance on foreign ownership and ensure that economic gains remain within Namibia.“Our vision is of a state that is an active player in the economy, not just a spectator,” Gaobaeb explained. precious@erongo.com.na

UDF calls for sweeping reforms in resource management

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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UDF calls for sweeping reforms in resource management

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-02

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