As Namibia approaches its critical November election, the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) have unveiled a comprehensive manifesto aimed at tackling key national issues with innovative strategies.
Addressing Youth Unemployment
Central to the IPC’s plan is combating the high youth unemployment rate, which stood at 46.1% in 2023. IPC leader Panduleni Itula, running for president for the second time, has proposed a plan to cut youth unemployment by 50% over the next five years. This includes creating sustainable job opportunities for graduates, ensuring 80% secure employment within a year, and doubling youth entrepreneurship. Itula envisions that by 2028, 90% of young people will be employed, educated, or in training.
Revitalizing the Business Environment
Itula also aims to transform Namibia’s business landscape by improving its global ranking from the lower half to the top 25% by 2030. His plan includes setting up a committee to simplify business regulations and implementing tax reforms, such as a 22% corporate income tax ceiling and tax exemptions for profits below N$2 million. These measures are designed to foster a more favorable business environment and encourage investment.
Enhancing Resource Management and Public Spending
The manifesto highlights the need for better management of Namibia’s natural resources. Itula proposes reducing wasteful spending and optimizing resource use through reforms like streamlined procurement processes and a transparent resource management plan. These steps are aimed at making resource use more efficient and contributing to national development.
Improving Basic Services
Itula’s plan also focuses on improving basic services, including healthcare, housing, and education. He proposes modern housing for every child and increasing formal housing stock by 100,000 units over the next decade, while reducing informal settlements by 50%. The plan includes expanding healthcare facilities, introducing cash-income grants, and investing N$5 billion in modernizing school infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
Combating Corruption
Corruption is another critical issue addressed in the manifesto. Itula plans to tackle corruption by establishing an oversight commission, reforming the Anti-Corruption Commission, and introducing a blockchain-based procurement system to enhance transparency.
Challenges and Concerns
Despite the ambitious vision, critics have raised concerns about the centralization of urban land delivery, which might affect local revenue and decentralization efforts. Analysts have also questioned the feasibility of some proposals, including the specifics of unemployment reduction and tax reforms. These concerns underscore the challenges Itula and the IPC face in turning their promises into effective policies.