Windhoek – Defence and Veterans Affairs Minister Frans Kapofi has reaffirmed the Namibian government’s commitment to supporting veterans of the liberation struggle, highlighting various ongoing programs aimed at integrating them into the socio-economic fabric of the country. During a Cabinet committee briefing in Windhoek on Monday, Kapofi detailed the extensive support provided by his ministry to these veterans.
According to Namibia Press Agency (NAMPA), over 18,000 veterans are currently receiving financial support from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs. This support includes a monthly payment of N.dollar 2,200 to each veteran. Additionally, the ministry provides a higher monthly grant of N.dollar 5,000 to 8,998 veterans who were political prisoners at Robben Island and Kai //Ganaxab.
Kapofi also mentioned that all registered veterans are eligible for funding for a project, which has now been revised to a one-time cash payment of N.dollar 170,000. “This financial year, the ministry has already paid 322 veterans. And before the end of this financial year, the ministry is expected to pay another 425 veterans,” he stated.
The minister highlighted the ministry’s land resettlement program for veterans. This program is available to all veterans except those already resettled under the national resettlement program or those who already own sufficient land for economic activities. Kapofi noted that over N.dollar 400,000 had been allocated towards the rehabilitation of water infrastructure on Farm Rostof in the Otjozondjupa Region, benefiting three resettled veterans.
Furthermore, veterans are provided with funeral and tombstone grants, as well as medical and counselling services. Kapofi explained that veterans with health conditions resulting from their participation in the liberation struggle receive assistance with medical expenses at state facilities. “If it is proven that the required treatment is not available at State health facilities, the ministry facilitates their treatment at private health facilities,” he said. The ministry has spent over N.dollar 139,000 on medical assistance and counselling services for veterans so far.
This comprehensive support underscores the Namibian government’s dedication to recognizing and assisting those who contributed to the country’s liberation, ensuring their inclusion and well-being in the nation’s development.