The Social Security Commission (SSC) has announced funding of over N$67.2 million to support employment and training initiatives through its development fund.


The announcement was made during a stakeholder engagement and development fund awards gala dinner held on 10 April.


The event served as a platform to celebrate partnerships and reaffirm the SSC’s mission to empower communities through targeted socio-economic interventions.


“The development fund stands as a testament to our commitment to investing in human capital, empowering communities and creating opportunities where they are needed most. From skills development to job creation and enterprise support to social innovation," said SSC chief executive Milka Mungunda at the event.


Of the total amount disbursed, N$35.6 million has been allocated to employment schemes, while N$31.6 million will be directed towards training schemes.


The funds are expected to directly benefit thousands of Namibians, particularly youth and vulnerable groups, by creating jobs and enhancing skills that respond to market demands.





Socio-economic boost


Speaking at the occasion, justice and labour relations minister Wise Immanuel praised the SSC for its enduring contribution to social security and economic resilience.


“With strategic foresight, SSC continues to evolve in this era of economic revolution and digital disruption, establishing itself not only as a source of benefits but as a catalyst for nation-building,” Immanuel said.


Immanuel applauded the commission’s embrace of technology, noting its cutting-edge use of artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline services and improve efficiency.


“As a result of embracing AI, the SSC’s development fund and legacy debt loads have reduced significantly, while investment returns rose to N$605 million, which is well above target,” he said.


The minister also commended the creation of 1 846 sustainable jobs through the development fund, which he said has had a ripple effect on communities across the country.


In line with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s vision of cushioning citizens through inclusive policies, Immanuel also vowed to fast-track the enactment of the National Pension Fund and table amendments to the SSC Act. “Let us build a Namibia where no one is left behind, where social security is not a privilege but a right,” he said.


The SSC development fund supports deserving, innovative, community-based and community-driven projects that have the potential to create jobs for disadvantaged Namibians.

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