State Pensions as an Income Safety Net in Namibia

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Periodical article

Title:	State Pensions as an Income Safety Net in Namibia
Author:	Morgan, Richard
Year:	1991
Periodical:	Food Policy
Volume:	16
Issue:	3
Period:	October
Pages:	351-359
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Namibia
Subjects:	pensions Economics and Trade Politics and Government
External link:	https://doi.org/10.1016/0306-9192(91)90032-F
Abstract:	At independence Namibia inherited a widespread but highly regressive and discriminatory old age pension system. Despite its shortcomings, the system nevertheless seems to have played a significant role in enhancing food security among the most economically marginalized. This paper examines the main features of the pension system in Namibia, including its financing solely by government, and considers its present and potential role in enhancing food security and overall welfare for poor Namibian households. Consideration is made of possible alternative and complementary means of providing State support for these objectives, including commodity and other direct financial transfers. Finally, issues of feasibility and affordability are raised in relation to the possible adoption of some form of government-financed pension provision by other African countries, particularly Botswana. Notes, ref., sum.