COVID-19: Namibia to save U$10.7 million, ban car purchase for politicians

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Namibia’s President, Hage Geingob has banned official purchase of cars and automobiles for politicians and top government officials in order to mop up funds to confront the dreaded coronavirus scourge in the country.

The ban will last for five years, according to official statement from his office on Thursday.

He has ordered that the presidential fleet would not be renewed for the period 2020-2025.

“No new vehicles will be purchased for members of the executive and public office bearers in the Namibian government.”

He said the decision would save some 200 million Namibian dollars (US$10.7 million), which will be directed “to urgent priorities, specifically at a time when the country is dealing with the health and economic implications of COVID-19”.

The southern African country of 2.5 million people has so far recorded 16 cases of COVID-19, with no deaths.

Namibian ministers and their deputies each qualify for Mercedes-Benz vehicles upon their appointment.

The president also directed a limit on monthly fuel consumption for top politicians, the government said.

It is recalled that his predecessor, Sam Nujoma had in 2002, banned the use of Mercedes-Benzes for Toyota Camry cars.