The announcement was made by Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus after a Cabinet meeting, revealing that the ban will remain in effect until April 2026. During this period, a review committee will evaluate the criteria and processes for awarding official state funerals. The committee will consist of a maximum of seven members, with only President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah able to grant exemptions from the moratorium.
This decision is rooted in growing discontent among citizens regarding the financial implications of state funerals, particularly highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic when the costs became a focal point. Recent reports indicate that official funerals accounted for 38.4 million Namibian dollars ($2.2 million) in government expenditures for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, an alarming increase from 2.1 million Namibian dollars spent on 23 funerals in the previous year.
Particularly striking was the transportation cost of 30 million Namibian dollars for moving the late founding President Sam Nujoma’s remains across the country prior to his funeral, which occurred earlier this year. Nujoma, who passed away at 95, was a key figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence and served as its president from 1990 to 2005.
As discussions continue regarding the management of state funerals, the government’s recent amendment reflects a trend towards greater fiscal responsibility in the face of heightened public scrutiny. The BBC has sought comments from the presidency regarding this significant policy change.
This decision is rooted in growing discontent among citizens regarding the financial implications of state funerals, particularly highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic when the costs became a focal point. Recent reports indicate that official funerals accounted for 38.4 million Namibian dollars ($2.2 million) in government expenditures for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, an alarming increase from 2.1 million Namibian dollars spent on 23 funerals in the previous year.
Particularly striking was the transportation cost of 30 million Namibian dollars for moving the late founding President Sam Nujoma’s remains across the country prior to his funeral, which occurred earlier this year. Nujoma, who passed away at 95, was a key figure in Namibia’s struggle for independence and served as its president from 1990 to 2005.
As discussions continue regarding the management of state funerals, the government’s recent amendment reflects a trend towards greater fiscal responsibility in the face of heightened public scrutiny. The BBC has sought comments from the presidency regarding this significant policy change.
