Vice President Lucia Witbooi has reiterated the government's commitment to support the welfare and safeguard the rights of people with disabilities.

She said this during an engagement with people with disabilities at Keetmanshoop.

According to the 2023 Population and Housing Census, people with disabilities make up less than five percent of the country's population.

Of the 545,805 workforce, only 12,508 people with disabilities are employed.

The data further reveals that 96,336 individuals aged five years and above were recorded during the census in the ||Kharas Region.

Of these, 3,448 persons have difficulties or are unable to perform in one functional domain.

"Today, we gather not only to speak but to listen, to learn, and to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Namibia, where every citizen, regardless of ability, is valued, empowered, and included."

The Vice President announced that the government will conduct a Disability Disaggregated Data Project in the ||Kharas Region during the financial year.

This is to ensure that policies are evidence-based, inclusive, and responsive to the lived experiences of people with disabilities.

In addition, Witbooi revealed that outdated policies and legal frameworks concerning people with disabilities are currently under review and being amended.

"We are also working to ensure that persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of policy but active participants in shaping it. Your voices must be heard in every boardroom, every town and regional council chamber, and every policy dialogue."

Among concerns raised by people with disabilities are limited job opportunities, housing, and social stigma.

They, however, commended the government's continued efforts to promote inclusiveness, empowerment, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.

Josef Motinga, a resident of Keetmanshoop, said, "Our commodities are so expensive in this country. Housing is unaffordable, and with a N$1600 grant you barely can feed yourselves. Therefore, you cannot afford housing."

"Stigma and discrimination remain significant challenges. We call for awareness campaigns to educate the communities and promote respect and dignity for persons with disabilities," said Frieda Charlies, a representative of the Women and Youth with Disabilities.

Board Member at the Disability Council of Namibia, Desmond Tjipanga, said, "The problem, I believe, is not the government and policy, but the implementers."

Vice President Witbooi assured them that her office will work towards addressing the concerns raised.