Elderly people have significantly contributed to the development of the country and deserve to be cherished.

These were the sentiments of Social Security Commission Chief Executive Officer Milka Mungunda while addressing Elders Day at Mariental.

In recognition of the significant role senior citizens play in the development of the country, the Hardap Governor's Office hosted Elders Day in collaboration with the Social Security Commission, government ministries, agencies, and individuals as part of their corporate responsibility.

Civil servants on maternity leave will now receive their full salaries.

Making the announcement, Deputy Prime Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says the N$15,000 benefit currently provided by the Social Security Commission (SSC) has been found wanting, especially for civil servants who earn more than what is provided.

In the event that the mother dies, the father of the child will be given paternity leave and receive the benefit. In the absence of both parents, the primary carer will then receive the benefit. All these are on the condition that they are civil servants.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Social Security Commission, Milka Mungunda, says only an educated nation is able to move forward and progress.

Mungunda made the remarks while donating close to N$3 million to the Namibia College of Open Learning (NAMCOL).

Handing over the cheque, Mungunda said the money will go towards the educational needs of young Namibians, adding that the current situation is in dire need of a remedy.

All Social Security Commission (SSC) services will soon become easily accessible to residents of Otjiwarongo and the surrounding areas as the commission initiates the construction of the Otjiwarongo Regional Office.

The construction of the state-of-the-art building, with a budget of N$20 million, has already commenced and is expected to be completed by August of next year.

The Social Security Commission (SSC) has launched its five-year strategic business plan for the financial years 2023–2028.

The strategic business plan aims to drive the commission towards becoming a leading social security services provider in southern Africa.

The Social Security Commission will pursue its journey to embrace its core values of being customer-centric, innovative, resilient, and striving for a high sense of integrity.