Namibia continues to play an active role in solving global challenges through international parliamentary dialogue.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security has garnered praise from lawmakers in the National Council following the announcement of an additional N$32 million allocation to enhance its services.

Namibia's progress in gender equality took the spotlight at the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Geneva, where the National Council’s Vice-Chairperson Victoria Kauma emphasised the country's efforts through initiatives like the National Gender Policy and the Rural Women Parliament. 

The proposed raise to the N$100,000 threshold for income tax exemption has divided MPs in the National Council.

This change would mean individuals earning below this amount would not have to pay income tax.

Berseba Constituency Councillor, Jeremias Goeieman, says alleged nepotism in the recruitment of public servants in the ||Kharas Region should be addressed as a matter of urgency as it creates uneasiness and conflicts. 

The National Council members still expressed reservations regarding the proposal to legalise same-sex marriage in Namibia, citing traditional norms where such unions were not historically recognised. 

Members of Parliament in the National Council have commended the government for investing in the education sector.

They were commended as they welcomed the budget allocation of over N$18 billion to the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture.

The National Council opened for business today, commencing the 12th session of the 6th National Council.

The House of Review started off the session by debating the Appropriation Bill, which has been passed by the National Assembly.

Women's representation in parliament worldwide has increased slightly from 26.5% to 26.9% this year. 

These statistics were collected after over 60 parliaments in 52 countries held their parliamentary elections in 2023. 

The sub-Saharan Africa region accounts for the third highest, at over 27%. 

Swapo Party MP Olivia Hanghuwo tabled a report in the National Council on the high failure rate of learners allegedly because of the revised curriculum.