Allexer Namundjembo
The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA) is accused of failing to pay soldiers’ subsistence and travel allowance, with some members deployed to Katima Mulilo for the 26 Heroes’ August Day parade allegedly receiving nothing.
Sources within the ministry, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said ceremonial defence members often go without allowances, especially when deployed outside their duty stations.
“Only top military officials are receiving S&T, and if you’re not close to a senior officer, you won’t receive anything,” they said.
They also claimed that ceremonial soldiers sent to Katima Mulilo did not recieve allowances and that the ministry has failed to provide uniforms to long-serving members.
“The provision of uniforms is also an issue. Many of us have been in the force for some time but are not issued uniforms. It is demoralising, especially when promotions are also withheld.”
Concerns further extend to food in military bases, where some members allege they receive alcohol instead of proper meals.
“If you go on a mission, you’re given canned meat, which is no better than what is served at the bases. Bones are often what’s left in dirty kitchens. The ministry needs to improve on this,” they said.
Other claims include the cancellation of breakfast in all bases and suspicions that funds are being diverted to Namcor as the ministry works to settle debts.
Approached for comment, defence ministry spokesperson Petrus Shilumbu said internal matters should not be raised in the media.
“The ministry of defence and veterans acknowledges your inquiry, but members of the NDF know the procedures or chain of command to follow in order to address grievances, not through the media,” he said in an email to the Windhoek Observer.
This follows media reports that food procurement, food items and uniform supply tender were awarded to August 26 Logistics, which increased monthly costs by N$2 million.
The contract has faced criticism over both cost and quality. Defence minister Frans Kapofi previously admitted that rising costs are straining the ministry’s budget.
Reports describe worn-out uniforms, inadequate bedding, and poor kitchen facilities.
