Poverty Reduction
Even though Namibia is classified as a lower middle-income country, with an annual average per capita income of around US$2 800, ranking 75th out of 177 countries, the classifications masks extreme inequalities in income distribution, standards of living and quality of life. When using the Human Development Index, which combines levels of income with indicators of health and education, Namibia slides to 125th out of a possible 177 in 2006 Human Development Report. Therefore, using average income as a measure of development does not adequately reflect the depth of poverty and in fact masks high levels of inequality as reflected in Namibia’s Gini Coefficient of 0.65.
The Reduction of Human Poverty programme is based on the priorities of the UNDAF (2006-2010) and linked to the UNDP Strategic Plan 2008-2011. It directly addresses the triple threat consisting of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, deepening food insecurity, and a hollowing out of national, community and household levels. Efforts are aimed at improving capacities at national, regional and local level for integrating the Millennium Development Goals, National Development Plans and supporting the country towards the achievement of Vision 2030. It responds to the objectives set in Namibia’s major policies and strategic development frameworks. Furthermore, it aims to assist Namibia to meet its international and regional obligations.
Projects executed under the Reduction of Human Poverty will contribute to ongoing initiatives aimed at attaining national poverty reduction goals and contributing to the realization of the Millennium Development Goals.