The Social Security Commission (SSC) will increase several benefits under its Maternity, Sick Leave and Death (MSD) Fund from 1 October 2026, providing increased financial support to members and their dependants.

The announcement was made in Windhoek by Minister of Justice and Labour Relations Fillemon Wise Immanuel. Under the revised benefit structure, the maternity benefit will increase from N$15 000 to N$20 000. The sick leave benefit for the first 12 months will rise from N$11 250 to N$15 000, while the benefit for the second 12 months will increase from N$9 750 to N$13 000.

The death benefit will increase from N$12 000 to N$15 000. Both the disability and retirement benefits will also rise from N$12 000 to N$15 000. The SSC said the maternity benefit ceiling would increase to N$20 000, with eligible members receiving 100% of their basic salary up to the maximum of N$20 000. A member earning N$10 000 in basic salary, for example, would receive N$10 000, while a member earning N$20 000 or more would receive the maximum maternity benefit of N$20 000.

The enhancements are intended to strengthen social protection and improve the adequacy of financial assistance available to members during significant life events, including childbirth, illness, disability, retirement and death. The changes come amid continued public interest in social protection and workers’ benefits in Namibia. The SSC said the revised benefits reaffirm its commitment to ensuring that members and their dependants receive meaningful financial support when they need it most.

By Rudi Bowe