Carrying capacity exceeded

SAPIENS WRITES:

Namibia is currently in socio-economic distress. We are recovering from Covid, but we were then hit by a drought.

A third of Namibians are unemployed or underemployed. Up to 40 percent of the youth are unemployed. Food security is under threat, leading to malnutrition.

Children are the most vulnerable, with long-term physical, mental, and emotional scars – tomorrow!

Drought rations are a stop-gap relief measure.

With elections in November 2024, there is talk (promises) of a N$3 000 pension and a N$500 Basic Income Grant. The funding for this is unclear.

A pensioner often feeds extended, unemployed families with the B.I.G.

There is no control over junk food and alcohol abuse.

The present crisis is a reflection of the carrying capacity of life being exceeded. The more children, the less food for each family member.

China broke its poverty cycle with a drastic “one child” often boy policy and discipline. This has since been relaxed due to distorted demographics.

Namibia grew by three percent since independence, to three million in 2024, according to the latest census.

In order to absorb a three percent population growth workforce, one needs average economic growth of six percent.

However, Namibia averaged growth of only about two percent in the last decade. We became poorer, and inflation reduced buying power.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

We should look at the concept of a family of “replacement” i.e. a two-child family that is spaced according to affordability. Each child is a huge responsibility, and the parent or guardian has an obligation to ensure that the child develops to its full potential and independence.

A stable, secure family is the cornerstone or security of harmony.

Live within your means and apply the Bloomberg Financial Discipline Principles:

– Don’t consistently spend more than you earn; avoid the debt trap!

– Audit your essential, affordable expense needs.

– Save on a regular basis for reserves and old age.

In drought due to a lack of grass and water, farmers are encouraged to sell excess stock to prevent losses.

If your business declines, you may have to retrench staff or reduce salaries.

At the A.N.C (antenatal clinic), every future mother should identify the biological father so that a stop order can be arranged for the child’s future. Don’t delay and wait for a maintenance judgment.

To get ahead in life, you have to apply the principle of effort, calculated risk, and reward. People who believe in effortless entitlement don’t get very far in the long term in life.

Invest in compound good habits and preventative maintenance of your assets (health, skills, relationships, finances, faith, home, car, etc.) and thrive.

In life, your footprint is your children. Are they well-adjusted, independent, and productive? Make your vocation your prayer of service.

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