This paper analyses the effectiveness of public works programmes (PWPs) in creating
employment, reducing poverty and reinforcing the existing social protection system in
Namibia. Using data and information from a survey conducted in northern Namibia, it is
established that while public works programmes have no significant effect on the employment
status of participants beyond the programme lifespan, they nonetheless have a significant
positive effect on their socio-economic well-being. PWP wages, which are significantly lower
than those prevailing in the market for unskilled labour, are comparable to most of the existing
social cash transfers and have a positive impact on poverty reduction. It is established that
PWP wages are used by individuals and households to invest in economic assets as well as in
improving access to basic social services—education and health—all of which serve to
reinforce the well-developed social protection system.
There is, however, a need to constantly review the wage level to be as near the prevailing
market rates as possible; to ensure that the PWPs have an inbuilt mechanism for the transfer
of the necessary skills; and to design complementary policies and programmes that promote
long-term investments in rural areas so that PWPs can be more effective in reinforcing the
existing social protection system.