‘Everything’s going up except salaries’

Thomas Shilunga*, a finance clerk at an investment company, says the rising cost of living is making it hard to make ends meet – even for those with salaries.

Many Namibians are forced to rely on side hustles or cash loans.

“Expenses keep increasing, but we never see employers increasing our salaries.

That is why many people end up taking cash loans,” he says.

Shilunga says a significant portion of his monthly income goes towards fixed expenses, including about N$2 500 in repayments.

He estimates spending a further N$2 500 on groceries and personal necessities, while transport and social activities have also become more expensive due to the rising cost of fuel.

“By the time I’ve paid everything, what’s left is just enough to get me back to work,” he says.

Shilunga says side hustles have become an important source of income, adding they often generate more money than his full-time job.