Namibia's unregulated economic sector accounts for 26.5 percent of national output, equivalent to roughly $13 billion when adjusted for purchasing power parity in 2025, according to Finance Ministry data presented during the launch of the Diagnostic Report on Informality. Michael Nokokure Humavindu, who serves as executive director and chairs the National Working Group on Informality, indicated the segment expanded from 24.7 percent in 2023, when it represented approximately $8 billion, with an estimated 58 percent of the workforce deriving income from these activities.
The assessment emerged through direct consultations with street vendors, taxi operators, mechanics and food sellers, revealing obstacles including inadequate security, restricted financial access and regulatory burdens that prevent integration into formal commercial structures. Women operate more than half of informal enterprises, while young entrepreneurs establish initial ventures despite capital constraints and administrative barriers.
Bank of Namibia Deputy Governor Ebson Uanguta emphasized that empirical findings should guide infrastructure and social development strategies addressing the economic realities of most citizens, urging coordinated action among government agencies, regulators, civil society organizations and private sector entities to implement structural reforms promoting opportunity and dignity for unregistered workers.
The assessment emerged through direct consultations with street vendors, taxi operators, mechanics and food sellers, revealing obstacles including inadequate security, restricted financial access and regulatory burdens that prevent integration into formal commercial structures. Women operate more than half of informal enterprises, while young entrepreneurs establish initial ventures despite capital constraints and administrative barriers.
Bank of Namibia Deputy Governor Ebson Uanguta emphasized that empirical findings should guide infrastructure and social development strategies addressing the economic realities of most citizens, urging coordinated action among government agencies, regulators, civil society organizations and private sector entities to implement structural reforms promoting opportunity and dignity for unregistered workers.
