In the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic, Namibia has banned the procurement of cars for the country’s government officials for 5 years. The government will redirect the saved funds to the fight against COVID-19.

Namibia’s presidential spokesperson Alfredo Hengari said in a statement on 14 May:

“[President Hage Geingob] has directed that the vehicle fleet of the Namibian government will not be renewed for the period 2020-2025. No new vehicles will be purchased for members of the executive and public office bearers in the Namibian government.”

The move is expected to save the government 200 million Namibian dollars, which is equivalent to about US$10.7 million.

Upon appointment, Namibian ministers and their deputies qualify for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.