Namibia: Nationwide protests over cost of living on Aug. 26

The Basic Income Grant in Namibia (BIG) has called for nationwide demonstrations over the high cost of living on Aug. 26. It is unclear whether authorities have sanctioned the protest, which falls on Heroes Day, a public holiday in Namibia. Organizers have announced the following protest locations:

• Gobabis: The Municipality of Gobabis from 09:00.

• Grootfontein: The Damara Location Playground from 09:00.

• Katima Mulilo: The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation from 10:00.

• Keetmanshoop: The Zacheus Thomas Trinity AME Church from 09:00.

• Mariental: The Wakaduku Soccer Field from 09:00.

• Oshakati: The Oshakati Pharmacy from 10:00.

• Rundu: The Rundu Stadium from 10:00.

• Walvis Bay: The Cymot from 10:00.

• Windhoek: Participants will gather at the Katutura Youth Complex from 09:00 and march towards the Zoo Park via Independence Avenue.

Smaller gatherings may take place in other areas of the country. Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely near all actions. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled given the anti-government nature of the demonstration.