There is a glimmer of hope for the unemployed, as approximately 15 000 jobs in the public sector are anticipated to become available this year. These employment opportunities will arise from the security cluster, which encompasses the National Defence Force (NDF), National Correctional Services (NCS) and the Namibian Police.
This is in addition to 13 000 temporary jobs expected to be created through the census by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA).
Earlier this year, the correctional services welcomed 300 people into their ranks. Subsequently, the police also initiated a recruitment drive to hire 1 000 cadet constables.
Following suit, the NDF recently announced the recruitment of approximately 1 400 to 1 600 new members into their force.
This promising development has been regarded as a potential beacon of hope for especially unemployed youth, who have been grappling with unemployment for years.
In an interview with New Era, economist Salomo Hei expressed optimism regarding the recent recruitment drive by the security cluster, asserting it would contribute significantly to alleviating unemployment in the country.
“At least there is hope for the unemployed through the security cluster, and although the NSA positions may be temporary, this large-scale project is bound to have a positive impact on numerous lives,” Hei said.
He further emphasised these recruitments are warmly welcomed, as they would alleviate the heavy burden of unemployment experienced by many Namibians.
Rui Tyitende, an analyst, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the potential impact of NSA recruitment on the lives of Namibia’s youth.
“The employment of many young people through this initiative will undoubtedly enhance their quality of life. However, we must consider President Hage Geingob’s plan to halve the civil service. If the defence force is recruiting additional personnel, it will inevitably lead to an increase in the public wage bill. Therefore, we need to assess the sustainability of such measures,” he noted.
Tyitende also stressed the government’s responsibility on creating an enabling environment for the private sector and entrepreneurs to thrive, which, in turn, would generate more job opportunities.
“While the government’s role should primarily focus on creating a conducive economic environment, it is still encouraging to witness the efforts made through initiatives like this recruitment drive. However, we must acknowledge that it may not significantly reduce overall unemployment rates,” he cautioned.
President Hage Geingob expressed concern about Namibia’s high unemployment rate, particularly among the youth, during a recent meeting at State House with a delegation of 11 investors from India.
He emphasised that while the country enjoys political stability, the escalating unemployment can pose a threat to this harmony.
Currently, Namibia’s overall unemployment rate stands at approximately 35%, with youth unemployment estimated to be around 50%.
The extent of the unemployment crisis is evident in the overwhelming number of young individuals attending job interviews, desperately seeking employment opportunities.
The recruitment drive for 1 000 cadet constables received a staggering 42 967 applications, according to the police, showcasing the intense competition for available positions.
Similarly, a local lounge attracted around 2 000 young people vying for just six casual jobs in a separate incident.