Zebaldt Ngaruka
Jazema Hangero, president of the Ovambanderu Youth League (OYL), said Africans, particularly Ovambanderu, need to learn and understand their history to take pride in their humanity.
In his New Year’s address to the Ovambanderu youth, Hangero encouraged them to believe in themselves, their culture, religion and languages.
“We, specifically the youth, cannot embrace our identity and culture, ancient knowledge and clothing if we don’t know where we come from and who we are,” he said.
He stressed that the OYL will host events inviting community elders, historians, teachers and researchers to restore their humanity.
“That is how we can remain strong in our culture. As Africans, we have lost our identity, traditions, religion and often feel ashamed of ourselves. Our priority is to decolonise our minds and take pride in being Ovambanderu,” said Hangero.
The OYL urged youth to align goals with cultural narratives by focusing on education, discipline, cultural perseverance, community engagement and celebrating heritage.
“Our current generation behaviour is a concern. We need to have meetings with traditional leaders, elders in our community, parents and children to shape youth behaviour,” he said.
Hangero noted that high unemployment leads to youth involvement in illegal activities like theft, drug abuse and other vices.
The president stated that the OYL will encourage young people to pursue vocational training instead of attending schools and studying fields unrelated to their community’s challenges.
“This is very important. Vocational training focuses on practical skills for direct employment. Many programmes link closely with industry, helping graduates find jobs in sectors like construction, agriculture and information technology,” he said.
Furthermore, the youth leader said OYL will have fundraising strategies like organising cultural events, festivals, seeking sponsorships and partnerships.
“We need to organise ourselves and participate in national events like Independence Day and Genocide Remembrance Day to establish our presence and preserve culture,” said the president.
He encouraged youth leaders to communicate openly, listen to members’ ideas and empower them as responsible leaders to sustain this cultural group for future generations.
Hangero, who is an Otjiherero teacher by profession, said the youth should also seek ways to improve and innovate within their sections.
“Your leadership is vital to our collective success. We aim to provide training, workshops and skill development opportunities, and to celebrate milestones and successes.
Most young people are unemployed. We cannot rely on the government alone,” he said.
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