Adolf Kaure
The secretary general of the National United Democratic Organisation (Nudo) Youth League, Veparura Kandjekiriria, has urged lawmakers to develop inclusive pathways for youth employment.
In a recent party statement, Kandjekiriria called on the government to allocate sufficient funding to the National Youth Council (NYC) to close the youth unemployment gap in the country.
“We call on the government to allocate sufficient funding to the National Youth Council, strengthen its leadership capacity, and ensure that it operates independently and effectively in fulfilling its mandate,” he said.
“Let us recommit ourselves to building a Namibia that not only upholds peace and stability but also delivers opportunity, dignity, and prosperity for all, especially the youth,” said Kandjekiriria.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency’s 2023 Housing and Population Census, Namibia’s youth unemployment rate stands at 44.4%. On behalf of the Nudo Youth League, Kandjekiriria commended Parliament for the establishment of the NYC. “It is an institution that has played a vital role in uniting and empowering young people. Through its efforts, many young leaders have been nurtured and now serve in Parliament, as well as in regional and local authorities,” he said.
However, the Nudo Youth League leader called for reforms to the Affirmative Action legislation to give graduates with limited experience a chance to enter the job market more quickly.
“The current Affirmative Action framework requires urgent review. It should be amended to deliberately include and empower young people in employment opportunities. Many graduates are excluded due to a lack of work experience, as most job opportunities demand several years of prior experience. This creates a cycle that disadvantages young people who are eager to contribute but are not given a fair chance,” he said.
Namibia celebrated 36 years of independence recently, marking the end of Apartheid rule, segregation, humiliation and oppression.
Kandjekiriria further expressed his appreciation for the legacy left by the heroes and heroines of the past, whose sacrifices led to Namibia’s independence. However, despite the freedom and peace attained through independence, he stated that peace alone is not enough, as young people face social ills daily.
“As young people, we must appreciate this legacy and continue to safeguard and promote it for future generations. The peaceful and orderly succession process reflected the strength of our democracy and reaffirmed our collective commitment to the ideals of independence,” said Kandjekiriria.
He noted however that while we celebrate peace and stability, we must also confront the harsh realities many young Namibians face.
“Peace alone is not enough when young people continue to face hunger and unemployment. The rising youth unemployment rate is a serious concern, highlighting the need for more effective policies on job creation and sustainable economic growth,” he elaborated.
-akaure@nepc.com.na