The Active Youth Organisation Namibia (AYO Namibia) has made significant progress in localising the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the country.
The organisation acted as a liaison between the government, civil society organisations, the private sector and young people, encouraging collaboration and taking action to achieve the SDGs.
AYO Namibia believes localising the SDGs among young people and at grassroots level bridges global aspirations with realities and needs of Namibian communities.
In a detailed report released recently, they stated that in 2024, AYO Namibia engaged more than 2 000 young people online through targeted information about the SDGs recently hosted a youth-focused SDG event alongside Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila and UNDP Namibia deputy resident represent Christian Shingiro.
They also conducted a feasibility study at Groot Aub Secondary School to advance SDG localisation in a rural community.
“We co-hosted the eighth national ICT Summit on Youth Day, bringing together over 200 young people. The event emphasised youth voices in shaping emerging technology policies, ensuring inclusivity and relevance in a rapidly-evolving digital landscape,” said spokesperson Rivaldo Kavanga.
He added that internationally, courtesy of an invitation by the One Economy Foundation, AYO Namibia amplified the voices of Namibian youth by participating in a high-level panel discussion at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
As an organisation in its first year, AYO Namibia experienced numerous problems that tested perseverance, fortitude and commitment. The most critical challenge was resourcesmobilisation.
“Ultimately, drawing off our inaugural year, 2024 taught us valuable lessons in our quest to localise the SDGs and create action to achieve them by 2030. These challenges have shaped our plans. AYO Namibia is committed to turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and impact,” he stated.
“AYO Namibia is devoted to empowering young Namibians, fostering cooperation, and driving effective solutions to accomplish the SDGs by 2030. We intend to deepen our effect and reach as we begin 2025, ensuring that as we empower young people, governments, and partners should step up their efforts to achieve the SDGs,” he stated.
Kavanga said at AYO Namibia, they are always excited to connect with like-minded individuals, organisations, and policymakers who share passion for youth empowerment and sustainable development.
“Whether you’re looking to partner, collaborate or simply learn more about our work, we would love to hear from you,” he said.
-psiririka@nepc.com.na