Namibia’s journey towards local value addition and economic empowerment reached another milestone last month, as 111 young people graduated from the Gemstone Cutting and Polishing Training Programme in Karibib. 

These graduates, from the 2023 and 2024 intake who underwent a six-month training programme are now equipped with practical skills that could transform not only their own lives but also Namibia’s semi-precious stone industry. 

The programme was initiated by the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade through its Directorate of Industrial Development and implemented by EMPRETEC Namibia. 

EMPRETEC was launched in 2019 in Windhoek and promotes entrepreneurship as a vital component of economic growth and development in the country. 

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Minister of Mines and Energy Natangue Ithete said the initiative also forms part of government’s broader plan to invest in youth, build industries, and reduce poverty. 

He said since the launch of the initiative in 2020, 122 trainees have enrolled. 

“Many from the latest group have already secured full-time jobs at companies such as Tate Diamond, KGK, ANKIT Gems, and others. 

These young people are not only joining the workforce but are also contributing directly to Namibia’s gemstone value chains and jewellery industry,” he said. 

Ithete also pointed out that Namibia’s natural resources should benefit its people first before being shared with neighbouring countries or exported. Therefore, he said, it is key to train Namibians so that they not only get employed but also use such training as a steppingstone to become active players in the country’s mineral resource and wealth creation. 

“Job creation and economic growth are priorities under the 8th administration, and this programme speaks directly to those goals,” he added. 

He urged the graduates to apply their skills diligently, reminding them that the cutting and polishing sector plays a key role in creating jobs, especially in rural areas. The graduates were selected from all fourteen regions of the country to undergo the programme. 

Karibib’s role in development 

Karibib mayor Davey van Wyk also said the graduation marks a moment of pride and opportunity—not just for the town but for the entire country. 

“You walk away today not just with certificates, but with skills that can change your lives and communities. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep building,” he told the graduates. 

Van Wyk thanked the ministry for bringing the programme to Karibib and called on both government and the private sector to continue investing in the young graduates. 

“This is about more than skills—it’s about empowerment and unlocking opportunities from our own natural resources,” he said. 

According to Van Wyk, Karibib is a town with a growing industrial footprint, highlighting its marble industry and its potential to become a key player in gemstone beneficiation. 

“Karibib is ready. 

The graduates are here. The skills are here. Let’s support them,” he said. 

-edeklerk@nepc.com.na