A group of young people in Kayengona village, in the Rundu Rural constituency have taken it upon themselves to restore cleanliness at a popular riverbank used for bathing and social gatherings.

The initiative started four years ago when two youths, Ronaldo Shikesho and Daniel Musumali, began cleaning the area, which is frequently used by residents for daily bathing, barbeques and other recreational activities. The site, which attracts large numbers of people, especially during summer had increasingly become polluted over time.

According to Shikesho, one of the founders, the idea was driven by a sense of responsibility. “We are growing and things have changed compared to when we were younger. 

We asked ourselves: if we don’t clean our environment, then who will? As young people in this village it is our duty to make sure the place looks presentable,” he said.

He noted that while the village has experienced steady development over the past 15 years, it has also brought growing challenges related to waste management and environmental neglect.

“What we are seeing now is the result of growth – more people, more services and increased activity. 

Ten years ago, we didn’t have tarred roads in the village, but now we do. There are also more hostels, with increasing numbers of students. 

All of this adds to the waste challenges in our community, which is why the area is becoming polluted,” he explained.

The initiative has since grown, attracting about 30 more young members who regularly take part in clean-up activities. 

The group is also affiliated with the Namibia Youth Council (NYC), a move they believe will strengthen their structure and expand their impact.

“We are now affiliated with the NYC, which we believe will help us access support from government and NGOs, whether financial or material. 

We have also seen more young people showing interest in the initiative and we would like to visit neighbouring villages to mobilise others to do the same,” he said.

Their long-term goal is to extend clean-up efforts beyond the riverbank to the entire village, while encouraging neighbouring communities to follow suit.

“We want this to be bigger than just us. We hope other villages can also mobilise themselves and take care of their environments,” he added.

The group has received some support from the local councillor’s office, but says more assistance is needed to sustain and expand its work. 

They are calling on individuals, businesses and other stakeholders to contribute, whether through financial support, equipment or other resources.

“Our aim is to create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone in the village. Any support we can get will make a big difference,” he said.

mkambukwe@nepc.com.na