Zebaldt Ngaruka
In his maiden speech last week, Swapo Member of Parliament Austin Samupwa said job-creation for the youth will be high on his agenda during his tenure.
The lawmaker said 40% of Namibian youth are unemployed and struggling to find employment opportunities.
Samupwa added that the unemployment crisis, particularly among the youth, is not only an economic challenge, but a social and moral one.
He said it threatens the future of the country.
“I am committed to working with my fellow parliamentarians to create an environment where our youth can thrive. Any law that stands in the way of youth employment must be smashed to pieces,” he said.
The MP added that he would speak strongly on the need for job-creation and development of economic opportunities that focus on the sectors that are considering the future of the country.
Samupwa highlighted agriculture, technology, tourism and renewable energy as sectors that can create jobs.
He will be vocal in advocating policies that support the creation of small and medium enterprises, innovation hubs and technical training programmes.
“This will help our young people not just to look for jobs, but to empower them to create jobs, establish businesses and shape their future,” said the Swapo MP.
He added that the government has shown a commitment to address unemployment by establishing initiatives like the Youth Enterprise Development Fund.
“I will push for further investment in programmes that provide mentorship, business incubation and affordable finance for young entrepreneurs. We must empower our youth – not only through education, but also through economic independence,” he said.
Samupwa said he will additionally advocate for the provision of basic housing and amenities, improvement of the education system, and boosting the economy.
“These are the critical areas to move Namibia forward, and ensure every Namibian has the opportunity to live a dignified life,” he added.