Nandi-Ndaitwah calls for greater investment in Namibia’s youth

By: Elizabeth Naftal

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for greater investment in youth development, skills and entrepreneurship, saying Namibia’s young population has an important role to play in driving sustainable growth and development.

Speaking at the One Economy Foundation’s annual fundraising soirée yesterday, in Windhoek on Thursday, Nandi-Ndaitwah said youth empowerment and development remain key priorities for the Namibian Government, as outlined in the country’s NDP6.

“Youth empowerment and development remain key priorities for the Namibian Government,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.

She said initiatives that focus on building the capacity and skills of young people complement government’s efforts to help them realise their potential, adding that government cannot achieve these objectives alone.

“ We need strong partnerships with the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders,” she said.

The president noted that 71% of Namibia’s population is under the age of 35, based on the Namibia Statistics Agency’s 2023 Census Report, adding that the country’s youthful population represents a major national asset.

“Our youthful population is a major national asset, but its potential can only translate into a demographic dividend if we deliberately invest in human capital development,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.

Moreover, she highlighted the One Economy Foundation’s programmes in skills development and entrepreneurship, saying the initiatives provide young Namibians with market-relevant skills, access to capital and mentorship.

Nandi-Ndaitwah said such programmes can help young people move beyond seeking employment and create opportunities for themselves and others.

The President also called for stronger collaboration between Government, the private sector and civil society to address youth unemployment and socio-economic disparities. She said partnerships among the three sectors are necessary to strengthen efforts aimed at supporting Namibia’s youth.

She further highlighted the Foundation’s healthcare outreach programmes, which provide free healthcare services to some communities.

“Access to healthcare should not be limited to those who can afford it. Bringing medical services closer to informal settlements and rural communities is essential,” she said.

The President linked healthcare access to economic productivity, saying a healthy population is important to a productive nation.

She also connected the Foundation’s healthcare work to the government’s broader focus on improving living standards, quality healthcare and social welfare.

Nandi-Ndaitwah used the fundraising event to appeal to corporate sponsors, donors and development partners to support the Foundation’s programmes. She described their contributions as an investment in initiatives that have an impact on young people and their families.