Oshana youth call for economic freedom

As Namibia prepares to celebrate its 36th year of independence, young people in the Oshana region say the occasion is both a moment of pride and a time for reflection on their role in the country’s development.

While acknowledging progress made since independence in 1990, youth leaders say the next phase of development must focus more on creating meaningful economic opportunities for young people.

Oshana Regional Youth Forum chairperson Absalom Itamalo says the mood among young people in the region reflects pride in Namibia’s democratic stability as well as growing expectations of economic inclusion.

“Young people remain deeply proud of the sacrifices made by the founding fathers and mothers who fought for the freedom and independence we enjoy today.

“Namibia has maintained peace, stability and democratic governance for more than three decades, which is a remarkable achievement.

“Many are hopeful about the future, but they are also eager to see more concrete opportunities that allow them to participate meaningfully in the economy,” he says.

Despite government efforts to empower young people through various programmes, Itamalo says access to these opportunities remains limited.

“The government has made efforts to include young people in the national development agenda through initiatives such as youth development funds, entrepreneurship support programmes and vocational training.

“However, many young people still feel that while policies exist, access to these opportunities remains limited for many at the grassroots level,” he says.

He says unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges young people are faced with, particularly graduates, along with the rising cost of living, which affects their ability to become financially independent.

To address these concerns, Itamalo says leaders should prioritise economic diversification to expand job opportunities, support youth entrepreneurship and innovation, strengthen vocational and technical training and improve access to development funding and mentorship.

“When it comes to economic opportunities for young people, there is still room for improvement. While educational opportunities have expanded significantly, the economy must also grow at a pace that can absorb the increasing number of skilled and educated young people entering the labour market,” he says.

He says young people hope to see increased job creation and industrial development over the next decade, as well as greater investment in youth entrepreneurship, improved access to funding and business support, more youth participation in leadership and decision-making, and policies that respond more effectively to the needs of young people. – Tampa

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