Gender equality and child welfare minister Emma Kantema has told young Namibians to participate in leadership opportunities without waiting to be told.
Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for youth in politics in Windhoek on Thursday, Kantema said young people should take an active role in shaping the country while young, saying leadership is not reserved for a certain age.
“Leadership begins the moment you decide to take responsibility, serve or use your voice for the benefit of others. As has often been said, leadership is not about age, it is about courage, character and the willingness to serve,” Kantema said.
She gave an example of young Namibians like Swapo member of parliament Fenny Tutjavi and former member of parliament Patience Masua, who joined parliament at 22, adding that their examples show that leadership is not reserved for older people.
She said youth should take part by participating in their schools, communities, political parties, churches, local authorities and national life.
However, she warned that young people should not sacrifice their integrity while pursuing political positions.
“There is no value in climbing the ladder quickly if it comes at the cost of your principles. There is no honour in gaining a position but losing your character,” she said.
Kantema said Namibia needs principled young leaders who understand that integrity is more important than image and service more important than status.
Meanwhile, Southern African Development Community parliamentary forum secretary general Boemo Sekgoma says young people should not merely be present in politics but must have meaningful influence in decision-making.
“There is a significant difference between being present and having a voice, between occupying a seat and shaping decisions,” Sekgoma says in a statement delivered on her behalf.
She says political parties have a key role to play in creating clear pathways for young people to move from youth activism into positions of leadership and influence.
Sekgoma also urges young leaders to prepare themselves through knowledge, competence and integrity, saying winning an election is only the beginning.
