For four decades, the Ebenezer Youth Conference has played a significant role in positively shaping the lives of young people, keeping them engaged, motivated, and off the streets during the festive season.

The week-long 40th Ebenezer Youth Conference is now underway in Outjo and is dedicated to the late Pastor Salomon Gariseb, who founded the annual gathering in 1985.

The aim of the conference is to keep young people off the streets, particularly at the end of the year, by providing a structured and supportive environment. 

It also seeks to create a platform for young people to share experiences and openly discuss issues affecting them, including HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy, and challenges related to education.

Organisers say the conference equips youth with guidance, moral values, and life skills to prepare them for the year ahead, while encouraging them to remain in school for a better future.

Over the years, the conference has become an important forum for leadership development and responsible citizenship, helping young people discover their potential and make positive life choices. 

It attracts participants from across the country and promotes community involvement, bringing together youth, church leaders, and community members.

This year's programme includes motivational talks and leadership development sessions, and participants are expected to deliberate and adopt resolutions on youth development initiatives.

The conference is being held under the theme "All things are possible for those who believe in God."