|Khomas Governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua addressed several pressing issues, such as youth unemployment and the upgrading of informal settlements in the region, during a State of the Region Address.
One of the most impactful initiatives is spearheaded by the Ministry of Works and Transport, which has partnered with the Association of Unemployed Artisans of Namibia to provide employment opportunities for thousands of young people.
"The Ministry has employed 5,432 youth through the Association of Unemployed Artisans of Namibia to renovate dilapidated GRN buildings, houses, and facilities in the |Khomas Region."
In addition to creating direct jobs, the |Khomas Regional Council continued its support for small and medium-sized enterprises through its Income Generating Activities (IGA) programme.
In the 2023/24 fiscal year alone, the IGA programme allocated N$1.5 million to finance 182 SME projects.
The Namibia Correctional Service has also played a significant role in addressing youth unemployment.
"During the 2022/2023 financial year, the NCS recruited 301 recruits across the country, with 87 correctional officers deployed in the |Khomas Region. The recently underway NCS 2023/2024 recruitment process reflects a total number of 280 recruits across the country, with 53 recruits for |Khomas Region."
McLeod-Katjirua also highlighted the persistent challenges faced by residents of informal settlements and what the government is doing in that regard.
"The target for the communal standpipes (water taps) was set at 54 water taps. A total of 21 water taps were installed in various informal settlements. The remaining 33 water taps were not installed due to contractual delays, changes of sites by the community, and construction of new illegal structures on the designated pass of water lines. Roads with a length of 11 kilometres were set for upgrading to bitumen standard (tarred roads). Due to challenges faced with the approval of new townships and contractual issues, only 300 meters of Sukkot Street were achieved. The remaining part of the target is moved over to subsequent years when townships are ready for the installation of services and infrastructure."
Basic services also include the installation of electricity, and water pumps, and the construction of different roads, adding up to a distance of 11 kilometres.