Vice Chairperson of the National Council, Emma Muteka, has warned young MPs against mistaking popularity on social media for real leadership or impact.
She said their influence must be used responsibly.
“If you are going to be a creator, be a creator of solutions. If you are going to use your platform, use it to educate, inspire, build businesses, promote your community, and speak about issues that truly matter. If you are going to have the main character energy, make sure the story you are writing is bigger than yourself. Your generation has the power to shape conversations, to change perception and to influence decisions.”
The Chinese Embassy has been working with the Junior National Council (JNC) activities since 2023.
Chinese Ambassador to Namibia Zhao Weiping explained.
“We understand the unique importance of the JNC as a great platform for Namibian youth to learn about the political mechanisms of their motherland and voice their opinions on matters concerning national and international affairs. Youth represents the future of every nation, and the JNC is one of the key training programmes that prepares young people for their future. We are honoured to become a sponsor of the JNC, and we will always be there to support the JNC whenever necessary.”
UNICEF has highlighted disparities in access to water and sanitation across Namibia, calling for greater efforts to ensure every child has access to basic services.
According to available data, about 94% of Namibians have access to basic water services, but coverage varies significantly across the country.
Access is lowest in ||Kharas at 79.8%, followed by Kunene at 77.3%, compared with 99.8% in Khomas.
UNICEF Deputy Country Representative Toshiko Takahashi addressed the young MPs on behalf of UNICEF Country Representative Samuel Ocran.
“It should not matter whether you live in the city or in the rural community. Every child in Namibia deserves clean water, a safe toilet, and good hygiene. No child should be left behind. So today, let us remember that when we make sure every child has clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, we are helping children to stay healthy, go to school, learn, dream, and reach their full potential.”