A capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening youth participation in politics and decision-making is underway.
Hosted by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare in partnership with the Parliament and the SADC Parliamentary Forum, the initiative equips young leaders with essential skills for governance.
Gender Equality and Child Welfare Minister Emma Kantema challenged young people to take ownership of their role in shaping the country's future.
“Young people, your participation matters now, not later—not when someone finally gives you permission. Now is the time to play your part in your schools, communities, political parties, churches, local authorities, and international affairs. A nation is strengthened by your participation.”
Dr. Kantema highlighted civic and political participation as a core pillar of Namibia's National Youth Policy, urging young leaders to move past mere visual presence and focus on driving integrity-based, meaningful influence.
Speaking on behalf of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (PF), Advocate Sheuneni Kurasha asserted that the youth can no longer be sidelined from current decision-making processes.
"We cannot continue to describe young people as the leaders of tomorrow while excluding them from the decisions of today. Genuine political empowerment requires more than rhetoric. It demands that young people be given meaningful opportunities to participate, to influence, and to lead.”
Kurasha stated that the workshop reflects SADC PF's concrete commitment to creating tangible legislative entry points for the youth.
However, some participants noted that a major disconnect remains between digital activism and physical civic action.
"There is an engagement on social media, but when it is actually translating to showing up for events like this, there is a lack of real balance," said Karen Heelu.
The University of Namibia's Political Science student Leo Shiwayu observed that systemic fear often keeps young citizens from openly engaging in governance.
"We need young people to take part in future positions in public institutions. I think one of the most significant challenges that we are seeing is that young people are scared of being politically affiliated or politically active."
Shiwayu warned that this hesitation blocks the youth from ascending to vital national and international policy-making structures.