MICHAEL AMUSHELELO SHARES INSIGHTS ON YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IN NAMIBIA IN 2024

Today, I express my appreciation for the youth in South Africa who are standing up and urging the government to address the pressing issue of unemployment.

In South Africa, the situation is dire, with a population of approximately 60 million, and a staggering 35 million individuals facing unemployment. This equates to over half of South Africans struggling to find employment, contributing to the rampant crime rates in the country.

Last year, we witnessed a demonstration on March 21st, where activists, including myself, were arrested. Despite government and private sector initiatives addressing unemployment, they appeared more symbolic than effective.

This year, on March 21st, we are organizing another protest because, after 34 years of independence, there is little to celebrate. It has been three decades of poverty, hunger, unemployment, a deteriorating health system, a failing education system, corruption, homelessness, and inadequate housing.

I want to draw attention to Article 95 of the Namibian Constitution, emphasizing the promotion of the welfare of the people. There is a sub-article stating that the unemployed should receive social grants from the government. Yet, for the past 34 years, the unemployed have been overlooked in this regard.

While vulnerable children, the disabled, and marginalized groups receive grants, the unemployed are left without support. We question why the government has ignored this constitutional provision and call for action. Either the government must create job opportunities or provide grants to ensure our people do not resort to crime for survival.