INTERVIEW: Civic Engagement and Democracy: Namibia Institue For Democracy’s Executive Director, Naita Hishoono on Otjiwarongo Community Dialogue

In a significant effort to enhance civic engagement and democratic participation, the Namibia Institute for Democracy (NID) is set to host a pivotal community dialogue in Otjiwarongo. The event, spearheaded by Executive Director Naita Hishoono, aims to bridge the gap between citizens and their local representatives, fostering a deeper understanding of democratic processes and governance.

Empowering Citizens through Dialogue

The Otjiwarongo Community Dialogue, scheduled at the Swanevelder Hall, is a testament to NID’s commitment to strengthening democracy at the grassroots level. The event will bring together residents of Otjiwarongo with their regional and local authority representatives, private sector stakeholders, and community activists.

Naita Hishoono emphasized the importance of such engagements in her recent interview. “Democracy only thrives when citizens are actively involved,” she stated. “Our goal is to remind people that their role does not end with voting. They need to be informed and engaged with their local and regional authorities to ensure their voices are heard and their needs addressed.”

The Role of NID

Founded in 1991, the Namibia Institute for Democracy is a non-partisan, non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting democratic principles and civic education across Namibia. NID works extensively with various levels of government, political parties, and civil society organizations to provide training and capacity-building initiatives.

Hishoono elaborated on NID’s role: “We are here to capacitate citizens and provide them with the tools and knowledge needed to actively participate in governance. Our work spans from national to grassroots levels, ensuring that democratic processes are accessible and understandable to everyone.”

Event Details and Objectives

The community dialogue in Otjiwarongo will feature a panel of experts from different sectors, including the private sector, regional and local authorities, and civil society. This diverse panel aims to address a range of topics, including service delivery, budget transparency, and community engagement.

Participants will have the opportunity to interact with panelists, ask questions, and gain insights into how they can effectively engage with their local representatives. The event will also include a surprise element focusing on voter registration, underscoring the importance of civic participation in the upcoming elections.

She highlighted the significance of this event: “We want to ensure that citizens are aware of their rights and responsibilities. Understanding who your representatives are and how to engage with them is crucial for effective governance. This dialogue is an opportunity for residents to connect with their leaders and learn how to contribute to their community’s development.”

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Acknowledging the diverse needs of the community, NID is committed to making the event inclusive and accessible. Hishoono assured that the dialogue would cater to individuals with various needs, including those who may have disabilities. The organization works closely with relevant bodies to ensure that everyone can participate and benefit from the discussions.

“We are working with various civil society organizations to make sure that our services reach everyone,” said Hishoono. “Whether it’s through visual aids, sign language interpreters, or other forms of assistance, we are dedicated to ensuring that no one is left out.”

Looking Ahead

As Namibia approaches its general elections, the importance of civic engagement and voter education cannot be overstated. The Otjiwarongo Community Dialogue is a crucial step in preparing citizens to take an active role in their democracy.

With a projected attendance of over 1.3 million Namibians currently registered to vote, events like these are vital for maintaining an informed and active electorate. The dialogue not only serves as a platform for direct communication between citizens and their representatives but also reinforces the fundamental principles of democracy that underpin Namibia’s governance.

The Executive Director’s efforts through the Namibia Institute for Democracy exemplify the organization’s dedication to fostering a more engaged and informed citizenry. As the community gathers in Otjiwarongo, the hope is that this dialogue will spark greater participation and understanding, ultimately strengthening Namibia’s democratic processes.