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Strengthening the Future: Safeguarding Job Opportunities for Namibian Youth
In a recent address, Swapo lawmaker Willem Amutenya has illuminated a crucial issue facing Namibia—the pressing need to create job opportunities tailored for its youth. Citing the alarming youth unemployment rate of 44.4%, Amutenya called for the government to take decisive actions to ensure local workforce needs are prioritized over foreign labor influx. The future of Namibia's economy hinges on how well it can harness its young talents effectively.
Monitoring Foreign Employment: An Essential Strategy
Amutenya's recommendations underscore the importance of regulating foreign employment in Namibia's job market. Advocating for a cooperative effort among various government entities, he emphasized that there should be strict scrutiny over the number of foreigners employed across sectors. The collaboration among the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), the Office of the Labour Commissioner, and the Immigration Control Board is vital to ensure that foreign professionals are not displacing local talent. Amutenya encourages inspections that assess not just quantities but also whether crucial skills are being imparted to Namibians.
Empowering Local Enterprises: The Backbone of Economic Growth
In rural areas of Namibia, Amutenya has argued that foreign-owned businesses often undercut local enterprises, selling goods at prices that local entrepreneurs cannot compete with. He advocates for policy changes that would reserve certain sectors for local traders, thus preventing unfair competition. This approach would bolster small businesses, fostering a robust local economy and promoting entrepreneurial growth among the youth.
Flexible Policies for a Vibrant Informal Economy
To effectively invigorate the informal economy, Amutenya suggests revisiting the Local Authorities Act to introduce more flexible trading hours, which would ultimately provide more opportunities for local vendors. By easing restrictions, informal traders can more actively participate in the market, thus creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.
A Sustainable Future: Investing in Youth Entrepreneurship
While acknowledging the government's recent strides in economic development—such as the N$200 million budget for sports facilities—Amutenya emphasizes that these initiatives must involve local youth entrepreneurs in their realization. Collaboration with local professionals in the construction of these projects could promote sustainability and create lasting job opportunities.
If the Namibian government is to truly champion its youth, it must not only provide training and education but also the necessary resources to turn ambitions into reality. This holistic approach can pave the way for a sustainable economy where young Namibians are not just participants but also leaders.
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