“Rundu Youth Crisis Deepens as Opportunities Remain Limited — Mukoya”
By Anton Wokie
Social challenges, unemployment, and substance abuse continue to frustrate many young people in Rundu, with a large number of youths still living in difficult conditions amid a growing unemployment crisis.
Speaking to The Updated World News team, youth activist Vernet Mukoya said the situation facing young people in the town and the broader Kavango East region has worsened over the years and remains deeply concerning.
Mukoya said there are currently few visible initiatives aimed at empowering or developing the youth, adding that opportunities often appear to benefit only those with close connections to influential individuals.
“As far as noticeable initiatives are concerned, there are currently no visible projects aimed at enhancing the capacity of the youth. What we have seen over the years is that opportunities mainly go to those who are close to people in positions of power,” Mukoya said.
“At this stage, many people feel abandoned and are forced to fend for themselves, and it is painful to witness. Considering that Rundu is the second-largest town in Namibia, government investment and development efforts should reflect its growing population and importance,” he added.
Mukoya further noted that many young people in the region feel excluded from economic opportunities and empowerment programmes, making it increasingly difficult for them to build sustainable livelihoods.
Responding to concerns raised by unemployed youth, Mukoya said the frustrations being expressed reflect the harsh realities faced daily by many young people.
“Feelings are one thing and reality is another. I do not even wish to dwell much on that because the statistics are clear, even to a Grade 5 learner. The youth are feeling the reality,” he said.
He added that many young people continue to struggle to access funding, entrepreneurship support, and skills development programmes, limiting their ability to start small businesses while searching for employment opportunities.
Mukoya also acknowledged efforts by the Namibian Police Force in addressing alcohol and drug abuse, as well as crime in communities. However, he stressed that lasting change should also begin within homes and communities.
“We have seen commendable work being done by the police in addressing alcohol and drug abuse and crime. I believe if we can also start within our homes and communities, we can transform society,” he said.
He further highlighted community-driven initiatives such as discipline camps aimed at mentoring and reforming young people, saying such programmes can help steer youth away from substance abuse and criminal activities.
“We have started discipline a camp aimed at transforming the youth. Some of the solutions are within our reach, and we should not always wait on government,” Mukoya added.
Substance abuse, particularly alcohol and drug abuse, remains a growing concern in Rundu and the broader Kavango East region, where high unemployment and poverty continue to affect many young people. According to the Namibia Statistics Agency, unemployment in Kavango East rose to 52% in 2023, while youth unemployment stands at 60.4%, placing increasing pressure on young people and communities.
