EAN encourages youth interventions for unemployment problem
The Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) says targeted interventions regarding the youth is critical in helping redress Namibia’s unemployment rate.
This follows the release of the latest unemployment statistics by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) which places Namibia’s national unemployment rate at 37%, while youth unemployment currently hovers at the 45% mark.
The EAN called for the strengthening of support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Reforms required
“SMEs are critical drivers of job creation, by improving access to financing, reducing regulatory burdens, and providing targeted training and mentorship. Investing in education and skills development to align the workforce with the demands of the labor market, particularly in high-growth sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and information technology,” EAN director, Cons Karamata said. Targeted youth interventions would help drive down the rate of unemployment, Karamata said.
“Implementing targeted youth employment programs to provide temporary jobs, internships, and apprenticeships, while incentivising private sector participation in youth hiring. Improving the business environment to attract investment, stimulate economic activity, and create sustainable employment opportunities,” he said.
Karamata called on the private sector to work hand in hand with civil society organisations to help bring about changes to Namibia’s employment situation.
“The EAN calls on the government, private sector, and civil society to work together to tackle this crisis. Bold leadership, innovative policies, and a commitment to inclusive growth are essential to reversing the current trend and building a more prosperous future for all Namibians,” Karamata said.
“The EAN stands ready to support efforts to address unemployment through evidence-based research, policy recommendations, and collaboration with stakeholders. Namibia’s potential is vast, but unlocking it requires urgent and collective action to create jobs, empower the youth, and ensure economic stability for generations to come,” he added.
Worrying statistics
“The Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) is deeply concerned by the latest unemployment statistics released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), which, using the strict definition of unemployment, reveal a national unemployment rate of 37% and a youth unemployment rate of about 45%.
“While the broad definition of unemployment would result in even higher figures, these statistics highlight the severity of Namibia’s unemployment crisis and underscore the urgent need for decisive action to address this pressing issue.
“The high levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth, are not only a barrier to economic growth but also a threat to social stability and cohesion. Namibia’s youth, who represent the future of the nation, are being disproportionately affected by the lack of job opportunities, which limits their potential and undermines their ability to contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he said.
“The EAN emphasises that addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, combining short-term interventions with long-term structural reforms,” Karamata said.
This follows the release of the latest unemployment statistics by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) which places Namibia’s national unemployment rate at 37%, while youth unemployment currently hovers at the 45% mark.
The EAN called for the strengthening of support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Reforms required
“SMEs are critical drivers of job creation, by improving access to financing, reducing regulatory burdens, and providing targeted training and mentorship. Investing in education and skills development to align the workforce with the demands of the labor market, particularly in high-growth sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and information technology,” EAN director, Cons Karamata said. Targeted youth interventions would help drive down the rate of unemployment, Karamata said.
“Implementing targeted youth employment programs to provide temporary jobs, internships, and apprenticeships, while incentivising private sector participation in youth hiring. Improving the business environment to attract investment, stimulate economic activity, and create sustainable employment opportunities,” he said.
Karamata called on the private sector to work hand in hand with civil society organisations to help bring about changes to Namibia’s employment situation.
“The EAN calls on the government, private sector, and civil society to work together to tackle this crisis. Bold leadership, innovative policies, and a commitment to inclusive growth are essential to reversing the current trend and building a more prosperous future for all Namibians,” Karamata said.
“The EAN stands ready to support efforts to address unemployment through evidence-based research, policy recommendations, and collaboration with stakeholders. Namibia’s potential is vast, but unlocking it requires urgent and collective action to create jobs, empower the youth, and ensure economic stability for generations to come,” he added.
Worrying statistics
“The Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) is deeply concerned by the latest unemployment statistics released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), which, using the strict definition of unemployment, reveal a national unemployment rate of 37% and a youth unemployment rate of about 45%.
“While the broad definition of unemployment would result in even higher figures, these statistics highlight the severity of Namibia’s unemployment crisis and underscore the urgent need for decisive action to address this pressing issue.
“The high levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth, are not only a barrier to economic growth but also a threat to social stability and cohesion. Namibia’s youth, who represent the future of the nation, are being disproportionately affected by the lack of job opportunities, which limits their potential and undermines their ability to contribute meaningfully to the economy,” he said.
“The EAN emphasises that addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, combining short-term interventions with long-term structural reforms,” Karamata said.
