Brick-making project targets youth unemployment at Walvis Bay

WALVIS BAY: With the youth making up the country's majority population, youth development and empowerment are at the forefront of Government's agenda. This is according to Erongo Governor Neville Andre Itope while addressing Friday's official launch of the African Counsellors Social Development Association (ACSDA) Youth Brickmaking Project at Walvis Bay. Itope said Namibia's development, through the attainment of goals as outlined in Vision 2030, the successive national development plans, and the Harambee Prosperity Plan and ultimately, is linked to the well-being of its youth. 'The country's population is youthful, and prosperity for future generations depends on investments to enhance our youth's health, education, social welfare, and opportunities for economic empowerment,' he expressed. The project currently employs 10 youth from Walvis Bay and was funded with N.dollars 2,4 million by the Social Security Commission (SSC) through its Development Fund, to fight poverty and reduce unemployment by creatin g employment opportunities for the youth. The governor therefore commended the collaboration by ACSDA and SSC for their contribution towards the country's youth developmental goals. 'This project marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to combat unemployment and poverty, particularly among the youth of Walvis Bay.' In a speech delivered on her behalf, SCC Chief Executive Officer Milka Mungunda noted that the company's allocation of funds to establish the brick-making enterprise underscores its unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development initiatives that provide tangible benefits to communities. 'Youth empowerment is a cornerstone of national development. Our youth are the drivers of innovation, the bearers of our future, and the custodians of our dreams. Investing in them means investing in the future of our nation,' she stressed. To date, a total of N.dollras 1 315 675 from the total funding, has been disbursed, facilitating the development of the site, procurement of bri ck-making equipment, acquisition of a delivery truck, and recruitment and training of the youth. ACSDA Director, Saltiel Kalola noted that the organisation's vision is to achieve community social and psychological wellness through psychological services, skills training, and livelihood promotion intervention. Source: The Namibia Press Agency