Tomas Nashongo
The road to prosperity is paved with the labour of its citizens, yet too many are left without a path. The unemployment endemic is a global crisis described as a state where eligible members of the workforce who are willing and able to work cannot find employment.
Namibia has a high unemployment rate, which averaged 20.94 percent from 1991 until 2023 and is predicted to be 20.70 percent by the end of 2024. There is a high dependency on the mining and agricultural sectors for employment, which shows limited job diversity and a lack of capital to venture into business. Additionally, structural unemployment is exacerbated by the high cost of tertiary education and consequently, fewer people are hired on merit but rather through nepotism. Namibia has a high rate of unemployment, particularly among the youth. Investments in education and vocational training programs that closely match industry demands can help to close this gap.
Through an analytical lens, we can assess that any and every state has a significant role to play in facilitating employment opportunities for its people which stems from an obligation in its social contract. Seemingly high unemployment has both political and economic implications. Whereas it can cause social cohesion, economic instability and an overall low gross domestic product (GDP), through its resource capacity, the government can initiate policies and projects that create employment.
The Namibian government can leverage resources so that it facilitates the growth of medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing low-interest loans. Subsequently lowering the cost of borrowing for small enterprises. This promotes investment, enhances cash flow, and fosters innovation, all of which aid in the growth and success of SMEs, which significantly creates employment.
Furthermore, by making investments in important industries like healthcare, infrastructure, and education, the Namibian government can boost the economy and generate employment. Constructing educational institutions, medical centers, and renewable energy infrastructure not only creates jobs, but also improves education, training, and credentials for workers worldwide. In order to guarantee that graduates are prepared for the workforce, collaborations with private sector businesses can offer apprenticeships and on-the-job training, tackling the issue of experience, as not all courses provide internships where experience for employment is work experience.
However, strong political will and efficient governance are essential for government-driven employment creation programs to succeed. Ensuring that these programs are executed properly and yield the desired results requires transparency, accountability, and efficient management of public resources. Namibia’s high unemployment rate requires a strong and deliberate response from the government. The government can generate employment and provide the framework for long-term economic growth by investing in infrastructure, aiding SMEs, and addressing the skills gap. The government fulfills its promise to its citizens by creating employment opportunities, resulting in a more prosperous and equitable future for all Namibians.
Tomas Nashongo is an recent graduate from the university of Namibia ,whom is eager to conquer the world and seeking employment , he can be contacted thomasNashongo@gmail.com
