Johanna Hipangelwa
In Namibia, as in many post-colonial nations, the question of whether the system has failed its youth is a pressing one. Franz Fanon’s seminal work, particularly his ideas on decolonization and the psychological effects of colonialism, offers a lens through which we can critically examine this issue.
Namibia’s independence from South Africa in 1990 after a protracted struggle, initially held promise for its youth. Liberation movements like SWAPO (South West Africa People’s Organization) fought not just for political sovereignty but also for social justice and economic equity. However, decades later, many young Namibians find themselves grappling with systemic failures that hinder their ability to fulfill what Fanon might describe as their “generational mission.”
Fanon, in “The Wretched of the Earth,” argues that the psychological trauma of colonization persists long after political independence. He speaks of the struggle for the newly independent nation to forge a new identity free from colonial taint, a struggle that often involves navigating economic disparities, corruption, and a lack of opportunity, which are all too familiar in Namibia today.
One of the primary barriers faced by Namibian youth is unemployment. Despite natural resources and potential economic opportunities, job creation has not kept pace with population growth and educational attainment. This creates a cynical youth demographic, susceptible to feelings of alienation and frustration, sentiments Fanon attributes to a failure of the post-colonial state to meet the expectations of its people.
Education, as a touted cornerstone of independence, also reflects systemic shortcomings. While strides have been made in education, quality and accessibility remains uneven, with rural and marginalized communities disproportionately affected. This perpetuates cycles of inequality, limiting young people’s ability to leverage education as a means of advancement, echoing Fanon’s critique of education under colonialism as serving to reproduce rather than transform social hierarchies.
Moreover, corruption within the political elite further exacerbates these challenges. Fanon warns against the emergence of a new ruling class that mimics colonial power structures, exploiting the nation’s resources at the expense of its citizens. In Namibia, revelations of mismanagement and embezzlement have eroded trust in government institutions, reinforcing a sense of disappointment among the youth who see little accountability for those in power.
To address these issues, Namibia must confront its post-colonial legacy head-on. This requires not only economic reforms to promote inclusive growth and job creation but also a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. Investments in education and skills development are crucial, as is empowering marginalized communities to participate meaningfully in the economy.
In conclusion, while Namibia’s journey since independence has seen notable achievements, it is also marked by significant challenges that hinder its youth from realizing their full potential. Fanon’s insights remind us that true liberation requires more than political independence, it demands a concerted effort to dismantle inherited structures of oppression and build a society where all citizens, especially the youth, can thrive. As Namibia navigates these complexities, the question remains: will it rise to meet the aspirations of its young people and fulfill its generational mission? The answer lies in the actions taken today to shape a more just and equitable future for all Namibians.
Johanna Hipangelwa is a Political Science graduate from the University of Namibia. Reach her at johannahipangelwa01@gail.com
