Stefanus Nashama
The European Union (EU), in collaboration with the Namibian Institute for Democracy (NID) and Hanns Seidel Foundation Namibia (HSF), has allocated N$11 million in funding for a new democracy-boosting project.
The “Namibia Needs Me Project,” abbreviated as the NNM Project, is designed to enhance democratic participation.
Launched at the House of Democracy this week, the project was initiated by NID and HSF in September of this year and will continue until May 2026.
Naita Hishoono, Director of NID, explained that the NNM Project’s primary objective is to raise awareness of the practical application of civic rights and responsibilities, thereby strengthening inclusive democratic participation through civic education.
This includes organizing training sessions for school learners, teachers, and representatives of civil society organizations, as well as hosting dialogue events for university students and the wider Namibian community.
Hishoono emphasized that individuals selected from these target groups will have the opportunity to enhance their advocacy skills and capacities, enabling them to engage actively and constructively within their local communities.
“Demonstrating democracy is a collective effort that requires our active involvement. Citizens and residents must engage with public and civil servants on community development matters.
It is our taxpayer’s money that pays their salaries, and as citizens, we elect decision-makers into power. Therefore, we must collaborate with our office bearers and hold each other accountable,” she stressed.
During the event, Ginola Nauseb, spokesperson for the NNM Project, delivered a presentation inviting eligible voters and the wider public to embrace their civic rights and responsibilities and actively participate in the democratic process.
EU Ambassador to Namibia, Ana Beatriz Martins, emphasized the importance of equipping oneself, particularly the youth, with the knowledge and skills necessary for meaningful engagement in the democratic process.
“In a world where the principles of democracy are not only cherished but also constantly tested, it becomes imperative that we equip ourselves, and particularly our youth, with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage meaningfully in the democratic process,” She said.
