Mallex Shipanga
As the National Assembly and Presidential elections of 2024 approach, Generation Z (Gen Z) youth voters are expressing a strong desire for change.
On 27 November, Namibians will exercise their democratic rights for the eighth time.
This marks a pivotal time in the country, as each possible outcome would be the first of its kind.
If Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Swapo wins, the country will have its first female president.
Provided that Panduleni Itula of Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) wins, the government will be led by a non-Swapo president for the first time since independence.
Should Job Amupanda of Affirmative Repositioning (AR) win, he will be the country’s youngest president.
Gen Z refers to individuals born between 1997 and 2012, aged between 12 and 27, who have no links to the liberation struggle.
Out of approximately 1.5 million registered voters, there are about 610 000 youths registered to vote.
Nineteen-year-old cybersecurity student at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Henry Jonas, reflects the growing frustration among youth voters who feel that their needs are often overlooked by those in power.
“I want a government that is less corrupt and more fair to its people,” Jonas said.
Twenty-three-year-old science student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), Loise Ndyetabula resonates with youth voters who are hopeful for a better Namibia.
“I envision the kind of government that fully commits to their promises to the public, instead of committing halfway—a government that caters to education, healthcare, and employment,” Ndyetabula said.
Similarly, an 18-year-old media student at NUST Eugenia Moché highlights youth voters’ concerns.
“I envision a government that will bring positive change to Namibia in terms of the social, economic, and environmental issues that the country faces each year,” Moché said.
Twenty-two-year-old science student at NUST, Mariah Willem, is one of many youth voters who are excited to cast their ballots on 27 November.
“I registered to vote on the first day of registration. I feel it is important to exercise my constitutional right to vote,” Willem said.
A 19-year-old business student at the International University of Management (IUM), Fidel Nkandi, is among young voters who aren’t particularly excited to vote but still recognize the importance of doing so.
“I wouldn’t say I’m excited, but I would say I’m happy to be taking part in the change of our government,” Nkandi said.
Political analyst Thomas Nashongo said, ‘Youth are drivers of change.’
He explained that participating in elections is a responsibility that can empower the youth.
“Youth can create a democratic balance through their involvement, because not only will the elderly be the ones engaged in politics,” Nashongo said.
According to Nashongo, the voice of young people is pivotal because their apathy and involvement in politics both affect them greatly.
“And, on a larger scale, elections or politics tailor the fabric of society,” Nashongo added.
