Staff Reporter
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has commended the One Economy Foundation, founded by Monica Geingos, for its contribution to youth empowerment in Namibia and urged individuals, institutions and organisations to support the Foundation’s efforts.
“It is a well-known fact that youth empowerment and development are key priorities of the Namibian Government, as articulated in NDP6. Therefore, youth development is very close to my heart. Accordingly, any initiatives that focus on building capacity and skills for our youth are very much welcome. One Economy Foundation programmes are among the many in the country that complement the Government’s efforts to help young people realise their potential and unlock their capabilities for the betterment of all, as the Government cannot do it alone. Empowering the youth is the best investment a nation can make to enable the next generation to drive sustainable growth and development in our country,” the President said.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah made these remarks at the Annual One Economy Fundraising Soiree, which recently took place in Windhoek.
ADVOCATING FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT: Scenes from the Annual One Economy Fundraising Soiree. Photos: Namibian Presidency.
“I would like to thank Meme Monica Geingos, 3rd First Lady and Founder of the One Economy Foundation, for making it possible for us to be here this evening. Since its formation, the One Economy Foundation has carried out various youth development initiatives which have made a positive impact on the lives of our young people and their families whom they support,” she said.
The President emphasised that Namibia is a youthful nation, with more than 70% of the country’s population aged under 35. Considering this, she highlighted the energy, ingenuity and ambition of young people as the country’s greatest assets. However, she stressed that intentional investment in human capital development is required for demographic potential to be translated into demographic dividends.
“I have learned that through targeted interventions in skills development and entrepreneurship, the One Economy Foundation has equipped young Namibians with market-relevant tools. By training young people, you are supporting micro-entrepreneurs and providing access to capital and mentorship. That is to say, the Foundation is converting potential into productivity and teaching our young people not only to seek jobs but also to create them, thus contributing directly to our national development agenda,” she said.
The President also highlighted that the Foundation’s outreach programmes provide high-quality healthcare services free of charge to some communities, saving lives and restoring dignity.
“Access to healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for the few. By bringing medical services directly to informal settlements and rural communities, we ensure that human dignity remains at the heart of our development agenda. Always remember, a healthy nation is a productive nation,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah added.
She expressed gratitude to the One Economy Foundation, particularly for its efforts to address youth unemployment and socio-economic disparities.
“In pursuit of a unified purpose, I also commend the Foundation’s efforts to address youth unemployment and socio-economic disparities. By fostering collaboration among Government, the private sector, and civil society, we must strengthen our collective resolve to uplift Namibia’s youth and bridge socio-economic divides. Given the above background, I commend Madame Monica Geingos and your entire team for consistently demonstrating leadership with social responsibility. I encourage you to continue your work with one heart and in one mind, with the same passion that has defined your journey over the years,” the President said.
