||Kharas launches 2026–2029 youth empowerment framework

Youth Desk introduces
The framework is aimed at strengthening young people’s participation in governance, skills development and economic opportunities.
Ndapandula Lilonga
  • 1 Day Ago

The ||Kharas Region has launched a Governor’s Youth Desk alongside a Youth Empowerment Strategic Framework for 2026–2029, in a move aimed at strengthening youth participation in governance, skills development and economic empowerment.

The initiative was unveiled in Keetmanshoop recently during an event attended by more than 100 young people from across the region, as well as government officials, traditional leaders and development partners.

Speaking at the launch, ||Kharas governor Dawid Gertze said the Youth Desk was established to ensure young people actively participate in development and decision-making processes in the region.

He said the desk would serve as a direct link between government and young people, connecting them to opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, employment and leadership development. It would also provide a platform for them to raise concerns, share ideas and contribute to regional development initiatives.

“The governor’s youth desk serves as a bridge between government and young people. It is a platform where youth can bring their ideas, concerns and aspirations. It exists to ensure that no young person in our region is left behind,” he said.


Practical outcomes

Gertze said the initiative was aimed at delivering practical outcomes by improving coordination between youth development programmes and ensuring young people benefit from opportunities intended to improve their livelihoods.

At the same event, Gertze also launched the Youth Empowerment Strategic Framework 2026–2029, which will guide youth-focused programmes in the region over the next four years. The framework focuses on skills development, vocational training, entrepreneurship, mentorship, career guidance, civic participation, the arts, sports, mental health and social wellbeing.

He described the framework as a shift from policy discussion to implementation, saying the region was committed to creating opportunities that directly benefit young people.

“Today is not merely about launching an office or introducing a document. It is about igniting a movement. Young people are not spectators in development; they are architects of our future,” he said.

Youth desk volunteer Juanita Jahr welcomed the initiative, saying it offered hope to many young people in the region.

Keetmanshoop resident Lazarus Boois said the Youth Desk had the potential to bridge the gap between young people and leadership structures.

The launch coincided with the region receiving the Award for Exceptional Institutional Mainstreaming during this year’s National Youth Week celebrations in Windhoek.