Nganate Responds to Farm Nuwehoop Youth Development Controversy

• Governor Pijoo Marikutuka Nganate responded to controversy surrounding Farm Nuwehoop, stating that the farm is under his authority.
• The National Youth Council of Namibia (NYC) is the statutory body mandated by an Act of Parliament to coordinate youth development in the country.
• Any business or institution willing to support youth should channel such support through the NYC and its regional structures.
• Farm Nuwehoop trustees include high-profile individuals, including relatives of the governor and his wife.

A recent announcement by the board trustees of Farm Nuwehoop has sparked questions and criticism from the youth and community of Omaheke. The project, located just east of Gobabis, aims to strengthen food security and combat child malnutrition through regional soup kitchens. However, the appointment of the board remains shrouded in controversy, with some questioning the legitimacy of the trustees. Governor Pijoo Marikutuka Nganate has responded to the issue, stating that the farm is currently being driven by his office and is a project under his authority. He emphasized that the matters relating to Farm Nuwehoop Trust are internal to the trust and cannot be made public at this stage.

The National Youth Council of Namibia (NYC) is the statutory body mandated by an Act of Parliament to coordinate youth development in the country. The NYC has structures in all regions, and any business or institution willing to support youth through corporate social responsibility or other forms of support should channel such support through the NYC and its regional structures to ensure coordination, accountability, and maximum impact. This emphasis on channelling support through the NYC is crucial for lawyers advising on youth development projects in Namibia. It ensures that resources are allocated effectively and that the needs of the youth are met.

The controversy surrounding Farm Nuwehoop highlights the need for transparency and accountability in youth development projects. The involvement of high-profile individuals, including the governor's wife and relatives, raises questions about potential conflicts of interest. Furthermore, the lack of clarity around the appointment of the board trustees has led to concerns about the legitimacy of the project. As Kenaumue Jacob Hikuama, chairperson of ORYF, emphasized, 'About Us, Without Us Is Not for Us.' The principle of inclusive and transparent youth-centred development is essential for ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and that the needs of the youth are met.

Lawyers advising on youth development projects in Namibia should note the emphasis on channelling support through the National Youth Council and its regional structures to ensure coordination, accountability, and maximum impact.

Source: Original reporting via AllAfrica Namibia