On March 28, the “Beyond 35: 2026 Youth Dialogue for Peace and a Prosperous Future” was held at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) auditorium. The Dialogue was organized to commemorate the 36th anniversary of Namibia’s independence and to discuss the vital role of youth in the nation’s development.
The Dialogue was co-hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL)—an international peace NGO under the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)—its youth affiliate, the International Youth Peace Group (IPYG), and the Namibia branch of the Rob Youth Foundation (RYF). The gathering brought together approximately 100 participants, including government officials and youth leaders.
In a keynote speech delivered by Mr. Boyson Ngondo, Deputy Director for National Heritage and Culture Programmes, on behalf of Hon. Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture, the Deputy Minister highlighted the role of youth as innovators despite ongoing challenges such as a 40% youth unemployment rate and the digital divide. “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but an environment where youth are guaranteed quality education, meaningful employment, and a platform to make their voices heard,” the Deputy Minister stated. He further emphasized that the youth, who make up over 60% of Namibia’s population, are the “heartbeat of our society” and the “architects of peace,” underscoring the critical importance of youth empowerment.
In addition, Mr. Muesee Kazapua, International Relations and Stakeholder Engagements Officer of the National Youth Council (NYC), participated as a panelist. Mr. Kazapua detailed how the NYC is supporting access to developmental opportunities for young people and shaping a prosperous future for social development beyond the 35th anniversary. He also provided guidance on the requirements for youth organizations wishing to affiliate with the NYC.
During the panel discussions and dialogue sessions, representatives from government ministries, youth organizations, and the educational and religious sectors shared their perspectives. Participants specifically discussed the necessity of establishing official platforms to reflect youth voices in the national development process and reviewed collaborative strategies to realize these goals.
The event concluded with the “Youth Pledge for Nation Building,” where participants committed to contributing to peace and social progress. An official from HWPL remarked, “This dialogue served as a momentum for Namibian youth to unite for the realization of peace. We plan to continue supporting youth-led peace activities through ongoing collaboration with local organizations.”
