The Walvis Bay municipality raised N$919 850 to be channeled towards establishing a new youth centre at Narraville during its annual fundraising event over the weekend.
Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes said his office has received numerous requests over the past three years that indicate the importance of youth development and empowerment initiatives.
A youth centre can be an important tool to address social ills and contribute to the economic prosperity of Walvis Bay, Forbes said.
“It would serve as a vital hub for engaging and empowering our young population. It would provide a safe space for them to learn, grow and develop important life skills. By investing in our youth, we will be investing in the future of our town. It will offer a wide range of opportunities for personal growth and help tackle some of the challenges we face as a community. It will play a crucial role in shaping our local economy.
“The young minds who will benefit from this centre have immense potential to become future leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs, driving our town to new heights of prosperity. Engaging the youth in productive and empowering programmes will not only keep them away from negative influences, but also equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become self-sufficient individuals.”
Higher education deputy minister Natalia Goagoses said: “A mayoral fund has come up with a wonderful, relevant project that does not want a child to be on the street … My caution to you and your team is that the money raised should be used for that purpose, for the needs of the residents.”
Former Miss Namibia and Miss Universe Michelle McLean-Bailey said: “There are going to be a lot of trade and tourism activities in this area. We all need to protect each other, because it is going to become very aggressive. Together, we should love and support each other.”
The centre will offer job training, educational resources and mentorship opportunities, among others. It will provide a safe and inclusive space for young people to reduce instances of crime, substance abuse and teenage pregnancies. It will empower the youth to reach their full potential, while also fostering a sense of belonging and community.
The Mayoral Relief Fund was established to assist vulnerable members of the Walvis Bay community.
Last year, the event raised approximately N$630 000.
The fund received 110 requests for assistance to the value of about N$1,1 million, with 20 requests valued at N$470 000 still pending, while 19 requests value at N$191 249.90 have been approved and granted.
The fund spent 26,32% on youth development activities, 26,32% on education, 26,32% on medical emergencies, 10,52% on sport development and 10,52% on soup kitchens.
The fund also spent N$118 750,00 on fire emergency responses and hosted the annual senior citizens brunch to the value of N$400 000.
The office of the mayor covered the remaining N$100 000, while N$200 000 was sponsored by Freddy Fisheries and about N$100 000 came from the Namibia Ports Authority, Unitrans, Elgin Brown and Hamer Namibia and Tunacor Fishing.
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