Namibian voters demand jobs and basic services

Young people waiting in line to vote on Wednesday are demanding that the incoming government create jobs for them.

Many of them also want clean water, clinics, and electricity in their villages.

One of them, Penehafo Hiwanikwa (34) from Ruacana, said she wants electricity at her village.

She also expressed her desire for the government to provide Ruacana with clean water and to ensure that the residents benefit from drought-relief food.

“The government must give us food. We cannot afford to buy food as we are unemployed,” she said while queuing to cast her vote.

She added that it has not rain in the Ruacana area this year.

Another voter, Karina Lukalwa, said the government should employ everyone who is capable of doing the job, not just individuals with formal qualifications.

Sacky Nendongo, also from Ruacana, wants the government to provide villagers with residential plots and electricity.

Julia Ipinge (38) from Onesi said she came to vote to maintain peace in the country.

“We must all go and vote. No one should open their shops, because if they do, people will not vote,” she said.

Samuel Andenge from Tsandi wants the government to build sport facilities in his area.

As an aspiring boxer, he currently travels to the gym at Oshakati, paying about N$200 per day for transport.

“I only get money after two to three months,” he said.

He added that there is currently one soccer stadium in the area.

“The stadium does not have grass and is full of small stones. It’s not suitable for sport activities,” he said.