The Importance of Political Mentoring

With the conclusion of Swapo’s electoral college, or ‘pot’, the nation saw an unparalleled surge of young people in the political sphere.

Many young candidates, including Fenny Tutjavi (22), a youth activist for millennials, Emma Theofelus (28), the minister of information and communication technology, and Dino Ballotti (38), the head of business and public sector at First National Bank, emerged victorious in this year’s electoral college.

Traditional party politics needed to shift in light of the rise of young candidates and voters’ positive response to this.

Additionally, those who participated in the Swapo electoral college supported the youthful faces with clear enthusiasm for what they had to give.

Young leaders now carry a great deal of public support, as well as expectation. They must demonstrate their abilities with original concepts and vision if they hope to keep this respect and trust. Other new young leaders may lose faith as a result of the ineptitude of outgoing young leaders.

It is crucial to provide these leaders with the information, tools, and inspiration they need to bring about the change they desire. Although the new generation of young people entering the parliament is undoubtedly knowledgeable and passionate about change, do they also possess the maturity to make sound decisions? Do leaders who are younger by nature become better and more effective leaders than those who are older?

If not, shouldn’t the emphasis be on developing them into better leaders through mentorship and training? It has long been acknowledged that young people are tomorrow’s leaders.

However, this is no longer the case. To alter this narrative and take control of their destiny, young leaders are currently leading the way. But in Namibia, up-and-coming intellectuals never have mentors or the support of their elders.

In the past, the Namibian youth played a significant role in and took the initiative in significant political shifts, like the 1959 Old Location revolt.

They have traditionally been seen as important transformation agents. But young people do not receive encouragement or support when it comes to providing them with meaningful space.

For example, a youthful political figurehead will not be permitted to run for the party presidency. It hits back to the lack of trust that exists across generations within political parties.

The nation’s political unpredictability and economic unrest, which have led to joblessness, forced labour migration, corruption and other issues, have primarily impacted young people.

Because of this, the majority of today’s young leaders have developed this agenda of changing directions.

Mentoring should come from within political parties to establish a culture in which more seasoned leaders train the younger ones.

It might also result in the seamless transfer of power from older to younger generations, which presents some difficulties in Namibia.

Professionals and experts should mentor young people entering politics and holding positions so they can implement relevant and sustainable policies.

Lastly, it is critical to present the idea of a dignified retirement to political parties.

Joseph Abed