Namibia's demographic future depends on investing in young people and tackling challenges such as teenage pregnancy, speakers said on Thursday as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched the Demographic Future Report, while the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) premiered a two-part documentary highlighting the realities of teenage pregnancy.
The events formed part of activities marking World Population Day, bringing together government officials, development partners, civil society and young people to discuss evidence-based solutions to youth development.
Speaking at the launch, National Planning Commission's Director General, Dr. Kaire Mbuende said the report provides critical evidence to guide national planning and policymaking.
"Government has placed youth development at the centre of national planning. However, government cannot achieve this alone. Families, schools, faith-based organisations, civil society, the private sector, development partners, and young people themselves all have important roles to play. Sustainable progress requires collective responsibility and efforts."
The event also saw the premiere of NBC's two-part documentary on teenage pregnancy, which explores the social, cultural and economic factors driving the issue in Kunene, Ohangwena and Kavango West.
Launching the documentary, NBC Director General Menesia Muinjo said teenage pregnancy is more than a statistic, describing it as a reality that continues to interrupt the education and aspirations of thousands of young Namibians.
The documentary captures the experiences of young mothers, parents, traditional leaders, teachers, health workers and policymakers, while highlighting the influence of poverty, culture, access to healthcare and family communication on teenage pregnancy.
"The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation has a duty to shine a light on issues that affect our people, particularly those that threaten our social and economic development. The documentaries that I refer to, and that will be launched today, reflect that responsibility."
Youth from Jan Möhr High School were given a platform to voice their concerns and ideas alongside national leaders.
"Basically, when it's exams, I feel scared, so anxious."
"Definitely mental health."
"To stop teenage pregnancy, we should educate people more, especially in the northern parts of Namibia, because a lot of kids there aren't educated on these things."
The launch concluded with a call for stronger partnerships between government, development agencies and the media to turn the findings of the report into practical action for Namibia's youth.