By Koviao Matuzee
According to youth advocate Rivaldo Kavanga, the need for stronger protections for children, improved mental health support and greater opportunities for young people remains a pressing issue in Namibia.
Kavanga believes violence against children remains one of the country’s most urgent concerns. “I think it is one of the saddest things a per- son can experience. We see these stories in the news, but there are many more cases that go unreported,” Kavanga said.
Applying insights from years of dedicated advocacy work, Kavanga says the realities faced by vulnerable children and unemployed youth continue to motivate his efforts to push for change. “Children are the most innocent beings in this world, and we all have a responsibility to take care of them,” he said.
Kavanga’s advocacy journey began during his time in the Children’s Parliament, where he championed issues affecting young people. One of the motions he helped advance called for an increase in disability grants after learning that children with disabilities were receiving only N$250 per month at the time.
Years later, government adjusted the grant, a development he says demonstrates the value of youth participation in decision-making processes.
His work has since expanded to include mental health awareness, child protection, youth unemployment and gender-based violence through initiatives such as the #BeFree movement.
He also pinpointed youth unemployment as a growing challenge, noting that many graduates struggle to secure meaningful employment de- spite completing their studies.
According to him, unemployment and limited opportunities often have a direct impact on young people’s mental wellbeing.
“Mental health is one issue that needs far more attention. When young people cannot find opportunities, it affects their wellbeing and their future,” he said.
Despite challenges, Kavanga remains optimistic about the role young people can play in creating change, and his message to young people who want to create change in their communities is, “You do not need permission to lead.” “If every young person does something small to improve the life of someone else, we can build an even greater Namibia,” he added.
According to Kavanga, meaningful change begins with community action, advocacy, and ensuring that the voices of children and young people are heard.
