from ALFRED SHILONGO in Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia Bureau
WINDHOEK, (CAJ News) – PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has decried the prevalence of suicide in Namibia.
The head of state expressed regret on Monday on the occasion of the official opening of the 26th annual meeting of the Council of Traditional Leaders, held in Ondangwa, Oshana region.
“I stand before you today with a heavy heart to address a grave challenge that has profoundly affected our nation, the ever-rising wave of suicide, particularly among our men,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah disclosed in 2023/2024 alone, 542 lives were lost due to suicide, and Namibia was known as the country that tops the list of suicides in Africa.
“That is not a record to be associated with,” she said.
The president said over the past 3-4 weeks Namibia had lost over ten lives by suicide.
“This is not just a statistic, it represents precious lives lost, broken families left behind and a nation in pain.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah appealed to traditional leaders to intervene.
“Together, we can provide support, raise awareness, save lives and ensure the well-being of all Namibians.”
Meanwhile, the president raised concern about the persistent rise in the unemployment rate, particularly among young people.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), the youth unemployment rate is at 44,4 percent, which she said was unacceptably high.
She also expressed disquiet at infighting and leadership succession disputes that continue to prevail in local communities across the country.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said out of 53 recognized Traditional Authorities, there are more than ten such authorities without leadership, due to succession disputes.
Regrettably, the Government is drawn into the midst of these avoidable disputes, she said.
“Such disputes also undermine community unity, eroding moral and cultural values that can lead to a loss of cultural identity,” the president said.
She was addressing the occasion for the first time since she assumed office earlier this year.
– CAJ News