SWAKOPMUND - The United Democratic Front Youth League (UDFYL) yesterday elected their new leadership for the next five years.
At least 63 delegates from seven regions gathered over the weekend in Swakopmund to elect the new leadership. It was the second elective congress for the youth wing after its founding congress in 2009.
The congress saw Reinold Goseb being elected as the secretary general, deputised by Manpret Nuseb.
Wrens Kooper was elected as the new national chairperson, while Elie Goagoses is new the treasurer. Goagoses will be deputised by Nicoleen Goses. Sydney Seibeb was elected as the national organiser, and Selvanus Awaseb as the secretary for information and publicity.
Outgoing secretary general Michael Skini said the UDFYL is a vibrant and dynamic youth movement that has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and interests of young people in society. “The UDFYL has a rich history of activism, and has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of our country. With a strong commitment to youth empowerment and development, it has been instrumental in mobilising young people to actively participate in the political process, and contribute to the socio-economic development of our nation,” Skini said.
The elective indaba also served as a platform for the youth to deliberate on key issues affecting the youth.
“The new leadership has demonstrated a strong commitment to youth development, and has put forward compelling visions for the future. They have demonstrated a track record of active participation in youth-related activities. They possess strong leadership and communication skills,” he said, before tasking the incoming leadership to work on becoming an affiliate of the National Youth Council as they are currently losing out on opportunities that can enhance the skills and knowledge of its members. “If we expect our youth to perform and make UDF great again, we must prioritise training and development, and sufficient budgetary allocation must be made in this regard,” Skini appealed.
Speaking at the same event, UDF president Hendrik Gaobaeb appealed that “young people should set the tone. You are the backbone of this party. You are the energy base of this organisation; brave young lions of UDF. Politics is not an employment opportunity. The masses demand to be governed by the best. Therefore, study and make yourself a person of value.” - edeklerk@nepc.com.na