Windhoek, Sept 26 – On Saturday 16 September 2023 Four regional structures from the Rob Youth Foundation namely RYF Khomas Region, RYF Ohangwena Region, RYF Omusati Region and RYF Zambezi Region in collaboration with International Peace Youth Group (IPYG), Namibia University of Science and Technology Debating Society, Say Yes to Education Foundation with various partners such as Eenhana Town Council, Outapi District Hospital and Katima Mulilo Town Council hosted a cleaning campaign in the four regions as part of the world clean-up day commemoration.
In Windhoek the Capital City of Namibia, The Rob Youth Foundation Khomas Region, International Peace Youth Group, Namibia University of Science and Technology Debating Society and Say Yes to Education Foundation come together at the entrance of the Katutura Intermediate Hospital as a starting point to clean up the surrounding areas and the entire yard of the State Hospital.
Ms. Chantel Kamehozu, Rob Youth Foundation Khomas Regional Manager believes that a clean city contributes to public health and safety and can actively contribute to the betterment of her community. It provides an opportunity to make a tangible difference and create a positive impact. ‘’It is something empowering and fulfilling, and one can see direct results of the campaign. She said the cleaning campaign help improve the overall cleanliness and appearance of the city. By removing litter and debris from public spaces, we can create a more pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, a clean city can attract tourists and enhance the reputation of the community and the country at large.’’
Mr. Michael Hamutenya, from the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) emphasis the importance of youth taking such initiative. The Youth being the future leaders need to participate in such initiatives to become responsible citizens for our community and be diligent leaders. Michael said ‘’in this way promoting the culture of volunteerism and taking ownership of their environment to create a world they want to live in. As youth this is the best legacy that we can leave for the future generations.’’
‘’When the youth engage themselves in such initiatives, they develop new skills and knowledge that makes them see the world in different way which drives them to change the world to make it a better place to live and they get to network’’. Those were sentiment from Ms. Helena Mweshitale, General Secretary for Namibia University of Science and Technology Debating and Public Speaking Society.
Ms. Caroline from Say Yes to Education said it is her responsibility to partake in such initiative and also to give back to the community as part of her social responsibility.
The Khomas Region Cleaning Campaign was supported by City of Windhoek with the provision of cleaning materials and PPEs, while Sanlam Namibia supplied gazebos and water for the event.
The ever-energetic Mariah Aikela spearheaded the Rob Youth Foundation Zambezi Region cleaning Campaign in collaboration with the Katima Town Council who provided Cleaning Materials, PPE’s and Refreshment to make the event a success. Contacted for a comment Ms. Aikela who is also an SRC at the University of Namibia, Zambezi Region Campus said activities such as the cleaning campaign helps young people to become more responsible, engaged citizens who are aware of the environmental and community issues around them. In addition, it also provides young people with valuable life skills such as teamwork and opportunities for personal growth.
Ohangwena Regional Manager, Mr. Kaali Mulokoshi believe it is his responsibility to keep his surrounding clean. ’’I believe it is my responsibility to keep my surroundings in this case my community clean as most diseases and infections are caused by uncleanliness. Young people are the heart of the country and they need to be part of the changes they want to see in their societies,’’ he concluded. The cleaning campaign in Eenhana was organized in partnership with the Eenhana Town Council.
The Rob Youth Foundation Omusati Region joined hands with Outapi District Hospital to make sure the town of Outapi and the Hospital surrounding areas of the hospital are clean. Ms. Helena Ashikoto, Deputy Regional Manager of Rob Youth Foundation Omusati Region said it is our duty to take care of our environment and ensure a healthy and sustainable future for ourselves and the future generations.
The Rob Youth Foundation have hosted cleaning campaign every year since 2021, has become an annual event for the Foundation every September of each year.
Compiled by: Robert Maseka
