By Elvis Muraranganda

SWAPO Party’s candidate for the position regional councillor in the Katutura Central constituency and former City of Windhoek Mayor, Muesee Kazapua has revealed a six-point turnaround strategy if elected at this year’s regional and local authority elections.
The plan, which aims at overhauling key sectors in the constituency is set to focus on youth employment, job creation, education, human resource development, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) support, crime reduction and social issues, support for person with disabilities and the promotion of sports and health. 
Speaking to Confidente this week, Kazapua said this plan is not “talk shop” but is banked on the “wealth of experience” possess as a seasoned public servant having served as mayor and his roles as Council Member of the NUST Council and Member of the Commonwealth Local Cities. 
“From my track record, one can clearly see that I have distinguished myself as a servant of the people who is dedicated to community and people-centred development,” said Kazapua.  
“My campaign for the position of regional council is firmly aligned with the SWAPO Party Manifesto for the 2024 Presidential & National Assembly Elections, focusing on tangible solutions for the people of Katutura Central.
“Furthermore, I stand on the clarion call of our President Netumbo Nandi-Nandi-Ndaitwah, that it should not business as usual and that is exactly what I intend to do with my turnaround strategy in Katutura Central constituency. It must be people first, again,” he indicated. 
He further issued a call for those challenging him for the role to a public debate.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Kazapua said once elected he intends to establish a state-of-the-art information and communication technology centre in the constituency which will provide training in coding, software development and artificial intelligence. 
“My office will collaborate with the Namibian University of Science and Technology and the University of Namibia and private sector partners to offer certified vocational programs in high-demand fields such as manufacturing, production, and renewable energy.” 
On artificial intelligence and manufacturing, Kazapua said: “It is critical to launch a program to integrate artificial intelligence into local manufacturing and production sectors, creating job opportunities for youth.” 
He said once in office he will facilitates the provision of grants, mentorship, and resources for youth-led start-ups focusing on technology and innovation. 
Kazapu recently held a youth engagement with Vice-president Lucia Witbooi to address among other issues the National Youth Development Fund and how the youth of the constituency are set to benefit.

EDUCATION 
According to him the constituency needs a 5-year strategy to enhance education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in primary and secondary schools. within the constituency. 
“This strategy has measurable targets, inputs and key performance indicators form year 1 to the year 5. There provision for critical monitoring and evaluation right through the period to ensure that we do not go off-track or become stagnant.”

SMEs
Turning his focus on SMEs, Kazapua says he will create a platform for current and prospective entrepreneurs to network, access resources, and share best practices. 
“The constituency will partner with key stakeholders to simplify business registration and compliance processes. We will facilitate access to grants and low-interest loans for SMEs through partnerships with financial institutions and government agencies.”

CRIME 
Kazapua said he plans on initiating collaboration with faith-based organizations to address alcohol and drug abuse through community outreach and support programmes. 
The programmes include work with law enforcement to establish neighbourhood watch programs and increase police visibility in high risk areas. 
“We will introduce sports and arts-based initiatives to divert youth from crime and substance abuse.”

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 
The politician is of the opinion that in creating an inclusive society it is important to advocate for the rights of all inhabitants of the constituency, including persons with disabilities. 
“We will collaborate with the Office of the Vice-President to ensure the implementation and defense of the rights of persons with disabilities. These must include advocacy for better infrastructure and services to make public spaces and facilities more accessible.”

Sports and Health 
“We will host annual yearly sports events to promote physical fitness and community cohesion as well as introduce regular health screenings and wellness workshops in collaboration with local health providers.”