Introducing the NNM project

The Namibia Institute for Democracy (NID) and Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF), with funding from the European Union, are implementing the 33‑month Namibia Needs Me (NNM) project (Sept 2023–May 2026). The initiative promotes inclusive democratic participation through civic education by raising awareness of good governance, democracy, the rule of law, and human rights, while strengthening citizens’ ability to apply these concepts in practice.

NNM focuses on youth, training secondary school learners, university students, and teachers to encourage active citizenship. It also equips CSO representatives and select youth with advocacy and leadership skills through workshops, mentorship, and advanced training.

The project supports the government’s call for enhanced citizen participation (Harambee Prosperity Plan II and Vision 2030) and aligns with Article 17 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to political participation. As Namibia heads to national elections in 2024 and local elections in 2025, the NNM multimedia campaign and online platform will provide educational resources and encourage voter engagement.

Through training, dialogue events, mentorship, and an open-access civic education platform, the project aims to build a stronger democratic culture, civic awareness, and meaningful participation across Namibian society.

Some of the inspiring activities we’ve hosted:

Student Advocacy Training: We taught students practical advocacy tools that made them excited to be more active citizens and engage their leadership skills.
Civic Education sessions for youth: After school, high school learners went through various CE topics they’d never heard of before.
Bootcamps: We took high-school students to a lodge for a week where they learned about democracy and civic participation.
University Dialogues: University students engaged in interactive sessions to learn about their civic rights, responsibilities, and the importance of active citizenship.
  
Workshops for educators: Teachers and administrative staff from accross the country came to Windhoek to receive comprehensive training on civic education, advocacy, and interactive teaching methods to help teachers integrate civic education into their lesson plans effectively.
 
 
Civic Education and Advocacy Workshops for CSO’s : Week-long workshops that provide CSO representatives with knowledge and tools to enhance their civic education and advocacy initiatives.On-Site Mentorship Programme: Following the workshops, five selected CSOs receive a three-day on-site mentorship to support the practical application of the skills learned.
Community Dialogues with eligible voters: Structured discussions hosted across different communities, providing residents with information on government structures, elections, and civic responsibilities.
 
Communication Campaign: Aimed at encouraging eligible voters and the general public to embrace their civic rights and actively participate in the democratic process.

 

 

To find out more about the NNM Project:

Download Here

Disclaimer: This website for Namibia Needs Me is funded by the European Union and the BMZ. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the NID and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union and/or the BMZ.