The Namibian government has launched a Work Integrated Learning Policy , targeting one of the country’s most pressing challenges: youth unemployment. The policy is designed to bridge the gap between education and the labour market by embedding practical work experience into training systems. In Namibia, where youth unemployment remains persistently high by regional standards, policymakers have increasingly focused on skills alignment and employability as key levers for economic inclusion. This move signals a shift away from purely academic pathways toward industry-linked training, with the expectation that graduates will enter the workforce with relevant, job-ready skills.

Economic outlook hints at a gradual recovery toward 2027

Namibia’s economy grew by 1.7% in 2025 , missing expectations due to sharp declines in the diamond sector, livestock farming and investment. Growth started stronger early in the year but weakened overall. Analysts say early signs of recovery are emerging, supported by policy measures, monetary easing and rising credit activity, though the impact will take time to filter through. Growth is projected at 2%–2.5% in 2026, driven by agriculture, uranium and services, with stronger gains expected from 2027 onwards. Potential oil and gas investments could further boost the outlook, while household demand remains weak due to slow policy transmission.

Private sector leadership shifts as NCCI appoints new chairman

The election of Vetumbuavi Mungunda as chairman of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) marks a notable development in the country’s business landscape. The NCCI plays a central role in representing private sector interests, engaging with government on policy and promoting investment. Leadership changes at this level often signal shifts in advocacy priorities, particularly around business climate reforms, access to finance and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. Mungunda’s appointment comes at a time when closer public-private collaboration is seen as critical to unlocking growth.

Digital payments strategy targets financial modernisation

The Bank of Namibia (BoN), in collaboration with PAN, has launched a new payment system strategy aimed at modernising the country’s financial infrastructure . The initiative is expected to expand digital payment adoption, improve transaction efficiency and strengthen financial inclusion. Across Africa, central banks are increasingly prioritising digital systems to reduce reliance on cash and integrate informal sectors into the formal economy. For Namibia, this strategy aligns with broader efforts to build a more resilient and accessible financial system, particularly for underserved populations.

Gold supply deal signals strategic reserve strengthening

The Bank of Namibia has secured a gold supply deal , reinforcing its reserve assets. Gold remains a key instrument for central banks seeking to hedge against currency volatility and global economic uncertainty. The agreement suggests Namibia is taking steps to strengthen its macroeconomic buffers, particularly in a volatile global environment. This also reflects a wider trend among emerging markets to increase gold holdings as part of reserve diversification strategies.

At first glance, the phenomenon appears highly visual: teenagers wearing animal masks, mimicking animal movements or speaking about feeling connected to wolves, cats or other species. However, as the trend has spread, discussion has shifted from the imagery itself to the meaning behind it.

Those who identify as therians generally do not claim physical transformation. Instead, they describe a psychological or symbolic alignment with a particular animal, saying certain instincts, traits or emotional patterns feel central to their sense of self. For many, it is framed as an internal experience rather than a performance.

Public reaction in Latin America has been mixed, ranging from curiosity and support to scepticism and concern. Some see it as a form of adolescent self-expression amplified by social media, while others question whether it reflects a deeper or more lasting shift in how young people define themselves.

Specialists note that adolescence has long been a period of identity exploration. In a digital environment where online communities can grow rapidly across borders, new forms of self-description can gain visibility and legitimacy faster than in previous generations.

As therian identity in Latin America moves beyond viral content into wider cultural debate, the conversation increasingly centres on broader questions about personal identity: how it is formed, how flexible it can be, and how societies respond when emerging expressions of self challenge familiar categories.

“I was very excited about today’s voting,” Sazzad, a journalist, told Global South World shortly after polls closed on Thursday. “It was like a new experience for us. After so many years, we finally had the chance.”

This year’s election marked Bangladesh’s first since the 2024 youth-led uprising that ended Hasina’s 17-year rule and forced the longtime premier into exile in India.

More than 127 million voters were registered for the parliamentary contest and a simultaneous referendum on constitutional reforms.

For many in Generation Z — those who came of age politically during Hasina’s tenure — the vote represented more than a routine democratic exercise. 

It was, in Sazzad’s words, an opportunity to help shape a “new Bangladesh.”

“They are the future of our country,” Sazzad said of the Bangladeshi youth. “They want to see some pragmatic changes in the future in Bangladesh. They never want to see any corruption. They never want to see any disruption to living their life.”

Polling centres in the capital were calm and heavily secured, with the military and other law enforcement agencies deployed nationwide, Sazzad said. 

Yet beneath the order, Bangladeshis were elated at the chance to witness a new political landscape, one they largely see as shaping their future.

“They are very happy and they were feeling like it's like Eid for us,” Sazzad said, referring to the Islamic holiday featuring feasts and prayers. “It was a sunny day in our country. The situation was very good.”

BNP win

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party secured a decisive parliamentary majority, winning 209 of 300 seats, giving the party a two-thirds mandate to form the next government .

For Samiur Rahman Sazzad, the outcome signals both continuity and opportunity. 

“BNP now has the chance to prove themselves,” he said, noting the party’s “very talented” leadership under Tarique Rahman, son of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman. 

Tarique, who returned from nearly two decades abroad, is seen as a charismatic figure capable of implementing the BNP’s 31-point election platform, including initiatives aimed at reducing social inequality, expanding access to food and education , and widening the tax base.

Sazzad emphasised that while the Awami League was barred from contesting, voter turnout — estimated at around 65% — reflects strong public engagement. 

“The people of Bangladesh accept the result,” he said, dismissing criticisms from Hasina and her party in exile that the elections were a “well-planned farce” and was not inclusive, considering Awami League was excluded.

Opposition voices, including Jamaat-e-Islami, have also largely signalled acceptance.

Gen Z future

While BNP claims power, Sazzad sees the next chapter of Bangladesh’s politics as still deeply influenced by Generation Z. 

Young voters, he said, remain committed to pragmatic reform and anti-corruption priorities, even as new actors like the student-led National Citizen Party (NCP) begin to emerge.

“The NCP is like an infant baby,” Sazzad explained. “They won five seats, but they have potential.” 

He predicts the party could capture dozens of constituencies in future elections, reflecting a generation eager for leaders who actively participated in the 2024 uprising that ousted Hasina.

For many young Bangladeshis, including first-time voters like Sazzad, the election is a first step toward what they hope will be a more transparent, equitable, and forward-looking Bangladesh.

Boko highlighted Africa’s youthful population and Botswana’s enabling environment as key drivers of the continent’s potential. 

“So the opportunities that there are in Botswana, the training, the education, the acquisition of skills, the support, the environment that nurtures them and feeds and fuels their fervent vitality, is what Botswana offers, and what will power Africa. Africa generally is a very young continent. The median age of 19.3, Botswana's median age is 25. And so, with such a population, Africa is poised to rule the world,” he said.

The 56-year-old Boko was sworn in as president of the Southern African nation on November 1, 2024, after a surprising electoral victory that ended the 58-year reign of the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), which had held power since the country’s independence from Britain in 1966.

The panel also included Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio and Zimbabwe ’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The 2026 edition of the World Governments Summit is taking place from February 3 to 5. The event gathers over 6,000 participants, including more than 35 heads of state and government, 150 government delegations, and over 20 leaders from international and regional organisations. 

Discussions focus on global governance, economic growth, societal wellbeing, urban development, and emerging global trends.

According to recent data, Nigeria records around 7.5 million live births annually, while Europe, together with Russia, see roughly 6.3 million births per year.

Nigeria’s high fertility rate, which averages around 4.6 births per woman, plays a big role in these figures. That rate is well above global averages and far higher than most of Europe, where fertility rates commonly fall below replacement level (about 1.4 to 1.6 children per woman).

By contrast, much of Europe has a deeply aged population and decades of low birth rates. Countries such as Italy, Spain and Germany have fertility well under replacement level, contributing to slower natural population growth and, in some cases, declining native population totals.

Russia in particular illustrates this trend as its fertility rate is among the lowest in the world at roughly 1.4 births per woman, and official statistics show persistent declines in the number of births as the population ages.

Low fertility rates in Europe are already prompting incentives for families, reforms in parental support, and debates about immigration policy as governments seek ways to stabilise future population size and workforce strength.

Nigeria’s youth-heavy population and higher birth rates, on the other hand, have helped it become a demographic powerhouse , even as many European countries confront ageing populations, shrinking workforces and fiscal pressures linked to elder care.

Nigeria’s demographic trends also carry implications. Rapid population growth can fuel economic expansion if accompanied by investment in education, health and employment.

The World Economic Forum suggests that "A population projected to reach 400 million by 2050 needs jobs aligned with a fast-digitising economy. But youth unemployment remains among the highest globally, with 23% of young Nigerians actively looking for work, while another 32% are out of employment altogether. Employers also report persistent shortages in technical and digital skills, underscoring the need for coordinated investment."

Health authorities point to the uncertain long-term effects of inhaling e-liquids as a major factor behind these bans. Chemicals in vape liquids, including nicotine and other additives, have been linked to potential respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Governments are also concerned about the rising prevalence of vaping among young people , who may develop nicotine dependence early and transition to conventional smoking.

In addition to physical health, mental health risks have become a key concern. In Malaysia, for example, authorities have reported cases of drug-induced psychosis linked to adulterated vape liquids and synthetic substances. These incidents prompted the Health Ministry to establish a task force to monitor and address potential health crises associated with vaping.

Regulatory approaches differ across countries, but the overall aim is consistent: to protect public health and prevent addiction. Some governments have enacted total bans, prohibiting sales, imports, and marketing entirely. Others have introduced partial restrictions, such as limiting sales to minors or banning online advertising. These measures reflect a cautious approach in regions where healthcare systems may struggle to manage the long-term consequences of widespread vaping.

Malaysia is preparing one of the most comprehensive bans in the region. The government has announced plans to implement a nationwide prohibition on e-cigarettes by mid-2026, pending final legislative approval. Officials describe the decision as inevitable, framing it as a continuation of public health policy rather than a sudden intervention.

Medical organisations in the region have generally supported these measures. In Malaysia, the Malaysian Medical Association has backed the upcoming ban, highlighting the need for preventive action rather than reactive treatment of health crises. Across the Global South, similar reasoning underpins decisions to regulate or prohibit vaping.

The shift reflects a broader recognition that public health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth, must take priority over commercial interests. As more countries in the Global South move to restrict or ban e-cigarettes, they signal a commitment to preventing nicotine addiction and safeguarding both physical and mental health in the face of emerging global vaping trends.

Mamdani’s win is historic . At 34 years old, he becomes both the youngest mayor in more than a century of New York governance and the first Muslim and first South Asian to occupy the office.

His campaign, grounded in progressive aims, from housing affordability to expanded public services access, clearly resonated in a moment when voters signalled an appetite for change.

Cuomo’s comeback bid fell short, despite his experience and name recognition. While grabbing 41.6 % of the vote, he was unable to overcome a campaign anchored in the past, while the electorate looked forward. Meanwhile, Sliwa’s campaign struggled for traction in the liberal-leaning city, capturing just over 7 % of the vote.

The map in the image bears out these dynamics: large swathes of blue signalling Mamdani support spread across many boroughs, while gold-colored areas mark Cuomo’s strengths in some regions. It’s a visual reflection not only of political affiliation but of generational and demographic shifts.

On the national front, the result feeds into a broader narrative of Democratic “rejuvenation” in urban centres. Just as younger, more diverse voices are reshaping city halls, they’re also increasingly visible in national legislatures and party leadership circles. The emphasis on housing, cost-of-living and local public services echoes similar priorities in cities from London to Lagos.

Malaita Province has unveiled an ambitious roadmap titled Malaita 2026–2030: The Path to Autonomy & Prosperity , signalling a renewed push for greater self-governance and economic independence. The initiative aims to tackle decades of underdevelopment and government neglect, positioning the province to control more of its resources and decision-making processes. The plan emphasises sustainable economic growth, better infrastructure, and local empowerment, marking a pivotal moment in the Solomon Islands’ ongoing discussions on decentralisation and regional equity.

Youth apprenticeship programme launched to tackle anti-social behaviour

A new youth apprenticeship programme has been launched in Malaita Province as part of efforts to address rising anti-social behaviour and unemployment among young people. Transparency Solomon Islands, a key advocacy group, used the occasion to highlight broader concerns about corruption and the misuse of funds. The organisation urged political leaders to focus on integrity, equitable resource allocation, and transparency to ensure that young people benefit directly from development programs rather than being left behind. The initiative is expected to serve as both a skills-building platform and a tool for social cohesion. News Briefs 23.10

Solomon Islands wins bid to host 2026 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting

In a significant boost to its international profile, the Solomon Islands has secured the right to host the 2026 Council of Tourism Ministers’ Meeting. The event is expected to draw delegates from across the Pacific, providing a valuable opportunity to showcase the nation’s natural beauty and tourism potential. Officials expect the meeting to generate economic activity, particularly for the hospitality and transport sectors, while also fostering discussions around aviation and regional connectivity challenges that have long constrained the tourism industry. News Briefs 23.10

Government developing policy for mining environmental bonds

The Solomon Islands Ministry of Mines has announced work on a new policy requiring mining companies to pay environmental bonds. The move addresses existing gaps in the nation’s mining regulations, which currently lack enforceable provisions for environmental accountability. The proposed bond system aims to ensure companies take financial responsibility for ecological restoration after project completion, aligning with global best practices in sustainable resource management. Authorities hope the policy will promote responsible mining and strengthen environmental protection standards across the country.

In a dramatic political turn, Sher Bahadur Deuba has stepped down as president of the Nepali Congress, following mounting pressure from a series of Gen Z-led protests demanding generational leadership change. The protests, fueled by frustrations over corruption, unemployment, and political stagnation, have transformed into a national conversation about accountability and renewal. Deuba’s resignation marks a pivotal moment for Nepal’s oldest political party, which now faces the task of rejuvenating its leadership structure. Analysts believe this shift could signal a broader realignment in Nepalese politics as younger voices push for reform and inclusivity in governance.

Ten petitions challenge Sushila Karki’s premiership and House dissolution

The Supreme Court of Nepal is currently reviewing ten separate petitions challenging both Prime Minister Sushila Karki’s authority and the recent dissolution of the House of Representatives. Petitioners argue that the move violates the constitutional separation of powers and undermines democratic principles. The controversy has reignited debates over Nepal’s fragile parliamentary structure and the balance between executive and judicial authority. Legal experts warn that the case’s outcome could set a lasting precedent for the interpretation of constitutional powers. The hearings have attracted widespread public attention, with civic groups calling for transparency and adherence to democratic norms.

Madhesh Chief Minister Singh resigns amid political turmoil

Madhesh Province Chief Minister Saroj Kumar Singh has officially resigned , citing internal party divisions and mounting political instability within the provincial government. His departure comes amid broader unrest across provincial administrations grappling with incomplete devolution and unresolved constitutional ambiguities. Political observers say Singh’s resignation underscores the ongoing challenges of implementing federalism in Nepal, particularly in regions where ethnic and political identities intersect. The resignation has triggered uncertainty about the next provincial leadership, raising questions about governance continuity and accountability in Madhesh.

Unfinished federalism continues to strain Madhesh Province

The political developments in Madhesh have once again spotlighted Nepal’s unfinished federal experiment, which remains fraught with administrative and constitutional complications. Local leaders complain that the federal structure, while promising greater autonomy, has yet to deliver tangible benefits due to unclear division of powers and financial constraints. Many citizens express frustration over inadequate local services and bureaucratic inefficiency. Scholars argue that until fiscal federalism and administrative autonomy are properly enforced, provinces like Madhesh will continue to experience governance paralysis and civic disillusionment.

Khadka appointed acting president of Nepali Congress after leadership shake-up

Following Sher Bahadur Deuba’s resignation, Purna Bahadur Khadka has been appointed acting president of the Nepali Congress. The decision, endorsed by the party’s central committee, is seen as an interim measure aimed at stabilising internal dynamics. Khadka has pledged to rebuild trust among members and restore public confidence in the party’s reform agenda. His leadership will be tested as the Congress navigates multiple crises, including legal battles over the dissolved parliament and growing competition from newer political movements energised by youth activism and anti-establishment sentiment.

In a significant show of political cooperation, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and the All People’s Party (APP) have agreed to strengthen collaboration aimed at advancing Namibia’s socio-economic development agenda. The leaders highlighted shared priorities such as poverty reduction, youth empowerment, and equitable access to resources. This partnership underscores a growing recognition among Namibian political actors that cross-party alliances are essential to achieving long-term national goals. Observers see the collaboration as a strategic move that could consolidate stability ahead of the 2025 elections, signalling a shift toward a more consensus-driven political culture in the country.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah meets IPC leadership to foster dialogue

Continuing her outreach efforts, President Nandi-Ndaitwah met with leaders of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) to discuss strategies for inclusive governance and sustainable development. The meeting focused on aligning national development programs with community needs, especially in rural and underserved regions. Both sides emphasised the importance of transparency, accountability, and social cohesion. Analysts view this as part of the President’s broader effort to bridge political divides and ensure that diverse voices contribute to policymaking. The talks also reflected a deepening culture of political consultation that could define the early phase of Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration.

Namibia and GCF to boost funding for youth climate projects

Namibia has announced a strategic collaboration with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to expand financing for youth-led climate action initiatives. The partnership aims to empower young entrepreneurs and innovators developing sustainable solutions in renewable energy, waste management, and agriculture. President Nandi-Ndaitwah hailed the agreement as a landmark opportunity to align Namibia’s development agenda with its environmental commitments. The initiative also seeks to position Namibia as a regional leader in green innovation, supporting the country’s efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change while driving youth employment and capacity-building programs.

Procurement bill sparks corruption concerns, warns IPPR

The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has raised alarms about the government’s proposed procurement bill, warning that it could inadvertently create loopholes for corruption if not carefully revised. The IPPR’s report argues that certain provisions may reduce oversight and transparency in public spending, particularly in state contracts. Civil society organisations have echoed these concerns, urging the government to consult widely before finalising the bill. The Ministry of Finance, however, maintains that the legislation will modernise procurement systems and improve efficiency. The debate highlights a growing public demand for accountability as Namibia continues to reform its governance frameworks.

ECN awards 2025 election ballot paper contract to South African firm

The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has awarded the 2025 national election ballot paper printing contract to a South African firm, a decision that has generated both interest and scrutiny. The ECN explained that the choice followed a transparent tender process and that the selected company demonstrated the capacity to meet security and delivery standards. Critics, however, have questioned the reliance on a foreign firm for such a sensitive task, suggesting that the government should prioritise local capability development. The ECN has defended its decision, assuring the public that all necessary measures will be taken to guarantee electoral integrity and efficiency.

According to the graphic sourced from UN 2024 data, Africa’s median age sits at about 19.3 years, making it by far the youngest continent. Europe leads in age, with a median of 42.7 years.

Meanwhile, North America is 38.7, Asia is 32.5, South America is 31.7, and Australia/Oceania is 33.3. The contrast highlights how differently regions face the twin forces of youthful populations and ageing societies.

This map is more than visual: it reflects the demographic pressures reshaping global economics, politics , and social systems. Let’s unpack what these differences mean — and why they matter today.

Why Africa remains so young

Africa’s median age of about 19 means that most of its population remains in childhood or youth. This youthful demographic is a legacy of high birth rates and improving child survival, even as life expectancy has been rising globally.

It also places Africa in a moment of potential advantage, often called a “demographic dividend”, where a large cohort of working-age people could drive growth, innovation, and productivity, if the right investments are made in education, health, and jobs.

But this opportunity is not automatic. Without matching growth in infrastructure , education, and employment, Africa instead faces youth unemployment, social instability, and pressure on public services.

The median-age map makes clear just how concentrated the world’s youngest populations are and how urgent it is for African nations to capitalise on youth potential.

Europe’s ageing profile

Europe’s median age of 42.7 signals its deep transition: fertility well below replacement levels, rising life expectancy, and a shrinking younger cohort. This demographic structure intensifies pressure on pensions, healthcare systems, eldercare, and social safety nets. As Europe ages, fewer workers must support more retirees.

Yet even within Europe, disparities are growing. Some countries, especially in Eastern Europe, are facing sharper population decline and brain drain, while others wrestle with integrating migrants to balance age structures.

A recent analysis from the Bruegel think tank suggests that Europe’s ageing burden may be more manageable than often assumed, projecting only modest increases in age-related public spending through 2070. Still, the structural challenge remains significant.

Global ageing

The world is getting older, everywhere. UN projections show that by mid-century, people aged 60 and over will more than double, making up a much larger slice of the global population.

In developed economies, this trend is already clear: working-age ratios (people aged 15–64) have shrunk over time and will keep falling. The Path to 2075 report projects that median ages in “developed markets” will climb toward 47 years by 2075, while in “emerging markets” they’ll approach 40.

Health systems, retirement systems, and labour markets all strain under this shift. The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns that as more people live into their 80s and beyond, chronic diseases, care dependency, and related costs will grow.

President William Ruto has made a passionate appeal to Kenya’s young population, urging them to take an active role in shaping the country’s future by registering as voters ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a national youth forum, Ruto emphasised that the youth form the largest demographic block and, therefore, have the power to redefine Kenya’s political destiny. He highlighted that political apathy among young people undermines their ability to influence governance and economic policy. The President encouraged youth to rise above frustration and scepticism, asserting that meaningful change can only come through democratic participation. He also promised to address the systemic barriers preventing youth registration, such as limited access to national identification cards and logistical challenges in remote areas.

Matiang’i now formally declares joining Jubilee Party

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has formally joined the Jubilee Party, marking his official entry into partisan politics after months of speculation. Matiang’i’s move is seen as a significant development in Kenya’s evolving political landscape, especially given his past reputation as a technocrat and public service reformer. During his declaration, he expressed his commitment to revitalising Jubilee’s grassroots structures and contributing to national unity through policy-based politics. His entry has been welcomed by sections of the party leadership who view him as a capable organiser with a strong administrative background. Political analysts, however, note that his decision may also be a strategic step toward positioning himself for a larger political role in the run-up to the 2027 elections. Matiang’i assured supporters that his focus remains on governance, integrity, and service delivery.

Kenya losing billions annually to graft and state capture, says AfDB

A new report by the African Development Bank (AfDB) has revealed that Kenya continues to lose billions of shillings annually to corruption and entrenched systems of state capture. The findings paint a grim picture of systemic inefficiencies, fraudulent procurement practices, and misuse of public funds that have eroded economic progress. The AfDB warned that corruption remains one of the greatest obstacles to sustainable development and foreign investment in Kenya. It urged the government to strengthen institutional accountability, improve transparency in public spending, and enforce anti-graft laws with greater consistency. The report further recommended empowering oversight bodies such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and enhancing judicial independence to ensure that corruption cases are prosecuted effectively. The revelations have reignited public debate about governance reforms and the government’s political will to address corruption at the highest levels.