Simasiku KamwiAge: 26Occupation: Assistant External Auditor: Deloitte Namibia "As Namibian youth, we're seriously concerned and frustrated by the US government's significant aid withdrawal from Africa, especially affecting programs like PEPFAR and USAID. This could severely impact our health, potentially reversing progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, especially for youth. Job losses, as I've personally witnessed, will also worsen youth unemployment. While concerning, this should push Namibia towards greater self-reliance."

Name: Adeline Simbuwa Age: 26Occupation: Accountant Despite the abrupt impact caused by a lack of preparedness, this move towards reduced aid is a positive step towards self-sufficiency. We must learn from this to become a nation capable of supporting itself.

Name: Leonard Simasiku Age: 27Occupation: Banking Batch InitiatorThere are two sides: The upset caused by the sudden loss of long-relied-upon aid, perhaps without adequate preparation time. Conversely, this can push Africa towards self-reliance, fostering stronger internal functioning.

Full Name: Natasha Nekwaya Age: 27Occupation: Founder of the Havana Charity Work Foundation | Media AnalystThe US aid reduction has visibly shocked Africa, forcing NGO closures and job losses. As a young Namibian woman leading a community organisation, I see this not just as a challenge, but a turning point. Politically, it demands African self-reliance. Economically, it necessitates local investment after job losses. Socially, grassroots communities suffer, but this is a wake-up call for local ownership. Our future must be built by us.

Full name: Simonia Thandeka Kanyumara Age: 26Occupation: Communications Officer As a young Namibian, I'm concerned by the US aid withdrawal from Africa. Many vital programmes here, especially for youth and rural communities, depend on this support, and reductions could hinder progress. However, this also highlights the need for Namibia to bolster our own resources, invest in local solutions, and foster sustainable, self-reliant development. Namibian youth are crucial in driving this innovation and growth.

Names: Lloyd SikebaAGE: 27Field of study: International relations, diplomacy & managementAs a young person in Namibia, it’s worrying to hear that the US is pulling back its aid to Africa. That support has helped so many, especially in health and education. It feels like we're being left to struggle alone. But at the same time, maybe it’s a sign that we need to start building stronger systems ourselves, less dependent, more united. It's tough, but maybe it’s time to step up.