NEW YORK — Monica Geingos, the Executive Chairperson of the One Economy Foundation and advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), emphasized the crucial role of young people in global decision-making processes, particularly concerning Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Her remarks were made during a side event titled “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future: Ensuring SRHR and Inclusive Global Governance,” which took place at the United Nations Headquarters on September 20, 2024.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the event, part of the two-day Summit for Future Action Days running from September 20 to 21, 2024, was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service of Namibia, the One Economy Foundation, and the United Nations Population Fund Namibia. Geingos highlighted that SRHR is integral to mental health, education, and entrepreneurship, all of which are essential for empowering youth. The summit, initiated by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, focused on fostering a more inclusive and effective international system, prominently featuring youth-led initiatives.

During the event, discussions centered on the importance of integrating young people's voices into global governance to ensure their ideas influence international decisions. Rivaldo Kavanga, BeFree Ambassador and co-founder of Ayo Namibia, addressed the summit, pointing out the high rate of teenage pregnancies in Namibia. He emphasized the necessity of SRHR programs that provide essential information and services to young people, highlighting their role in tackling this pressing issue.

The participation of the One Economy Foundation in the Summit for Future Action Days was noted as particularly significant. It ensures that Namibian youth are represented in important global discussions, securing a place for them at the table in international dialogues.