Allexer Namundjebo
Rundu councillor Patrick Kufuna has plans to expand the Kavango Kickstart Tour.
This is an initiative he launched to support learners with life-skills education and motivation beyond the classroom and has called on sponsors to support the programme.
Kufuna said he started the tour in 2023 after noticing that many learners need guidance on issues not covered in textbooks.
The programme brings together nurses, social workers, police officers and youth activists to speak to learners about crime prevention, mental health, road safety and hygiene.
Kufuna said the tour uses music and performance to deliver these messages in a way that connects with young people.
He said local artists play a key role in the initiative. These include Chino Chinonge, Wesley Mooi Lewe, Heckz from Ego Crew, dancer Ronny, and the Skelem Nyembas duo, Arron and Frans.
He also noted the involvement of established artists Escoh Yohighness and Sean Blizzy.
Kufuna thanked the Kavango East Directorate of Education for granting permission for the tour to visit schools through formal channels. He said the initiative aims to support parents and teachers in keeping learners disciplined, focused and motivated to improve their academic performances.
He said the programme is not yet funded and that organisers are still seeking financial support from sponsors.
“Our plan is to be giving stationery and school uniforms to vulnerable learners, to be identified through the office of the life skills teacher,” he told the Windhoek Observer on Saturday.
“We are calling on business people to see this initiative as a life-saving initiative, so they should come on board to help us and ensure that the programme reaches every school.”
Kufuna said the tour will expand in phases. The current focus is on schools in Kavango East. Once completed, the programme will move to Kavango West, Ohangwena and other regions.
“For now our main focus is Kavango East. When we are done with schools here, we’ll move to Kavango West, then Ohangwena. The list goes on until we are done with all the regions, even if it will take us five or 10 years. Our aim is to spread the message,” he said.
Beyond the education tour, Kufuna said he remains committed to addressing broader community issues as a town councillor.
He said he will continue to advocate for youth concerns and push for solutions to Rundu’s water supply challenges, which he described as a basic human need and right.
