#TogetherWeCan: Raising a money-smart generation
Financial literacy is a vital skill, yet for many Namibians, money was rarely discussed at home. Conversations about income, savings, or debt were often kept behind closed doors, leaving children to navigate financial matters on their own as adults.Metropolitan is championing a new approach through its #TogetherWeCan initiative, which aims to equip young Namibians with the knowledge and tools to make confident financial decisions. The programme emphasises starting early, keeping lessons simple, and involving children in age-appropriate money conversations.
Experts advise introducing money concepts as soon as children learn to count, helping them understand the difference between wants and needs, and demonstrating patience when waiting for something they desire. Leading by example is key: children observe and mimic good financial habits, such as budgeting for groceries, saving for family goals, or avoiding unnecessary debt.
Linking money to effort is another important lesson. Age-appropriate chores or helping with family tasks can show children that money is earned. Encouraging saving and goal-setting, from a small toy to bigger milestones like a matric farewell or first car, teaches patience and planning. Older children can be given responsibility over pocket money, learning from mistakes and developing financial resilience.
Financial education should be tailored to each stage of a child’s development:
• Ages three to five: counting coins, wants versus needs, and the basic idea that money buys things.
• Ages six to ten: managing pocket money, comparing prices, and opening a bank account.
• Ages 11 to 13: saving for larger goals and understanding cash versus credit.
• Ages 14 to 18: budgeting, responsible credit use, and earning through part-time work.
Raising financially savvy children requires patience and consistency, but it is an investment that pays dividends for the individual and the nation. By normalising money conversations, Namibian parents can nurture a generation capable of making informed financial choices, avoiding unnecessary debt, and embracing independence.
Financial confidence is built one lesson at a time and together, Namibia can raise a truly money-smart generation.
* Johannes Nghishidimbwa is a financial advisor at Momentum Metropolitan Group.