More Namibians can now benefit from the National Youth Development Fund after the Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises extended the eligible age limit from 35 to 45 years.
The fund, which received an allocation of N$257 million for the 2025/26 financial year, is aimed at supporting youth-driven entrepreneurship across various sectors. Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi, represented by Deputy Minister Maureen Hinda-Mbuende, emphasized that the expansion is intended to create wider opportunities for young entrepreneurs to access financial support.
According to the ministry, applicants must either operate a formally registered business, belong to a cooperative, or be individuals involved in sectors such as agriculture and innovation. Priority will be given to projects in agro-processing, climate-resilient farming, horticulture, green technology, building, manufacturing, and other innovative ventures.
Deputy Minister Shikoto highlighted that the fund’s technical committee will publish the names of successful applicants at the beginning of every month. “During the launch, 42 beneficiaries were announced out of more than 6,000 applications submitted countrywide. Assessments will continue, and more names will be released monthly,” he said.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen youth participation in the economy and promote sustainable enterprise development.
