Renthia Kaimbi
Seventeen young entrepreneurs in Swakopmund have received support to start and grow their businesses under the Youth Entrepreneurial Development Initiative (YEDI).
The programme is led by the municipality of Swakopmund in partnership with the Langer Heinrich Uranium Mine.
The handover took place on Wednesday as part of ongoing efforts to address youth unemployment and support local business growth.
Beneficiaries received tools, equipment and other resources suited to their businesses. The support allows them to move from planning to operating.
Chairperson of the management committee Eddy Angula said the programme is helping young people create jobs.
“Today marks yet another important milestone in our collective journey of empowerment, opportunity, and growth for the young people of Swakopmund,” Angula said.
“This initiative continues to create an enabling environment where young people increasingly become drivers of local economic development.”
The programme has so far supported 54 of the 85 approved beneficiaries. The latest group of 17 brings the initiative closer to its target.
Officials said the programme is rolled out in phases to allow monitoring and ensure long-term results.
Swakopmund chief executive officer Alfeus Benjamin said the programme supports national goals such as youth empowerment and economic growth.
“By equipping young people with the necessary tools, resources and support, we are enabling them to participate meaningfully in the economy and shape their own futures,” Benjamin said.
One beneficiary received a minibus to run a tour business. The vehicle will also support programme monitoring.
Benjamin said the programme benefits from cooperation between the municipality, private sector and development partners. He also credited former Swakopmund mayor Blasius Goraseb for starting the initiative.
The programme aims to reduce youth unemployment by promoting entrepreneurship.
