Staff Writer
The National Youth Development Fund (NYDF) has approved N$8.6 million in funding for youth-owned businesses.
The latest funding round, which took place from 1 November 2025 to 30 January 2026 and has been channeled to 30 businesses.
This followed an earlier approval of N$5.3 million for 16 businesses announced at the official launch of the NYDF.
The funded enterprises operate in sectors that include auto mechanics, construction, tourism, catering, car wash services, mobile food trading, legal services, fashion and cosmetics, transport and shuttle services, media, health, education, ICT, welding and metal fabrication, accounting, event management, restaurants, guesthouses, funeral services and printing.
The approved businesses include Salom Megumbo Trading CC, Rumbiriri Logistic General Trading CC, Teteh Self Catering and Accommodation CC, Fasted Investments CC, Kashana Trading CC, Terry and Sama Trading CC, Chiz Cooling Investment CC, De Celestino & Co Legal Practitioner, R N Fashion Boutique and Cosmetics CC, Bees Empire Investments CC, Richie Safari & Transport, Ludwig Investments CC, Moses Investment House CC, Dr Ludwig Gaombe Medical Practice, Riverdale Private Academy CC, Billy and Family Investment CC, Dashin Trading House CC, Maritata Trading CC, O&M Accountants and Auditors, The Printing House, Franco and Berry Trading CC, Fine Bite Investments, The Pizza House CC, Mwaka Daycare and Kindergarten, Bon Sejour Guesthouse CC, Pathfinder Business Solutions, Kasongo Infinity Investment CC, Okandjende Investment CC, Subeco Trading CC and Mandala Gravestone & Funeral Services.
The businesses are based in the Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Erongo, Zambezi, Kavango East, Khomas and Oshana regions.
DBN is finalising disbursements for several approved enterprises.
The bank is also assessing about 40 additional applications. Further approvals and an update on disbursements are expected by the end of February 2026.
Finance ministry spokesperson Wilson Shikoto said the NYDF funding window remains open.
He said applications are assessed on a continuous basis and must meet the funding requirements.
Eligible applicants may apply through the offices of the regional governors or directly through participating development finance institutions, including DBN, Agribank and the Environmental Investment Fund (EIF).
Shikoto said the programme remains focused on youth-owned businesses and their role in the economy.
“The NYDF remains committed to supporting viable youth-owned enterprises and strengthening their contribution to economic growth and employment creation,” Shikoto said.
