Allexer Namundjembo
Concerns have emerged over how the “Be Your Own Boss” youth empowerment programme in Otavi is being managed.
Sponsored by B2Gold Namibia with N$1.19 million, the program aims to equip 20 young people with business skills and start-up capital.
Johannes Johannes, a local activist, has questioned the transparency of the project.
He raised issues about the funds allocated to participants and the quality of the training.
He said trainees were told they would receive equipment worth N$3 000 each after completing the program, which he believes is too low compared to the overall budget.
“Twenty times N$3,000 amounts to just N$60,000. Where did the remaining funds go?” Johannes asked.
Johannes also demanded a comprehensive analysis of the expenditure, highlighting issues related to training attendance and the facilitators’ role.
Royalty Empire Investments CC, the company in charge of the program’s operations, responded to the concerns.
A spokesperson said they handled all logistics, including hiring training providers.
“Royalty Empire Investments CC managed all operational aspects, including selecting and engaging training providers to deliver the program as proposed,” the spokesperson said.
They explained that the budget was agreed upon with B2Gold Namibia.
“Training represents the most significant portion of the costs. Of the total budget, N$110 000 is set aside as start-up capital for the 20 trainees, equivalent to N$5 500 each. This amount will be disbursed at the conclusion of the program, no later than 15 July 2025,” he said.
Royalty Empire Investments said the program was nearing completion.
“Although the program is nearing completion and final funding disbursements are pending, trainees have reported positive personal and professional growth. We believe the initiative will bring tangible benefits to the youth and wider community, including new business launches and employment opportunities,” the spokesperson said.
He added that attendance records show participants have mostly been present, with only occasional absences due to personal matters.
Still, Johannes insists that more openness is needed.
“The youth expected more substantial support and clearer guidance. Many feel the program has fallen short of its promises,” he said.
In response to the queries sent to him, Otavi Mayor Isack Hoeb clarified the selection process for the local entrepreneurship training initiative, emphasising that it followed a structured and transparent procedure.
“An open advert was issued according to clear specifications, and we received 279 applications,” he said. “From there, a shortlist of 30 was made based on criteria outlined in the application form, and further elimination was conducted based on how applicants answered key questions.”
Hoeb explained that shortlisted candidates were then interviewed, and selections were made based on interview performance. “It was a fair process, just like any formal interview,” he added.
He also added that 15 top candidates were selected, with two of them sponsored by Ohorongo Cement and four by Royalty Empire Investments, although two of the latter dropped out. The interview panel, he noted, included representatives from B2Gold, the Otavi Town Council, Royalty Empire, and a community member, with an observer present to ensure transparency.
B2Gold Namibia responded to the concerns through its corporate communications manager, Namasiku Nalisa, stating the company will engage with all parties involved.
“We remain committed to transparency and will work with the Otavi Town Council and implementing partners to clarify any issues and support the youth involved,” she said.
The program started in mid-2024 and is set to run for 12 months, offering business training and startup funding for the youth involved.
