The Ministry of Finance has announced a major policy change for the Namibia Youth Development Fund (NYDF), extending the applicant age limit from 35 to 45 years. This revision aims to promote inclusivity and empower a wider range of Namibian entrepreneurs, Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah confirmed today.
Recognizing that entrepreneurship matures from early adulthood to mid-career, the Fund now welcomes applications from Namibians aged 18 to 45. The ministry had earlier disclosed an allocation of N$257 million for the 2025/26 financial year to bolster youth entrepreneurship across sectors.
Ministry spokesperson Wilson Shikoto emphasized that the Fund targets formally registered businesses, cooperatives, and entrepreneurs particularly in agro-processing, climate resilience, green technology, manufacturing, innovation, and horticulture. Over 6,000 applications have been received nationwide, with successful candidates announced monthly by a technical committee.
This expansion of eligibility and funding demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting Namibians at varied stages of their business development.
Photo: contributed
