Staff Reporter
THE Namibian government has provided an update on the National Youth Development Fund (NYDF), which was approved in June and launched in September 2025 to support national development goals under NDP6 and Vision 2030. The Fund, hosted by the Ministry of Finance and implemented through DBN, Agribank and EIF, received 11,475 applications during its pilot phase, with 42 projects worth N$14.78 million already approved across all regions.
The remaining applications are still under review, with results to be released monthly, while unsuccessful applicants may receive training and mentorship. From 1 December 2025, youth aged 18 to 45 can apply directly at DFI offices, with business registration only required upon approval. Government says the Fund will be closely monitored to ensure transparency and prevent misuse, and noted that an Endowment Fund has been established at the Bank of Namibia, supported by contributions from DBN and NamibRe.
For the 2025/26 financial year, Government has allocated N$257 million to support youth lending, market access initiatives, business development services and the Fund’s endowment capital. The participating DFIs have begun finalising loan agreements for the first batch of approved projects, while assessments of the remaining applications continue. Applicants will receive individual feedback, and consolidated updates will be shared with Regional Governors’ offices.
The Ministry of Finance confirmed that applicants who did not meet requirements or whose submissions were incomplete during the pilot phase will be considered for targeted training, mentorship and coaching to improve future prospects. To enhance inclusivity, the Ministry revised the eligibility criteria to cover Namibians aged 18 to 45 and relaxed business registration requirements until after approval.
Government will oversee implementation through a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework to safeguard transparency and accountability. It reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance toward any misuse or abuse of the Fund.
Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: flickr
