Interview: Shaun Gariseb Encourages Youth to Access National Youth Development Fund

Activist Shaun Gariseb has called on young people to participate in the National Youth Development Fund’s upcoming awareness sessions. The fund, which supports individuals aged 18 to 45, provides loans without collateral at interest rates between 2% and 4%, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, creating jobs, and promoting projects in key sectors such as agriculture, green initiatives, and manufacturing.

Gariseb noted that over 100 young people have already received funding in recent months, with the first phase supporting around 42 projects and the second phase funding about 63. He encouraged applicants, including those who were unsuccessful in the first phase, to attend the sessions to improve their proposals.

“The loan has a 12-month grace period and can be repaid over up to five years,” Gariseb explained. “It’s a great provision, and young people must partake in it.”

He urged participants to check the schedule for information sessions in their regions, including Windhoek on 11 December and Hrodob on 12 December, to ensure they fully understand the process and maximize their chances of securing funding.

The National Youth Development Fund continues to provide critical support for youth-led businesses, helping drive innovation and economic growth across the country.