Fifty-two benefit from Namibia youth credit scheme

About 52 young people from the Khomas, Hardap and ||Kharas regions benefited from the Namibia Youth Credit Scheme (NYCS) totalling to N.dollars 406 000. Speaking here on Thursday as she officiated the handing over of the loans to the youth, Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service, Emma Kantema-Gaomas said the NYCS aims to promote youth empowerment, enhance participation in economic activities, and foster an environment where young people can thrive. She added that the scheme is a pledge by Government to the youth showing its commitment to investing in the youth in every possible way. 'Namibia faces a high unemployment rate, a challenge that can only be addressed through innovative and robust measures, by equipping you with the skills and resources to start your own businesses, we are not only reducing unemployment but also fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance,' said Kantema-Gaomas. The deputy minister said for the 2024/2025 financial year the ministry aims to support 70 yo ung people per region with an allocated budget of N.dollars 10 million. Kantema-Gaomas to the beneficiaries said: 'Seize this opportunity with both hands, be relentless in your pursuit of excellence, be resilient in the face of challenges, and be resourceful in your endeavours. The future of Namibia depends on you, your creativity, and your determination, don't wait for tomorrow, start now,' she urged. Keetmanshoop Mayor, McDonald Hanse said the scheme stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth urging the beneficiaries to become active participants in the economic and social development of the country. 'The scheme has provided our young people with the resources and support necessary to turn their aspirations into reality, fostering entrepreneurship and self-employment. To the beneficiaries, your achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when we believe in ourselves and seize the opportunities presented to us. You are the future leaders of our country and your success is a source of pride for all of us,' said Hanse. One of the beneficiaries, Shezley Davids who owns an upholstery business said: 'As we all know during the COVID-19 times we were shaken down for a long time, our businesses collapsed, our youth struggled to find their way with no jobs and no finances, it was a really long struggle, the NYCS has come to us as a saviour. To my fellow youth let us spend this money well, wisely as we have indicated in our business plans, this will help us take the burden off Government as we are able to create jobs for ourselves.' Source: The Namibia Press Agency