Ministry of Finance extends deadline for Youth Fund

The Ministry of Finance has extended the deadline for the pilot phase of the National Youth Fund (NYF) until 4 September 2025. The decision was made amid concerns that the initially short deadline could exclude many potential applicants.


According to the ministry, applications during the pilot phase must be submitted to regional governors. From September onwards, applications will be forwarded to development finance institutions such as the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN), Agribank and the Environmental Investment Fund (EIF). The aim of the initiative is to curb youth unemployment, which currently stands at 44.5 percent.


Khomas Governor Sam Nujoma Jr said the extension was intended to include more young people. The current pilot phase will end on 4 September, after which the fund will become permanently accessible. His office has also introduced digital services such as a website, an online application form and an SMS hotline to make information more readily available.


The youth wing of the LPM welcomed the N$257 million fund as an important measure to combat youth unemployment, poverty and inequality. However, its chairperson, Duminga Ndala, cautioned that the short deadlines could exclude many young people and represent an obstacle to participation.


According to the guidelines, start-ups can apply for amounts between N$60,000 and N$200,000. Existing businesses are also eligible for support to finance growth projects. Funding is provided through a combination of grants, loans and market access measures, with the goal of strengthening youth-led enterprises in the long term.