Plans to empower youth, small-scale farmers
Initiative covers four regions
A youth empowerment leader has launched an innovative program to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset among local youth.
An initiative has been started to equip around 100 unemployed vocational graduates with the necessary skills to flourish as entrepreneurs.This job creation initiative is undertaken under the leadership of Festus Malakia's Fostering Vocational Graduates.
Officially launched in early August, the program covers the Khomas, Oshana, Erongo and ||Kharas regions. Each region can enroll 25 participants for an intensive course designed to teach the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. The participants will also be taught how to connect with potential investors and they will be guided through the initial stages of business development.
“These graduates have the technical skills, but what they often lack is the business acumen and resources to turn their skills into viable businesses. We aim to bridge that gap and empower them to create something for themselves," Malakia explained.
Malakia, who has been actively involved in youth empowerment since 2017, emphasised the importance of seizing opportunities and also spoke about his own experiences.
“I was just someone who wanted to be something, but I was also just lost like anyone else. Opportunities came my way because I took my work seriously and was purposeful about what I wanted to contribute to society."
He adds that the program is designed with a strong focus on practical outcomes rather than theoretical knowledge.
"We don't want participants to just walk away with a certificate. Our goal is to see at least 50% of them start their own businesses by the end of the program,” said Malakia, emphasizing the project's commitment to measurable outcomes.
Challenges
Recognising the challenges small-scale farmers face, Malakia has implemented several initiatives to equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to grow in a competitive market.
“We understand that small-scale farmers often lack access to resources and markets. That is why we focus on providing practical training, financial support and access to quality seeds and equipment.
"By empowering them with these essentials, we are helping to ensure that they can sustain their livelihoods and contribute to food security in Namibia."
Malakia's support extends beyond resources.
He also connects farmers with larger networks, enabling them to sell their produce at fair prices and expand their reach.
His efforts have made a significant impact, with many small-scale farmers now able to grow their businesses and sustainably support their families.
"We believe in every farmer's potential," added Malakia. "Our goal is to create a thriving agricultural community where even the smallest farms can thrive."
Malakia is known for its impactful community projects and this new initiative is expected to further promote that image.
It will also lay the foundation for future initiatives to empower young people to become job creators rather than job seekers.
The promotion of career-oriented graduates into job creators is financed by a combination of local and international NGOs.
As the program kicks off, there is widespread optimism that it will not only transform the lives of the participants, but also contribute to the wider economic development of Namibia by fostering a new generation of skilled and confident entrepreneurs. - [email protected]