Young entrepreneurs could soon see stronger financial backing and improved market access as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) moves to mobiliSe critical investment through the National Youth Fund, following commitments made at its recent Youth Investment Indaba.
“There’s the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships, improving access to finance and markets, and expanding opportunities for young entrepreneurs in sectors such as manufacturing, pre-processing, construction and the digital economy. The agency needs measurable commitments that will translate into businesses financed, partnerships strengthened and jobs created,” said NYDA Executive Deputy Chairperson, Bonga Makhanya.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, delivered a message of support reaffirming the Department’s commitment to advancing youth economic participation.
Letsike emphasised the importance of accessible investment, strategic partnerships and meaningful market access in enabling young entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses, create jobs and contribute to an inclusive economy. She said that investing in young people is not an act of charity, but for South African development.
Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, outlined the need to strengthen the National Youth Fund, mobilise investment and build strategic partnerships to improve young entrepreneurs’ access to affordable finance, markets and opportunities.
NYDA leadership expects the outcome of the inaugural indaba to bridge critical gaps by bringing together government, development finance institutions, the private sector, organised business, skills development institutions and other key stakeholders to turn policy commitments into measurable results for young people’s futures.
NYDA CEO Ndumiso Kubheka encouraged young people to explore opportunities in key growth sectors, including ICT, agriculture and innovation, as the NYDA continues to advance youth entrepreneurship and economic participation.
