A youth-led organisation at Walvis Bay's Kuisebmond area is seeking N$1.8 million in investment to expand a project aimed at creating jobs for unemployed young people.

Founder Theofelus Hofeni says the We Care Youth Empowerment Project consists of 35 unemployed young people who have formed a group to start income-generating businesses rather than relying on government grants.

"We are a group of 35 unemployed young people who have united with one vision: to create sustainable employment opportunities instead of depending on government grants or turning to crime, drugs, or harmful survival strategies.

We believe in dignity, entrepreneurship, and economic independence," he says.

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Hofeni says the group has established four divisions in the Erongo region: agriculture focused on agribusiness, an industrial cleaning service, a manufacturing unit producing soaps and detergents, and an investment branch focused on mentorship.

Hofeni says the N$1.8 million would be used for infrastructure and inputs, including greenhouses for agricultural activities, raw materials for soap and detergent production, and technical training.

He says the group initially faced challenges due to local budget constraints and is now approaching national partners, corporate investors and development finance institutions for support.

"The project is fully prepared with business plans and financial projections," he says.

The founder says support could include direct funding, equipment donations or strategic partnerships.

Members of the We Care Youth Empowerment Project. Photo: Contributed