Manzini – World Vision Eswatini (WVE) and the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF) are joining forces to help young people launch sustainable businesses that contribute to the country’s economy.
The collaboration was strengthened during a meeting on Friday, where WVE’s new National Director, Amos Zaindi, met YERF CEO Mandla Nkambule and his management team, including Corporate Services Manager Banele Nhlengethwa and Business Development Manager Sabelo Simelane. Zaindi was joined by WVE Operations Director Sakhile Dlamini and Programme Development Specialist Mlamuli Busika.
Zaindi said Eswatini faces a gap in employment opportunities for graduates, making entrepreneurship a key path for youth economic participation. He noted that WVE’s vocational skills programs have already equipped many young people with practical skills, but partnership with YERF could ensure better resources and business incubation to make youth-led ventures more resilient.
“The conditions are favourable in this country and we have an opportunity to help government implement youth enterprise development well through partnerships,” Zaindi said.
Nkambule stressed the need to foster an entrepreneurial culture from childhood through young adulthood, including developing curricula for both students and youth outside the formal education system.
The meeting also explored blended financing options to strengthen youth enterprises, support inclusion of young people with disabilities, and ensure family backing for ventures, particularly those requiring land ownership.
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