12 Feb 2017

The Assistant Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Mr Kefentse Mzwinila has said government has funded 2 124 projects at a total cost of P216 million since the past two financial years.
Answering a question in parliament, Mr Mzwinila said out of the amount invested, 2 920 jobs were created.
“This is a demonstration of increased participation by youth in matters of the economy,” he said.
The assistant minister said government sets aside P120 million every year to support youth entrepreneurship through the Youth Development Fund (YDF).
“Part of this P120 million is not directly given to young people but is used in business development support services for the youth,” he said.
Mr Mzwinila said the aim of the government is for every business supported to succeed and create sustainable jobs.
He said in most families, the youth are first generation entrepreneurs hence bound to face challenges.
He said a Tracer Study of businesses funded under YDF since inception in the 2009/10 to 2014/15 Financial Year found that 3 756 businesses were still operational, a survival rate of 83 per cent.
The assistant minister said of the 3 756 operational businesses, 38 per cent were breaking even, 20 per cent making profits while 42 per cent needed support.
“While this is commendable, we certainly want those breaking even to make a profit, and those yet to break even to eventually do so hence our continuous efforts at improvement,” he said.
Mr Mzwinila said they have decided to offer market access support to youth owned businesses and government came up with interventions such as procurement reservations for youth owned businesses and holding youth business expos where they showcase their products and services.
He said youth face challenges such as high rentals, lack of operational spaces and competition in the markets and these might have negative impact on their businesses.
MP for Gaborone Central, Dr Phenyo Butale had asked the minister to give evidence on the amount of money spent on youth and the employment such investment had generated.
He wanted to know if the youth were more entrepreneurial and playing a more meaningful role in the economy. ENDS