25 Apr 2021

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Development,  Mr Tumiso Rakgare has said through the Youth Development Fund (YDF), government has managed to curb the rising numbers of unemployed youths in the country. 

Addressing kgotla meeting attended by the  elderly in Tonota recently, he said YDF was one of the ways government was investing in the youth, and in the process assisting them stay away from criminal activities, which may destroy their lives. 

He said government was happy to be a stepping stone in the development of youth to better their lives. 

Minister Rakgare said people should not let COVID-19 deter them from carrying on with their lives, but should rather adjust to the challenges that came about because of COVID- 19. 

He expressed gratitude to the success of youth-owned businesses funded through YDF, which remained operational despite COVID-19 effects. 

He said funded youth should repay their loans, adding it was important to service loans to aid government to fund more unemployed youth. 

He encouraged youth to take advantage of YDF to employ themselves and create jobs for others rather than looking up to government for jobs.

He urged the youths to do market research and identify marketable businesses to venture into. 

“If youth can be serious about this government investment, they can go far and create employment for their counterparts,” Mr Rakgare said. 

He expressed delight on reports that Tonota youth funded businesses were operating well and servicing loans on time. 

He said such was a sign of how serious they valued the initiative to better their lives. 

Tonota MP, Mr Pono Moatlhodi said YDF had helped many youths across country, and expressed gratitude that Tonota youth businesses mostly funded by the programme were doing well. 

He commended them for leading the rest of youth across the country in servicing loans. 

Kgosi Bokamoso Radipitsi of Tonota commended government for the assistance, which has aided youths to better their lives. 

He called for more interventions to dissuade youth from criminal activities. Ends