NTF's Maria Immanuel holds TradeTalk workshops

The #TradeTalk initiative is inspired by the interest shown by young Namibians to understand domestic trade, international trade and how the Namibian economy functions in general, especially from a policy environment perspective.

Emerging entrepreneurs, especially the youth, are keen and ready to participate in the economy through innovative initiatives in the various economic sectors of the country.

In most cases, these entrepreneurs have no access to relevant and timely information, especially relating to the country's national development initiatives.

It is important for young and emerging entrepreneurs to understand the sectors prioritised for development by the government in order to accelerate development in the country.

Policy interventions available in strategic sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and services will only be beneficial if understood well and utilised to create the intended impact and benefits to the economy.

The #Tradetalk initiative provides a platform where I share economic information. Topical issues affecting the growth of emerging businesses are discussed and where possible answers are provided or initiatives are taken to address the issues.



The first #TradeTalk1

I hosted my first #Tradetalk on 11 March in Windhoek, where 32 young entrepreneurs participated. The #Tradetalk is provided for free, meaning there is no registration fee and I also give my time for free.

Topics focused on at the first #tadetalk1 included an introduction to Namibia's trade dynamics and economic structure, issues related to how the private sector influences government policies, the Growth at Home strategy, manufacturing in the 21st century and available financing options.

The outcome of the trade talk was that young entrepreneurs are absent during the formulation of national policies affecting the business environment in the country; that existing business associations have no platform to represent young entrepreneurs' interest in the economy; and also the membership fee for joining is hefty for start-ups, especially when there is no direct benefit to grow their nascent business initiatives.

Present entrepreneurs then recommended that the formation of an association would be ideal to advocate for youth issues in the economy and also lobby the government for policy reforms suitable to their needs.

The #Tradetalk1 formed a committee consisting of 16 members to spearhead the establishing of the 'Namibia Young Entrepreneurs Association'. The first phase is to conduct a survey among interested entrepreneurs to identify their needs and how they want the association to function.

Young people from Keetmanshoop and Ongwediva have also shown interest in the initiative and are asking businesses and their regional institutions to support the initiative by making available resources that would allow me to host similar #Tradetalks in their region. Other regions can contact me at [email protected] or [email protected] to host #tradetalks for them.

MARIA IMMANUEL