By Hilja Shikongo

In a country where small businesses, NGOs, and cooperatives are often described as the “backbone of the economy,” youth leader and entrepreneur Aron Shindumbu believes Namibia’s young people hold the key to shaping a stronger, more inclusive future.
According to Shindumbu, these enterprises play a critical role by creating jobs, driving innovation, and uplifting communities. Yet, many remain informal, face financing challenges, and struggle to scale operations.
“The truth is, most of our MSMEs and cooperatives are still fighting to formalize, access funding, and break into bigger markets,” he says.
The recent introduction of the National Youth Development Fund (NYDF) has brought fresh hope. For Shindumbu, the initiative is more than just financial support it represents an awakening.
“The NYDF is a game changer. It gives young entrepreneurs access to resources, networks, and opportunities to scale their businesses. The excitement we’ve seen from youth across all 14 regions shows how hungry we are to build and grow,” he explains.
But entrepreneurship is far from easy. From his experience mentoring and supporting young businesses, Shindumbu has seen the biggest hurdles first-hand: lack of collateral, poorly structured cash flow statements, and the inability to access affordable capacity-building training. 
“Sometimes MSMEs are barely surviving, and the little profit they make cannot be sacrificed for training. This leaves many businesses underprepared when seeking funding.”
For rural entrepreneurs, the gap is even wider. Shindumbu strongly believes that decentralisation is key. “Training and initiatives should not just be online or Windhoek-based. Government and partners need to roll out awareness campaigns and funding opportunities at the grassroots level,” he says
“At the same time, rural entrepreneurs should seek collaborations with those in central areas to access markets, networks, and opportunities.”
Beyond money, Shindumbu stresses that mentorship, digital skills, and access to international markets are critical. “Youth-owned businesses need to understand that competition isn’t a threat it can be an opportunity for partnerships. We must learn to grow together.”
Through his work with the MTBC, Shindumbu and his team are on a mission to empower MSMEs. “We help entrepreneurs formalize their businesses, structure development strategies, and become funding-ready. It’s not just about starting a business, but about building one that can scale and attract investment.”
Looking ahead, Shindumbu is convinced that Namibia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem can thrive if young people embrace structure, compliance, technology, and partnerships. He urges aspiring entrepreneurs not to be discouraged by challenges. “Focus on structure, discipline, persistence, and understanding your market. Use opportunities like the NYDF, seek mentorship, and remember entrepreneurship is a journey. You grow stronger with every step.”
As part of Namibia’s next generation of leaders, Shindumbu sees youth playing a unique role in the country’s economic transformation, particularly in emerging industries. 
“We need to get involved in oil, gas, energy, and other sectors by identifying value chain gaps, creating businesses that add value, and most importantly, creating jobs,” he said.
His final piece of advice is directed at young Namibians balancing school, personal growth, and entrepreneurship, “Plan, prioritize, and persevere. Know the difference between what is urgent and what is important. It will not always be easy, but if you stay committed, you will get the job done,” he highlighted. 
With leaders like Aron Shindumbu championing resilience, collaboration, and innovation, Namibia’s youth are well-positioned to not only dream of a brighter future but to build it.