Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called on the youth to optimise entrepreneurship as a means of empowering themselves.

Ngurare said this in his address during the Nkurenkuru expo fundraising gala dinner at Nkurenkuru.

The Prime Minister said the government is committed to creating an inclusive economy that provides opportunities for all Namibians regardless of where they reside.

"If there is a young person who is struggling to make a business, let's avail the opportunity to that young person because now, in 2026, the government has set aside 500 million collateral-free for young people to venture into this business, including artificial intelligence, including agriculture, including all manner of things. Nkurenkuru too, Kavango West too, this 500 million for young people is also for you."

The Mayor of Nkurenkuru, Andreas Katanga, described the expo as a catalyst for the Nkurenkuru economic development.

"We need investors who are willing to establish businesses in our town. We need developers who can help expand our infrastructure. We need financial institutions that can support local entrepreneurs. We need government institutions and development partners who share our commitment to building a prosperous Kavango West Region."

The Patron of the Nkurenkuru Expo, former President Hifikepunye Pohamba, emphasised that economic growth creates opportunities, reduces poverty and improves the quality of life for all citizens.

His speech was read by the chairperson of Nkurenkuru Town Council, Robert Katura.

"We possess fertile agricultural land, abundant natural resources, a strategic geographical location and, most importantly, hard-working and resilient people. These assets provide a strong basis for investment, enterprise development and economic transformation. However, realising this potential requires partnership. Government alone cannot drive development."

The gala dinner collected N$600,000 in pledges.

The expo will take place from 24 July to 02 August 2026.