Officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Land Reform, led by Deputy Minister Ruth Masake, held a meeting with youth in the Zambezi Region to discuss opportunities and challenges they face.

"Be partners, producers, and leaders of economic transformation. Under the sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), agriculture, fisheries, and natural resources are identified as priority productive sectors for employment creation," said Masake.

Attendees inquired about policies to safeguard small businesses and help them coexist with established companies.

Businessman Hisham Ahmed said local farmers' lack of support is a major problem in the region.

"We are not holding each other's hands, and that is our biggest issue. When you see me doing something, you want to undermine me. Let's uplift each other, let's hold hands, let's unite."

Mwangala Muunda also contributed, noting job advertisements in agriculture favour animal husbandry and farm machinery over horticulture or crop husbandry.

"I just wanted to know when exactly the green scheme is going to come to the Zambezi Region." 

The ministerial team highlighted key projects with funding available for youth participation, including horticulture, prioritising youth and women.

James Nzehengwa, Deputy Director in the Ministry of Agriculture, assured the attendees that "This financial year, we have N$1.3 million sitting at the regional council. Youth can benefit from this subsidy."

Deputy Minister Masake cautioned small business owners about retailers' expectations of consistent supply and quality. She highlighted aquaculture opportunities, citing fish ponds as underdeveloped due to a lack of feed producers.

"For the past three months, we've struggled to get fish feed. I wish we had three or four farmers saying they have plenty of fish feed but no market. Raise your hand if you can challenge me."