The Alfred Nzo District Municipality, in collaboration with its development agency Alfred Nzo Development Agancy (ANDA), has implemented a set of youth empowerment and employment initiatives throughout 2025. These programmes aim to reduce unemployment and crime in the region, with over 401 youth and MSMEs already benefiting.
What Happened
As part of ongoing efforts to combat high youth unemployment, ANDA (Alfred Nzo Development Agency) has rolled out several practical training and development programmes this year, including:
- Learnerships
- In-Service Training
- Internships
- Trade Apprenticeships (e.g., plumbing, bricklaying)
- Incubation support for MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises)
Funding is drawn from the SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) and municipal resources.
In total, 401 youth and small business beneficiaries have been supported across the Alfred Nzo District in 2025 alone.
Official Response
Municipal officials view the initiative as a critical intervention in reducing poverty, unemployment, and related social issues such as crime.
“Youth development is central to our district’s long-term growth. These programmes are not just about skills they’re about dignity, opportunity, and rebuilding local economies,” said an official from ANDA.
By providing structured, funded pathways into employment or entrepreneurship, the municipality hopes to bridge the gap between school, skills, and sustainable income.
Community Impact
These initiatives are already showing signs of local economic improvement and social stability. Communities across the district have seen increased youth participation in trades and entrepreneurship, while young people gain access to career-building opportunities they previously lacked.
Parents, traditional leaders, and community forums have expressed support for continued investment in practical training and mentorship.
Many participants are now either employed, running micro-businesses, or completing their apprenticeships, contributing directly to local development.
