By: Loise Shiimi
Johannes Natangwe, the owner of JRN Engineering Investments CC, has been engaged in welding activities for some time. However, he faced significant challenges due to a lack of materials and equipment.
With the recent support of equipment valued at N$45,000 and an injection of N$5,000 into his company by the Oshikoto Regional Council, he is now seeking to expand his operations and create employment opportunities.
The sponsored equipment includes, among others, welding machines, generators, and safety equipment.
Natangwe explained that this support came at a crucial moment when his business was struggling to procure essential materials and equipment, as well as the financial resources necessary for growth.
“Currently, the company employs three permanent staff members, and during peak project times, we hire between four and five casual labourers to assist with increased workloads,” he noted.
He stated that if the business grows as anticipated, with the backing of the Oshikoto Regional Council, it aims to create two to three new job opportunities each year.
Similarly, Gerhard Ashipala, the founder and owner of Greatest Media Investments CC, expressed his gratitude for the Regional Council’s support after acquiring printing equipment.
He plans to expand his operations by opening an additional printing shop at the Onathinge Growth Point in the Onayena Constituency in the near future.
Similar to Natangwe, Ashipala received support in the form of printing materials amounting to N$45,000, and an injection of N$ 5,000 into the business to maintain its operations.
Currently, Ashipala’s business employs two permanent staff members and contracts additional temporary employees during special events.
“My long-term vision is to establish a large internet cafe and information technology (IT) centre in Onayena Settlement. This will not only provide livelihoods for my fellow young people, but also help bridge the digital divide in our community,” he shared.
Oshikoto Regional Council spokesperson, Petrus Nehale, elaborated that for the financial year 2025/2026, the council supported two rural micro-enterprises under its Micro-Finance Programme.
“This support amounts to a total of N$100,000, with each enterprise receiving N$50,000 in materials, equipment, and financial capital,” he said.
Nehale added that the Micro-Finance Programme is part of the Regional Council’s Rural Development Programme, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship and sustainably enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities.
“This initiative directly stimulates economic activities in rural areas, improving income and creating employment opportunities in both rural and semi-rural regions of the area,” explained Nehale.
Regarding how beneficiaries receive this support, he stated that applicants undergo a selection process through their respective Constituency Development Committees (Onayena and Guinas).
