Only 70 MSMEs approved for equipment aid

Staff Writer

Only 70 of the 1 564 applications submitted under the Equipment Aid Scheme (EAS) for the 2024/25 financial year were approved, according to the ministry of industries, mines and energy’s performance report.

The scheme provides production machinery and equipment to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to increase production capacity, improve product quality and competitiveness, create jobs and contribute to national economic growth.

Under the Industrial Upgrading Modernisation Programme (IUMP) for the 2025/26 financial year, 36 applications were approved, with assistance amounting to N$3.2 million out of 461 applications received.

The programme targets existing medium-level enterprises to improve productivity and competitiveness in local and international markets.

Support includes production equipment, training, branding, packaging and assistance with meeting standards and improving access to markets.

The programme was developed from a Southern African Development Community-wide initiative.

The ministry is also implementing several projects to provide operating space and support services for businesses across the country.

Construction of the Opuwo Industrial Park has been completed, and the facility has tenants, including MSMEs. Retention fees for the project have been paid.

The Tsumeb Industrial Park, also intended to provide operating space for MSMEs, has likewise had its retention fees paid.

The Omaruru Trade and Industrial Park was reported to be 80% complete. The project is intended to provide operating space for MSMEs, alongside a tourism and fuel centre and support services.

Renovations at the Epako SME Park were also 80% complete, with completion expected in the next financial year.

At the !Nara Namib Industrial Park, bulk sewer works and water reticulation had commenced and were about 50% complete. The works are expected to be finalised in the next financial year.

Renovations at Prosperita Business Park were 40% complete and are also scheduled for completion in the next financial year.

Renovations at the ministry’s Oshakati Regional Office are ongoing and expected to be completed during the same period.

The ministry has also started upgrading the Biomass Park under the Global Accelerator Programme.

The project aims to demonstrate the commercial production of animal feed, packaged charcoal and char from the utilisation of Namibia’s extensive invader bush resources.