Windhoek: Small and medium enterprise (SME) owners exhibiting at the Windhoek Agricultural and Livestock Show have encouraged Namibians, especially the youth, to start up their own businesses. The entrepreneurs' call follows the launch of the National Youth Development Fund, which availed more than N.dollars 200 million for youth-led initiatives.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kalundu Mujiwa, an assistant at Simmon's Game Centre, an Ondangwa-based gaming company, noted that business began strongly on the first day but has since slowed down. Mujiwa attributed the slowdown to strong competition from Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC), which offers advanced gaming devices. His experience underscores the challenges that SMEs often face when competing with larger, established organizations.

Meanwhile, Zack Batik, who operates Blush and Grain photobooth, a relatively new venture, expressed optimism that business would improve following Thursday night's fireworks display. 'Here at the Windhoek Showgrounds, there's no competition for us now, so it's all good,' Batik said, highlighting the enjoyment his business provides. He also stressed the importance of starting one's own business, stating that it leads to freedom as it grows.

Ndijaepe Kaukumangera, representing her family business, Kasutua Investment, which produces leather products such as bags, reported that she has not faced any major challenges during the exhibitions. 'The show is really not about selling, but showcasing a business to attract more customers, and I'm talking about the business side,' she explained. She further encouraged others to start their own ventures, noting that customers are readily available.

The show is scheduled to conclude on Sunday.