Fostering entrepreneurship in developing nations: Tapping into the “hidden potential” of the Namibian Rural Youth

Abstract

Fostering a culture of Entrepreneurship in Namibia should be considered in the context of a historical framework. Namibia became an independent state only in 1990, after a long period of colonial oppression under the German colonial rule and then South Africa. Independence enabled the nation to create its own political and economic policies which potentially will help the nation to prosper in the near future. These policies are in alignment with the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) which addresses the growing concern of the role that youth could play in the development of nations (World Bank Report, 2007). Furthermore there is also a growing awareness amongst donor agencies and civil society organisations, which address the potential that youth entrepreneurship, can bring to developing nations. However, opportunities for formal education and training are scarce, and this impedes young entrepreneurs in acquiring the skills and confidence they need. This paper will investigate the literature as it pertains to the role of Entrepreneurship in the development process and the benefits that Namibia as a country could derive by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship amongst its rural youth. In particular, this paper intends to review and analyse the Namibian cultures and the contribution that culture could make to sustained entrepreneurial motivation. I argue that having a diverse culture could be a distinctive advantage for young people in Namibia as it makes room for creativity and innovation, which are one of the key traits entrepreneurs must possess. The paper will adopt a theoretical and historical approach, guided by discourse analysis of telephone interviews, governmental reports, news documents and policies. Initiatives currently taken by the Namibian government to foster a culture of entrepreneurship will also be explored. The expected outcomes of this research are: Critical discourse could lead to a better exploration regarding youth entrepreneurship in Namibia. (This outcome directs the discussion) An enhanced understanding of the role of entrepreneurship and culture both at a local and international context. Rural youth policies which are designed internationally, will lead to a better understanding of the Namibian rural youth policies.