In a significant step towards strengthening sustainable livelihoods and building resilient communities, the B2Gold/Agra Provision Grant was officially launched on 31 March 2026.
The occasion brought together key stakeholders, including the Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, the Mayor of Otjiwarongo, and the CEO of the Municipality of Otjiwarongo.
This initiative marks a meaningful investment in Namibia’s agricultural future. From a competitive pool of 170 applicants aged between 19 and 38, only 20 individuals were selected as beneficiaries, demonstrating both the high level of interest and the rigorous selection process.
Notably, nine of the selected beneficiaries are women, reflecting a deliberate effort to promote inclusivity and empower young women within the agricultural sector.
The grant, valued at N$560,000 annually over four years, represents a total sponsorship of N$2.2 million and will provide financial and technical support to participants pursuing careers in agriculture.
- 20 beneficiaries selected from 170 applicants
- 9 women beneficiaries
- N$2.2 million investment over four years
- 4 participants focused on plant production
- 16 participants focused on animal production
Geographically, the programme reflects a considered regional spread, with 14 beneficiaries from Namibia’s far northern regions and six from the Otjozondjupa Region. This distribution supports inclusive agricultural development by reaching both communal and commercial farming areas and responding to varying regional needs and opportunities across the country.
Empowering the Next Generation of Farmers
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy and a critical source of livelihoods for many communities, particularly in rural areas. However, young people often face significant barriers to entry, including limited access to funding, skills development and markets.
The B2Gold/Agra Provision Grant directly addresses these challenges by providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for skills development and practical experience.
By investing in young farmers, the programme is helping to:
- Reduce youth unemployment by creating viable career pathways in agriculture.
- Enhance food security through increased local production.
- Build local capacity by equipping participants with the knowledge and resources needed to succeed.
- Promote inclusive growth through the empowerment of women and young entrepreneurs.
Importantly, the initiative also contributes to long-term sustainability. By supporting agriculture, the programme encourages economic diversification, an essential factor for resilience in regions that are often heavily reliant on a single industry.
Investing Beyond Mining
B2Gold Namibia’s involvement in this initiative is rooted in its broader commitment to responsible mining and sustainable community development.
As a company operating within local communities, B2Gold recognises that its role extends beyond mining and includes contributing to long-term social and economic well-being.
Agriculture has been identified as a key pillar in B2Gold’s community investment strategy because of its potential to create lasting impact beyond the life of mine.
By supporting agricultural initiatives, B2Gold is actively contributing to economic resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
The partnership with Agra, a well-established player in Namibia’s agricultural sector, further strengthens the programme. Agra brings technical expertise, mentorship and market access, ensuring that beneficiaries are not only funded but also supported holistically throughout their agricultural journey.
Building a Sustainable Legacy
The launch of the B2Gold/Agra Provision Grant is more than just a milestone; it is a clear statement of intent.
It reflects a shared vision of empowering young people, strengthening communities and building a more sustainable future through agriculture.
Through initiatives such as this, B2Gold continues to demonstrate that its legacy goes beyond mining by contributing to inclusive growth, economic diversification and lasting value where it matters most.
By investing in young farmers today, B2Gold and Agra are helping to cultivate the skills, opportunities and resilience needed to sustain Namibia’s agricultural future for generations to come.
Contributed by B2Gold Namibia
