Opportunities for the SAEDF [South African enterprise development fund] in Namibia

This report assesses the opportunities for utilizing SAEDF in Namibia. Chapter 2 examines the Namibian private sector, assessing its strengths and weaknesses and profiling key sectors in an effort to determine the overall potential for SAEDF funding. Next, a number of potential projects are presented, including project proposals which are well-developed as well as those which require further development but show substantial promise. The chapter concludes with a review of current SME training programs conducted by NGOs in Namibia. In Chapter 3, Namibia"s financial sector, including constraints faced by SMEs, is examined. In order to evaluate the possible scope for SAEDF lending, both past and current efforts to assist the SME sector are reviewed, including activities by the Government of Namibia, NGOs, and chambers of commerce. Drawing upon this discussion, the potential niche for SAEDF lending is identified. Chapter 4 presents conclusions and recommendations, focusing on how USAID/Namibia can maximize the use of SAEDF resources; and identifies the preferred medium for providing TA to potential SAEDF beneficiaries and financial intermediaries for implementing and monitoring SAEDF lending. (Author abstract, modified)