Minister unveils new YERF Board

By Bahle Gama

The Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture Harris Bulunga has unveiled a new Board for the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF).

Minister Bulunga stated that the Board which comprises young people and aspiring entrepreneurs will be in office for three years. He further extended his appreciation towards the outgoing Board led by Siboniso Mdluli and the wonderful work they have done over the past two terms.

“The outgoing Board was appointed in 2016 to revive the fund after its previous collapse and to ensure that it becomes a viable institution, serving the youth and ushering them into entrepreneurship. The results are there for all to see. This Board has not only been strategic and innovative but has also successfully positioned the Fund well going forward,” he said.

Bulunga stated that the baton was being handed to the new Board and requested that it be assisted in navigating the new terrain they are embarking on adding that he hoped the outgoing chairperson will always be in touch, in a shared quest to develop and empower young people in Eswatini.

At least two members of the outgoing Board are returning. As per the PEU guidelines, the Board is composed of representatives from the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, the Fund Manager/CEO and four young people.

“Representatives in the new Board possess diverse skills in accounting, legal, entrepreneurship, communications and marketing, among others, which we believe will serve the Fund well in packaging it in an attractive way,” he added.

The New Board: