The Namibian government has announced plans to formalise 950 informal enterprises by 2030, up from a baseline of 310 in 2024, as part of its drive to transform the country’s informal economy under the newly launched Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) sector and forms part of broader efforts to achieve inclusive economic growth, increased competitiveness, and resilience.
According to the NDP6 document, the government aims to transition informal businesses into “productive, competitive, and resilient units capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.”
“Desired outcome: by 2030, the number of informal enterprises transitioned into the formal economy has increased to 950 from 310,” the report states.
The plan also targets an increase in the contribution of the MSME sector to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the current 16% to 19.4% by 2030.
To achieve these goals, several interventions are planned. These include strengthening business support systems through mentorship and skills development, investing in infrastructure with essential amenities, and improving access to both financial and non-financial services tailored to the needs of MSMEs.
A flagship entrepreneurship development programme is set to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and resources to grow their businesses. This will be supported by a business formalisation programme focused specifically on helping informal enterprises scale up and integrate into the formal economy.
In addition, the government intends to develop market-access platforms such as e-commerce solutions, organised marketing groups, and temporary exhibitions to help small businesses connect with wider customer bases.
“This will significantly enhance the overall efficiency and productivity of MSMEs and the informal sector, leading to job creation, income generation and economic growth,” the report noted.
The efforts are part of a broader strategy under NDP6 to improve livelihoods and reduce barriers to economic participation across the country.
