Neftaly Charity May 1998
SAYPRO – DEVELOPMENT BANK OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (DBSA) PARTNERSHIP
Report by: Neftaly Chief Development Officer
Introduction
May 1998 marked a pivotal month for the Neftaly–DBSA partnership, focused on laying the foundation for sustainable community development and youth empowerment initiatives across Southern Africa. This report outlines key achievements, challenges, and strategic priorities for the coming months.
Strategic Priorities
In May 1998, the partnership concentrated on:
- Education & Skills Development – initiating programs to improve literacy, vocational skills, and entrepreneurship training.
- Community Empowerment – strengthening small business support, financial literacy, and social development initiatives.
- Infrastructure & Sustainability – beginning projects in water access, sanitation, and basic community facilities.
- Alignment with Regional Development Goals – supporting DBSA’s early objectives in fostering inclusive economic growth.
Key Achievements (May 1998)
- Education & Skills Development
- Launched pilot training programs reaching 850 youth in basic IT, business skills, and entrepreneurship.
- Established 3 community learning centers in underserved regions.
- Provided 150 scholarships to students from low-income households.
- Community Development & Entrepreneurship
- Supported 250 small businesses, prioritizing women and youth entrepreneurs.
- Delivered workshops on financial literacy and basic business management to 500 participants.
- Initiated community health and nutrition awareness campaigns benefiting 3,000 individuals.
- Infrastructure & Sustainability
- Began installation of water and sanitation facilities in 5 communities.
- Started planning for renewable energy pilot projects in 2 rural schools.
- Promoted small-scale agriculture initiatives to support local food security.
- Social Impact
- Directly impacted over 4,500 individuals through education, community support, and health initiatives.
- Facilitated early job placements for 200 youth in small enterprises and community programs.
Financial Overview
- DBSA committed R50 million to support Neftaly-led initiatives in May 1998.
- Neftaly mobilized an additional R10 million from private donors and partners.
- Approximately 88% of funds were allocated directly to program delivery and community impact.
Challenges & Lessons Learned
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas slowed program delivery.
- High demand for education and entrepreneurship support highlighted the need for scaling initiatives.
- Reinforced the importance of strategic partnerships to extend reach and effectiveness.
Future Outlook
For the following months, Neftaly and DBSA plan to:
- Expand training programs to reach 1,500 youth by the end of 1998.
- Complete water and sanitation projects in an additional 10 communities.
- Strengthen support for women- and youth-led small enterprises.
- Develop monitoring systems to track program outcomes and community impact.
Conclusion
May 1998 set the stage for the growth and impact of the Neftaly–DBSA partnership. Through early investments in education, community development, and infrastructure, the partnership has begun to empower communities and build a foundation for sustainable socio-economic development across Southern Africa.

