Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking hosted a Breakfast Connect Session in the Oshana Region on 18 October 2024, gathering local business leaders, government officials, and industry experts to discuss the region’s economic potential and foster collaboration for sustainable growth.
The event highlighted opportunities for business development and showcased how Standard Bank’s tailored solutions empower local enterprises.
The Chairperson of the Management Committee of the Oshakati Town Council, Mr Hofeni Mutota, who was speaking on behalf of the Governor of the Oshana Region Mr Elia Irimari, emphasised the region’s favourable business environment and the importance of public-private collaboration for inclusive economic growth and job creation.
He commended government initiatives aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through training, funding programs, and infrastructure investments.
“The Oshana Region has immense potential for economic advancement. The government, together with the private sector, has taken strides to stimulate growth,” Mutota said.
“By actively engaging in regional projects, local businesses can seize these opportunities, create jobs, and contribute to sustainable development.”
He also acknowledged Standard Bank’s efforts to connect businesses with growth opportunities, providing essential financial support and fostering innovation in the region.
Rejoice Itembu, the acting Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank, spoke about the bank’s mission to drive Namibia’s growth, aligning with the company’s purpose: ‘Namibia is our home, we drive her growth’.
“Every solution we offer is designed to help businesses like yours thrive, which in turn fuels the economy. Our message, ‘More is Possible,’ reflects our belief that with the right support, businesses can overcome barriers, unlock opportunities, and achieve more than they ever imagined,” said Itembu.
“Our solutions are designed to address the unique needs of businesses across various sectors, helping them grow, scale, and contribute to Namibia’s prosperity.
As your trusted partner, we are positioning ourselves to support your growth in meaningful ways. We understand that your success doesn’t just benefit you; it empowers communities, creates jobs, and strengthens our economy”, stated Itembu.
Valuable insights were shared in the panel discussion held under the theme ‘Empowering Businesses through Trade.’
Ntinda Shikongeni, a Chief Economist at the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade, emphasised government’s role in facilitating trade, while Taimi Shivute, Founder and Managing Director of Tuno Foods and Trading CC, highlighted the need for support to help locally owned businesses access new markets and scale.
Former NCCI Director and Founder of Roama Gates Manufacturing (PTY) LTD, Mr Robanus Amadhila also underscored the importance of protecting and supporting local enterprises to drive economic development.
During the panel discussion, Emilia Uupindi, Standard Bank’s Manager of Trade, highlighted the bank’s role in supporting clients with trade finance solutions. Uupindi emphasised how Standard Bank partners with businesses to help them fulfil contracts, expand into new markets, and facilitate cross-border payments efficiently.
“We support business growth by offering guarantees, expert advice on letters of credit, and leveraging our strategic partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC),” Uupindi explained.
“Through our Africa-China Trade Solution, we connect Namibian businesses with vetted suppliers and new markets, ensuring seamless trade opportunities.”
The event provided a valuable platform for networking and discussions on enhancing regional trade and business growth.
In the photo: Robanus Amadhila, Hendrik Van Wyk, Emilia Uupindi, Hofeni Mutota, Rejoice Itembu, Taimi Shivute, Dominic Shikola, and Ntinda Shikongeni.
