Development Bank of Namibia Launches Nationwide Campaign to Boost Youth SME Financing# ISSUE 61-☕

Welcome to Revolox Media – Your Pulse on Namibia’s Progress

In today’s edition, we spotlight the dynamic developments shaping Namibia’s economic, financial, and business landscapes. From decisive action at our borders to new opportunities for youth entrepreneurs, here's what you can expect:

• The Namibia Revenue Agency is cracking down on illegal trade, imposing a N$3.5 million fine on smugglers and ramping up efforts to secure our borders.

• The Development Bank of Namibia is stepping up for the next generation with a nationwide campaign aimed at boosting SME financing for young innovators.

• Nedbank Namibia gears up to host the Future of Business Conference in Windhoek, providing support and insights for owner-managed enterprises to thrive in a shifting market.

• Meanwhile, Namibia’s diamond production has dipped by 2% in the first half of 2025, reflecting key changes in both marine and land-based mining operations.

Stay informed, stay empowered — Revolox brings you the stories that matter.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Namibia Revenue Agency Fines Smugglers N$3.5 Million, Strengthening Border Enforcement Initiatives

The Namibia Revenue Agency (Namra) issued fines totaling N$3.5 million last year to offenders who attempted to smuggle goods into Namibia, reflecting a robust enforcement approach to protecting the country’s borders and economy.

Regional Breakdown of Enforcement Actions

Namra spokesperson Tonateni Shidhudhu reported that the northern region saw 1,724 fines amounting to N$1 million, while the southern region recorded 327 fines worth N$1.4 million. Significant penalties were issued across multiple border posts and regional offices: Oshakati imposed fines totaling N$694,140, Oshikango N$340,393, Ngoma N$62,596, and Katima Mulilo N$757,107. In addition, Rundu and Sarusungu collectively accounted for N$148,080 in fines, with Mohembo at N$1,700 and Katwitwi at N$130,000. The southern border posts also recorded substantial fines, with Ariamsvlei tallying N$649,200 and Noordoewer imposing fines valued at N$728,915.

Addressing Persistent Smuggling Challenges

Shidhudhu explained that these fines were mainly issued for offences including under-declaration, non-declaration, and attempted smuggling of restricted or prohibited goods. He highlighted that smuggling is most persistent along borders characterized by difficult terrain and porous entry points. The southern border at Noordoewer continues to represent the highest incidence and value of smuggling-related duties and tax losses, attributed to the border’s length and inconsistent patrol coverage.

Strategic Enforcement Measures

To counter this challenge, Namra has enhanced its enforcement strategy through joint patrols and operations coordinated with multiple law-enforcement agencies nationwide. Shidhudhu detailed initiatives such as risk profiling, the use of non-intrusive inspection technology, increased physical inspections, and intelligence-led operations. Cross-border collaboration with neighbouring countries further strengthens efforts to curb illegal trade.

Call for Public Compliance and Vigilance

Namra urges all traders and members of the public to comply fully with customs laws, including proper declaration of goods and adherence to lawful import and export processes. National Police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi underscored the seriousness of smuggling, particularly along the Kunene to Zambezi regions, where contraband such as cigarettes, alcohol, footwear, clothing, and timber frequently enter through ungazetted entry points lacking adequate security and customs controls.

“Smuggling illegal goods is punishable by law and undermines our safety, economy, and national security,” Shikwambi stated, emphasizing the critical role of police vigilance in combating these activities. She also called on citizens to report smuggling syndicates to support law enforcement efforts.

The Bottom Line

Namra’s proactive enforcement and cross-agency collaboration are instrumental in safeguarding Namibia’s borders and economic interests. With fines totaling N$3.5 million issued last year and enhanced border control measures underway, Namibia seeks to disrupt smuggling networks and promote legal trade, contributing to national security and economic stability.

Source: The Namibian

Development Bank of Namibia Launches Nationwide Campaign to Boost Youth SME Financing

The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) has initiated a nationwide campaign designed to raise awareness and increase uptake of its financial products tailored for young Namibians in the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.

Addressing Youth Unemployment Through Skills-Based Finance

Announced on Tuesday, the campaign aims to combat persistent youth unemployment by promoting DBN’s skills-based finance facility, which provides simplified funding access for young artisans, professionals, and entrepreneurs aged 35 and under. Despite approving N$74.6 million in SME financing during the 2024/25 financial year, only N$170,000 went to youth-focused skills-based finance.

Positive momentum is emerging, however, with two youth-focused applications approved in the first quarter of the 2025/26 financial year totaling N$1.25 million. Notably, this includes the first-ever approval under this facility in the Zambezi region. Still, DBN acknowledges that overall uptake remains “far too low.”

“It is worrisome that, despite Namibia’s high youth unemployment and our tailored financial solutions, the uptake remains low. We expect to change this undesirable status quo,” said Jerome Mutumba, DBN chief of marketing and corporate affairs.

Multi-Platform Campaign to Enhance Accessibility

The campaign will utilise various platforms—including social media, regional roadshows, community outreach, and stakeholder engagements—to ensure young people nationwide are informed about available financial opportunities.

“We aim to make access to youth finance more inclusive. This means meeting the youth where they are, breaking down barriers to entry, and working closely with stakeholders to amplify our reach,” Mutumba added.

Strategic Support for Inclusive Economic Growth

This initiative aligns with DBN’s wider mandate to promote inclusive economic participation and national development by financing sustainable enterprises. Young Namibians with viable business ideas or marketable skills are encouraged to visit DBN’s regional offices or attend upcoming outreach sessions for guidance on applying.

The Bottom Line

DBN’s campaign marks a strategic step toward empowering Namibia’s youth through targeted SME financing, aiming to boost economic participation and tackle unemployment. With growing approvals and expanded outreach, the bank seeks to foster a new generation of young entrepreneurs contributing to the country’s economic development.

Source; The Namibian

Nedbank to Host Future of Business Conference in Windhoek to Empower Owner-Managed Enterprises

Nedbank will host the inaugural Future of Business Conference in Windhoek on 21 August, aiming to equip owner-managed enterprises with essential tools for growth, innovation, and strategic resilience.

Focus on Key Business Growth Areas

Project coordinator Rukee Kaakunga announced the conference will focus on critical themes such as leadership, communication, human resources, and information technology—areas deemed vital for sustainable business expansion. The event is a collaboration between Nedbank, Future Media, Aurik, Droombos, Salt Essential IT, Fly Namibia, and Africa Personnel Services.

Designed to connect like-minded owner-managed business leaders, micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) founders, chief executives, and business professionals, the conference targets forward-thinking SMEs, emerging startups, and established owner-managed companies seeking to scale and innovate.

“Tailored for forward-thinking SMEs, emerging start-ups, and established owner-managed businesses, the event aims to provide attendees with knowledge and tools to scale up their ventures and drive innovation,” said Kaakunga.

Keynote Speakers and Strategic Insights

Prominent figures expected to headline the conference include Nedbank Group Chief Executive Jason Quinn, Nedbank Africa Head of Marketing Tatiana Ndlovu, and Aurik Co-founder Pavlo Phitidis.

Nedbank spokesperson Selma Kaulinge emphasised the bank’s commitment to bolstering Namibian businesses. “Namibian businesses are the backbone of our economy, and their resilience and innovation are what drives our nation forward. We believe empowering Namibian businesses with strategic insight and practical tools is essential for succeeding in a rapidly changing world,” she stated.

Kaulinge expressed hopes that participants would gain renewed clarity and confidence in adapting their business strategies to change. “By investing in platforms like this, Nedbank is intentionally helping to shape a future where Namibian enterprises are proactive, future-ready, and positioned to lead both locally and globally,” she added.

Driving Growth Through Local and Regional Expertise

Future Media Chief Executive Gary Stroebel highlighted the conference’s role in providing direct access to leading thought leaders from Namibia and South Africa, delivering locally relevant insights for managers, leaders, and change agents.

“We identified a crucial need for a platform, specifically targeting owner-managed businesses, which are key drivers of change in Namibia,” Stroebel remarked. He added that the conference promises to fuel growth, innovation, and strategic resilience within Namibia’s business community, reinforcing Nedbank’s dedication to empowering local enterprises.

The Bottom Line

Nedbank’s Future of Business Conference represents a strategic initiative to strengthen owner-managed enterprises across Namibia by fostering knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and innovation. With a robust lineup of speakers and partners, the event aims to equip businesses with the tools necessary to thrive in a dynamic economic landscape, supporting Namibia’s broader commercial development goals.

Source: The Namibian

ENERGY

Namibia’s Diamond Production Declines by 2% in First Half of 2025 Amid Shifts in Marine and Land Mining

Namibia’s total diamond production decreased by 2% in the first half of 2025, reaching 1.166 million carats, down from 1.194 million carats in the same period in 2024, according to De Beers Group.

Marine Mining Output Falls, Land-Based Production Surges

The decline was primarily driven by marine miner Debmarine Namibia, which produced 846,000 carats in H1 2025—a 9% drop from 932,000 carats in H1 2024—attributed to planned production cuts. De Beers stated, “Debmarine contributed 846,000 carats in H1 2025 compared to 932,000 carats the previous year, reflecting a 9% decline.”

Conversely, land-based producer Namdeb experienced strong growth, increasing output by 22% to 320,000 carats from 262,000 carats the prior year. “Namdeb’s output rose to 320,000 carats, up 22% from 262,000 carats in the same period last year,” De Beers confirmed.

Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

In Q2 2025, Namibia produced 535,000 carats of diamonds—5% lower than Q2 2024 and 15% less than Q1 2025. Debmarine accounted for 385,000 carats, marking a 10% year-on-year decline and a 16% drop compared to Q1. Namdeb’s Q2 output was 150,000 carats, up 12% year-on-year but slightly below its Q1 contribution.

De Beers explained, “Production in Namibia decreased by 5% to 0.5 million carats, as a result of planned actions to lower production at Debmarine Namibia.”

Fleet Optimisation and Structural Adjustments Impact Output

Following a fleet optimisation study, Debmarine retired its Coral Sea vessel and took the Grand Banks vessel out of service pending decommissioning or sale decisions, contributing to reduced marine output.

Regional Context and De Beers Portfolio Performance

Despite Namibia’s slight production decline, the country’s output remained relatively stable compared to other De Beers operations. Botswana recorded a 44% output drop in Q2 2025, Canada’s production fell by 46%, while South Africa’s Venetia mine increased production by 17%.

Overall, De Beers reported a 36% decline in total diamond recovery globally in Q2 2025 and a 23% decline over the half-year period.

The Bottom Line

Namibia’s diamond sector is navigating a period of reduced marine mining activity balanced by robust land operations. Planned production adjustments and fleet rationalisation at Debmarine Namibia have impacted marine output, while Namdeb’s strong performance partially offsets this decline. Namibia’s relative stability within De Beers’ portfolio underscores the significance of strategic operational adjustments in sustaining the country’s diamond industry amid global market challenges.

Source: Mining & Energy

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

🌟 Friday Quote
"Success doesn't come from what you do occasionally — it comes from what you do consistently."
— Marie Forleo

Let this be your reminder to keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Growth is a habit.