In a bid to access a large untapped African market and to provide appropriate and accessible financial solutions that reach across all levels of society, Sanlam this week officially rebranded as SanlamAllianz Namibia.
This landmark development for Namibia’s financial sector was officially announced and unveiled by information and communication technology minister Emma Theofelus on Tuesday 24 June. In her keynote address, she stressed the alignment between the partnership’s aims and Namibia’s national priorities.
“At the heart of our national agenda is a commitment to empowering and uplifting the people, businesses and communities of Namibia. This is central to the growth and resilience of our economy. Equally important is our dedication to ensuring
every Namibian has access to appropriate and accessible financial solutions. This partnership holds great promise in advancing those goals,” said Theofelus.
She added: “We eagerly anticipate the transformative impact of the combination of these two financial services stalwarts, Sanlam and Allianz, on our financial services sector. Their combined strength, expertise, and global reach will undoubtedly foster innovation and stability, not only within Namibia but also across the broader African continent.”
The announcement follows the strategic alliance between Sanlam and Allianz, one of the world’s leading insurers and asset managers. The rebrand was unveiled during a series of events in Windhoek, including a vibrant parade along Independence Avenue to the National Theatre of Namibia, a media conference at Sanlam Centre, and a gala dinner at Windhoek Country Club Resort.
Speaking at the gala dinner, SanlamAllianz chief executive officer Tertius Stears said the partnership unites the expertise and financial strength of two globally respected brands, creating significant opportunities for all stakeholders.
“We believe our transition to SanlamAllianz Namibia will usher in a new era of growth and value creation. It will bring world-class financial solutions and services that benefit not only our clients and stakeholders but also the broader financial services industry and ultimately the people of Namibia,” said Stears. He added that the rebrand strengthens SanlamAllianz’s commitment to enhancing wealth-creation opportunities for Namibia’s German community, thanks to Allianz’s strong German roots.
The rebrand represents far more than a change of name. It marks the emergence of a truly global brand, bringing together two industry leaders with a shared vision for Africa’s future. Through this partnership, SanlamAllianz Namibia aims to combine resources and expertise to deliver innovative financial solutions, drive growth, and create lasting value for clients, communities and the economy.
Addressing guests at the gala dinner, Michael Humavindu, executive director at the finance ministry, described the Sanlam as a trusted name for nearly a century that is deeply woven into the country’s economic fabric.
“Its legacy is closely linked to the strong economic and trade ties between Namibia and South Africa. As Sanlam embarks on its new journey as SanlamAllianz Namibia, we look forward with great anticipation. This partnership holds immense potential to unlock new value, innovation and opportunities for all Namibians. It is a testament to progress and a commitment to fostering a more prosperous future,” said Humavindu.
Heinie Werth, CEO of SanlamAllianz, reinforced the group’s mission: “SanlamAllianz’s core purpose is to expand access and empower generations in emerging markets to achieve financial security. We want the next generation to enjoy greater financial well-being, better education and skills, improved earning potential, and access to opportunities their predecessors might not have had.”
SanlamAllianz Namibia recognises its responsibility to support Namibia’s economic development and inclusive growth. This includes creating new products, supporting capital market development, attracting foreign direct investment, generating jobs especially for young people, and helping small businesses to flourish. The company remains committed to championing financial inclusion across Africa, adapting to changing societal needs and contributing to the economic empowerment and well-being of the communities it serves.
In September 2023, Sanlam and Allianz officially joined forces to establish Sanlam Allianz Africa (SanlamAllianz), the largest pan-African non-banking financial services entity operating across 27 countries on the continent. This joint venture offers a wealth of expertise and resources of a global brand.