Nedbank Namibia recently partnered with the Root 77 June Market Day in Rehoboth, reaffirming its commitment to community development, cultural celebration and financial inclusion across Namibia. 

Held on the scenic banks of the Oanob River in Rehoboth, the Root 77 Market Day brought together local entrepreneurs, artists, chefs and families in a spirited celebration of heritage, creativity and enterprise. 

The event served as a powerful platform for small businesses to showcase their products and services, while also fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents. 

Delivering the keynote address, Riaan McNab, governor of the Hardap region, reflected on the importance of community in shaping the future of Namibia’s youth. 

“According to the African proverb, it takes a village to raise a child,” said McNab. 

“And I want us, as a community, to bring that culture back. This is the very essence of the foundation of every child. We will go back to the roots that our children will be raised by a village,” he added.

 He highlighted the need to create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. 

“If children are being taken care of by a community, they will excel educationally beyond their limits, because they are working in an environment that is safe for them,” he said.

McNab described the Root 77 June Market Day as “more than just a gathering, but rather a powerful testament to the strength of community, the vibrancy of culture and the spirit of entrepreneurship that thrives in Rehoboth. Events like this play a crucial role in fostering unity, understanding and pride in our heritage”. 

The Market Day featured a variety of attractions, including a ‘potjiekos’ competition judged by members of the Namibian Chefs Association NCA. 

Sanet Prinsloo of the NCA praised the participants for their creativity, teamwork and culinary excellence. 

The event coincided with Rehoboth’s bid in the popular ‘Kwêla Dorp van die Jaar’ competition, with a KykNet crew capturing the town’s charm and community spirit for future broadcast.

Nedbank Namibia’s involvement in the Root 77 Market Day is part of its broader mission to support inclusive economic growth and empower communities. 

By investing in grassroots initiatives like this, the bank helps create opportunities for local entrepreneurs to access markets, build networks and grow their businesses.

Gernot de Klerk, Nedbank spokesperson, highlighted the importance of such partnerships. 

“At Nedbank, we believe that financial inclusion starts with understanding and supporting the communities we serve. Events like the Root 77 Market Day are about connection, empowerment and creating pathways to prosperity for all Namibians. It was especially heartwarming to see so many residents volunteering their time and many other resources to spruce up the town in recent weeks,” he said. 

He added: “We are proud to stand alongside the people of Rehoboth as they showcase their talents, culture and entrepreneurial spirit. This is what true community banking looks like – being present, being involved and making a difference where it matters most”.