WINDHOEK – Bank Windhoek says its support for ‘local is lekker’ is rooted in the institution’s financial assistance to aspiring Namibian entrepreneurs to start their own businesses, create jobs and add value to the economy, thus contributing to the growth and development of the country.
Bank Windhoek says it was the first bank to establish an SME Branch in 2000 to provide aspiring Namibian entrepreneurs with a loan to start their own business. The bank added that it believes that entrepreneurship should be encouraged from a young age, and therefore annually hosts the Bank Windhoek Bizzkids entrepreneurship competition for youths.
Bank Windhoek is a founding member of Team Namibia, an organisation aimed at mobilising Namibians to buy and use local products and services and to support the promotion of quality local products and services.
“Bank Windhoek prides itself as the only truly Namibian bank, with a uniquely Namibian ethos and local insight. The bank’s existence has been characterized by a strong commitment to understanding the individual banking needs of Namibians and by fulfilling its role as a partner in the development, economic growth and prosperity of Namibia”, said Mbo Luvindao, Manager: SME Branch at Bank Windhoek.
Luvindao noted that by supporting local businesses to grow and expand, Bank Windhoek is creating an environment where local businesses have the opportunity to rise and dominate markets and reduce the country’s dependency on imported products and services.
However, he added that this opportunity can only become a reality if Namibian consumers support their local businesses.
“It is not enough for Bank Windhoek and other local institutions to only support the business ideas of our budding entrepreneurs. For local businesses to thrive, they need the support of every Namibian. Every time you buy a locally produced product, you are essentially playing your role in ensuring the sustainability of a local business and supporting the growth of the local economy,” remarked Luvindao.
By Staff Reporter