The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) achieved an 86% compliance index (BB rating) for 2024, as awarded by the Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI). This marks a significant improvement from the 82% score in the previous review, showcasing DBN’s steadfast commitment to governance excellence, financial stability and impactful development.

AADFI is an umbrella organisation for development finance institutions in Africa, established under the auspices of the African Development Bank. It promotes cooperation to advance sustainable development and economic integration across the African continent. Hence, this prestigious rating reinforces DBN as a trusted partner in upholding exemplary standards.

The AADFI conducts annual peer reviews, bringing together leading development banks from across the continent. These reviews evaluate adherence to prudential standards relevant to the African context. DBN’s participation in these reviews underscores its dedication to benchmarking its practices against the highest standards in the Development Finance Institution (DFI) sector, cementing its position as a world-class institution. According to AADFI guidelines, institutions scoring 80% or higher are considered to be in full compliance with its rigorous standards.

Key Highlights of DBN’s AADFI rating include board composition and equity levels, core business financing, environmental policies, project completion as well as opportunities for improvement.

Commenting on the achievement, DBN spokesperson, Jerome Mutumba, remarked: “The increase in compliance, compared to the previous year is a testament to DBN’s robust governance framework and our unwavering dedication to sustainable development. It reflects our ability to uphold international standards of governance and financial integrity, instilling trust and confidence among our stakeholders.” 

“This rating underscores our commitment to continuous improvement, with a focus on enhancing transparency in risk management and advancing policies that promote gender equity and poverty alleviation,” he noted.

The AADFI rating reaffirms DBN’s dedication to environmental sustainability, and the successful completion of projects that drive Namibia’s growth and prosperity. DBN remains committed to serving our stakeholders with service excellence in all aspects of its operations.”