President Netumbo Nandi- Ndaitwah has praised the Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) for its continued contribution to the country’s economy, calling it a shining example of local enterprise and commitment to national development. 

During a courtesy visit to the company on Wednesday, Nandi-Ndaitwah said NBL, which is over 100 years old, has “grown in leaps and bounds” and continues to strengthen its role as one of Namibia’s oldest and most successful companies. 

“This is one of the oldest companies in Namibia, now over 100 years, and it is growing. Every time, it moves from strength to strength. We have seen many new products being added to the Namibian Breweries basket, which shows how much the company contributes to our economy in terms of investment and job creation,” she said. 

She stated that over 90% of NBL’s employees are Namibians, with 40% being women, calling it a commendable example of inclusive employment and skills development. 

She further applauded the company’s focus on responsible alcohol consumption, urging Namibians to follow this example during social gatherings. 

“Too much of anything is dangerous. That’s why the concept of responsible consumption is important, and I am happy that the NBL is emphasising this point,” she said. 

Nandi – Ndaitwah commended NBL’s investment in digitalisation and youth empowerment, noting that she was impressed by young Namibians leading various operations within the company. 

“We should really empower our people. I was very impressed when I was introduced to the operations of the brewery by a young lady and a young man. That is what I want to see in all enterprises in Namibia,” she said. She recognised NBL’s role in promoting Namibia internationally. Every year, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation works with the brewery to send Namibian beer to embassies abroad for Independence Day celebrations, showcasing Namibian products to global markets. 

“Most of the time when you meet people abroad, they say ‘Namibian beer!’ or Namibian beef. Those two always represent us internationally,” she said. 

The President concluded by thanking the brewery for its hospitality and continued commitment to national growth. 

“It is a historical reality. Namibia Breweries continues to make us proud as a nation,” she said. 

NBL was founded in 1920 in Windhoek and is one of the country’s oldest companies. The brewery is best known for producing popular local brands such as Windhoek Lager, Tafel Lager, and Windhoek Draught, which are brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot, the German Purity Law of 1516. 

Over the decades, NBL has grown from a small local producer into one of southern Africa’s leading beverage companies. It exports to more than 40 countries worldwide, including markets in Europe, Asia and the Americas. 

The company is part of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, one of Namibia’s largest private sector employers. In 2022, Heineken International acquired a majority stake in NBL, further expanding its global reach while maintaining strong Namibian roots. 

NBL has also invested heavily in community development, environmental sustainability, and responsible drinking campaigns. Its focus on local employment and skills development has made it a key player in Namibia’s manufacturing and export sectors. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na