Regional growth drives domestic housing market 

Regional growth drives domestic housing market 

Standard Bank Namibia reaffirmed its commitment to driving growth, sustainability, and homeownership at its recent Home Loans Grand Finale. 

The event honoured top-performing estate agents, developers, and consultants whose dedication has shaped Namibia’s housing market.

Standard Bank chief executive Erwin Tjipuka emphasised the bank’s strategic focus on growth and sustainability. 

“Namibia is our home, and at Standard Bank, we are committed to driving its growth. Financing homes is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about building communities, creating opportunities, and shaping a future where every Namibian has a place to call home,” he said.

Tjipuka highlighted the Buy-a-Brick initiative, which raised N$2.5 million in 2024, enabling the construction of over 60 homes for families previously living in informal settlements. 

“Through Buy-a-Brick, we are not just building houses, we are building hope,” he said.

Karen van der Merwe, head of personal and private banking, reinforced the importance of operational excellence and strategic partnerships. 

She noted that Standard Bank had achieved a 72% reduction in reworks, significantly improved turnaround times and implemented capacity models and attorney monitoring to ensure efficiency. 

“Together, we are not just financing homes; we are building trust, communities, and Namibia’s future,” she said.

Head of Home Loans, Randy Slabbert, said that the bank recorded a 48% year-on-year growth in participating estate agents, a 98% increase in deal volumes, and a 75% growth in the value of new business. 

“Results of this magnitude are only possible through partnerships and a shared focus on serving our customers efficiently,” said Slabbert. 

The highlight of the evening was the prize-giving ceremony, which recognised winners across multiple categories, including Okamita Properties (Developer of the Year); Rightmove Properties (Estate Agency of the Year); Amunyela Helena (Estate Agent of the Year); Lebeus Hango (Mobile Home Loan Consultant of the Year); Moses Amoolongo (Merit Award for Most Deals); and Shariffa Brussel (In-Branch Consultant of the Year). 

Noting that growth was not confined to Windhoek, Slabbert added that, “We have seen remarkable expansion in the regions, especially in northern Namibia, where estate agents and developers are driving housing activity and stimulating local economies. This growth demonstrates that housing finance is a catalyst for broader economic development, creating jobs and opportunities across Namibia. Our partnerships are helping to unlock potential in communities beyond the capital, strengthening the country’s economic fabric as a whole.”

“We are grateful and proud to be recognised at the 2025 Standard Bank Namibia Estate Agents Awards. Carrying the crown for the second year in a row is a testament to our team’s dedication and the unwavering support of our clients and partners. Here’s to excellence, growth, and even greater heights ahead”, said Lourette Liebenberg from Right Move Properties.

Meanwhile, Standard Bank has reiterated its strategic vision, namely, to enable homeownership, promote sustainability and drive economic growth through collaboration. 

“With the right investment, the right partnerships and the right vision, Namibia can deliver solutions that benefit not only our nation but the global economy,” Tjipuka concluded. 

–newsroom@nepc.com.na