Chamwe Kaira
Nedbank Namibia has signed a funding deal with Achill Island Investments (Pty) Ltd to support the expansion of horticultural production in the Aussenkehr Valley.
The partnership will back agricultural growth and promote sustainable farming in the south of the country.
The funding will assist Achill Island Investments and its sister farm, Silverlands Vineyards, in growing their operations and strengthening sustainable practices.
Together, the farms cultivate more than 900 hectares of table grapes and date palms under the Silverlands brand. They employ about 4 000 people during peak season and supply premium produce to global markets.
Silverlands Namibia forms part of a wider agricultural group operating across Southern and East Africa.
The group is known for its work in climate resilience, inclusive growth, and community empowerment. It also supports smallholder farmers across sub-Saharan Africa by providing access to seeds, training, and markets.
Silverlands’ Namibian farms benefit from favourable growing conditions, which allow for early table grape harvests and the production of high-quality dates.
“This partnership with Achill Island Investments is a powerful example of how Nedbank is enabling growth in sectors that matter,” said Nedbank Namibia’s chief commercial officer, JG van Graan.
“Agriculture is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy, and we are proud to support a client that combines operational excellence with a deep commitment to sustainability and social impact. Silverland’s strategic outlook includes further innovation and expansion, reinforcing Namibia’s position as a competitive player in global agricultural markets. Nedbank remains committed to supporting clients who are shaping the future of agriculture through technology, finance, and sustainable practices.”
The ministry of international relations and trade has identified grapes and dates as among Namibia’s most valuable agricultural exports, with strong potential under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) implementation strategy (2022–2027).
Table grape exports reached about N$1.29 billion in the final quarter of 2024, with N$815.4 million recorded in December alone.
Namibia ranks 17th globally in table grape production, with exports going mainly to the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
Caption
Aussenkehr Valley is a major producer of grapes and dates.
- Photo: Nedbank Namibia
