Renthia Kaimbi
Global Money Week 2026 concluded in Swakopmund after four days of discussions on financial literacy and digital finance.
The event ran from 16 to 19 March and was hosted by the Swakopmund municipality. It brought together government officials, financial sector representatives, educators and young people under the theme “Smart Money Talks”.
The programme focused on improving financial understanding and helping people manage money in a digital environment.
At the opening, Bank of Namibia (BoN) deputy governor Leonie Dunn said the financial system is changing fast.
“The financial world is changing rapidly. Financial systems are increasingly digital, instantaneous, and complex. In such an environment, the cost of misunderstanding money has never been higher.”
During the week, discussions highlighted the shift to digital payments. Dunn said digital transactions increased from 17% in 2024 to 23% in 2025, with N$2.7 trillion processed through digital platforms.
“For many of you, money no longer lives in a wallet. It lives in your phone. Smart money means understanding what you spend, protecting yourself online, and using digital tools responsibly. Technology gives us power. Wisdom gives us control.”
The event also marked the launch of a digital financial literacy booklet by the Bank of Namibia and the Financial Literacy Initiative. The guide is aimed at helping people use digital financial services.
“This is more than just a publication. It is a practical guide for our evolving financial landscape. I want to encourage every learner, every educator, and every parent to engage with these resources. Let it spark conversations around the dinner table,” Dunn said.
Cybersecurity was also discussed. Dunn said the Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team recorded about 1.1 million cyber threats and vulnerabilities between January and June 2025, a 224% increase in the second quarter.
“Cyber risk is now consistently ranked among the most significant global risks. These developments remind us that cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical issue. It is a financial stability issue,” she said.
Angela Njunju, country representative for the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation, said financial literacy remains a challenge.
“Financial inclusion without financial literacy can create risk instead of opportunity. People who do not understand interest may fall into debt. People who do not understand budgeting may struggle to manage income. And young people who do not learn financial discipline early may face long-term financial insecurity,” she said.
FNB Namibia supported the event with N$10 000 in prize money for schools and participated in activities during the week.
Emilly Sem, new business specialist at FNB Namibia, said financial education is important.
“True empowerment comes when people, particularly young people, understand how money works: how to earn it responsibly, manage it wisely, save for the future, and invest in opportunities that improve their lives.”
Global Money Week is coordinated by the OECD and involves more than 170 countries.
The event aimed to equip people, especially young people, with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions.
