Windhoek Observer

Niël Terblanché Fitch Ratings has affirmed Namibia’s long-term foreign currency issuer default rating, maintaining a stable outlook. Fitch also recognised Namibia’s BB country ceiling, one notch above the sovereign rating. The international rating agency pointed out the country’s relatively strong institutional framework and governance standards but cautioned that high public debt, fiscal deficits, and declining revenues present challenges to long-term stability. According to Fitch, Namibia’s ratings are supported by its strong governance indicators and institutional framework relative to rating peers, with its large non-banking financial sector offering flexibility in fiscal financing. “However, these strengths are offset by high fiscal deficits…

Niël Terblanché Despite growing optimism among African consumers, homegrown brands continue to lag in recognition, with the latest Brand Africa 100 rankings revealing that only 11 of the continent’s most admired brands are African, a historic low. The 2025 results, released at a ceremony in Addis Ababa on Friday, reflect a stark mismatch between belief in Africa’s potential and actual support for African-made products. Namibia, like many African countries, stands at a crossroads. While brands such as MTN and Dangote continue to command admiration, broader brand visibility and loyalty remain elusive. The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the…

Niël Terblanché Walvis Bay Salt Holdings (WBSH), sub-Saharan Africa’s largest sea salt producer, has officially inaugurated a new 14,000-square-metre warehouse on the premises of the port of Walvis Bay. The facility, constructed at a cost of N$100 million, aims to improve the company's export capabilities and safeguard product quality. At the inauguration event, Erongo regional governor Neville Andre described the new warehouse as “a launchpad for growth.” Andre acknowledged the strategic importance of the new warehouse “It would expand storage capacity and enhance the port's competitiveness in a rapidly changing global market,” he said. The ceremony was attended by key…