Chamwe Kaira
The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) recorded a 42% increase in operating profit to N$88.3 million, according to its 2024/25 integrated annual report.
The bank said the performance reflects disciplined cost management, improved recoveries, and the resilience of its teams during a challenging economic environment.
“While pressures related to asset quality and a contracting loan book persist, the Bank has taken decisive steps to stabilise risk and position itself for renewed growth,” the bank said.
During the year, DBN began implementing the first year of its 2024–2029 integrated strategic business plan.
It secured N$607 million through the KfW Green Credit Line II, obtained approval for a N$1.5 billion sovereign-guaranteed facility from the African Development Bank, and became Namibia’s first institution accredited by the Green Climate Fund.
The accreditation allows DBN to mobilise climate finance to support Namibia’s just energy transition.
DBN said strong liquidity, a solid capital base, and growing strategic partnerships place the bank in a position to diversify funding sources, strengthen SME financing and balance financial prudence with its development mandate.
In line with its mandate, the bank delivered measurable development outcomes during the 2024/25 financial year.
It approved N$912.7 million in funding across priority sectors, with a strong focus on housing and construction to meet national infrastructure needs. These investments supported the creation of 1 429 jobs, both permanent and temporary.
Small and medium enterprises remained central to DBN’s work. The bank approved 49 SME projects during the year, including N$51.5 million for women-owned businesses and N$24.3 million for youth-owned enterprises.
It also supported projects in Karas, Kavango East and West, Kunene, Oshikoto, and Zambezi, targeting more balanced regional development.
“The year under review reflects solid financial results, meaningful progress in strengthening our funding base, and measurable developmental outcomes across priority sectors. Collectively, these results demonstrate that DBN is executing its strategy with discipline while remaining firmly focused on supporting Namibia’s long-term economic development,” said DBN chief marketing and corporate affairs officer Jerome Mutumba.
In the 2025/26 financial year, DBN plans to align more closely with the government’s development agenda by supporting programmes that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.
A key focus will be the National Youth Development Fund, facilitated by the Ministry of Finance, under which DBN is expected to disburse about N$64.2 million to youth-owned businesses across all 14 regions.
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The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN)
