Chamwe Kaira
The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) has entered a period of strategic transition with the implementation of a new five-year integrated strategic business plan aimed at strengthening the institution’s resilience, adaptability and long-term development impact.
Board chairperson Evangelina Nailenge said the strategy marks an important step in repositioning DBN as a future-focused development finance institution while reinforcing its role in supporting Namibia’s economic and social progress.
She said the plan is built on four strategic pillars: financial sustainability, people and culture, market positioning, and developmental effectiveness.
Nailenge said DBN’s governance framework remained sound during the period under review, with the board playing a central role in shaping the strategy and overseeing its implementation.
She said the plan sets a clear path to position the bank as a trusted and responsive partner in Namibia’s development efforts.
She said the strategy prioritises impact-driven financing in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, and green investments, which are key to productivity growth, job creation, and inclusive economic development.
The plan also places emphasis on improving customer experience and service delivery to strengthen client outcomes and stakeholder confidence.
To support the bank’s long-term vision, the board approved a revised organisational structure aimed at aligning skills, people, and operating models with DBN’s strategic priorities.
Nailenge said that despite challenges such as non-performing loans and a shrinking loan book, the bank recorded positive financial performance and secured major funding partnerships.
She pointed to the approval of an N$1.5 billion facility from the African Development Bank and DBN’s accreditation with the Green Climate Fund as key milestones that strengthened the bank’s financial sustainability and expanded its ability to mobilise climate finance in support of national development goals.
Nailenge said DBN continues to respond to Namibia’s socio-economic realities while contributing to long-term national priorities.
She said the board is now focused on strengthening strategic oversight as the bank expands its support for infrastructure development, enterprise growth, and sustainable economic transformation.
She added that DBN is increasing its support for small and medium enterprises, improving access to sustainable funding, and promoting regional equity in its development interventions.
She said the board remains confident that the bank is on a strategic path that will protect its financial health while expanding its contribution to Namibia’s socio-economic development. She added that future priorities include unlocking climate finance, supporting strategic sectors, strengthening SME financing and maintaining strong governance standards.
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Evangelina Nailenge
