Justicia Shipena
The executive for investment at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), François van Schalkwyk, will be stepping down from his position.
The NIPDB announced on Tuesday that his last working day will be 31 July 2025.
NIPDB senior manager for marketing, branding, and communications, Catherine Shipushu, said that after more than four years at the institution, Van Schalkwyk has decided to pursue other interests and relocate to the United Kingdom to spend more time with his young family.
Van Schalkwyk joined the NIPDB as one of its first employees and played a key role in shaping the organisation’s investment agenda.
According to NIPDB, he was instrumental in building the investment department, setting up systems and processes that improved efficiency, and assembling a client-focused team.
During his time at the NIPDB, he led the team through key milestones, including the inaugural Invest in Namibia event and the operationalisation of the first investment project under the board’s watch.
He also worked closely with government ministries, agencies, and offices to help shape an investment framework that has contributed to a notable rise in foreign direct investment in the country.
François, a patriotic Namibian, fully immersed himself in this role and championed Namibia’s potential as a lucrative investment destination with unparalleled energy, passion, and dedication,” said Shipushu.
In his remaining weeks, Van Schalkwyk will support the CEO’s office and his team to ensure a smooth transition.
The NIPDB said the systems and processes he helped establish have positioned the organisation to continue its work effectively during the transition and beyond.
