Namibia has been called to improve conditions for effective capital deployment to enhance its economic competitiveness and capitalise on available opportunities.
Ninety One Founder and CEO, Hendrik du Toit, urged stakeholders at the NaSIA Networking Series event to leverage private credit and equity for well-governed projects, particularly in the context of limited listed companies.
He said the focus is on ensuring investments support both business growth and pension sustainability.
This comes as industry leaders at the NaSIA event outlined clear recommendations to address key challenges and capitalise on opportunities in the country’s investment landscape.
Du Toit, emphasised the urgent need to create conditions for effective capital deployment in Namibia, stating “we should focus on competitiveness and available opportunities.”
Du Toit highlighted the potential of private credit and equity to fund well-governed projects, underscoring the scarcity of listed companies as a barrier.
“Investments must sustainably support business growth and pensions,” he stressed, advocating for robust regulatory frameworks to bolster investor confidence.
Addressing sustainability challenges, Du Toit pointed out Namibia’s need to align agricultural practices with global market demands for low-carbon products.
“Unlike the US with its green investment incentives, Namibia must carve its unique path,” he noted, urging stakeholders to consider the impact of European border taxes favouring low-carbon economies on market access and economic viability.
Professor Anne Cabot-Alletzhauser highlighted the imperative of mobilising Namibia’s long-term savings for sustainable development.
“We need to address the sustainable development imperatives of Namibia and enhance the quality of life for Namibians,” she said.
Criticising foreign pension fund models as unsuitable for Africa’s development context, Cabot-Alletzhauser called for broader industry engagement beyond traditional pension fund priorities.
“There is a significant gap in Namibia’s investment landscape,” she emphasised, urging local stakeholders to explore diverse investment opportunities aligned with national developmental goals.
Meanwhile, Sydwill Scholtz, Operations Manager at the Retirement Funds Institute, echoed the importance of integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles into investment strategies.
“Our members rely on pension funds for savings and risk management,” he affirmed.
Scholtz stressed the institute’s commitment to educating members on sustainable investing practices and promoting long-term financial security.
“Starting early and maintaining consistent investments are crucial,” he added, highlighting the societal benefits of responsible financial stewardship.
The insights from the NaSIA Networking Series highlighted a need for strategic reforms and innovative approaches to unlock Namibia’s economic potential.
The recommendations put forth by industry leaders emphasise regulatory clarity, sustainable investment strategies, and stakeholder collaboration as pivotal to achieving sustainable economic growth and prosperity in Namibia.
