The registration of new businesses in Namibia has seen a notable increase, with close corporations and private (Pty) Ltd companies rising by 21.3% and 25.1%, respectively, year on year.
President of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) Bisey Uirab said this growth highlights a thriving business environment and positions the private sector to play a pivotal role in the nation’s economic development.
Uirab emphasised that the rise in business registrations reflects a positive trend in entrepreneurship and investment.
“The registration of businesses lays the foundation for future economic activity. The increase in the registration of new businesses positions the private sector well to contribute to Namibia’s economic development,” Uirab stated during a press conference.
He further expressed the importance of supporting the business community in the country, calling on entrepreneurs and innovators to join the NCCI to amplify the voice of business in Namibia.
“Entrepreneurs, innovators and investors are the backbone of Namibia’s economy. To build a strong and inclusive economy, we need your support as the country’s premier voice of business,” Uirab said.
Uirab also emphasised the NCCI’s commitment to advocating for the interests of its members and the broader business community, underscoring the importance of full private sector engagement in driving economic growth.
“Together, with government, labour and other role players, the NCCI can and will collectively drive Namibia’s economic growth and transformation,” he concluded.
As part of its mission, the NCCI is expanding its reach across Namibia, with branches in various towns supporting local businesses and fostering entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
Uirab said these branches serve as a crucial link between businesses and local authorities, facilitating growth and investment in their respective regions.
Looking ahead, the Chamber’s board of directors sanctioned the hosting of Extraordinary General Meetings (EGMS) across all branches in the country, alongside elections for new Executive Committees (EXCOS) at 15 branches.
“This strategic move comes after thorough reflection, underscoring the importance of branch-level engagements in creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship. All businesses, whether corporate or SMEs, are invited to attend the EGMS in their respective towns,” said Uirab.
He also added that with Namibia experiencing a surge in entrepreneurial activity, it is imperative to establish an enabling ecosystem. The Chamber’s mandate to facilitate entrepreneurship, trade and investment hinges on robust leadership at the branch level.
These meetings will offer an opportunity to elect new business leaders and strengthen the Chamber’s leadership structure.
“We acknowledge that a few of our branches are either not functional or not operating optimally, which in turn hindered private sector representation at local, regional and national levels. The Board is committed to revitalising these branches, ensuring that every region has leadership in place to support local entrepreneurs and represent the business community effectively,” Uirab said.
To encourage greater participation, Uirab called on entrepreneurs, business owners and managers to join the NCCI, reaffirming the importance of collective advocacy for economic growth, transformation and job creation.
“The private sector is best positioned to understand and advocate for their own needs. We need to organise, articulate our priorities and work together to accelerate the development of our country’s economy,” he urged.
Uirab also expressed gratitude for the ongoing contributions from NCCI members and branches, particularly those who hosted regional consultations in 2024, which have strengthened collaboration with policymakers and other stakeholders.
