Blue Crane Safaris (BCS), OLC Arandis Solar (OLC), and Lizwise Investment walked away with a combined N$800,000 in prize money at the 2025 Good Business and Innovation Awards.
The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) hosted the event at the Windhoek Country Club under the theme Celebrating Innovation and Impact, which recognised enterprises driving sustainability, job creation, and socio-economic development.
BCS took top honours in the SME category, receiving N$150,000. Derek Jacobs, founder and owner of Blue Crane Safaris, noted that the company had grown from a one-man operation to a team of around 20 over the past 15 years.
“We specialise in tours across Namibia, which remains our main destination, but we also operate in neighbouring countries such as Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Our offerings include guided camping and accommodated tours, as well as self-drive options ,all aimed at showcasing the best the region has to offer,” he said.
OLC won the Large Enterprise award, securing N$250,000.
Bernd Walbaum, Managing Director of O&L Energy, a renewable energy firm, and its project arm, OLC Arandis Solar Energy, said the company focuses on developing medium- to large-scale solar power plants and battery storage systems, with the aim of reducing Namibia’s dependence on imported electricity.
As part of a larger group of companies, Walbaum added, they also offer engineering, procurement and construction services, while creating employment and transferring skills within the energy sector.
“DBN financed 70% of our project, which enabled us to build and operate a successful energy plant. Entering this market does present challenges, including high capital requirements, complex regulatory processes, difficulties securing suitable land, and long lead times. For new businesses, strong financial backing and persistence are essential,” he said.
Lizwise Investment received the N$400,000 Innovation Award for its Mahangu Pasta product.
Founder Elizabeth Kambonde said the innovation supports food security, reduces reliance on imported wheat products, and opens a new market for local farmers ,contributing to rural development and job creation along the supply chain.
“Beyond being a healthy, fibre-rich alternative to traditional pasta, Mahangu Pasta helps address health risks such as diabetes and malnutrition. Through education campaigns, we aim to promote indigenous and nutritious food choices. Mahangu is drought-resistant and grows well in Namibia’s dry climate with minimal water, making it a sustainable crop,” she said.
Kambonde also outlined plans to expand production and distribution to reach more households, support local economies, and help preserve traditional farming practices.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Vice President Lucia Witbooi, Finance Minister Erikah Shafuda said the awards align with government’s vision for an inclusive, innovation-driven economy.
“As we embark on a renewed journey of nation-building under the leadership of President Nandi-Ndaitwah, we are reminded that inclusive growth and innovation are not just aspirations, they are imperatives,” said Shafuda.
She added that DBN’s Good Business and Innovation Awards reflect the national vision of recognising enterprises that build sustainable industries, create meaningful employment, and deliver transformative impact in communities.
DBN Deputy Board Chairperson Willy Mertens highlighted the Bank’s 20-year track record in advancing Namibia’s economic development.
“For two decades, the Development Bank of Namibia has been a steadfast partner in building a resilient and inclusive economy. Today, we celebrate enterprises that reflect the Bank’s commitment to sustainable development ,those not only creating jobs and boosting productivity, but also pioneering innovative solutions in sectors vital to Namibia’s future,” said Mertens.
Other winners included Ongula Homestead Group and Quanta Holdings (Pty) Ltd, which were named runners-up in the SME and Large Enterprise categories, respectively.
Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre and AUDAX Coatings took second and third place in the Innovation Award category.
DBN Acting CEO John Mbango praised the quality of entries and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to supporting innovation.
“These awards recognise the ingenuity, resilience and determination of Namibian enterprises that are not only creating value and employment, but also redefining what’s possible through innovation and enterprise development,” he said.
He added that the awards, now a key fixture on Namibia’s enterprise development calendar, aim to spotlight businesses that contribute to national progress through forward-thinking solutions and operational excellence.
