Standard Bank Namibia says it has invested more than N$35 million in Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives over the past five years.
The bank’s wide-ranging support spans health, education, housing, and community upliftment.
According to the bank’s CEO, Erwin Tjipuka, N$10 million has been allocated for CSI initiatives this year, drawn from 1% of the bank’s revenue after tax.
“Over the past five years, we have committed more than N$35 million to initiatives that educate, equip, and uplift individuals. This year alone, we are proud to dedicate N$10 million to these causes. My vision is to see us uplift one another, one by one, one step at a time,” he said.
At a ceremony attended by government officials, community partners, and stakeholders on Monday, the CEO also handed over N$3.5 million to the Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Evelyn !Nowases-Taeyele.
The funds will go towards the construction of approximately 80 houses through a partnership with the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia, as part of the bank’s flagship Buy-a-Brick initiative.
“This is not just the handover of funds. It is the passing on of belief , belief in people, in communities, and in the power of hope to transform lives. We invest not only in markets, but in people. One by one, one at a time,” he said.
Furthermore, the bank, in partnership with the Namibia Investment and Finance Academy (UNIPA), officially launched the SME Blue Growth Masterclass.
The bank has committed N$1.5 million over the next three years to mentor and support 30 entrepreneurs annually.
The programme is designed to equip small business owners with skills in formalisation, investment readiness, and sustainable business growth.
Other beneficiaries of Standard Bank’s CSI programme include the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, which will use the donation to purchase new equipment for the Katutura State Hospital emergency unit.
The Cancer Association of Namibia is also receiving support to continue its work in cancer prevention, care, and awareness campaigns.
In the education sector, the bank is supporting the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWENA) to advance girls’ education and leadership development across the country.
