Nedbank Namibia says it is tailoring its strategy around the unique economic realities of towns across the country as the bank intensifies efforts to strengthen regional partnerships and expand financial inclusion outside major urban centres.
This comes as the bank conducted client and stakeholder engagements in Rundu and Katima Mulilo as part of its annual Managing Director Roadshow.
The initiative forms part of the bank’s 2026 strategy and focuses on engaging employees, clients and local leaders through direct consultations aimed at aligning banking services with regional economic needs.
Nedbank Namibia Managing Director Martha Murorua said different towns require different banking approaches based on their economic activities and growth opportunities.
Speaking during a client engagement at Ngandu Lodge, Murorua described Rundu as a resilient and economically vibrant town driven by entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses.
“Every time we come to Rundu, we are reminded of the strength of a community that works hard, supports one another and takes pride in its progress. We have walked alongside the people of Rundu for many years, supporting farmers, traders, small businesses, and families who are building stronger futures. Your priorities shape how we serve you,” she said.
Murorua also highlighted local partnerships such as the bank’s collaboration with the Wapa Nawa Recycling Centre through the Nedbank Team Challenge initiative.
“Partnerships like these show the innovation that already exists within this region. When we invest in local ideas, we help create opportunities that uplift households while protecting the environment,” she said.
Andreas Jikerwa, Mayor of the Rundu Town Council, welcomed the bank’s continued investment in the town.
“Rundu, as a rapidly growing urban centre in the region, stands to benefit greatly from the bank’s strong focus on community upliftment and economic empowerment,” he said.
In Katima Mulilo, Murorua said the bank’s strategy recognises that each town operates within its own economic ecosystem.
“Our commitment is to deliver service excellence – service where every client feels understood and supported. Because banking in Katima is not the same as banking in Windhoek or Keetmanshoop. Every town has its own ecosystem, and our strategy is designed to honour that,” she said.
Murorua also acknowledged efforts by local authorities to improve infrastructure and create conditions that support business activity in the Zambezi Region.
Kabende Kabende, Mayor of the Katima Mulilo Town Council, called for stronger collaboration between financial institutions and local authorities in areas such as SME financing, agriculture and youth empowerment.
“As the town council, we remain committed to fostering a conducive and enabling environment for businesses and financial institutions to thrive. We welcome deeper collaboration with Nedbank in areas such as SME financing, youth empowerment programmes, and agricultural value chain support services that promote financial inclusion for all our residents,” he said.
