François van Schalkwyk, Executive: Investment at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), is stepping down from his position effective 31 July 2025.
The NIPDB said van Schalkwyk is leaving to pursue other interests and will relocate to the United Kingdom to spend more time with his family.
“François has made the decision to pursue other interests. He will also be moving back to the United Kingdom to spend more quality time with his young family,” said Catherine Shipushu, Senior Manager: Marketing, Branding and Communications at the NIPDB.
According to Shipushu, van Schalkwyk joined the NIPDB shortly after its formation and played a key role in setting up its investment operations.
The Board credited him with improving the department’s efficiency, building a capable team, and establishing systems to support investment promotion.
“François made a significant contribution to the operational efficiency of the NIPDB, in particular the Investment department. He laid a strong foundation for service excellence by building an agile, client-focused and highly capable team,” she said.
He was also involved in major milestones, including the first Invest in Namibia event and the implementation of the first investment project facilitated by the NIPDB.
“In collaboration with other Ministries, Agencies and Offices, François has also been instrumental in crafting an investment framework that catalysed the evident surge in Foreign Direct Investment inflows into Namibia,” she said.
Shipushu said van Schalkwyk will assist with the transition in the coming weeks, working closely with his team and the Office of the CEO.
She added that the NIPDB remains confident in the structures in place and assured that operations will continue without disruption.
