Bank Windhoek’s Cancer Apple Project has raised N$42.4 million for the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) since its launch in 2000, after generating a record N$4 million this year.
The N$4 million raised in 2026 was handed over to CAN on Tuesday and will be used to support cancer awareness, screening, outreach and patient-support programmes across Namibia.
Now in its 26th year, the Cancer Apple Project raises funds through the sale of apples, apple juice and virtual apples, with contributions also accepted through digital channels, including the Bank Windhoek Mobile App.
CAN Chief Executive Officer Rolf Hansen said the funding comes as cancer remains a major public health challenge in Namibia.
“Cancer is no longer a distant or future challenge for Namibia; it is one of our most pressing public health priorities,” Hansen said.
“This generous contribution from Bank Windhoek and the many Namibians who supported the Project will help us strengthen awareness, promote earlier detection, support families in need and bring practical hope to people affected by cancer across the country.”
According to figures provided by Bank Windhoek, Namibia is estimated to record 4,205 new cancer diagnoses, with breast, cervical and prostate cancers among the most frequently diagnosed.
The Namibia National Cancer Registry, hosted by CAN, also records about 136 cancer diagnoses among children and adolescents annually. Common childhood cancers include leukaemia, kidney tumours and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Bank Windhoek Managing Director James Chapman said the project demonstrates the role businesses and communities can play in mobilising funding to address social challenges.
“The Cancer Apple Project is a powerful expression of what effective corporate social responsibility should be. It demonstrates what can be achieved when businesses, government, civil society, schools, communities and individuals bring their resources, networks and influence together around a shared purpose,” Chapman said.
Bank Windhoek uses its branch network and digital platforms to facilitate contributions to the annual fundraising campaign, which also receives support from businesses involved in supplying, transporting, distributing and promoting the initiative.
Chapman said the money raised would contribute towards addressing practical challenges faced by cancer patients and their families, while supporting awareness and early detection initiatives.
“Behind every number is a human story. Whether it is an adult facing a new diagnosis or a child whose family must travel for specialised care, this contribution is about more than a financial handover,” he said.
“It is a contribution towards awareness, early detection, practical support and, ultimately, hope.”
