Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre wins OM SEED 2023 for Kavango East

Ladislaus Shikerete of Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre has emerged as the winner of the 2023 Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic & Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) initiative for Kavango East.

Shikerete, an innovative entrepreneur, collects plastic waste and transforms it into environmentally friendly bricks without utilizing water.

He has been awarded the first prize of N$50,000, which he intends to utilize for expanding his business.

“Securing the title of Kavango East champion in OM SEED 2023 is a profound honor and a testament to our unwavering commitment. Our business is dedicated to maintaining environmental cleanliness while also generating employment opportunities within our community. This victory further solidifies our mission of producing bricks from recyclable materials. The prize money will play a significant role in fostering our growth and procuring essential materials,” said Shikerete.

Mignon du Preez, the Group Marketing, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Executive of Old Mutual Namibia, remarked, “This achievement once again underscores the untapped potential inherent in Namibia’s aspiring entrepreneurs. We are thrilled to witness Ladislaus Shikerete’s remarkable journey and the positive, nation-building impact of their business.”

Maria Haingura, a specialist in farming at Katiku Poultry Trading, secured second place in the competition and received an award of N$30,000.

Rozita Tjilunda of Kayowo Trading, specializing in carpentry, clinched the third position with a prize of N$20,000.

The Old Mutual Foundation is actively working towards empowering 42 entrepreneurs across all 14 regions of Namibia by the conclusion of 2025 through the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic, and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) initiative.

Launched in 2022, OM SEED is a collaborative effort between the Old Mutual Foundation and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Accelerator Lab.

Its primary objective is to bolster grassroots entrepreneurs by equipping them with essential resources to establish inclusive and sustainable businesses, fostering job creation and skill development throughout Namibia.

Through the provision of capital and incubation support, the Old Mutual Foundation aspires to empower aspiring entrepreneurs, enabling them to realize their full potential and leave a lasting positive impact on their respective communities.