The centre, which offers a "spectrum of corporate, business and personal finance services" is part of the bank's 2006 expansion plan and follows closesly on the heels of the recent openings of other branches across the country.

According to a statement by the bank "The northern border branch also offers the first drive-through banking teller in Namibia, for clients' convenience".

As part of the growth strategy of the bank in the Ohangwena Region, the Managing Director of Nedbank Namibia, Bill Turton, said a further N$7 million will be invested in the next phase of the expansion plan.

"This will mean more Nedbank Namibia branches to cover the north and north-east of the country," Turton said.

On his part, President Pohamba described the developments as "innovative" and called on the public, the private sector and labour to "continue with a vigorous approach to grow the economy".

He further said that Nedbank's investment roll-out plan was in line with the Government's objective to attract foreign investment.

Pohamba stressed the importance of local banks to invest in the Namibian economy, "rather than taking their investments elsewhere".

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