Deputy prime minister and minister of industries, mines and energy Natangwe Ithete says around 29 000 businesses are registered in the
northern regions.
This amounts to 14% of all registered businesses in Namibia, he says.
The Oshana region leads, with nearly 14 000 businesses registered in the region.
Ithete says these statistics indicate that the north is open for business and many people are willing to become entrepreneurs.
He said this at the official opening of Bipa’s Ongwediva office on Saturday.
“At the heart of Bipa’s work is a simple goal: to help Namibians grow their businesses and protect thier ideas.
“Whether you
sell from the boot of your car, a market stall, run a salon, manage a small shop, or have dreams of building something bigger, this office is here to serve you,” he said.
The minister said most registered businesses are owned by men, while many hardworking women continue to operate in the informal economy.
“We know many more of you are still working informally. And that’s okay – we understand the realities on the ground.
“But we also want to help you take the next step. Registering your business opens the
door to new possibilities – access to loans, contracts, government tenders, and greater credibility with your customers.
“We also want to support our women entrepreneurs,” he said.
Ithete said women are the backbone of the local economy, and the ministry is committed to making it easier for women to formalise and grow their businesses.
“We are also investing in new technology to make things even easier. Soon, Bipa will introduce a new online registration system.
“This means you’ll be able to register your business from your phone or computer – no need to travel or wait in long lines. We’re building systems that serve you, wherever you are.
“The Covid-19 pandemic forced some businesses to close and it was tough. But many of
you kept going, kept pushing, and kept believing. We see you!”
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