Rural bankers boosted with N$3.24 million

The Capricorn Foundation has committed an additional N$3.24 million to the next 18-month phase of the Emerging Bankers cohort, and will increase its trainee intake to 15.

This comes after nine young trainees from various rural Bank Windhoek branches across the country graduated from the Emerging Bankers Programme last Friday.

The programme was founded by the Capricorn Foundation, in partnership with Bank Windhoek in 2024, with N$1 million in funding.

The Emerging Bankers programme, which is under Bank Windhoek’s Young Talent Development programme, aims to build a talent pipeline from Namibia’s rural communities and small towns, where school leavers often struggle to find employment and training opportunities.

“This initiative can change the lives of Namibian youth, spark positive transformation in small towns and rural areas, provide hope and opportunity, and promote inclusive economic growth,” Capricorn Foundation executive officer Marlize Horn says.

Capricorn Group chief executive David Nuyoma describes the graduates as the next generation of bankers who will redefine excellence, innovation, and service in Namibia’s financial landscape.

“We need leaders who can adapt to change, understand people, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”

A graduate from the bank’s Ondangwa branch, Anna Haikali, says the programme invested in their dreams.

“When I joined the programme, I was curious but unsure of what to expect. I joined the Bank Windhoek Ondangwa Branch, and what I discovered was more than just training. It was a community that believed in us and our potential,” she says.

Edla Tjikaka, a graduate from the Outapi branch, says: “This journey has been nothing short of transformative and it provided a platform for me to shine.”

Juliana Fillipus, a graduate from the Oshifu branch, says the past 18 months have challenged and strengthened her.

“The programme gifted me with memories and friends I will always carry with me, my fellow emerging bankers,” she says.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.