FNB takes over BAN chairmanship

FNB Namibia chief executive Erwin Tjipuka has taken over the chairmanship of the Banker’s Association of Namibia (BAN).

The responsibility of chairing the association rotates annually among the managing directors of commercial banks in Namibia.

Tjipuka takes over from Bank Windhoek’s Baronice Hans.

Speaking at the handover, Hans highlighted key milestones achieved during her tenure, which focused on the customer as the core of every decision achieved by the association during the 2022/23 period.

These milestones included the finalisation of the BAN strategy, which solidifies the association’s vision and mandate in the Namibian economy through advocacy, market conduct and corporate social responsibility; the implementation of various regulatory projects aligned with industry requirements; as well as the contribution of N$600 000 to the Bank of Namibia for the population census and an additional N$200 000 to the Namibian Investment Promotion and Development Board for crucial legislative interventions in the foreign investment space.

Tjipuka applauded Hans and the Bank Windhoek team for ensuring that BAN fulfils its mandate and for establishing a solid foundation on which FNB can continue to build and strengthen BAN, despite challenges.

“Banks serve as the lifeblood of any economy, facilitating economic growth, and driving progress.

We are the guardians of financial stability and intermediaries of capital allocation.

The decisions we make and the actions we take have a profound impact on individuals, businesses and the entire nation.
Therefore, we must remain committed to the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

We must proactively contribute to inclusive growth, empower underserved communities, and support initiatives that promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship,” Tjipuka said.

Bank of Namibia deputy governor Leonie Dunn commended Hans on her leadership in ensuring Namibia’s banking industry maintains a progressive financial system that provides equal opportunities to all Namibians regardless of gender, but based on merit.

Welcoming Tjipuka, she said: “You are today taking over the reins as BAN president in an environment where the banking industry is actively challenged to do more to ensure the growth of the Namibian economy is positively impacted, the prosperity of Namibia and her people is duly ensured, and the changing economic infrastructure is well supported with financial products and services that will assist with national content enhancement. While these are by no means easy asks, we are assured that your exemplary leadership style is what will pull the banking industry together to navigate this perfect storm.”

At the same event, BAN chief executive officer Brian Katjaerua launched the code of banking practice, which promotes sound banking practices by setting minimum standards for bank when dealing with customers, increasing transparency, promoting a fair and open relationship between customers and banks, and fostering confidence in the banking system.