Namibia Breweries pledges N$25 million to small businesses

Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) has committed to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with N$25 million over five years.

The company launched its MSME Development Fund in 2024, which will allocate N$5 million annually for the period.

NBL manager Franck Fléchard says the fund’s goal is to develop firms owned by historically disadvantaged Namibians that operate in the manufacturing and supply of the beverage industry.

“The budget of N$25 million is to foster their growth and contribute to Namibia’s economic advancement,” says Fléchard.

In the first quarter of 2025, seven beneficiaries from the Khomas region were awarded grant funding to the total value of approximately N$550 000.

The recipients are Hansen and Hansen Investment, Ink Blink, JCD Signs, Wanyela Investment, Ultra Statix Engineering, Exquisite Signs CC and Jet Cooling Investment.

A second phase of funding has kicked off, focused on MSMEs that operate from the //Kharas, Hardap and Omaheke regions.

“Potential beneficiaries will be invited to pitch and will be selected based on their ability to provide business service delivery for the benefit of all entities that operate in the manufacturing and supply of the beverage industry, and the Namibian economy at large,” says Fléchard.

The founder of Hansen and Hansen Investment, Delano Hansen, who received N$80 000 says, “beyond providing a service, we are also committed to training people in our community with new skills through on-the-job training. We’re confident that this grant will help our community grow.”

The company specialises in indoor and external signwriting, signage design and production. Other services include branding, embroidery and printing.

Wanyela Investment received a grant of N$77 197. The company fixes fridges and other household electrical appliances.

“The grant will buy the equipment, tools and personal protective equipment I need to secure work from corporate firms and thereby grow Wanyela Investment cc,” says founder Nehemia Hailume.

NBL’s managing director, Waldemar von Lieres, says the company is excited about the opportunity to fund local development and contribute to Namibia’s overall progress.

“Every small business we back has the potential to shape the economy, create opportunities and drive progress. We are honoured to stand behind them as they build a stronger Namibia,” says Von Lieres.