Niël Terblanché
The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) has achieved global recognition by being named the Runner-Up in the 2024 World Trade Promotion Organizations (WTPO) Awards under the category “Best Initiative to Ensure that Trade is Inclusive and Sustainable.”
According to Julia Muetudhana, the NIPDB’s Acting Executive Director of MSME Development, Innovation, and Acceleration, this prestigious honour highlights Namibia’s commitment to fostering the growth and development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) on an international stage.
The WTPO Awards, organised by the International Trade Centre (ITC), celebrate excellence in trade promotion, spotlighting organisations that demonstrate innovation and leadership in their support for MSMEs entering and competing in global markets.
Muetudhana said that Namibia was one of eight nominees shortlisted globally this year, standing out for its Know2Grow High Potential Pool Programme, a strategic initiative designed to empower export-ready MSMEs.
The Know2Grow programme equips MSMEs with essential resources, training, and mentorship, aimed at strengthening their capacity to access international markets.
“It provides businesses with the opportunity to participate in global trade fairs and expos, ensuring they are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of competing in the international arena,” Muetudhana said.
She added that the programme’s success has solidified NIPDB’s reputation as a driving force in Namibia’s economic development and global trade integration.
Muetudhana reiterated the board’s commitment to continuing its work with Namibian MSMEs.
“We pledge our commitment to ensure that trade is inclusive and sustainable and that our businesses grow in accessing global markets,” she added.
According to Muetudhana, the recognition is not only a significant achievement for NIPDB but also a new milestone for Namibia as a whole.
She added that by being acknowledged alongside organisations like ApexBrazil, which won the category, Namibia has proven its capacity to promote sustainable trade that benefits all sectors of society.
“This is especially important in addressing global development challenges and creating equitable economic opportunities,” she said.
Muetudhana added that in the future, the NIPDB aims to build on this momentum by continuing to enhance its programmes and ensure that MSMEs have the support they need to contribute to Namibia’s sustainable economic development.
She added that the global recognition reaffirms NIPDB’s vital role in shaping a future where Namibian businesses are active participants in the international marketplace, driving both national and regional economic progress.
“The NIPDB’s achievement demonstrates its growing influence on the global stage, positioning Namibia as a key player in fostering inclusive trade,” she said.
Pamela Coke-Hamilton, the executive director of ITC applauded the winners and finalists for their contributions to fostering global trade and inclusive growth.
“Trade and investment promotion organisations are key to growing economies in a sustainable way, including by supporting small businesses to export. Today, we recognise the best among them worldwide,” she said.
The Know2Grow initiative aligns with Namibia’s broader economic development goals, emphasising the importance of MSMEs as catalysts for job creation and sustainable growth.
The programme’s focus on inclusivity ensures that Namibian businesses, regardless of size, have access to international markets and the tools needed to thrive in a competitive global environment.
Coke-Hamilton said Namibia’s selection as runner-up is a testament to the NIPDB’s dedication and the hard work of its stakeholders, partners, and the Namibian MSME community.
The WTPO Awards, held biennially since 2004, are judged by an expert panel composed of previous winners and chaired by ITC’s Executive Director.
