Windhoek Observer

Chamwe Kaira A new RMB white paper on Africa’s economic future highlights Namibia as one of the continent’s key reformers, pointing to its progress in digital payments and its ambitious green hydrogen plans. According to the Continent at a Crossroads report, Namibia has become the first and only African country to integrate India’s Universal Payments Interface (UPI) into its national payments system.  The agreement between the Bank of Namibia and India’s national payments coordinator will allow real-time, low-cost digital payments across borders.  RMB says the move positions Namibia as a regional leader in interoperable financial technology.  The report notes that…

Chamwe Kaira Namibia’s primary industries are set for a mixed year in 2025, with deep losses in agriculture contrasting with a strong rebound in uranium mining, according to the Bank of Namibia’s December 2025 Economic Outlook Update. The Bank of Namibia projects a 4.2% contraction in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector in 2025, a widening from the 2.7% decline in 2024. The drop is driven mainly by a steep fall in livestock farming, which is expected to shrink by 22.5% as farmers work with reduced herds and limited feed after the 2024 drought. Despite the expectation of an improvement…

Staff Writer The O&L Group says it remains confident in the recovery of businesses facing challenges, including Kraatz, Hangana Seafood and Hangana Abalone. The group says its strength lies in resilience and a clear long-term vision. “While each of our businesses looks different, our vision remains the same, and that is what it’s all about: a celebration of the authentic, caring and passionate businesses, leaders and teams behind the success of O&L,” chief experience officer Franziska Rüeck said. “Let us continue to build on this momentum as we step confidently into the next phase of our Vision 2029.” Founded in…

Staff Writer  Namdeb has strengthened its partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) by funding the establishment of a patrol camp in the Hardap National Park. The company donated N$280 000 for the camp, which will serve as the base for the wildlife protection service team recently deployed to the park. At the handover, Namdeb’s environmental manager, Nandeshasho Nickanor, said the company’s purpose of mining for good extends beyond diamonds.  “By partnering with MEFT to establish this patrol camp, we are strengthening Namibia’s frontline defences against poaching and contributing to a shared national vision of safeguarding our…