Agribank implements arrears relief programme

Agribank has begun the implementation phase of its Arrears Relief Programme, which started on 2 February 2026, the Bank’s chief executive Dr Raphael Karuaihe, confirmed in a media release dated 30 January.

The programme, launched in September 2025, aims to assist clients who have fallen behind on loan repayments while simultaneously strengthening the Bank’s loan recovery through a structured and incentivised approach.

Karuaihe explained that the programme is open to all Agribank clients whose accounts are in pre-legal or legal status. “Participating clients will benefit from a 100% write-off of penalty interest, subject to specific conditions,” he said.

Pre-legal clients are required to pay at least 20% of their arrear balance, which covers the loan instalments and interest portion but excludes penalty interest. Legal clients must pay a minimum of 25% of their arrear balance under the same terms.

Additional benefits for participants include de-listing from credit bureaus, where applicable, access to voluntary advisory services tailored to client needs, and, where suitable, opportunities for project publicity and marketing support, Karuaihe added.

Applications

Once the required portion of the arrears has been paid, the remaining arrear balance will be ring-fenced, and no further interest will be charged on that amount. Clients can repay the ring-fenced balance over a period of up to 60 months through equal monthly, quarterly, or biannual instalments.

“Clients will sign an addendum to their loan agreement to formalise the arrangement. Where legal actions have already been instituted, the repayment arrangement will be signed as an Order of Court,” Karuaihe said. Clients are, however, required to continue servicing all new and ongoing instalments as they fall due.

Karuaihe stressed that failure to comply with the agreed repayment arrangements will result in the reinstatement of penalty interest and the continuation of recovery processes. Defaulting on any other loan obligations may also lead to the revocation of relief benefits. Relief under this programme is granted once per client, unless otherwise revised.

The application window for the programme will run for six months, until 31 August 2026. Clients interested in participating are advised to visit their nearest Agribank office to apply within this period.

Beyond the Arrears Relief Programme, Karuaihe noted that Agribank continues to support farmers through climate-responsive financing products, advisory services aimed at improving productivity, and collaboration with the Government and other stakeholders on relief measures as needed. These initiatives are designed to cushion farmers against challenges such as drought while ensuring the sustainability of the bank’s loan book.

“This programme reflects Agribank’s commitment to assisting clients during challenging periods while maintaining responsible financial management,” Karuaihe said.

For further inquiries, clients can contact Agribank’s Marketing and Communications Division at 061 207 4111 or via email at info@agribank.com.na.