DBN reports profits surge 42%

The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) has released its 2024/25 integrated annual report (IAR), marking a significant milestone in the institution's ongoing transformation journey. 

Operating profit reaches N$88.3 million

DBN's financial performance has impressed stakeholders, with operating profit climbing 42% to N$88.3 million. The increase reflects disciplined cost management, improved recoveries, and the resilience demonstrated by the Bank's teams during a challenging economic environment. While the institution continues to contend with pressures related to asset quality and a contracting loan book, it has implemented decisive steps to stabilise risk and position itself for renewed growth.

Securing Namibia's financing future

A defining feature of the 2024/25 financial year was the strengthening of DBN's funding base through significant strategic achievements. The Bank secured N$607 million through the KfW Green Credit Line II and obtained approval for a landmark N$1.5 billion sovereign-guaranteed facility from the African Development Bank, substantially expanding its financial capacity.
Perhaps most notably, DBN became Namibia's first institution accredited by the Green Climate Fund, achieving a historic milestone that enables the Bank to mobilise climate finance in support of Namibia's just energy transition. With strong liquidity, a robust capital base, and expanding strategic partnerships, DBN is now well-positioned to diversify funding sources, strengthen SME financing, and balance financial prudence with its developmental mandate.

Nearly 1,500 jobs created through strategic lending

The DBN's developmental mandate has translated into tangible outcomes for Namibia. The Bank approved N$912.7 million in funding across priority sectors, with particular emphasis on housing and construction to address national infrastructure needs. These investments directly supported the creation of 1,429 jobs, encompassing both permanent and temporary positions.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have remained central to DBN's development agenda, with 49 projects approved during the reporting period. Targeted financing reached underrepresented entrepreneurs, with N$51.5 million directed to women-owned enterprises and N$24.3 million to youth-owned businesses. The Bank has also championed regional equity by supporting projects in underserved regions including Karas, Kavango East and West, Kunene, Oshikoto, and Zambezi, fostering inclusive and balanced national growth.

A mandate delivered with discipline

Jerome Mutumba, DBN's Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs, reflected on the year's achievements. "The 2024/25 IAR is an important accountability and performance milestone for DBN, providing stakeholders with a clear view of how the Bank is delivering on its mandate," he said.

"The year under review reflects solid financial results, meaningful progress in strengthening our funding base, and measurable developmental outcomes across priority sectors. Collectively, these results demonstrate that DBN is executing its strategy with discipline whilst remaining firmly focused on supporting Namibia's long-term economic development," he said.

Youth Development Fund and national infrastructure projects lead agenda

Looking forward, DBN will deepen its alignment with the government's national development agenda, supporting priority programmes and projects that advance inclusive and sustainable economic growth. A primary focus will be the National Youth Development Fund, facilitated by the Ministry of Finance, through which DBN is expected to disburse approximately N$64.2 million to youth-owned businesses across all 14 regions of Namibia. This initiative will strengthen entrepreneurship and job creation on a national scale.

Concurrently, the Bank will prioritise projects of national importance in alignment with the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), Vision 2030, and related strategic frameworks. Through targeted financing of catalytic infrastructure, productive sectors, and transformative initiatives, DBN will support long-term economic resilience, regional integration, and broad-based socio-economic development.