The Old Mutual Foundation is pleased to present the 40 shortlisted candidates for the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic, and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) Entrepreneurship Programme, which is currently in its third edition. This initiative maintains its objective to promote entrepreneurship, accelerate economic growth, and address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Namibia in collaboration with its partners, Basecamp and the Financial Literacy Initiative (FLI).
OM SEED was launched in 2022 and has reached six regions to date. This year’s focus is the Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Zambezi, and Kavango West regions whereas in 2025, OM SEED will reach out to entrepreneurs in Kunene, Omaheke, Omusati, and Otjozondjupa – covering a total of 14 regions in three years. Since its founding, OM SEED has played a significant role in fostering grassroots entrepreneurship by giving prospective business owners access to funding, incubator, and mentorship support and is dedicated to creating a robust and welcoming entrepreneurial environment in Namibia.
Patricia Olivier, Old Mutual Foundation Chairperson and Managing Director of Corporate Segment stated, "We are thrilled to announce the top 40 shortlisted candidates for the 2024 OM SEED Initiative. The expansion of this initiative into new regions marks a significant step in our mission to support local entrepreneurs nationwide. By providing them with the necessary resources and recognition, we are driving economic growth, enhancing community resilience, and contributing to the country’s Sustainable Development Goals."
The selection process for the programme is rigorous, involving comprehensive evaluations and on-site visits to the businesses of the ten shortlisted entrepreneurs in each town. These visits, scheduled for June 2024, will culminate in the identification of the top three candidates in each town who will receive financial support and incubation assistance.
Here's a list of the shortlisted candidates per region:
Top 10 - Zambezi Region
- Kamwi Musweu
- Masule Brendan Nchindo
- Thaddius Masule
- Shepherd Nyombe
- Georgina Nankole Likukela
- Joseph Moowa Kalokela
- Rhonel Libana
- Mercy Kachaka Kachaka
- Zecks Musiyena Linosi
- Beaven Simasiku Mulijani
Top 10 - Kavango West Region
- Salomi Vilkuna Kambala
- Ester Wayivhwa Haita
- McDonald Matheus Naughulu
- Januarius Hamutenya
- Anselm Matamu
- Josephine Kapango
- Frans Kaunda
- Johannes Sheya
- Lina Luizi
- Daniel Kandjimi
Top 10 - Ohangwena Region
- Peneyambeko Kashimba
- Niingo Martha Nghishindwa
- Alma Naitsuwe Kayofa
- Steve-Biko Nghiwewelekwa
- Elizabeth Povanhu
- Velasia David
- Festus Elago
- Juso Mwandingi
- Ndapunikwa Justina Weyulu
- Ester Magano Hango
Top 10 - Oshikoto Region
- Theohill Veldtschoen
- Twafeni Letisiya Jona
- Vilho Linekela Mushelenge
- Maria Shangula
- Robert Natangwe Johannes
- Clemens Mupili
- Alexa Burmeu
- Theodor Shithigona
- Ella Nghifindaka
- Johannes Hilukilwa
Three winners will be chosen from each of the four regions; the first award will be worth N$50 000, the second prize N$30 000, and the third prize N$20 000. These grants will serve as catalysts, empowering the winners to scale their businesses, create more employment opportunities, and significantly contribute to Namibia's economic growth and development.
The Old Mutual Foundation believes that together, through entrepreneurship and sustainable business practices, we can build a resilient and inclusive future for all Namibians.