RMB showcases Namibia as Africa’s next big investment hub
Strategic leadership and global partnerships
Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) Namibia joined global leaders at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, positioning Namibia as one of Africa’s most promising investment destinations.Led by Conrad Dempsey, CEO of FirstRand Namibia, Jason Shikalepo, Head of Investment Banking, and Angelique Peake, Oil and Gas, Energy and Resources Sector Lead, the RMB delegation attended at the invitation of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who called for stronger private-sector collaboration to drive economic growth.
The week opened with the Africa-America Institute (AAI) Gala Dinner, where a fireside chat between the presidents of Namibia and Mozambique explored Africa’s rising influence in global leadership. The discussion reinforced Namibia’s growing visibility and readiness to partner internationally.
Throughout the week, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) hosted investor engagements, culminating in the vibrant “Experience Namibia” showcase, which celebrated opportunities in the creative economy. Hollywood actor Eric Roberts, who recently filmed Skeleton Coast in Namibia, attended the event, underscoring the country’s growing appeal for international film productions.
Round table
RMB also supported a high-level roundtable hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), alongside S&P Global and Siemens Healthineers, marking over 30 years since Namibia’s first post-independence visit to the UNGA.
In his remarks, Dempsey highlighted Namibia’s people-centric approach to growth, emphasising inclusivity and job creation. “Although Namibia has a population of just three million, it continues to punch above its weight,” he said. “The real story is one of human energy and limitless potential.”
Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed Africa’s vast opportunities as a market of 1.4 billion people, adding that Namibia aims to advance intra-African trade under the AfCFTA. She urged global partners to invest in Africa’s sustainable development.
Reflecting on the event, Dempsey said: “It was an honour to join the president of Namibia on the world stage. The discussions reaffirmed our belief that Namibia is on a strong growth trajectory.”
Peake added: “Our engagements at UNGA deepened collaboration with leaders and investors. RMB remains committed to unlocking opportunities across energy, infrastructure, and creative industries.”