First National Bank empowers Opuwo youth

With brickmaking and business skills training
The collaborative social investment is valued over N$300 000.
Staff Reporter
  • 5 Months Ago - 2023-11-28 00:00:00
About 25 Opuwo youth received brickmaking and business skills training in addition to a full starter pack with all the equipment needed to kickstart their own businesses from FNB through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation Trust in collaboration with Ohorongo Cement.
The starter pack consisted of various items including a wheelbarrow, safety boots and glasses, gloves, cement, builder sand, 4 x 5-meter PVC sheet, brickmaking moulding, brushes and basin for washing of equipment to mention a few. This collaborative social investment is valued over N$300 000.
FNB Commercial Relationship Manager Kaarina Matheus, who spoke at the launch of the 2-day training workshop highlighted the significant role that skills development plays in Namibia’s economic growth agenda.
“Namibia needs advanced technical and vocational skills, in addition to a flexible workforce that can adjust to rapid shifts in demand especially in the construction sector. That’s why we are here today. We believe that by investing in programmes such as the brickmaking training initiative, we will empower the youth of Opuwo to play an active role in building our communities, while also providing much-needed direct investment in the region” she said.
Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development Economist Kristofina Nghishidimbwa who delivered remarks on behalf of the Minister commended the initiative adding that it marks a significant step towards not just the construction of bricks but the building of a more sustainable and empowered community.
“In the face of a challenging employment landscape, this project stands as a beacon of hope, contributing substantially to the socio-economic development our beloved town. Opuwo town like many others grapples with harsh reality of high unemployment rates. Today, however, we come together to inaugurate more than just a brick-making venture – we inaugurate a catalyst for change, a vehicle for progress, and a source of livelihood for our fellow citizens,” she said.