Bank of Namibia Highlights Creative Industries as Key Driver of Economic Growth

Bank of Namibia Highlights Creative Industries as Key Driver of Economic Growth. The Bank of Namibia officially launched its Annual Symposium today in Windhoek, focusing on the theme “Unleashing the Power of the Creative Industries: A Catalyst for Economic Development in Namibia.” The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to explore how Namibia’s creative economy can fuel inclusive and sustainable growth.

Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, the Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Hon. Dr. Sanet Steenkamp, underscored the nation’s potential to lead a creative transformation.

She highlighted that Namibia’s youthful, connected, and tech-savvy population provides the foundation for developing a strong creative economy capable of driving innovation and economic diversification. “By creating the right conditions for people to thrive, Namibia can unlock innovation, empower youth, and harness the power of creativity as a driving force for national development,” she said.

Dr. Steenkamp called for greater collaboration across government, business, and educational institutions to strengthen the creative ecosystem. She urged stakeholders to integrate creativity into national policies and strategic planning, emphasizing that the creative sector is central to shaping a modern, resilient economy.

“Together, let us align our policies, our institutions, and our imagination to build a Namibia that is not only stable and resource-rich, but also creative, innovative, and opportunity-rich,” she said. “Let us believe in the power of Namibian creativity, for it is not only the future of our economy, it is the heartbeat of our national identity.”

The symposium serves as a platform for dialogue on unlocking new economic pathways and empowering Namibia’s creative talents to contribute meaningfully to national growth.