Namibia Showcases Inclusive Green Finance Strategies at AFI Global Policy Forum

Namibia Showcases Inclusive Green Finance Strategies at AFI Global Policy Forum. Namibia is positioning itself as a regional leader in inclusive green finance, with Deputy Governor of the Bank of Namibia, Ebson Uanguta, presenting the country’s climate finance initiatives at the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) Global Policy Forum.

Speaking during the Inclusive Green Finance Working Group, Uanguta outlined the challenges Namibia faces as one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations. He highlighted the economic impact of severe droughts and floods, including the 2024 drought, which cost the country USD 175 million and reduced economic growth by 4.1%. Key sectors such as farming, fishing, mining, and housing now account for 21% of bank lending, exposing the financial system to increasing climate-related risks.

In response, the Bank of Namibia has implemented measures designed to strengthen resilience and safeguard the financial system. Initiatives include BID-39, which requires banks to support drought-affected farmers with loan relief, and new disclosure rules compelling banks to report on climate risk management. The Bank has also launched a Sustainability Framework that integrates climate action into financial policies, supervision, reserves management, and even the production of banknotes and coins.

Uanguta’s presentation emphasized how Namibia is turning vulnerability into resilience, using finance as a tool to support both economic stability and climate adaptation. By sharing its experience on a global stage, Namibia is demonstrating practical solutions for climate-affected countries, highlighting opportunities for sustainable investment and inclusive financial growth.

For the business and financial sectors, Namibia’s approach signals potential avenues for investment in climate-resilient agriculture, green infrastructure, and environmentally sustainable financial products, reinforcing the country’s credibility as a destination for responsible capital.