By: Loise Shiimi
According to the latest report from the Bank of Namibia, the registration of new businesses in Namibia surged by 59.1% year-on-year in the third quarter of 2025, reaching a total of 5,325 new businesses.
The registration of businesses is one of the indicators for future economic activity, according to the central bank.
The total number of business registrations, which in part depicts business confidence, increased by 59.1 percent year-on-year to 5,325. The increment was largely reflected in close corporations, which rose by 66.8 percent, while private (Pty) Ltd companies increased slightly by 2.3 percent, year-on-year.
On a quarterly basis, the total number of new business registrations increased by 48.0 percent. The seasonally-adjusted series showed a lower increase of 23.0 percent over the same period.
Researcher Efraim Shimbali informed Eagle FM that this increase in new enterprises signifies emerging opportunities across the country.
“This clearly demonstrates that people are eager to engage in business, which should help reduce unemployment. As these businesses thrive, the economy will also benefit,” he stated.
On the contributing factors to the rise in new businesses, Shimbali mentioned the Youth Development Fund as an important aspect in this trend, acknowledging that many aspiring entrepreneurs lack access to startup loans.
Adding on to the lack of startup capital as a barrier, Shimbali highlighted that inadequate funding often makes it difficult for new registered businesses to succeed and generate employment.
“To support the continued growth of new businesses, I recommend that the government consider investing in these enterprises. This would allow them to take a stake in the businesses, motivating them to ensure their success. While loans can be challenging if a business does not prosper, investments could create a framework for accountability,” he explained.
Shimbali also noted that a number of entrepreneurs are often unwilling to reinvest profits into their businesses, opting instead to spend on unrelated expenses. To this, he emphasised the importance of being willing to expand and invest in one’s enterprise.
“Don’t give up, even when your business faces challenges. Find ways to revive it. Running a business can be more rewarding than searching for employment. With dedication, you can enhance profits and gain valuable knowledge through experience,” he advised.
Wilhelm Wilbard, who owns a welding company, shared the motivations behind his entrepreneurial journey. He expressed his desire to generate his own income while training others who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
Wilbard holds a Level 3 qualification in welding and metal fabrication, which he obtained from a vocational training centre. He mentioned that during his time there, he saved money he received from the Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF), which he used to purchase the equipment necessary to start his business.
“I began my enterprise right after completing my training. At first, I didn’t register my business because I was a beginner trying to assess its potential for growth. Now, I understand the importance of business registration and have done so,” he said.
He also noted that several of his industry peers with similar qualifications and skills are keen to start their own businesses, but face the challenge of lacking startup capital. To that end, Wilbard urged the government to continue providing adequate support and funding to enable individuals to start their own businesses.
When discussing the challenges his business faces, he mentioned that there are numerous competitors in the field, leading to competition. However, he mentioned that he views competition as a catalyst for creativity, encouraging businesses to differentiate themselves through quality services and innovative methods to attract customers.
