By: Peneyambeko Jonas
Old Mutual Namibia has been recognised as the Most Trusted Wealth Management and Financial Solutions Provider in Namibia for 2026 by UK-based Global Brands Magazine.
The award comes as Namibia’s investment industry continues to manage hundreds of billions of dollars in household and pension savings.
At the same time, the country seeks investment across different sectors.
The recognition was announced in the 14th edition of the Global Brand Awards, which evaluate companies on factors including innovation, operational performance, sustainability and industry contribution.
According to the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (NAMFISA), assets managed by investment firms reached N$342.6 billion during the first quarter of 2026, driven largely by pension savings and continued investor inflows.
The figure highlights the country’s saving mentality across various channels.
Old Mutual Investment Group Namibia is among the country’s largest asset managers, accounting for about 17% of total assets under management, according to industry data published earlier this year.
Old Mutual Investment Group Namibia Managing Director, Sepo Haihambo, said the award reflects the confidence clients place in the institution.
“Being named the Most Trusted Wealth Management and Financial Solutions Provider is both an honour and a responsibility. Trust is earned through consistency, sound governance and a commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals,” Haihambo said.
She said investment managers play an important role in directing long-term savings into productive sectors of the economy.
“Our purpose is to convert long-term savings into productive investments that strengthen the real economy while delivering returns for our clients. When savings are invested with discipline and integrity, they create value for individuals, families and the country,” she said.
Economist Rowland Brown of Cirrus Capital said strong investment institutions are important because much of Namibia’s savings pool is generated through pension funds.
“The investment management industry plays a critical role in allocating capital across the economy. The trust people place in financial institutions matters because pension and long-term savings depend on confidence in the system,” Brown said.
Meanwhile, independent financial adviser, Riaan van Rooyen, said recognition alone is not enough to attract investors.
“Awards are positive for brand visibility, but investors ultimately look at performance, governance, transparency and whether institutions help them meet their long-term financial objectives. Those are the factors that sustain trust over time,” he said.
Industry analysts note that as Namibia seeks to finance economic growth, investment managers will continue to play a key role in channeling household savings into businesses, infrastructure projects and government bonds, making the sector an important part of the country’s financial system.
penny@eaglefm.com.na
