By: Hee-Dee Walenga
Nedbank Namibia officially launched the 2025 Nedbank Desert Dash on Wednesday afternoon in Windhoek.
The 2025 edition marks 21 years of the world-renowned 24-hour 401km trek across the oldest desert in the world, the Namib Desert.
Over 1,000 cycling lovers from around the world have signed up for this year’s Dash, which will take place from 5 to 6 December 2025.
“The Nedbank Desert Dash is a test of endurance, mental strength, and pushing past limits. From the beautiful Khomas Hochland mountains, to the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a race that has grown from humble beginnings to a global spectacle,” said Nedbank Namibia’s Chief Commercial Officer, JG van Graan.
Van Graan stated that the event injects over N$25 million into the local economy, stimulating businesses in both Windhoek and Swakopmund across a wide range of industries. “It has positioned Namibia as a premier destination for sports tourism,” van Graan added.
Speaking on behalf of Minister Sanet Steenkamp, Director of Sport at the Ministry of Education Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Jo-Ann Manuel, reminded the audience that sport and events such as the Desert Dash can be used to achieve some of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We should tap into sport to eradicate poverty among our people. You ride a bike for a few hours for a chance to win N$20,000 (for example), other people have to wake up early in the morning for 30 consecutive days to earn even less than that,” Manuel expressed.
The cash prizes for the solo men’s and women’s categories are: N$40,000 (1st), N$23,000 (2nd), and N$13,000 (3rd). This year’s Dash has a total of 20 corporate partners, which include Nedbank Namibia, Paratus Namibia, and Hollard Namibia.
Manuel also noted how sport can address the SDGs of good health & well being, decent work & economic growth, and smart partnerships for development goals.
Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Swakopmund, Blasius Goraseb, noted how the Dash represents a notable moment on the tourism and economic calendar of Swakopmund.
“The influx of visitors energises our hospitality industry. It stimulates our small businesses and showcases the unique warmth and beauty of our coastal community,” noted Goraseb.
Nedbank Namibia also launched the #GetMoneyFit campaign, one aimed at empowering Namibians to take control of their financial well-being. The campaign encourages individuals to build consistent, intentional money habits that lead to long-term financial strength.
“We want to equip people with the know-how and tools to develop intentional habits that
will compound over time and lead to lasting financial success,” indicated van Graan.
The campaign is built on the insight that financial fitness, like physical fitness, is achieved through consistent effort and the right support.
