Creating a support network for entrepreneurs

After the inaugural convention that took place on 10 September in Windhoek, the UEAN held its first press conference on 16 September. This marked one year of the Association since its inception in September 2021.

The press conference focused on the formal outcome of the 2022 inaugural convention and introduced the new national executive committee (NEC) members.

The association was formed to advance the interests of all Namibian entrepreneurs, address issues affecting members and create a quality support network as well as provide high level policy guidance to the country leadership on issues affecting entrepreneurs and businesses, particularly struggling domestic businesses. It also takes stock of progress made in the implementation of existing laws affecting businesses such as the Public Procurement Act of 2015. Additionally, the association aims to explore other potential areas of cooperation and find solutions to the challenges that may hinder the operations of entrepreneurs both locally and globally.

Driven by the objective to support and complement efforts by government and address the economic challenges facing the Namibian economy and the country, national chairperson of the UEAN, Agapitus Hausiku, said they appreciate government’s efforts and initiatives in striving to provide a conducive environment for entrepreneurs and businesses to prosper.

“The establishment of the association culminating in the inaugural convention this September has been able to advance our cooperation and partnership in many areas, but we cannot be seen to be doing business as usual. We continue to face a precarious business environment; therefore, creativity and innovation are required with flexible laws and policies,” he said.

Hausiku announced that since the formation of the association, they have managed to closely work with the ministry of industrialisation and trade and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board as well as signed of memoranda of understanding with the Indian African Trade Council and the India Economic Trade Forum on 2 September in Windhoek.

“We believe such initiatives will enable our entrepreneurs to establish working relationships with their counterparts in other countries and gain skills, expertise and resources much needed for their businesses,” he said.

Hausiku introduced and congratulated the newly elected members of the NEC in their leadership positions within the association, saying he is confident that, under their leadership, there is a lot to achieve as a collective in the agenda of the association.