The banking sector in Namibia continues to demonstrate significant strides in female leadership, reflecting a broader commitment to gender diversity and empowerment within the financial industry.
The recent appointment of Mrs. Dantagos Naomi Jimmy as the CEO of The Bankers Association of Namibia (BAN) highlights the advancement of women in the banking and finance industry. This important leadership transition signifies a new chapter for the association, which seeks to enhance its influence within Namibia’s financial sector.
As of the current date, several prominent women hold key executive positions in the country’s top commercial banks.
Leonie Dunn serves as the Deputy Governor at the Bank of Namibia, a position she has held since August 2007. In this role, Dunn focuses on ensuring financial system stability and macroprudential oversight, which includes the regulation of various financial entities and efforts to combat money laundering. Her extensive career in the financial sector also saw her serving as the Director at the Financial Intelligence Centre of the Republic of Namibia from August 2007 to December 2021, where she led national efforts in anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. Prior to this, she was a Legal Advisor at NAMFISA from January 2005 to August 2007. Dunn’s educational background is equally impressive, with executive programs at Harvard Business School and degrees in Law from Stellenbosch University, among other institutions. As an international commercial lawyer, she has provided a full scope of legal services to both private clients and government entities, specializing in financial services regulation for banking and non-banking financial services industries. Her expertise spans AML/CFT/CPF prevention and combatting at national, regional, and international levels, making her a pivotal figure in Namibia’s financial regulatory landscape.
Ester Kali serves as the Chief Executive Officer for Letshego Namibia, bringing a wealth of experience and education to her role. She holds a Financial Services Advanced Diploma and a Credit Diploma from the Institute of Bankers South Africa, as well as an MBA in Strategic Management from Maastricht School of Management. Kali joined Letshego Namibia in November 2014, transitioning from her position as Head of Retail and Business Banking at FNB Namibia. Under her leadership, Letshego Namibia has grown significantly, achieving a market capitalization of NAD 3 billion. Kali is recognized for her contributions to financial inclusion and responsible lending practices, emphasizing affordability and ethical lending standards. She has also been honored with a Woman of Distinction Award and Empowerment Peace Ambassadors Certification from the United Nations Global Women Foundation, reflecting her commitment to empowering individuals and communities through financial services.
Martha Murorua is the Managing Director for Nedbank Namibia, where she has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable financing and economic growth. She completed the Bankseta International Executive Development Programme in Banking in Africa at Duke University and has a diverse professional background with previous roles at Fisheries Observer Agency (FOA), FNB Namibia, and Old Mutual Namibia. Murorua was appointed as the Managing Director of Nedbank Namibia in July 2020, succeeding Lionel Matthews. She is passionate about driving positive change in the Namibian economy and has been actively involved in initiatives to promote sustainable development. Additionally, Murorua serves as the Chair of the Bankers Association of Namibia (BAN), where she advocates for the banking industry and fosters financial literacy and inclusivity.
Mercia Geises is the Chief Executive Officer for Namibia Hydrogen Fund Managers, focusing on incubating Namibia’s green hydrogen sector. She holds a B. Juris from the University of Namibia, a Bachelor of Laws degree and a Master of Laws degree in Mercantile Law from the University of the Free State, and an MBA from the University of Stellenbosch. Geises has an extensive background in the financial sector, having previously served as the Chief Executive of SBN Holdings and Standard Bank Namibia. In her current role, she is instrumental in advancing projects related to energy transition and green hydrogen, contributing significantly to Namibia’s sustainable economic growth. Geises’ leadership has been crucial in positioning Namibia as a key player in the global green hydrogen market, driving innovation and environmental sustainability.
Baronice Hans recently served as the Managing Director for Bank Windhoek, where she made significant contributions to the bank’s commitment to sustainability and community involvement. She is a Chartered Accountant by profession, with undergraduate studies completed at the University of Cape Town and an Honours Degree in Accounting Science from the University of South Africa. Hans has an extensive career in banking and has served on several boards across various industries, including telecommunication, power distribution, and asset management. She was appointed as the Managing Director of Bank Windhoek in July 2016 and has been involved in various initiatives to promote financial stability and economic growth in Namibia. Under her leadership, Bank Windhoek has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability and community development, reflecting her dedication to driving positive change in the financial sector.
.In addition to these leaders, Sepo Haihambo and Nangula Kauluma from FNB Namibia further exemplify the strong presence of women in executive roles within the country’s financial sector.
Sepo Haihambo is the CEO of FNB Commercial Banking at FNB Namibia, known for her strategic thinking and operational strategy in the financial sector. With a strong emphasis on governance and a global perspective on financial leadership, she has extensive experience in investment banking, commercial banking, and general management. Sepo is dedicated to sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive edge through innovative management practices and calculated risks. Recognized as a Strategic Women in Leadership (SAWIL) Top 10 Africa Trailblazer in 2022, her leadership philosophy combines technical expertise with practical applications, making complex financial concepts accessible. She is passionate about empowering individuals and businesses through financial literacy and creating pathways to economic stability in emerging markets. Sepo’s approach emphasizes innovation, organizational resilience, and authentic leadership with purpose at its core.
Nangula Kauluma is a seasoned professional in the financial services industry. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Spelman College in the USA and holds an MBA from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa. Additionally, she completed the Women Leading Africa – Board Leadership program at Duke University Corporate Education.
Kauluma has held significant roles in banking and insurance, including Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Operations at FNB Namibia. She has extensive experience in banking, life insurance, and short-term insurance across various positions in Africa. Notably, she served as Managing Director of Old Mutual’s Short-Term Insurance business in Namibia and was recognized for her leadership contributions.
In January 2024, Kauluma was appointed CEO of FNB Retail Banking in Namibia. Her career is marked by a commitment to innovation and excellence in the financial sector.
The rise of female leadership in Namibia’s banking sector highlights a commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse industry. These women leaders are pivotal in driving innovation and growth, positioning Namibia’s financial sector for continued success and transformation.
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