By Jeremiah Ndjoze

The Indigenous People’s Business Forum (IPBF) has hailed, as a step in the right direction and viable platform, the mooted Nedbank Future of Business Conference, which is slated for late next month. They however, cautioned that such initiatives should be driven to yield tangible benefits for the micro, small and meduim enterprises (MSME )sector and not only serve as public relation projects to benefit the proponents. 
 

The conference, a collaboration with Future Media, Aurik, Droombos, Salt Essential IT, Fly Namibia and Africa Personnel Services (APS), is said to have been designed to equip businesses with vital strategies for success in today's dynamic economic landscape. 
IPBF’s chief executive officer (CEO), Chrisch Siririka concurred that there is a need for forums where the array of challenges currently facing the MSME sector can be unpacked to pave way for possible solutions. 
“There is an appetite for the growth of the MSME sector than any other time in history. The only concern is that the current business environment is not yet inclusive of this sector. Issues such as access to finance and markets remain a concern and are currently not yet aligned with the needs of the sector,” Siririka said. 
 

“That is why we will continue to embrace and support initiatives such as the forthcoming conference, as they provide the necessary platforms for dialogue. They can be eye-opening to the entrepreneurs and thought provoking to the powers that be, if the issues such as the streamlining of legislation related to MSMEs, support for women and young people in business are properly deliberated on and followed through,” he added.

ECONOMIC BACKBONE
According to its proponents, the conference will address critical areas for business growth, with a focus on leadership, communication, human resources and information technology. 
The event is said to be tailored for forward-thinking MSMEs, emerging startups, and established owner-managed businesses. It aims to provide attendees with the knowledge and tools to scale their ventures and drive innovation. 
Speakers include Nedbank Group CEO Jason Quinn, Nedbank Africa head of marketing Tatiana Ndlovu, and Aurik co-founder Pavlo Phitidis, bringing unparalleled expertise to the forefront. 
 

Nedbank's spokesperson, Selma Kaulinge, reiterated the bank's commitment to supporting Namibian businesses. 
"Namibian businesses are the backbone of our economy and their resilience and innovation is what drives our nation forward. At Nedbank, we believe that empowering Namibian businesses with strategic insight and practical tools is essential for succeeding in a rapidly changing world," said Kaulinge. "Through the Nedbank Future of Business Conference, we hope attendees walk away with renewed clarity and confidence in their business strategies, especially in how they adapt to change. By investing in platforms like this, Nedbank is intentionally helping to shape a future where Namibian enterprises are proactive, future-ready, and positioned to lead both locally and globally," she explained. 
 

Future Media CEO, Gary Stroebel said: "We identified a crucial need for a platform specifically targeting owner-managed businesses, which are key drivers of change in Namibia."
"This conference will offer direct access to leading thought leaders from Namibia and South Africa, providing invaluable, locally relevant insights for managers, leaders, and change-drivers." 
 

The Nedbank Future of Business Conference promises to foster growth, innovation, and strategic resilience within Namibia's business community, solidifying Nedbank's dedication to empowering local enterprises.