• By Jeremiah Ndjoze

First National Bank (FNB) Namibia, this week, unveiled its new annual pricing structure, which the bank says, offers customers more accessible and affordable banking solutions, tailored to the unique lives of local customers.  
The bank has it that the updated pricing, effective 1 July, 2025, reflects its strategic commitment to financial inclusion, digital adoption and long-standing commitment to helping as underpinned by the mantra, ‘help changes everything.’
FNB Namibia further revealed that, while the new pricing structure features many new highlights, key among them is that there will now be zero charges on all local (Namibian) card swipes, a first for the Namibian market.
“At FNB Namibia, we believe banking should be simple, fair and in touch with the real lives of the people we serve,” said Nangula Kauluma, chief executive officer  of FNB Namibia’s retail banking.

 
“This pricing update is not just about lower fees, it is about creating real value and building trust with Namibians across every region and walk of life,” she added.
“The new pricing strategy is the result of a careful strategic review aimed at aligning the bank’s offering with what matters most to Namibians today. [This is] affordability, access and ease.”
She said, building on a broader vision of empowering Namibians by reducing everyday costs and enhancing digital access, the bank continues to accompany customers on their financial journeys.

Philip Chapman of FNB Namibia’s business banking, stressed:  “Our pricing strategy is not just about numbers. It is about people. We are proud to ‘lead with heart’ and to offer a banking experience that meets Namibians where they are.” 
He enthused: “We believe that no two businesses are the same, which is why our 2025 pricing is designed to provide meaningful value across all segments, from small and medium enterprises to large corporates. Our goal is to provide real help that drives sustainable growth by reducing cost barriers and supporting businesses where it matters most.”
The institution is adamant that its 2025 pricing model is not just a fee update, but part of a long-term commitment to building a globally competitive Namibia by creating a banking environment that enables entrepreneurship, supports financial literacy and strengthens the foundation for inclusive economic growth.
Other highlights of the strategy, are said to be a reduction in fees through alternative channels such as Cash@Till and Cash Plus.

NEW WAY OF BANKING

Similarly, Bank Windhoek implemented a revised banking fee structure also effective, 1 July 2025, in response to ongoing economic uncertainty and a projected inflation rate of 4.5 percent. The moderate fee adjustment, according to Bank Windhoek, aims to maintain real value and service quality amid a challenging operating environment.
The Capricorn Group subsidiary further maintained that this adjustment has been carefully considered to reflect current cost realities while remaining fair and responsible. The bank  stressed that the revised banking fee structure demonstrates its' dedication to financial inclusion and commitment to supporting economic resilience in challenging times. 
“It also encourages using cost-effective self-service and digital channels, empowering customers to manage their banking needs conveniently,” Bank Windhoek’s chief financial officer and interim executive officer for specialist finance, Zenaune Kamberipa revealed.

 
He maintained that the bank has renewed its commitment to providing an ‘optimised affordable digital banking experience’ through amongst others free access to digital channels with no monthly subscription fees for internet banking, the Bank Windhoek and Capricorn Private Wealth (CPW) mobile app, cellphone banking and easyWallet transactions.
It has also emerged that Bank Windhoek customers should no longer visit a branch to obtain a bank confirmation letter, as they can request one from the comfort of their home, ‘a strategic objective to enhance customer experience.’
Bank Windhoek further revealed that for its senior customers, there are no monthly service fees, point-of-sale transaction fees, or fees for external debit orders.

 
“A low cost applies to senior customers when accessing funds over the counter and their ATM withdrawals remain unchanged. Additionally, senior customers continue to benefit from favourable credit interest rates,” Kamberipa revealed. 
Kamberipa further maintained that Bank Windhoek is undertaking significant modernisation efforts to enhance its banking services, focusing on digital and mobile solutions. This initiative, he stressed, includes the renovation of branches to improve customer experience and the introduction of self-banking hubs. Of the Bank’s 54 branches, 13 have been renovated, while others will follow soon.

“The revamped branches comprise a seamless and modern space with the same exceptional client service team and a self-banking hub that empowers customers to transact safely and securely,” said Kamberipa.