Staff Reporter
Swakopmund, Sept. 30 – On September 28th and 29th, 2023, MNCapital Group, in partnership with ASFI SA Ltd, will host the inaugural Namibia ESG and Sustainable Finance Forum, a two-day event that promises to be an exclusive gathering of over 60 participants. This unique forum will facilitate dynamic discussions on the integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into institutional investment decisions and corporate strategies. Distinguished participants include James Mnyupe, the Presidential Economic Advisor; Jason Kasuto, CEO at Monasa Advisory & Associates; Jason Hailonga, CEO of NaSIA; Saima Ashipala-Nimengobe from the Development Bank of Namibia; and Adrian Mill, the Managing Director of Environmental and Social Sustainability (ESS).
The first day of the event will focus on “Building a Resilient Banking Sector.” It will delve into the Bank of Namibia’s efforts to collaborate with the banking sector in identifying and mitigating climate-related and environmental risks. Discussions will also centre on how private capital can enhance portfolio company performance through improved corporate governance. A networking lunch will provide valuable one-on-one engagement opportunities. The second day, a half-day session, will concentrate on designing gender-smart sustainable finance instruments and funds, innovative blended finance strategies for scaling sustainable finance, and in-depth conversations on sustainability imperatives and retirement outcomes for pension funds.
Michael Ndinisa, Founder and CEO of South African-based MNCapital Group, expresses his enthusiasm about hosting the event in Swakopmund and highlights the success of similar forums held in other African nations. Ndinisa underscores the Forum’s significance, drawing sponsorship and support from Monasa Advisory and Associates, Ninety-One Namibia, the Economic Association of Namibia, and The Brief.
Jason Kasuto, Managing Director at Monasa Advisory and Associates, emphasizes the importance of ESG principles in the Namibian context, stating, “ESG should be synonymous with good business.” He reaffirms Monasa’s commitment to generating impact through data-driven insights and contributing African-centric solutions to socio-economic challenges.
MNCapital Group is renowned for convening high-impact investment conferences across Africa, particularly for major market players, and is the driving force behind this Forum.
In a post-pandemic world, institutions worldwide are intensifying their efforts to drive economic recovery and development, aiming to address socio-economic challenges exacerbated by recent global events. This Forum presents an excellent opportunity for institutional investors to explore new investment prospects, achieve desired returns, and create a positive social impact.
The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework holds significant potential for the Retirement Fund industry. Higher savings levels are crucial for advancing a nation’s economic aspirations, leading to infrastructure development and employment opportunities. A strong correlation exists between savings records and a nation’s ability to attract investment.
The Inaugural Namibia ESG and Sustainable Finance Forum 2023 promises to foster industry knowledge-sharing, enabling participants to engage with key stakeholders, forge lasting partnerships, learn from industry thought leaders, and strengthen existing business relations. Speaker sessions will provide professional insights aligned with the conference theme.
Michael Ndinisa concludes by inviting like-minded sponsors, delegates, and industry stakeholders to collaborate in making this event a resounding success.
