By Staff Reporter
Kavango West Region, June 19 – The 2024 Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic, and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) initiative has once again highlighted the entrepreneurial brilliance within Namibia, focusing this time on the Kavango West Region. This year’s competition has unearthed exceptional talent and innovative businesses from Nkurenkuru, culminating in the recognition of three outstanding entrepreneurs poised to make a significant impact in their communities.
The Old Mutual Namibia Foundation is thrilled to announce the successful winners of the 2024 OM SEED Kavango West Region. Leading the charge and winning N$50,000 is Januarius Hamutenya, the founder of Hamutenya Furniture Manufacturing, specializing in the manufacturing and repair of furniture.
Hamutenya’s craftsmanship and dedication to quality have distinguished his business. Expressing his excitement, he said, “Winning the OM SEED first prize is a monumental achievement for us. This funding will allow Hamutenya Furniture Manufacturing to expand our workshop and enhance our product range. We are committed to delivering top-quality furniture that meets the needs of our community.”
Johannes Sheya, the visionary behind Kalondo Trading Enterprises CC, secured the second prize of N$30,000. His business focuses on the manufacturing of precast materials, providing essential building products to the local construction industry. Sheya shared, “This reward is a significant boost for Kalondo Trading Enterprises. With OM SEED’s support, we will increase our production capacity and improve the quality of our precast materials. Our goal is to contribute to the growth and development of our region through reliable and durable construction products.”
Taking the third prize and N$20,000 is Josephine Da Costa, the entrepreneur behind Jostaria Trading CC, specializing in poultry farming. Da Costa’s farm is known for its high-quality poultry products that support local food security. Da Costa remarked, “Being recognized by OM SEED is a tremendous honour. This prize will enable Jostaria Trading CC to expand our farm and enhance our poultry production. We are dedicated to providing nutritious and affordable poultry products to our community, helping to improve food security in our region.”
Mignon du Preez, Old Mutual Namibia’s Group Marketing, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Executive, reflected on the impact of OM SEED: “The entrepreneurs from the Kavango West region symbolize the resilience and creativity of our nation. Their journeys demonstrate the transformative potential of initiatives like OM SEED in fostering economic growth, innovation, and community upliftment.”
Du Preez concluded by commending the winners for their dedication and vision: “Their success stories inspire us all. The achievements of Hamutenya, Sheya, and Da Costa reaffirm our commitment to nurturing Namibia’s entrepreneurial talent. We proudly support their journeys and look forward to the positive changes they will bring to their communities.”
Since its inception in 2022, OM SEED has reached six regions and aims to cover all 14 regions by 2025, empowering entrepreneurs across Namibia with funding, mentorship, and incubation support. Winners from the upcoming regions will be announced as the OM SEED team continues its journey across the country, celebrating Namibian entrepreneurs’ ingenuity and hard work. This initiative continues to play a vital role in creating a vibrant and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Namibia.
