Old Mutual Namibia, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme Accelerator Lab, has announced the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic, and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) winners for the Kavango East Region.
Old Mutual in a media statement said Ladislaus Shikerete of Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre secured the OM SEED 2023 Kavango East winner title.
The entrepreneur, who collects plastic waste and transforms it into environmentally friendly bricks without using water, was awarded the first prize of N.dollars 50 000 to expand his business.
Maria Haingura, specialising in farming at Katiku Poultry Trading, secured the second spot and received N.dollars 30 000, while Rozita Tjilunda of Kayowo Trading, specialising in carpentry, came in third and received N.dollars 20 000 in prize money.
Old Mutual Namibia Group Marketing, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Executive, Mignon du Preez, said the three winners’ dedication and ingenuity have shone a spotlight on the entrepreneurial prowess within Kavango East.
“This continues to be a testament of the untapped potential within Namibia’s aspiring entrepreneurs. We are elated to witness Ladislaus’ remarkable journey and the positive impact their businesses bring to our nation,” Du Preez said.
Meanwhile, Shikerete said: “Being crowned the Kavango East champion in OM SEED 2023 is an immense honour and a testament to our dedication. Our business is committed to both environmental cleanliness and providing employment opportunities for our community.”
The prize money will significantly contribute to the growth and the procurement of essential materials for the business, he added.
The Old Mutual Namibia team will be travelling to the Hardap Region to select three champions representing Namibia’s southern regions next.
The Old Mutual Foundation’s key objectives are to develop and maintain an effective social empowerment initiative, create opportunities for skill development, and promote sustainable development, the statement said.
Source: The Namibian Press Agency