Namibia Women in Finance & Insurance Summit 2025 champions gender diversity, inclusion, and equality

The 4th Namibia Women in Finance and Insurance Summit convened in Windhoek, drawing leading female professionals to discuss innovation, legacy-building, and the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting inclusive growth.

The summit, which focused on the impact of digital transformation in the finance and insurance sectors, emphasized the need to empower women by providing them with access to financial tools, leadership opportunities, and decision-making roles.

Hertha!Gontes, the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Sisedi Investment Group, highlighted the importance of financial inclusion beyond conventional metrics.

“Financial inclusion is not simply about bank accounts or credit lines. It is about dignity. It is about unlocking opportunities for women to start businesses, protect their livelihoods, invest in their children’s futures, and fully participate in the economy as equals,” !Gontes said.

She further explained that women’s empowerment has a ripple effect, especially in the African context, where families are often extended beyond the nuclear unit.

“In the Namibian and African context, a family is not just nuclear—it’s extended. Including women and providing them with access to capital and leadership roles will ensure social upliftment across the ecosystem,” she added.

Participants at the summit explored how digital tools and AI can improve financial services, improve customer experiences, and create opportunities for women entrepreneurs. Discussions also covered the importance of mentorship, networking, and policy support to increase female representation in decision-making positions.

Speaking at the summit, the Minister of Gender Equality & Child Welfare, Dr. Emma Kantema said financial inclusion is not simply about bank accounts or credit lines. It is about dignity. It is about unlocking opportunities for women to start businesses, protect their livelihoods, invest in their children’s futures, and fully participate in the economy as equals.