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Demographic and business features of SMEs in Windhoek, Namibia: implications for bank financing and economic growth

Author

Listed:
  • Rauna Ndilokelwa Iitembu
  • Solly Matshonisa Seeletse

    (Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University)

  • Mmboswobeni Watson Ladzani

Abstract

This study examined the demographic and operational attributes of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Windhoek, Namibia, and their ramifications for bank funding. The study analysed a sample of 66 small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners and operators, focussing on gender, education, age, company experience, yearly income, sector type, and business registration status. Findings indicate a prevalence of female entrepreneurs, a well-educated business populace, and an emphasis on middle-aged business proprietors. The data indicates that although a considerable number of SMEs were in the nascent phases of operation, the majority of enterprises were registered with the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA). The findings highlighted the capacity of financial institutions (FIs) to offer customised assistance to SMEs, particularly in varied and non-traditional industries, to foster sustainable economic growth in Windhoek. The study finishes with recommendations for banks to enhance services and assess the funding requirements of these enterprises according to their distinct characteristics and challenges Key Words: SMEs, financing, gender, education, Windhoek, Namibia, banks, business profile, economic growth, microfinance

Suggested Citation

  • Rauna Ndilokelwa Iitembu & Solly Matshonisa Seeletse & Mmboswobeni Watson Ladzani, 2025. "Demographic and business features of SMEs in Windhoek, Namibia: implications for bank financing and economic growth," International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy (2687-2293), Bussecon International Academy, vol. 7(3), pages 394-407, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:adi:ijbess:v:7:y:2025:i:3:p:394-407
    DOI: 10.36096/ijbes.v7i3.817
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Harrison, Richard & Li, Youwei & Vigne, Samuel A. & Wu, Yuliang, 2022. "Why do small businesses have difficulty in accessing bank financing?," International Review of Financial Analysis, Elsevier, vol. 84(C).
    2. Oluwayemisi Adebola Abisuga-Oyekunle & Swapan Kumar Patra & Mammo Muchie, 2020. "SMEs in sustainable development: Their role in poverty reduction and employment generation in sub-Saharan Africa," African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 12(4), pages 405-419, June.
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