NCRST Awards nearly N$2 million to innovators at National Innovation Challenge Final Pitch
Date: 2026-04-20
By: Robert Kwaku Annor
The
National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST), in
collaboration with the Social Security Commission (SSC), has concluded the
National Innovation Challenge (NIC) 2025/2026 Final Pitch, awarding close to
N$2 million in Developmental Vouchers to emerging entrepreneurs.
The
event, held at the Hilton Hotel Windhoek, brought together innovators,
policymakers, and industry stakeholders to support and showcase homegrown
solutions aimed at driving economic growth and job creation in Namibia.
Speaking
on behalf of NCRST Chief Executive Officer Anicia Peters, General Manager for
Business Support Services Simon Nghipangwa highlighted the commission’s mandate
to promote innovation through training, mentorship, and market access. He noted
that the National Innovation Challenge plays a critical role in empowering
young entrepreneurs with viable and scalable business ideas.
Ten
finalists presented their innovations during the pitch session, each delivering
a three-minute presentation followed by a question-and-answer session with a
panel of judges. Among the judges was Benjamin Iiyambo, Head of Employment
Creation Projects at the Social Security Commission, who commended participants
for their efforts and encouraged them to remain resilient in their
entrepreneurial journeys.
Five
winners emerged from the competition, each receiving Developmental Vouchers to
support the growth and implementation of their business ideas. The recipients
include Namupa Nengola of Taneta Investment CC and Immanuel Ndawedapo of
IndustriaLink, who each received N$399,993. Raina Augustus of Kalinasho Trading
Enterprise was awarded N$392,910, while Diana Nakuumba of DK Nak Investment
received N$392,000. Abner Thomas of Ndaka Mushrooms was awarded N$376,674.80.
The
National Innovation Challenge is part of ongoing efforts by NCRST and the
Social Security Commission to strengthen Namibia’s innovation ecosystem,
support entrepreneurship, and promote sustainable economic development through
job creation initiatives.
