N$50k win for Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre
A new entrepreneurial star has risen in the Kavango East region through the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic & Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) initiative.Old Mutual Namibia, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Accelerator Lab, announced Ladislaus Shikerete of Wapa-Nawa Recycling Centre as the winning entrepreneur who secured the OM SEED 2023 Kavango East winner title.
Shikerete, an entrepreneur who collects plastic waste and transforms it into environmentally friendly bricks without using water, was awarded the first prize of N$50 000 to expand his business. Maria Haingura, specialising in farming at Katiku Poultry Trading, secured second place and received N$30 000, while Rozita Tjilunda of Kayowo Trading, specialising in carpentry, came in third place winning a prize of N$20 000.
These winners exemplify innovation and community impact by addressing crucial needs in their respective communities.
Expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm, Shikerete said that being crowned the Kavango East champion was an honour. “Our business is committed to both environmental cleanliness and providing employment opportunities for our community. This victory reinforces our mission of producing bricks from recyclable materials. The prize money will significantly contribute to our growth and the procurement of essential materials.”
The three winners in Kavango East’s dedication and ingenuity have shone a spotlight on the entrepreneurial prowess within the region. Their inspiring journey exemplifies the power of local initiatives like OM SEED in fostering economic growth, innovation, and community upliftment.
Reflecting on this achievement, Old Mutual Namibia’s Mignon du Preez said that “This continues to be a testament to the untapped potential within Namibia's aspiring entrepreneurs. We are elated to witness Ladislaus’ remarkable journey and the positive impact their business brings to our nation.”
The OM SEED team will be heading to the Hardap Region next, where they will select the three winners representing the southern areas of Namibia.