Empowering women with unit trusts
Wealth in her hands
In Namibia, where women are central to families and communities, building personal wealth is key to redefining power dynamics and creating generational security. However, many women hesitate to invest, viewing finance as complex, selective, or risky. Unit trusts offer a simple, accessible solution, helping women navigate investment with ease.Namibia has made progress in financial inclusion, with 79.8% of eligible women financially included, compared to 76.1% of men. Yet, many women still face challenges in accessing investment opportunities. Around 40% of organisations with female leadership report that finance access is a barrier, highlighting the need for alternatives like unit trusts.
Unit trusts are an ideal investment option for women of all income levels, especially those juggling household management, caregiving, and career demands. These funds pool money into diversified portfolios, managed by experts, which removes the burden of market tracking. Investors can start with small amounts and benefit from professional management and diversification, making it an effective tool for long-term financial growth.
Unit trusts also offer flexibility and security. Unlike fixed-term investments, unit trusts provide liquidity, allowing access to funds while still generating income. This flexibility supports women managing various financial responsibilities, from education to building an emergency fund.
Moreover, unit trusts allow for value-based investing, enabling women to align their investments with personal priorities, such as sustainability or social impact. This adds a layer of purpose to investing, allowing women to drive change in society while growing their wealth.
The myth that investing is too complicated or risky for women is outdated. Unit trusts simplify investing, empowering women to grow wealth through small, consistent contributions. The earlier they start, the more time their money has to work for them.
Unit trusts aren’t just financial products—they represent an opportunity for women to take control of their financial futures. As more women invest, they strengthen their economic impact, reshaping the narrative of wealth and influence. Wealth starts with a choice, and now is the time to invest.
* Elsie Kambala is the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Unit Trusts, Old Mutual Investment Group Namibia.
** Opinion pieces and letters by the public do not necessarily reflect the editorial team’s opinion. The editors reserve the right to abridge original texts. All newspapers of Network Media Hub adhere to the Code of Ethics for Namibian Media, a code established jointly with the Media Ombudsman.