Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sustainability Bond?

Sustainability Bonds, commonly referred to as “use of proceeds Bonds “, are a unique fixed-income instrument and investment vehicle for commercial and institutional investors. The proceeds are exclusively applied to finance or re-finance a combination of both green and social projects, in part or in full, new or existing, which are aligned with the four core components of the International Capital Market Association’s (ICMA) Green Bond Principles (GBP), (ICMA) Social Bond Principles (SBP) and also follows the (ICMA) Sustainability Bond Guidelines. The four components are.

What is the difference between Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds?

Green, Social and Sustainability Bonds are three different labels attached to bonds and require adherence to different principles as defined by ICMA (International Capital Markets Association). There are no distinct difference between green, social and sustainability bonds compared to conventional bonds other than the use of proceeds.

What projects categories will qualify?

Bank Windhoek will evaluate environmental and social projects based on the primary objectives and impact of the underlying project. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to, the following broad categories, that are (in part) aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

• Renewable energy
• Energy Efficiency & Resource Efficiency
• Green Buildings & Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Sustainable Waste Management
• Sustainable Land Use
• Clean Transportation
• Sustainable Water & Sanitation Management
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Climate-smart Agriculture
• Non-energy Green House Gas Emission Reduction
• Social Infrastructure (Health and Education)
• Reduced Inequalities
• Responsible Consumption and Production
• Affordable Housing
• Improved Access to Funding for Small & Medium Enterprises and Micro Businesses
• Woman in business

What are the requirements to obtain a loan?

Your loan application will be either approved or declined based on our evaluation of the information the client provides. In some cases, we may need to ask for additional information.

Bank Windhoek Clients

• Be over the age of 18 years old
• Have an active transactional account with Bank Windhoek
• Be a resident of the Republic of Namibia
• Every credit application will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis

Contact your nearest branch for the additional documents required

Non-Bank Windhoek Individuals

• A copy of your Namibian ID, proof of residence, proof of income (provide the latest pay slip) and a bank statement reflecting your salary deposits for the last three (3) months.
• Additional credit evaluation criteria will apply
• An unbonded residential property to offer as collateral
• Submit a completed Business Finance application form

Contact your nearest branch for the additional documents required

Non-Bank Windhoek Businesses

• At least six months' bank statements
• Verified basic financial information (i.e. annual financial statements and year-to-date management accounts)
• Projections (cash flow statements, income statements and balance sheets)
• A business plan to demonstrate the viability and sustainability of the business
• An unbonded residential property to offer as collateral
• Submit a completed Business Finance application form
• Should the application be successful, the clients are required to open a Business Account

Can I contact any supplier for a quotation?

Suppliers/vendors and installers must be credible and have a proven track record. Upon request, Bank Windhoek can provide a list of credible suppliers and installers, vetted by the Renewable Energy Industry Association of Namibia (REIAoN), from which clients can choose. A minimum of two quotations will be required as part of the application process.

How much can I borrow?

There is no minimum amount applicable. The maximum amount will depend on the client’s repayment ability evaluation and available funds at the time of the loan application.

What interest rate will be charged for a loan under the Sustainability Bond Funding facility?

Interest rates are variable and based on the applicant’s repayment ability and the credit risk profile. On average, our rates are more competitive and favorable compared to the rest of the credit lending industry. We evaluate every loan application on a case-by-case basis.

What is the longest repayment term I can apply for?

We offer repayment terms up to 120 months and we can structure a repayment plan to suit the clients unique affordability needs.

How long will the loan application process take?

The turn-around time for any loan application will depend on the quality and timely submission of required documentation.

Are there any penalties applicable to early loan settlement?

No. There are no penalties applicable. We encourage clients to settle their loans as soon as possible to avoid paying any unnecessary interest.

Whom can I contact to obtain more details?

Please, contact your nearest Bank Windhoek branch, or send a detailed email to sustainabilityloan@bankwindhoek.com.na.​​​​