FNB Namibia and the FirstRand Namibia Foundation have jointly contributed N$250,000 to the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) Breast Cancer Initiative.
FNB said FNB Financial Manager, Alovise Frey, said during the visit of their Chief Executive, Philip Chapman, to CAN, he met women who were not just patients.
"They were mothers, daughters, entrepreneurs, and dreamers, women whose courage reminded us that health and well-being are the true foundation of empowerment. That is why today's donation is so meaningful to us because it bridges our mission of women's empowerment with an equally vital cause, women's well-being. Because empowering without supporting their health and well-being would be incomplete," said Frey.
Frey further explained that their reason for launching HER Banking goes beyond business. "It is about Helping Every-woman Rise, whether she is building her enterprise, pursuing her dreams, or like so many brave women, fighting for her health," added Frey.
FNB said the contribution includes N$5000 from their HER Banking solution, inspired by Chapman's visit to CAN and Medical Imaging earlier this month. "The additional N$200 000 was contributed by the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, which has maintained a long-standing partnership with CAN," they informed.
They said the funds will help CAN strengthen their outreach, awareness and early detection efforts across the country. "Further reinforcing this commitment, Medical Imaging has partnered with FNB Namibia to provide heavily discounted services for breast cancer patients referred through CAN, ensuring that more women, regardless of their background, can access essential diagnostic care," they added.
The Bank also acknowledged their Breast Buddies Initiative, which made a contribution of affordable, lightweight, knitted and crocheted breast prosthetics to breast cancer survivors who have undergone mastectomies. "The Foundation has also supported this initiative with N$50 000, standing alongside staff members, local knitters and crocheters to help bring physical comfort, healing and a renewed sense of normalcy to women affected by breast cancer," they emphasised.
They said this initiative aligns closely with their 'HER Banking', a bespoke financial solution launched earlier this year to empower women entrepreneurs and support their holistic well-being. "We continue to demonstrate that meaningful empowerment extends beyond the boardroom; it is about creating a supportive ecosystem that enables women to thrive in health, business, and life," they concluded.