On Tuesday, 1 September 2026, Bank Windhoek handed over N$4 million to the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) through its longstanding Cancer Apple Project, bringing the initiative’s total contribution since 2000 to N$42.4 million. Now in its 26th year, the project remains one of Namibia’s most enduring fundraising initiatives, mobilising Namibians around a simple but powerful idea that small acts of support can create meaningful impact for people affected by cancer.
The N$4 million raised this year will support the CAN’s outreach, screening, awareness and patient-support initiatives at a time when Namibia is estimated to record 4,205 new cancer diagnoses, with breast, cervical and prostate cancer among the most detected cancers annually. The impact is also deeply felt among children and families. Data from the Namibia National Cancer Registry, hosted by the Cancer Association of Namibia, indicate that approximately 136 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer in Namibia each year. Common childhood cancers include leukaemia, kidney tumours and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, underscoring the importance of early recognition, rapid referral, accurate diagnosis and continued family support.
Cancer Association of Namibia Chief Executive Officer, Rolf Hansen, said the contribution comes at a critical time for the country. “Cancer is no longer a distant or future challenge for Namibia; it is one of our most pressing public health priorities. This generous contribution from Bank Windhoek and the many Namibians who supported the Project will help us strengthen awareness, promote earlier detection, support families in need and bring practical hope to people affected by cancer across the country.” Speaking at the handover ceremony in Windhoek, Bank Windhoek’s Managing Director, James Chapman, said the success of the Project reflects the same entrepreneurial spirit on which the Bank was founded in 1982: the ability to see opportunity, mobilise people, and use business capabilities to create value beyond commercial purposes.
“The Cancer Apple Project is a powerful expression of what effective corporate social responsibility should be,” Chapman said. “It demonstrates what can be achieved when businesses, government, civil society, schools, communities and individuals bring their resources, networks and influence together around a shared purpose.” The Project uses Bank Windhoek’s national footprint, branch network and digital platforms to make participation accessible. Supporters contribute by buying apples, apple juice or virtual apples, and by donating through digital channels, including the Bank Windhoek Mobile App.
Bank Windhoek also extended its appreciation to the project partners whose support made this year’s success possible. In no particular order, the Bank thanked MTC for lending its valued support; Namibian Fresh Produce Market for supplying the apples; NamPost Courier and FP du Toit Transport for providing much-needed courier and distribution support across the country; Solitaire Press, the official printing partner; SuperSpar Maerua for contributing towards the school prizes; Jaylo Productions, the official sound and production partner; Channel 7 and Radio Kosmos for its valuable media partnership. Behind every number is a human story,” Chapman said. “Whether it is an adult facing a new diagnosis or a child whose family must travel for specialised care, this contribution is about more than a financial handover. It is a contribution towards awareness, early detection, practical support and, ultimately, hope.” Bank Windhoek further noted that the Cancer Apple Project aligns with its broader commitment to creating sustainable value for stakeholders by partnering with customers, employees and communities.
Through its social investment vehicle, Capricorn Foundation, and other social investment initiatives, the Bank has continued to support programmes that address Namibia’s development priorities and the needs of vulnerable communities. “To everyone who bought an apple, made a donation, shared a message or encouraged someone else to support the initiative: thank you for believing that a small act can make a significant difference,” Chapman said. He concluded that the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project continues to stand as a testament to the power of partnership, innovation and collective action in the fight against cancer in Namibia.