Namibia: From Compliance to Excellence: MPower community trust's governance transformation

MPower Community Trust, based in Namibia, implemented the project “Strengthening Governance and Financial Systems to Sustain MPower Community Trust” through the Marang Fund. The aim was to reinforce governance structures, enhance financial accountability and formalise compliance practices across the organisation.

Before the intervention, MPower Community Trust had financial and governance systems in place but lacked standardisation across projects. Supporting documents were not centrally stored, which complicated verification and correction processes. Although taxation compliance through PAYE and NAMRA was consistently upheld, internal distinctions between consultants and full-time staff were inconsistently applied in contractual language. Financial controls and segregation of duties required strengthening to align with best practice.

The onboarding and due diligence process introduced a centralised documentation system, enabling all supporting documents to be uploaded and stored online. Mandatory submission of attendance registers within 72 hours of activity implementation strengthened accountability and minimised inconsistencies. The project also required consistent use of QuickBooks, improving the accuracy and traceability of all financial transactions.

Strict donor reporting standards shaped major changes. All payment requests must now be submitted at least 24 hours before execution, allowing time for thorough document review and verification. MPower Community Trust clarified roles for payment initiation, verification and final approval, ensuring proper segregation of duties. Procurement processes were formalised, requiring three quotations in line with fairness and transparency principles.

The change was led by the Finance Manager, with strong participation from the Programme Manager and Executive Director. Together, they developed clear documentation requirements, strengthened internal oversight and institutionalised improved procedures.

Across key organisational areas, improvements were notable. Financial documentation became consistent and complete; monthly reconciliations are now routine. Human resources, finance and procurement policies have been aligned with donor requirements. Board functionality improved with greater emphasis on record keeping and regular meetings. MPower Community Trust also introduced conflict-of-interest declarations to complement its whistleblower policy.

This transformation is especially significant because it marked the organisation’s transition from serving as a subrecipient under larger Namibian institutions to managing donor relationships directly. Working with Gender Links, Bonella and the European Union provided first-time exposure to international compliance standards. Staff gained confidence and new competencies, particularly after participating in the Marang Fund onboarding in Johannesburg.

The strengthened systems improved financial discipline, enhanced donor trust and increased the organisation’s visibility and credibility. MPower Community Trust is now better positioned to manage future direct funding opportunities. These practices are fully embedded across projects and no longer limited to specific donor requirements.