Located in the Omusati Region of Namibia, the Nakayale Private Academy is more than just a school; it is also a home and a haven for orphaned and marginalized children. Addressing the significant educational challenges faced by rural communities in Northern Namibia, the academy provides a holistic learning environment that removes barriers to quality education. Since opening its doors in 2016, the school has grown to support 80 learners from Grades 1 to 7 as at the end of 2024.
The late Mark Dawe, former Managing Director and Country Manager of B2Gold Namibia, was a passionate advocate for Nakayale. Following his passing in December 2024, B2Gold Namibia reaffirmed its commitment to the academy by establishing the Mark Dawe Legacy Fund.
“In honour of Mark, B2Gold has pledged to continue sponsoring Nakayale for as long as we have a presence in Namibia. This commitment reflects our deep belief in the impact of this initiative and ensures that Mark’s legacy — his dedication to sustainability, education, and community development – lives on,” said John Roos, Country Manager of B2Gold Namibia.
Mark first visited Nakayale during a period of significant financial uncertainty for the school. Facing critical funding challenges, the academy was struggling to keep the light of learning alive for the children who needed it most. From his first step onto the campus, Mark fell in love with Nakayale’s mission and the children they serve. He saw not just a school, but a vital community resource capable of changing the trajectory of lives across the region.
Mark Dawe, former Managing Director and Country Manager of B2Gold Namibia
Since 2020, B2Gold Namibia has provided financial support to Nakayale, which helps the school to secure educational supplies and equipment and to employ well-trained staff to interpret and deliver the curriculum. In addition, healthy daily meals are provided, and accommodation is maintained, which allows the school to provide quality education in a secure environment. In addition, B2Gold Namibia provides as-needed technical and business advice, financial services, and management capacity.
Nakayale students consistently achieve exceptional academic results, with 100% pass rates in their end-of-year reports. Alumni continue to excel in both private and public high schools across northern Namibia, proving the academy’s lasting impact on their futures.
Carmen de Villiers, Director of Nakayale Private Academy, expressed gratitude for B2Gold’s unwavering support: “Without B2Gold’s investment, none of our milestones would have been possible. The Company’s influence has transformed adversity into opportunity, proving that success is possible for every child, no matter their background. Nakayale nurtures not just young minds, but their spirits too.”
Through its continued support, B2Gold is helping to shape a brighter future for Namibia’s most vulnerable children, ensuring that education remains a powerful tool for transformation.
Discover more on our video: The Nakayale Private Academy, Namibia
Clive Johnson, B2Gold President and CEO (centre), visits students and teachers at Nakayale Private Academy.
Presentation of a Mark Dawe Legacy Fund donation by Clive Johnson, B2Gold President and CEO (far right) and John Roos, B2Gold Country Manager, Namibia (far left) in 2025 to Chrisna Greeff, Founder and Director (centre right), and Carmen de Villiers, Director (centre left), Nakayale Private Academy.