Management Committee
The Management Committee is responsible for the overall control and management of the chamber. Members of the Management Committee and the standing committees do not receive remuneration for their service as Management Committee members it is purely on a voluntary basis.
Connie Engelbrecht
Executive Director
Connie Engelbrecht is the Chef-owner of Isati Boutique Hotel & Tours in Groot Aub and a passionate community leader in Windhoek Rural. With formal training in Namibian politics and business administration, she brings both grassroots insight and strategic thinking to the Chamber.
A former primary school teacher of 8 years, Connie is deeply committed to community empowerment. She serves as a Civil 20 (C20) delegate, representing rural women in global policy dialogues with the G20.
Driven by the belief that rural businesses are stronger together, Connie helped mobilise entrepreneurs in Groot Aub to form a united voice — a vision that led to the founding of the Windhoek Rural Chamber of Trade.
Robert Mugabi Gatonye
The Chairman
Robert Gatonye is a Certified Accountant, MBA holder, and seasoned Management Consultant specialising in strategy, financial management, and ICT consulting. With a pragmatic approach to problem-solving, he helps organisations align vision with execution, especially in fast-changing environments.
He also lectures at tertiary level, offering a blend of academic depth and practical insight. Over the years, Robert has led and supported numerous initiatives focused on SME development, public sector reform, and digital transformation—equipping him with a unique perspective on enterprise growth and sustainability.
A humanist at heart, he believes development must begin with people and be anchored in dignity and inclusion. His role in founding WRCT is driven by a commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly the fight to end poverty and strengthen rural economic systems.
Reachel Ndeshihafela Munene
Secrtary Finance
Rachel Ndeshihafela Munene is a dynamic rural businesswoman engaged in the sale of curios and merchandise, with a background in office administration and management. Her entrepreneurial spirit is rooted in hands-on experience and a deep connection to the rural lifestyle.
A passionate plant enthusiast, Rachel has turned her home into a green haven and is now planning to expand into small-scale food production—growing for both household use and surplus sales.
Her motivation in founding WRCT is to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, promote rural business visibility, and create a platform for shared growth and advocacy. Rachel brings a grounded perspective and a strong commitment to building community-based economic resilience.
Elly Jezurura
Chamber Administrator
The Chamber Administrator is the central point of coordination for the Windhoek Rural Chamber of Trade. This role is about ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, supporting communication, and keeping things organised. The Administrator helps the leadership team by managing meetings, records, member updates, and basic logistics.
They play a vital behind-the-scenes role to make sure members are informed, documents are in order, and events run smoothly. The Administrator also assists in tracking follow-ups and maintaining communication with stakeholders when required.
The position is not about making decisions, but about making sure decisions are followed through. With a structured and reliable Administrator, the Chamber is able to stay efficient, responsive, and focused on its purpose of supporting rural business growth.