About Paragon
Our Journey
Twenty years of building, expanding, and making a mark on Namibia's economy — from a single idea to a group spanning seven sectors.
Who We Are
Founded by Desmond Amunyela and Lazarus Jacobs, Paragon Investment Holdings has grown from a single idea into a group spanning aviation support services, hospitality, travel retail, fishing, food production and distribution, media, newspaper publishing, duty free and property development.
With an operational footprint across Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, we hold a majority stake in most of our subsidiaries and play a direct role in shaping the industries we operate in — empowering Namibians and driving economic growth beyond our borders.
What We Do
Strategic participation in upstream energy exploration initiatives aligned with Southern Africa's evolving energy landscape.
Investment exposure in diamond resources and critical minerals supporting industrial and technological value chains.
Provision of aviation-related infrastructure and services supporting regional air transport and logistics ecosystems.
Operation and management of duty-free and travel retail outlets serving international and regional travellers.
Development and management of commercial, mixed-use, and strategic real estate assets across Namibia.
Integrated activities in fisheries and food production, supporting food security and export markets.
Investments in communication platforms that shape public engagement and commercial brand positioning.
Our Beliefs
Our ethos is simple: empower individuals, nurture relationships, and enhance lives. We champion entrepreneurship and innovation, guided by four principles.
Open and honest in everything we do — with our partners, our people and our communities.
We own our decisions and stand behind our commitments — no matter the scale of the challenge.
We do what is right, not just what is easy — building trust through consistent, principled action.
The benchmark is world-class standards in every endeavour — locally and beyond our borders.
Our Founders
Executive Director · Business Development
Des has over two decades of management experience, enabling him to develop remarkable business acumen. His entrepreneurial spirit is always on the lookout for new growth opportunities and innovative ways to expand. He serves on multiple boards, which allows his influence to extend far and wide, yet his ethos remains consistent: profitability must be coupled with an unwavering commitment to quality.
For Desmond, the benchmark is not just to do well — it is to achieve world-class standards in every endeavour.
Executive Director · Marketing
Laz is a prominent figure in Namibian media with a career spanning over two decades. His captivating radio and insightful television productions have significantly contributed to the industry. Laz is also an accomplished author with a talent for crafting thought-provoking narratives that resonate with audiences.
His passion for branding is evident in every project he undertakes. As a public speaker, his dynamic presence leaves audiences enlightened and inspired. Beyond the spotlight, Laz shares his expertise with several company boards, guiding their vision with the same passion and flair that defines his illustrious career.
Our History
From a single outdoor advertising company in 2003 to a diversified group operating across three countries — every year has brought new milestones.
Paragon was founded by Desmond Amunyela and Lazarus Jacobs, launching Namibia's largest independent outdoor advertising company, Pamoja Media Rental.
Established the Premium Travellers Café at Eros Airport and the HKIA departure hall — a space for travellers to unwind before their journey. Later rebranded to Premium Bistro (2008) and Taste Restaurant & Bar (2022).
Our founders boldly acquired Paragon Advertising (Pty) Ltd, an affiliate of TBWA — part of the Omnicom Group, the world's second-largest advertising agency network.
The construction of the Paragon Hill Office Complex marked our first venture into property development, showcasing our growing diversification.
The Kutako Duty-Free Shop was inaugurated by the Founding Father, H.E. Dr Sam Nujoma, at HKIA. Paragon was also awarded the contract to operate 38 Degrees South Gifts & Novelties in the arrivals hall.
Acquired the Windhoek Observer — one of Namibia's oldest newspapers, with archives dating back to 1921. Also began managing Paragon Inflight Duty Free on-board Air Namibia.
Established Paragon Seafoods as a horse mackerel rights and quota holder, producing and distributing Tjao Fish — frozen and canned products sourced from Namibian seas.
Established Paragon Oil and Gas, with petroleum exploration licences and interests in solar and other renewable energy resources.
Constructed Paragon Crescent Suites in Eros, Windhoek, offering accommodation, a restaurant and office space for rental.
Paragon Duty-Free opened at Victoria Falls Airport, extending the travel retail footprint into Zimbabwe.
Established Paragon Aviation Services at HKIA after being awarded the ground handling contract by the Namibia Airports Company. Also opened the state-of-the-art Paragon Premium Lounge and expanded Duty-Free to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Zambia.
