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We are a weekly Namibian business newspaper. Plus there's a lighter Metro section.

10/12/2024

Happy International Human Rights Day

09/12/2024

“Here is Your Land”

Agriculture Minister, Carl Schlettwein handed over farm Korasieplaats to the /Khomanin Traditional Authority as part of the /Khomas Communal Land.

At the event, Schlettwein said the /Khomanin being the only traditional authority without communal land is something of the past.

He further said that this is due to government's effort to embrace inclusivity.

He, however, observed vandalism on infrastructure amongst others, urging the community to take care of the property.

The /Khomanin Traditional leaders expressed gratitude over the gesture and urged government to avail more land for them to enable participation in economic activities.

Report: Mathias Hangala

09/12/2024

The Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) will charge evaluation fees for foreign qualifications, effective 2 January 2025.

The move will allow the NQA to charge fees for services rendered and work performed as the new fee structure aims to streamline the process of evaluating foreign qualifications in Namibia.

Under the new structure, the cost of obtaining an evaluation certificate will be N$360 per qualification for normal applications, while urgent applications will cost N$720 per qualification.

For those wishing to appeal an evaluation decision, the fee is set at N$210 per qualification for normal applications and N$570 for urgent cases.

Additionally, if the appeal is upheld due to an oversight by the NQA, the appeal fee will be refunded.

Certified copies of evaluation certificates will be available at a cost of N$24 each and for individuals who have lost or damaged their original certificates, a duplicate certificate can be issued at a fee of N$210 per report, provided an affidavit is submitted.

Report: Dolly Menas

09/12/2024

The City of Windhoek’s special council meeting that was scheduled to take place on 9 December to elected office bearers for the year 2025 was again cancelled this morning after being postponed last week by presiding magistrate Immanuel Udjombala.

Last week’s postponement came after councilors walked out of the meeting on Monday, 2 December.

This is after they were denied a brief recess by the presiding magistrate, due to the late start.

The meeting resumed on Tuesday and only saw four council members, leading to the meeting being scheduled for 9 December.

The Windhoek City still has no mayor, deputy mayor or chairperson of the management council.

Report: Dolly Menas

09/12/2024

The Namibia University of Science and Technology - NUST earned first and third place in Chess, Tennis and Netball at the Southern African Universities Staff Sports Association (SAUSSA) Games.

The 23rd edition of the Games took place in Harare Zimbabwe from 1-6 December.

The event held under the theme 'Fostering Regional Integration Through Sports' saw 88 NUST representatives and featured more than 21 universities.

The chess team emerged victorious by taking first place, outperforming the competition.

The netball and women's tennis teams also excelled, securing third-place finishes in their respective categories.

NUST chess member Lutopu Khoa said even though they were considered the underdogs before the tournament, they earned the respect of their fellow competitors and proved that they are a “force to be reckoned with”.

NSSSC Chairperson Gabriel Mbokoma expressed pride in the team's performance and emphasized the importance of such events in fostering teamwork and well-being.

NUST's participation in SAUSSA aligns with its strategy to promote staff engagement and strengthen regional partnerships.

Report: Dolly Menas

09/12/2024

Four Suspects Arrested After Body of Man Found with Bruises

The police in the Kavango West region have arrested four suspects in connection with the death of an unidentified man found at Kakuro Village in the Nkurenkuru Constituency.

The victim, an adult male, was discovered by community members with bruises believed to be caused by a stick.

Chief Inspector Raimbert Muronga confirmed that the deceased has not yet been identified.

Authorities are urging the public to visit the police station mortuary in Nkurenkuru to help identify the body or to provide any information that may lead to the man's identification.

The body is currently being kept at the police mortuary for an autopsy.

Report: Annakleta Haikera

09/12/2024

Youth Urged to Take a Stand Against Corruption

The Director-General of the Anti-Corruption Commission, Republic of Namibia (ACC), Paulus Noa, has called on Namibia’s youth—who make up approximately 70% of the population—to actively combat corruption in their respective regions.

Speaking at the commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day and the official opening of the Rundu Regional Office this morning, Noa highlighted the devastating impact of corruption on national development.

He noted that many Namibians continue to live in extreme poverty, and corruption undermines key projects intended to improve living standards.

“Corruption poses significant challenges to poverty alleviation efforts,” Noa said, emphasizing the need for collective action to address this issue.

Adding to the discussion, Junior Council member Elizabeth Ndumba urged young people to champion anti-corruption initiatives. She encouraged peaceful advocacy for stricter measures against corruption and accountability through the prosecution of offenders.

The new Anti-Corruption Commission regional office in Rundu will serve the Kavango East, Kavango West, and Zambezi regions to enhance the ACC’s reach and accessibility in the fight against corruption.

Reported: Annakleta Haikera

09/12/2024

IPC takes ECN to court over election results

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has on submitted a notice of motion to file legal action on Friday at the High Court seeking legal action against the ECN and the President of Namibia.

Through their lawyer, Dirk Conradie, IPC seeks a court order permitting the ECN Chairperson Elsie Nghikembua and chief electoral officer Peter Shaama to produce to the IPC electoral materials pertaining to the 2024 National Assembly Elections, including the total number of votes cast, the total number of spoilt ballots, the total number of 'tendered votes', and the total number of votes counted from 27 November to 30 November 2024.

"Take notice that the Independent Patriots for Change (hereinafter called the applicant) intends to apply to the above Honourable Court on Friday, 13 December 2024, at 09:00, or so soon thereafter as counsel for the applicants may be heard, for an order granting leave and permitting the applicant to open and/or inspect the contents of the electoral materials pertaining to the 2024 National Assembly Elections,” the court documents filed by the IPC read.

09/12/2024

Opuwo road accident claims four lives, victims identified

A tragic motor vehicle accident occurred early on Sunday morning, 8 December, in Opuwo, Kunene region, claiming four lives.

The crash took place around 03H20 at the Orutjandja Location, near the "Welcome to Opuwo" sign.

According to the police, the incident involved a white Toyota Fortuner, with registration number N227-948W, that collided head-on with a silver Audi (N103OP).

The Toyota was travelling toward Opuwo town, while the Audi was coming from the opposite direction.

Tragically, all four passengers in the Audi were seriously injured and died on the scene.

The victims were identified as Mbetjimona Kasengo (55, female), Karutjaiva Ngajozikue (25, male), Lipuleni Makili (male, age not provided), and Klaudia Amuthitu (10, female).

Both drivers, identified as Evington Tareekuje Ngozu (39, male) driving the Fortuner and Antony Fortunato (31, male) driving the Audi, were severely injured and were transported to Opuwo State Hospital for medical treatment.

"The cause of the accident remains unclear, as the collision took place in the centre of the road. The police are investigating the incident as a possible case of culpable homicide. The bodies of the deceased were taken to the Opuwo Police Mortuary for postmortem examinations," said the police.

The police continue to probe the circumstances surrounding this tragic crash.

Report: Uakutura Kambaekua - Opuwo

09/12/2024

President Nangolo Mbumba has congratulated Ghanaian President-Elect, John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following his victory in the West African country’s 7 December 2024 general elections.

“This historic election reflects the unwavering commitment of the Ghanaian people to democracy and the rule of law. The election of H.E. Mahama is a testament to the trust of Ghanaians in his leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of the people of Ghana,” Mbumba said.

Mbumba also highlighted the bilateral relationship between Namibia and Ghana, stating that since independence, the countries’ bilateral relations have grown in leaps and bounds.

“I look forward to working closely with President-Elect John Dramani Mahama to further strengthen these ties for the mutual benefit of our nations,” he said.

“As H.E. Mahama embarks on the important mandate of leading Ghana, I wish him wisdom, resilience, and success in fulfilling the aspirations of the Ghanaian people. May his leadership consolidate growth,unity and prosperity for the fraternal people of Ghana,” Mbumba added.

Report: Kavee Vezemburuka

09/12/2024

Ghana’s former President John Dramani Mahama has won the country’s Presidential election after his main opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat.

“The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time and we respect it with all humility,” Bawumia said in a news conference on Sunday.

The defeat in Saturday’s election ended two terms in power for the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) under President Nana Akufo-Addo, marked by Ghana’s worst economic crisis in years, involving high inflation and a debt default.

Bawumia said he called Mahama, of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), to congratulate him.

Source:Aljazeera

09/12/2024

Traditional Authorities Trust Launches Drought Relief Food Drive for 2 300 Families

Dolly Menas

The Namibia Traditional Authorities Trust (NTAT) has launched a nationwide Drought Relief Food Drive to provide food packages to over 2,300 families affected by severe drought.

Read the full article:
https://www.thevillager.com.na/news/2024/traditional-authorities-trust-launches-drought-relief-food-drive-for-2-300-families/

09/12/2024

Namibia's U17 boys team drew 4-4 with Zimbabwe in a thrilling encounter at the CAF U17 2025 Africa Cup of Nations COSAFA Qualifiers in Johannesburg, South Africa. Andriano Gawab, Christiano Useb, Ronaldo Kandjou, and Braydon Paulse were on the scoresheet for Namibia.

Despite the valiant effort and victory over Eswatini on Saturday, Namibia's journey in the tournament has come to an end.

Photo: COSAFA

09/12/2024

Opinion: Beyond Compliance: The Strategic Imperative of Sustainability in Business

Laina Likius

Sustainability is rapidly becoming a focal point in global business and policy conversations as companies recognise the necessity of balancing environmental, social, governance (ESG), and economic considerations.

Read the full article:
https://www.thevillager.com.na/opinion/2024/opinion-beyond-compliance-the-strategic-imperative-of-sustainability-in-business/

09/12/2024

The Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC Namibia) has reported a 5.85% revenue growth for the recently concluded financial year, according to Dr. Licky Erastus, who shared the performance details at the company’s annual Financial Performance Announcement today.

Erastus attributed the growth to several key factors, including increased demand for high-speed data connectivity, the introduction of innovative products and services, growth in roaming, and a dedicated customer-centric staff committed to delivering a memorable experience for customers.

Report: Justicia Shipena

09/12/2024

CRAN Can Enhance Green Hydrogen Landscape

Nghiinomenwa-vali Erastus

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has expressed its readiness to support Namibia’s green hydrogen (GH2) ambitions by creating a regulatory framework that fosters investment, innovation, and collaboration with other government entities.

Read the full article:
https://www.thevillager.com.na/news/2024/cran-can-enhance-green-hydrogen-landscape/

09/12/2024

WATCH: Capricorn Eagles captain, Suné Wittmann, reflects on their second placed finish in the T20I Series that took place in Hong Kong last week.

The team is now in Malaysia for the first time, to face Malaysia in a bilateral series. The first of three games will be tomorrow.

09/12/2024

72 road accidents recorded from 1-8 November 2024

The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has revealed that 72 road accidents occurred between 1-8 November, resulting in 128 people injured and 8 people dead.

MVA Fund of Namibia senior injury and accident prevention officer Abner Kaume Itumba said the road accidents are draining the economy of the country.

“Most of the victims in road accidents are young people who are still at the stage of working. It has a negative impact on the country's economy because many young people are unable to work any more,” said Itumba.

Itumba raised concerns over the number of accidents, stating that it was quite high this early into the festive period.

He urged people to change their mentality on the road.

“It’s not about cars or the roads, our people are just careless. The abuse of alcohol is very high by young people this time. We have been preaching the same thing over and over but our people do not want to change their mentality,” he said.

Report: Rudorf Iyambo

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Videos

Agriculture Minister, Carl Schlettwein handed over farm Korasieplaats to the /Khomanin Traditional Authority as part of the /Khomas Communal Land.

“Here is Your Land” Agriculture Minister, Carl Schlettwein handed over farm Korasieplaats to the /Khomanin Traditional Authority as part of the /Khomas Communal Land. At the event, Schlettwein said the /Khomanin being the only traditional authority without communal land is something of the past. He further said that this is due to government's effort to embrace inclusivity. He, however, observed vandalism on infrastructure amongst others, urging the community to take care of the property. The /Khomanin Traditional leaders expressed gratitude over the gesture and urged government to avail more land for them to enable participation in economic activities. Report: Mathias Hangala

WATCH: Capricorn Eagles captain, Suné Wittmann, reflects on their second placed finish in the T20I Series that took place in Hong Kong last week. The team is now in Malaysia for the first time, to face Malaysia in a bilateral series. The first of three games will be tomorrow.

WATCH: The choir sings in commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption Day and the official opening of the Rundu Anti-corruption commission office taking place in Rundu, Kavango East region today.

Harry Simon JR vs Abed Shikongo

The WBA Pan Africa Welterweight Title Fight between Harry Simon JR and Abed Shikongo is underway!

Merven Nguno and Salom Petrus trade blows in the Junior Welterweight National Title fight.

UNAM FC goalkeeper, Owen Gariseb, and African Stars striker, Mukaba Laundry

UNAM FC goalkeeper, Owen Gariseb, and African Stars striker, Mukaba Laundry, speak to Eagle FM after their 0-0 draw this evening in the Debmarine Namibia Premiership.

Woman faints in long queue while waiting to register for CBIG A woman was this morning picked by an ambulance in Kehemu Kavango East region after she fainted while standing in a long queue at the Ministry of Gender Equality and Social Welfare while waiting to register for the Basic Income Grant rollout programme. According to a close source, the woman came very early to line up with others but later complained of feeling sick, and then immediately fainted. The woman was rushed to the Rundu Intermediate Hospital when she was reported to be in a stable condition. Many people are observed flocking to the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare offices around Namibia for the Conditional Basic Income Grant rollout programme, previously known as Food Bank. Beneficiaries are registering to receive N$600 per household per month. The Ministry Control’s administration officer in Rundu, Charity Walubita stated that she was not aware of the situation but advised everyone to be patient and comply to the rules and “they will all be attended to. No one will be left out if people will just adhere to the instructions given.” Report: Annakleta Haikera

After cycling for 54 hours and 30 minutes over a distance of 1,127km to win The Munga ultra-marathon cycle race for a second successive time a week ago, Namibian Drikus Coetzee is competing in the 2024 The Nedbank Desert Dash.

Konny Looser, record seven time of The Nedbank Desert Dash solo winner, and husband of Namibian Olympian Cyclist, Vera Looser, speaks to the media moments before competing in his 10th Nedbank Desert Dash. When asked what he looking forward to the most, he said, “the finish line.”

Ananias Shilongo, sponsored by MTC Maris, competing in his third Nebank Desert Dash, speaks to Eagle FM moments before he takes off in the solo ride.

DESERT DASH… The anticipation is building at the 20th The Nedbank Desert Dash. The solo riders will make the 401km dash to Swakop from Windhoek at 14:30.

Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa on Thursday launched the Risk Profile of Natural Hazards and Selected Diseases in Namibia in collaboration with the University of Namibia (UNAM) in Windhoek. Speaking at the event, Mutorwa underscored the information in the Risk Profile as crucial for pre-disaster risk assessments, prevention, mitigation, development, and the implementation of appropriate preparedness and effective response to disasters in Namibia. “Some well advanced nations can predict natural disasters, and yes they are more developed but we must also reach there. That's why we used an institution like UNAM, to spearhead our research, because it must be based on scientific analysis,” he stated. Mutorwa further remarked that the risk profile also aids in the integration of disaster risk management into developmental plans and strategies. “Understanding risks informs the necessary actions to minimize their impacts and build resilience. When a certain disaster happens we’re all vulnerable, we can’t help ourselves, therefore prevention is better than cure. We must at least be prepared on how to withstand disaster to some extent,” he said. Additionally thus far, the risk profile has assessed the relative vulnerability and disaster risk of 14 hazards and mapped them across Namibia at an EA level which allowed for the unmasking of vulnerabilities and risks at unprecedented levels of detail. The risk and vulnerability maps are useful for the development of resilience strategies for natural disaster risks at the local, regional and national levels. The risk profile came as Namibia is faced with frequent occurrences of Natural Disasters and infectious diseases, with some causing huge environmental and socio-economic damages and losses. Report: Kavee Vezemburuka