IOL: "Namibia will be one of the few African countries to receive funding from the new United States development aid program, the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA).Other African countries chosen are Burkina Faso, Ghana, Lesotho and the Gambia. There are only 23 countries eligible to receive MCA funding.The director general of the National Planning Commission (NPC), Helmut Angula, said the funding proposals were expected to be completed soon.
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) was established by US President George Bush in 2004 to work in partnership with developing countries to reduce poverty and encourage sustainable economic growth.It is a new approach to development assistance that is based on the principle that aid is most effective when it reinforces good governance and sound political, economic, and social policies that promote poverty reduction through economic growth."
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Namibia: Nujoma Pooh-Poohs UN Claims
allAfrica.com: "A member of the recently formed Committee on the [Welfare of] Ex-combatants, Alex Kamwi, has claimed that a UN official, Nicholas Bwakira, promised combatants demobilisation packages of US$80 000 each during a meeting in Luanda, Angola, in July 1989.
On Saturday, Nujoma said "hallucinations" about the involvement of the UN in the affairs of Plan should be rejected and condemned with the contempt they deserved.
He said that the Swapo Party Government would continue to monitor and review the socio-economic conditions of those who participated in the liberation struggle with a view to improving their living standards."
On Saturday, Nujoma said "hallucinations" about the involvement of the UN in the affairs of Plan should be rejected and condemned with the contempt they deserved.
He said that the Swapo Party Government would continue to monitor and review the socio-economic conditions of those who participated in the liberation struggle with a view to improving their living standards."
Lack of Emergency Medical Care 'Deadly', Warn Uis Residents
allAfrica.com: "The death of three-year-old Jonald Awarab on Wednesday could have been averted if an ambulance they had been waiting for since 08h00 had arrived sooner than 15h00, claimed Brand.
The boy injured his arm on Tuesday when he fell while playing on an old car wreck.
He was discharged the same day from the Uis clinic, where he was treated.
Complications apparently set in and when Awarab was taken back to the clinic the next morning, he was in a coma.
An ambulance was called to take the boy to the hospital at Omaruru, but only arrived at 15h00, half an hour after the child had died.
According to Brand, the explanation for the delay given by Dr F Chulu, the Acting Principal Medical Officer in the Omaruru health district, was that one of the region's two roadworthy ambulances was at Swakopmund for a routine service and the other vehicle had taken a number of patients from Usakos to see a specialist in Windhoek."
The boy injured his arm on Tuesday when he fell while playing on an old car wreck.
He was discharged the same day from the Uis clinic, where he was treated.
Complications apparently set in and when Awarab was taken back to the clinic the next morning, he was in a coma.
An ambulance was called to take the boy to the hospital at Omaruru, but only arrived at 15h00, half an hour after the child had died.
According to Brand, the explanation for the delay given by Dr F Chulu, the Acting Principal Medical Officer in the Omaruru health district, was that one of the region's two roadworthy ambulances was at Swakopmund for a routine service and the other vehicle had taken a number of patients from Usakos to see a specialist in Windhoek."
Namibia: Namibia 'Won't Be Dismembered'
allAfrica.com: "History will judge harshly anyone who attempts to secede any part of Namibia and thus compromise the country's sovereignty, President Hifikepunye Pohamba warned on Saturday.
Addressing the official Heroes' Day commemoration at Katima Mulilo in the Caprivi Region, Pohamba said Namibia had vowed not to go back to the ruthless apartheid era which ruled the country through segregation and division, and seceding any part of it fell under the same rule.
'It is for this reason that history will judge harshly any person or group of persons who make any attempt to dismember any part of our Republic," he said.
The President said it was regrettable that in 1999 some politicians misled people to tear Namibia apart for their own selfish reasons.'"
Addressing the official Heroes' Day commemoration at Katima Mulilo in the Caprivi Region, Pohamba said Namibia had vowed not to go back to the ruthless apartheid era which ruled the country through segregation and division, and seceding any part of it fell under the same rule.
'It is for this reason that history will judge harshly any person or group of persons who make any attempt to dismember any part of our Republic," he said.
The President said it was regrettable that in 1999 some politicians misled people to tear Namibia apart for their own selfish reasons.'"
Friday, June 16, 2006
Brangelina join list of moral poseurs in Africa
Brendan O'Neill: "However, this Western security force was not a US or European army plundering Namibia's natural resources or threatening to topple its government. It was the security entourage of one Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, the celebrity couple better known for living it up in Los Angeles than slumming it in Namibia. They reportedly wanted their first child to be born in Namibia because the country is "the cradle of human kind" and it would be "a special experience". And it seems that no security measure is too stringent in the name of making Ms Jolie feel special. Welcome to the new celebrity colonialism.
Pitt and Jolie went to Namibia, a small and largely impoverished nation of 1.8 million, six weeks ago. Their daughter -- Shiloh Nouvel -- was born on May 27. As they awaited the birth, they reportedly surrounded themselves with their own personal security detail and armed Namibian police. There was even a no-fly zone, enforced by the Namibian Government, over the luxurious Burning Shore beach resort where Pitt and Jolie were holed up.
Apparently, the stars also got to dictate which reporters could and could not enter the country. According to one report, the Namibian Government bowed to pressure from the duo and granted them the right to ban foreign journalists from entering the country, a remarkable move for the government of any sovereign state. The Government is said to have granted this extraordinary veto to Brad and Angelina after the couple told ministers that they would be forced to quit the country unless allegedly intrusive journalists and paparazzi were brought to heel. Namibian ministers hoped that a trip by two Hollywood bigwigs to their shores would do wonders for their tourism industry. They did everything they could to keep the couple happy."
Pitt and Jolie went to Namibia, a small and largely impoverished nation of 1.8 million, six weeks ago. Their daughter -- Shiloh Nouvel -- was born on May 27. As they awaited the birth, they reportedly surrounded themselves with their own personal security detail and armed Namibian police. There was even a no-fly zone, enforced by the Namibian Government, over the luxurious Burning Shore beach resort where Pitt and Jolie were holed up.
Apparently, the stars also got to dictate which reporters could and could not enter the country. According to one report, the Namibian Government bowed to pressure from the duo and granted them the right to ban foreign journalists from entering the country, a remarkable move for the government of any sovereign state. The Government is said to have granted this extraordinary veto to Brad and Angelina after the couple told ministers that they would be forced to quit the country unless allegedly intrusive journalists and paparazzi were brought to heel. Namibian ministers hoped that a trip by two Hollywood bigwigs to their shores would do wonders for their tourism industry. They did everything they could to keep the couple happy."
Mystery Disease Hits Namibia
Josephine Roque: "Three people die and 19 others are hospitalized due to a still unidentified disease.
The Namibian reports that the Ministry of Health and Social Services indicated that the disease was not confined to the Khomas Region, and that the cases of "undiagnosed paralysis" among adults had been reported in the Otjozondjupa and Hardap regions.
Two other people are in critical condition at the Windhoek Central Hospital after contracting the mystery disease.
Due to similar symptoms, it is suspected that the mystery disease might be Guillain-BarrŠ¹ syndrome (GBS) - a disorder of the peripheral nervous system which causes the nerves to inflame, slowing communication to and from the brain, leading to severe paralysis."
The Namibian reports that the Ministry of Health and Social Services indicated that the disease was not confined to the Khomas Region, and that the cases of "undiagnosed paralysis" among adults had been reported in the Otjozondjupa and Hardap regions.
Two other people are in critical condition at the Windhoek Central Hospital after contracting the mystery disease.
Due to similar symptoms, it is suspected that the mystery disease might be Guillain-BarrŠ¹ syndrome (GBS) - a disorder of the peripheral nervous system which causes the nerves to inflame, slowing communication to and from the brain, leading to severe paralysis."
Namibia: Undetermined Disease Puzzles Health Officials
allAfrica: "Five people have died from an as yet unnamed disease in Namibia and health authorities are eagerly awaiting the results from urine, stool and blood specimens sent to South Africa.
Tests carried out locally failed to yield conclusive results. "We really don't have an idea what the disease is, and investigations are going on," Erna Awaseb, acting director of primary healthcare, told IRIN.
Initially, the disease was confirmed in three informal settlements in Katutura, the capital's oldest township, but Awaseb said it had also been found south of Windhoek in the Karas Region and to the north in the Otjozondjupa Region."
Tests carried out locally failed to yield conclusive results. "We really don't have an idea what the disease is, and investigations are going on," Erna Awaseb, acting director of primary healthcare, told IRIN.
Initially, the disease was confirmed in three informal settlements in Katutura, the capital's oldest township, but Awaseb said it had also been found south of Windhoek in the Karas Region and to the north in the Otjozondjupa Region."
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Khoekhoegowab Resource Page
Khoekhoegowab Resource Page: "Welcome to the Khoekhoegowab Resource Page. This page provides Namibian educators with ideas and resources to teach their learners how to speak, read, and write Koekhoegowab and thus laying the foundation of their education. You are free to download or print out any of the information you find on these pages to help you in your classroom. We created these pages at NIED for teachers, principals, and students in Namibia. These pages are yours!"
University of Namibia - Faculty of Humanities
University of Namibia - Faculty of Humanities: "Welcome to the Department of African Languages
Prospective students should note that the Department of African Languages offers courses for degree purposes. Hence the usual admission requirements apply as for degree studies.
Students interested in acquiring only practical communication skills (i.e. not a degree course) in an African language should approach the Language Centre of the University, Ms Anna Muteka: wmuteka@unam.na. Students wishing to register for the Diploma in Education (African Languages) should approach the Centre for External Studies, Mr G. Murangi: gmurangi@unam.na. "
Prospective students should note that the Department of African Languages offers courses for degree purposes. Hence the usual admission requirements apply as for degree studies.
Students interested in acquiring only practical communication skills (i.e. not a degree course) in an African language should approach the Language Centre of the University, Ms Anna Muteka: wmuteka@unam.na. Students wishing to register for the Diploma in Education (African Languages) should approach the Centre for External Studies, Mr G. Murangi: gmurangi@unam.na. "
Welcome to Namibia
Welcome to Namibia: "On March 1, 2006 President Hifikepunye Pohamba conducted on-spot inspection of the town of Mariental and its surroundings. President Pohamba visited Mariental in the aftermath of the deluge which devasted the town during last weekend. On his return to Windhoek President Pohamba described the situation in Mariental as 'of great urgency.' The President directed that Government avails N$10 million immediately in order to mitigate the impact of the deluge. The emergence assistance to Mariental is aimed at restoring life in town to normalcy. The weekend deluge has negatively impacted on human welfare, well being and comfort. The deluge further damaged public infrastructure such as sewerage, power utility, water systems and roads. On the household level the deluge flooded residential houses, business premises and domestic properties. The floods further damaged agriculture infrastructure, crops; and recreational facilities. "
CIA - The World Factbook -- Namibia
Namibia: "South Africa occupied the German colony of South-West Africa during World War I and administered it as a mandate until after World War II, when it annexed the territory. In 1966 the Marxist South-West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO) guerrilla group launched a war of independence for the area that was soon named Namibia, but it was not until 1988 that South Africa agreed to end its administration in accordance with a UN peace plan for the entire region. Namibia won its independence in 1990 and has been governed by SWAPO since. Hifikepunye POHAMBA was elected president in November 2004 in a landslide victory replacing Sam NUJOMA who led the country during its first 14 years of self rule. "
Thursday, April 06, 2006
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Itchy And Scratchy At Omhanda School
Itchy And Scratchy At Omhanda School: "Children at the Omhanda Combined School near Eenhana, in the Ohangwena Region, seem to have become allergic to schoolwork.
More than 100 pupils - and three of their teachers - have been itching and scratching since last week.
It only happens while they are at school, a source at the school told The Namibian.
In families with children going to different schools, only the ones attending Omhanda are afflicted, the source said."
More than 100 pupils - and three of their teachers - have been itching and scratching since last week.
It only happens while they are at school, a source at the school told The Namibian.
In families with children going to different schools, only the ones attending Omhanda are afflicted, the source said."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Aids Cuts Teacher Numbers
Aids Cuts Teacher Numbers: "Namibian teachers are dying of HIV/AIDS at a growing rate of 10 to 15 persons per trimester and medical projections for the next two years indicate that 600 more of them will be infected.
This is what the workshop on AIDS in the workplace learned yesterday from the Namibia National Teachers Union and the National Aids Control Organization.
'Something urgent needs to be done to curb the death of teachers from AIDS, currently dying at a rate of between 10 and 15 per trimester countrywide,' Havelinus Shemuketa, Professional Development Coordinator of NANTU told the workshop for senior managers in the Ministry of Education currently on in the capital.
Shemuketa was pleading for help to curb the death rate among his union members and on behalf of those belonging to the Teachers Union of Namibia (TUN)."
This is what the workshop on AIDS in the workplace learned yesterday from the Namibia National Teachers Union and the National Aids Control Organization.
'Something urgent needs to be done to curb the death of teachers from AIDS, currently dying at a rate of between 10 and 15 per trimester countrywide,' Havelinus Shemuketa, Professional Development Coordinator of NANTU told the workshop for senior managers in the Ministry of Education currently on in the capital.
Shemuketa was pleading for help to curb the death rate among his union members and on behalf of those belonging to the Teachers Union of Namibia (TUN)."
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Namibia Pelts in Demand
Namibia Pelts in Demand: "Namibia's Swakara pelts, which sold for record prices at the Copen-hagen Auction, have left buyers crying for more.
Agra says the buyers expressed disappointment over the quantities available at the auction and urged Swakara farmers to increase their production significantly.
The pelts went for a record price at the Copenhagen Fur auction. For the first time ever, 72 Swakara Black D selected super pelts sold for N$643 per pelt, the highest price ever achieved.
Out of a large number of potential buyers from Eng-land, Italy, Germany, Spain, USA, Greece, Israel and Japan, only 25 were eventual successful bidders for the limited number of skins on offer.
Although there are 800 communal and commercial karakul farmers in the country, it is unlikely that the industry will see the production it witnessed 30 years ago."
Agra says the buyers expressed disappointment over the quantities available at the auction and urged Swakara farmers to increase their production significantly.
The pelts went for a record price at the Copenhagen Fur auction. For the first time ever, 72 Swakara Black D selected super pelts sold for N$643 per pelt, the highest price ever achieved.
Out of a large number of potential buyers from Eng-land, Italy, Germany, Spain, USA, Greece, Israel and Japan, only 25 were eventual successful bidders for the limited number of skins on offer.
Although there are 800 communal and commercial karakul farmers in the country, it is unlikely that the industry will see the production it witnessed 30 years ago."
Namibia's academic appeal
The Scientist : Blogs: "Chinsembu is originally from Zambia but has been at the University of Namibia for four years. As we drove through the clean, modern-looking city, he explained why.
One of the main factors was stability, he said. Back in Zambia, the university had been closed down seven times in the seven years he worked there as a result of staffing problems, salary disputes, student unrest or political problems. In the four years he's been in Namibia there hasn't been a single closure.
Another factor is the relatively good financial prospects in Namibia, which has been independent of South Africa for the past 16 years. In Zambia, his monthly salary was about US$400 a month; now it is more like $2,500. "
One of the main factors was stability, he said. Back in Zambia, the university had been closed down seven times in the seven years he worked there as a result of staffing problems, salary disputes, student unrest or political problems. In the four years he's been in Namibia there hasn't been a single closure.
Another factor is the relatively good financial prospects in Namibia, which has been independent of South Africa for the past 16 years. In Zambia, his monthly salary was about US$400 a month; now it is more like $2,500. "
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Challenge to Raise Money for Cancer Kids
Challenge to Raise Money for Cancer Kids: "With dozens of children living with cancer, the First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba officially opened the 'Desert Cycle Challenge' project intended to raise funds needed to help children living with this killer disease.
Madam Pohamba during the official launch donated N$1 000 from her own pocket, with other companies coming on board.
As part of its commitment, Nampharm donated N$10 000 while Integrated Management Solutions (IMS), a software development business in the IT sector, gave N$5 000.
The Nampharm Foundation Trust is an independent charitable foundation intending to utilise funds to provide medicine, medical treatment and information sessions for persons suffering from specified illnesses within Namibia. Nampharm deals with cases from newborn babies to children aged eighteen and under."
Madam Pohamba during the official launch donated N$1 000 from her own pocket, with other companies coming on board.
As part of its commitment, Nampharm donated N$10 000 while Integrated Management Solutions (IMS), a software development business in the IT sector, gave N$5 000.
The Nampharm Foundation Trust is an independent charitable foundation intending to utilise funds to provide medicine, medical treatment and information sessions for persons suffering from specified illnesses within Namibia. Nampharm deals with cases from newborn babies to children aged eighteen and under."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: 'Import Syndrome' Denounced
'Import Syndrome' Denounced: "Lately, the Ministry of Trade has been inundated with complaints with regard to the difficulty of entering local products in the local retail network.
Such complaints come from manufacturers of soaps, body and hair creams and products, detergents, arts and crafts, toilet paper, garments and foodstuffs.
Recently, the agriculture project at Etunda also complained about the lack of local buyers for their products, which forces them to send their produce to South Africa, from where it is re-imported at a much higher price.
In an effort to promote locally made products especially for the rural poor, Executive Director of WAD Veronica de Klerk said this was an urgent 'wake-up call' for the private business sector to seriously reflect on issues such as the importation of goods which could be sourced locally from poor people instead."
Such complaints come from manufacturers of soaps, body and hair creams and products, detergents, arts and crafts, toilet paper, garments and foodstuffs.
Recently, the agriculture project at Etunda also complained about the lack of local buyers for their products, which forces them to send their produce to South Africa, from where it is re-imported at a much higher price.
In an effort to promote locally made products especially for the rural poor, Executive Director of WAD Veronica de Klerk said this was an urgent 'wake-up call' for the private business sector to seriously reflect on issues such as the importation of goods which could be sourced locally from poor people instead."
Monday, April 03, 2006
Namibia: apples in record breaking sales
Welcome to FreshPlaza: "In a national effort, Namibians ordered a new record-breaking 680 216 apples through the 2006 Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project in aid of the Cancer Association of Namibia. This is a growth of 60% in total apple sales as compared to last year.
A record-breaking 680 216 apples have been sold through the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project. During the past week supporters in the Applethon, that took place on 16 March 2006, could pick up their apples from Fruit and Veg City in Windhoek. Gernot Ihmig of DRM Namibia receives the apples ordered by his company from Marie du Plessis of Bank Windhoek."
A record-breaking 680 216 apples have been sold through the Bank Windhoek Cancer Apple Project. During the past week supporters in the Applethon, that took place on 16 March 2006, could pick up their apples from Fruit and Veg City in Windhoek. Gernot Ihmig of DRM Namibia receives the apples ordered by his company from Marie du Plessis of Bank Windhoek."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: No Investors for Gem Processing Centres
No Investors for Gem Processing Centres: "Two gemstone-processing centres - one at Karibib and another at Keetmanshoop - run the risk of becoming white elephants if investors are not found to get the operations running, Minister of Trade and Industry Immanuel Ngatjizeko has said."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: 3 More Suspended Over Food Scandal in Caprivi
3 More Suspended Over Food Scandal in Caprivi: "The latest suspensions follow that of Chief Regional Officer Raymond Matiti in February, who is still awaiting a disciplinary hearing.
Before that, Caprivi Governor Bernard Sibalatani was suspended for a month on the instructions of Cabinet, to allow him to be charged for negligence.
He has since returned to office.
The Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development earlier said that any action against him would be based on the outcome of disciplinary proceedings against the other officials accused of negligence in the food scandal and on instructions from Cabinet.
Only one more official is still to be suspended on charges of alleged negligence by the Local Government Ministry.
He is Dobson Kamwi, an official working in the Ministry's Rural Development directorate at Katima Mulilo.
Ndiyepa said Kamwi would be the last on the list of officials the Caprivi Regional Council had agreed to take action against for allowing 230 tons of maize meal to rot at the M'pacha military warehouse."
Before that, Caprivi Governor Bernard Sibalatani was suspended for a month on the instructions of Cabinet, to allow him to be charged for negligence.
He has since returned to office.
The Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development earlier said that any action against him would be based on the outcome of disciplinary proceedings against the other officials accused of negligence in the food scandal and on instructions from Cabinet.
Only one more official is still to be suspended on charges of alleged negligence by the Local Government Ministry.
He is Dobson Kamwi, an official working in the Ministry's Rural Development directorate at Katima Mulilo.
Ndiyepa said Kamwi would be the last on the list of officials the Caprivi Regional Council had agreed to take action against for allowing 230 tons of maize meal to rot at the M'pacha military warehouse."
entertainment.iafrica.com | news Angelina 'to give birth in Namibia'
Angelina 'to give birth in Namibia': "Angelina Jolie will give birth to her and Brad Pitt's baby in a private lodge in Namibia, if the latest rumours of the Brangelina love-child are to be believed.
This contradicts earlier reports that Jolie planned to have the baby in France, in accordance with her French mother Marcheline Betrand's wishes.
But News of the World reports that Pitt and Jolie plan to stay in Africa for the birth - so that Jolie can continue her humanitarian work there right to the very end."
This contradicts earlier reports that Jolie planned to have the baby in France, in accordance with her French mother Marcheline Betrand's wishes.
But News of the World reports that Pitt and Jolie plan to stay in Africa for the birth - so that Jolie can continue her humanitarian work there right to the very end."
Sunday, April 02, 2006
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Cops Halt Kandara Case (Page 1 of 2)
Cops Halt Kandara Case: "The inquest into the death of Lazarus Kandara has been stopped in midstream. The inquest before Magistrate Maria Mahalie came to a sudden halt in the Windhoek Magistrate's Court yesterday morning, after a lawyer representing four Police officers subpoenaed to give evidence at the enquiry into Kandara's death applied for the Magistrate's recusal from the case because the Magistrate attended Kandara's funeral."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Okavango Project is Behind Schedule
Okavango Project is Behind Schedule: "The project will take five years and is funded by the Global Environment Fund (GEF) to the tune of US$5 million.
Its Management Unit is in Luanda, Angola, and it is expected to come up with a management plan on using the water of the Okavango River in a sustainable manner Kahuure said when the first project manager, Hartmut Krugmann, did not renew his contract last year, Steve Crerar was asked to take over on a temporary basis but he did not take the post, as he had other responsibilities.
The Okavango River provides people living on its banks with fish, water, reeds, thatch and timber, while it also has great potential as a source of hydro-electricity and water for the dry central and southern parts of Namibia and Botswana."
Its Management Unit is in Luanda, Angola, and it is expected to come up with a management plan on using the water of the Okavango River in a sustainable manner Kahuure said when the first project manager, Hartmut Krugmann, did not renew his contract last year, Steve Crerar was asked to take over on a temporary basis but he did not take the post, as he had other responsibilities.
The Okavango River provides people living on its banks with fish, water, reeds, thatch and timber, while it also has great potential as a source of hydro-electricity and water for the dry central and southern parts of Namibia and Botswana."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: New Strategy in TB Fight
New Strategy in TB Fight: "Namibia has one of the highest incidences of TB in the region, and this problem is being compounded by the prevalence of HIV/AIDS.
With the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate remaining relatively high, the number of new cases of TB has also greatly increased in the last few years. Available medical statistics indicate that tuberculosis cases in Namibia in 2005 recorded 809 per 100 000 population.
In 2004, there were 16 156 TB cases and this figure slightly reduced to 15 894 in 2005. The minister described this trend as disturbing adding that indeed tuberculosis has become a serious disease and a public health challenge.
TB cases are most prevalent in the Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Oshikoto and Khomas regions."
With the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate remaining relatively high, the number of new cases of TB has also greatly increased in the last few years. Available medical statistics indicate that tuberculosis cases in Namibia in 2005 recorded 809 per 100 000 population.
In 2004, there were 16 156 TB cases and this figure slightly reduced to 15 894 in 2005. The minister described this trend as disturbing adding that indeed tuberculosis has become a serious disease and a public health challenge.
TB cases are most prevalent in the Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Oshikoto and Khomas regions."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Crop Output in the Balance (Page 1 of 2)
Crop Output in the Balance: "Heavy rains in grain-producing areas are likely to result in mixed fortunes during the upcoming harvest season.
Although the recent rains have allowed most areas to recover from poor conditions last year, persistent heavy rains could do more damage than good, the Namibia Early Warning and Food Information Unit (Newfiu) says.
'The heavy rains throughout much of the country have raised the potential for an improved harvest in all the crop-producing regions.
However, excess rains also resulted in flooding, water logging and nutrient leaching in some areas, which could reduce crop yields,' says the latest crop and food security bulletin.
On the other hand, the possibility of an abrupt end to the rains in the north-central regions, where the start of the agricultural season has been delayed because of late rains, could affect crop yield.
Newfiu however reports that prospects for the 2006 crops to be harvested from May are favourable."
Although the recent rains have allowed most areas to recover from poor conditions last year, persistent heavy rains could do more damage than good, the Namibia Early Warning and Food Information Unit (Newfiu) says.
'The heavy rains throughout much of the country have raised the potential for an improved harvest in all the crop-producing regions.
However, excess rains also resulted in flooding, water logging and nutrient leaching in some areas, which could reduce crop yields,' says the latest crop and food security bulletin.
On the other hand, the possibility of an abrupt end to the rains in the north-central regions, where the start of the agricultural season has been delayed because of late rains, could affect crop yield.
Newfiu however reports that prospects for the 2006 crops to be harvested from May are favourable."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Graft Gets a Red Card
Graft Gets a Red Card: "President Hifikepunye Pohamba yesterday warned that unless all spheres in Namibian society become involved in the fight against corruption, ordinary Namibians will continue to be robbed of opportunities to realise their full potential.
Corruption has been in the limelight since Pohamba took over the government on March 21 last year. Early this year, the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) was inaugurated and yesterday efforts to root out corruption in the country were further boosted through the launch of the Zero Tolerance for Corruption Campaign.
Corruption is described as the exploitation of a position for private benefit or of people's positions within private enterprise. Abuse of public offices not only impedes foreign investment, but also allows organised crime and it generally erodes the quality of life.
Forms of corruption include bribery, embezzlement, misappropriation of property, trading in influence, abuse of functions and illicit enrichment as criminal offences."
Corruption has been in the limelight since Pohamba took over the government on March 21 last year. Early this year, the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) was inaugurated and yesterday efforts to root out corruption in the country were further boosted through the launch of the Zero Tolerance for Corruption Campaign.
Corruption is described as the exploitation of a position for private benefit or of people's positions within private enterprise. Abuse of public offices not only impedes foreign investment, but also allows organised crime and it generally erodes the quality of life.
Forms of corruption include bribery, embezzlement, misappropriation of property, trading in influence, abuse of functions and illicit enrichment as criminal offences."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: NBC Manager Gets Off the Hook
NBC Manager Gets Off the Hook: "Mbeno Murangi, the manager responsible for transmitters at the NBC was eventually exonerated from some of the charges involving the alleged flouting of the regulations guiding the allocation of tenders for the installation of antennae at various stations.
A shadow of suspicion has been hanging over the junior manager for the past few months over his alleged role in the allocation of a tender worth over a million dollars for the installation of antennas, according to well-placed sources within the state broadcaster.
Initially the NBC charged him with flouting tender procedures and for submitting false information claiming Professional Communication Services (PCS) was the only firm that was qualified and that had the expertise to install the said antennas.
But this transpired not to be the case and thus Murangi, like his superior Ruben Prinz the now reinstated NBC's General Manager for Technical Services was only found guilty of a lesser charge following Saturday's protracted disciplinary hearing."
A shadow of suspicion has been hanging over the junior manager for the past few months over his alleged role in the allocation of a tender worth over a million dollars for the installation of antennas, according to well-placed sources within the state broadcaster.
Initially the NBC charged him with flouting tender procedures and for submitting false information claiming Professional Communication Services (PCS) was the only firm that was qualified and that had the expertise to install the said antennas.
But this transpired not to be the case and thus Murangi, like his superior Ruben Prinz the now reinstated NBC's General Manager for Technical Services was only found guilty of a lesser charge following Saturday's protracted disciplinary hearing."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Girls Taking to the Beautiful Game
Girls Taking to the Beautiful Game: "It seems the era when girls 'merely trying' their hand at the male-dominated game of soccer is slowing vanishing as more and more girls take up this sport.
Although certain perceptions indeed die hard as there is still name-calling with girls playing the 'Beautiful Game' being called 'tomboys' or 'macho girls', young girls and women soccer teams have slowly been mushrooming around the country.
Recently at the celebrations to mark the country's 16th independence anniversary, Namibians were entertained to lively soccer matches pitting girls from Khomas in Windhoek and Namib South from Okahandja, against each other. These teams fall under the jurisdiction of the Central Women's Football Team."
""It keeps you away from clubs, drinking and smoking as well as teenage pregnancies," said Belinda, who is looking forward to one day representing her country in the women's national soccer team."
Although certain perceptions indeed die hard as there is still name-calling with girls playing the 'Beautiful Game' being called 'tomboys' or 'macho girls', young girls and women soccer teams have slowly been mushrooming around the country.
Recently at the celebrations to mark the country's 16th independence anniversary, Namibians were entertained to lively soccer matches pitting girls from Khomas in Windhoek and Namib South from Okahandja, against each other. These teams fall under the jurisdiction of the Central Women's Football Team."
""It keeps you away from clubs, drinking and smoking as well as teenage pregnancies," said Belinda, who is looking forward to one day representing her country in the women's national soccer team."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Unam Students Want Inquiry
Unam Students Want Inquiry: "Two weeks ago, the university suspended two of its senior academics on charges of theft of computers. Early this week, another suspect Martino Vonkie Olivier, the Head of the Accommodation Section in the Office of the Dean of Students at Unam was suspended, charged with theft and released on bail of N$1 000. He allegedly procured three Digital Satellite Receivers (Vivid bouquet) last year August for student hostels but upon purchase, only one of the three products was given to the Dean of International Programmes.
Last year July, the university suspended three examination officers from its Examinations Department for allegedly receiving bribes in return for altering the results of several students who performed poorly in certain subjects. Cases of stolen examination papers have also been reported in the past."
Last year July, the university suspended three examination officers from its Examinations Department for allegedly receiving bribes in return for altering the results of several students who performed poorly in certain subjects. Cases of stolen examination papers have also been reported in the past."
Nhan Dan --- News
Zimbabwe and Namibia hope to expand co-operation with Vietnam: "While receiving Vietnamese ambassador Tran Duy Thi at a credentials presentation on March 23, Zimbabwean President Hifikepunye Pohamba acclaimed remarkable politic and socio-economic achievements made by Vietnam over the past 20 years and wished to learn from the country's experiences.
Namibian President Robert Mugabe applauded friendly and traditional relationship between Namibia and Vietnam while meeting with Ambassador Thi on March 29."
Namibian President Robert Mugabe applauded friendly and traditional relationship between Namibia and Vietnam while meeting with Ambassador Thi on March 29."
Namibia On Track To Meet Global Poverty Goal
Namibia On Track To Meet Global Poverty Goal: "The share of households designated as 'severely poor' - defined as those spending more than 80 per cent of their total income on food - appears to have more than halved from 9 per cent in 1993/94 to 4 per cent in 2003/04.
Poverty remains a predominantly rural phenomenon: 42 per cent of all households in the rural areas are classified as poor, compared to just 7 per cent in the urban areas.
The corresponding shares were 49 and 17 per cent respectively in the earlier survey.
The Kavango Region still has the highest poverty rate in the country but poverty levels here have come down from 71 to 50 per cent.
In the most populous of the northern regions, Ohangwena, poverty has been cut by almost half.
The region with the lowest level of poverty is Khomas with less than 4 per cent."
"As an indication: the 1 per cent of Namibians that live in the country's richest households have the same income as the combined income of the poorest households that make up 60 per cent of the population."
Poverty remains a predominantly rural phenomenon: 42 per cent of all households in the rural areas are classified as poor, compared to just 7 per cent in the urban areas.
The corresponding shares were 49 and 17 per cent respectively in the earlier survey.
The Kavango Region still has the highest poverty rate in the country but poverty levels here have come down from 71 to 50 per cent.
In the most populous of the northern regions, Ohangwena, poverty has been cut by almost half.
The region with the lowest level of poverty is Khomas with less than 4 per cent."
"As an indication: the 1 per cent of Namibians that live in the country's richest households have the same income as the combined income of the poorest households that make up 60 per cent of the population."
Offshore - EnerGulf secures PEL offshore Namibia
EnerGulf secures PEL offshore Namibia: "EnerGulf Namibia Ltd. has formally been assigned a 10% working interest in offshore Namibia block 1711 by the Minster of Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia concurrent with the signing of a petroleum exploration license agreement.
EnerGulf has been granted a 10% working interest (paying 10% of the exploration and development costs), being a 9.5% net revenue interest (after the underlying royalty to Namibia).
The operator of the block is Sintezneftegaz Namibia Ltd., a subsidiary of Sintezneftegaz, a Federation of Russia oil and gas company based in Moscow, with a 70% interest. "
EnerGulf has been granted a 10% working interest (paying 10% of the exploration and development costs), being a 9.5% net revenue interest (after the underlying royalty to Namibia).
The operator of the block is Sintezneftegaz Namibia Ltd., a subsidiary of Sintezneftegaz, a Federation of Russia oil and gas company based in Moscow, with a 70% interest. "
Australia 'too concerned about mining'
Australia 'too concerned about mining': "Australia is too concerned with environmental and social issues surrounding mining activities, managing director of uranium developer Paladin Resources Ltd John Borshoff says.
Paladin has gone offshore in its uranium exploration and is commissioning its first mine in Namibia in southern Africa this year."
""The resource future in this early part of the 21st century belongs to Africa," Mr Borshoff told the ABC.
"Australia and Canada have become overly sophisticated.
"They measure progress in other aspects of economic development, and rightly so, but there's been an overcompensation in terms of thinking about environmental issues and social issues way beyond what is necessary to achieve good practice.""
Paladin has gone offshore in its uranium exploration and is commissioning its first mine in Namibia in southern Africa this year."
""The resource future in this early part of the 21st century belongs to Africa," Mr Borshoff told the ABC.
"Australia and Canada have become overly sophisticated.
"They measure progress in other aspects of economic development, and rightly so, but there's been an overcompensation in terms of thinking about environmental issues and social issues way beyond what is necessary to achieve good practice.""
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Budget for Or Against the Poor? the Debate Continues
Budget for Or Against the Poor? the Debate Continues: "At a budget analysis session of the business community yesterday, First National Bank Economist Martin Mwinga said the allocations in the budget would do little to stimulate economic growth.
Mwinga noted that a pro growth budget would result in an increase in disposable income and increase private sector investment.
But coming at a time when citizens of the country have not seen tax relief for some time, Mwinga said, there would not be much impact on the economy because more money in people's pockets would mean more money to buy goods because consumption is the most important stimulant of economic growth.
'As long as tax does not change, it will be difficult to invest,' Mwinga said, adding, 'The economy responds more to tax changes and not expenditure.'
Namibia has the highest corporate tax in the SADC region. Botswana's is 15 percent, while South Africa has around 28 percent."
Mwinga noted that a pro growth budget would result in an increase in disposable income and increase private sector investment.
But coming at a time when citizens of the country have not seen tax relief for some time, Mwinga said, there would not be much impact on the economy because more money in people's pockets would mean more money to buy goods because consumption is the most important stimulant of economic growth.
'As long as tax does not change, it will be difficult to invest,' Mwinga said, adding, 'The economy responds more to tax changes and not expenditure.'
Namibia has the highest corporate tax in the SADC region. Botswana's is 15 percent, while South Africa has around 28 percent."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Pension Hike Sparks Uproar in the National Assembly
Pension Hike Sparks Uproar in the National Assembly: "THE DTA yesterday bemoaned Government's inability to meet a demand for a monthly pension of N$500 for senior citizens.
DTA MP Philemon Moongo said it was 'shocking' that Government could only manage a N$70 increase.
'It is not even enough to buy a bag of maize meal,' said Moongo.
Should Parliament approve the 2006-07 budget currently up for debate in the National Assembly, pensioners will receive a monthly pension of N$370."
DTA MP Philemon Moongo said it was 'shocking' that Government could only manage a N$70 increase.
'It is not even enough to buy a bag of maize meal,' said Moongo.
Should Parliament approve the 2006-07 budget currently up for debate in the National Assembly, pensioners will receive a monthly pension of N$370."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Uproar Over Govt Aids Ban
Uproar Over Govt Aids Ban: "Several Namibian non-governmental organisations working in the field of HIV-AIDS have been shut out of this year's UN General Assembly Special Session on AIDS because Government objected to their participation.
NGOs are being excluded despite Government signing a 2001 declaration of commitment on the disease.
The UNGASS declaration, as it is known, stresses the importance of human rights in the context of HIV and the need for partnerships with civil society in an effective response to the disease.
The objection to the NGOs' accreditation to the UNGASS review meeting also flies in the face of Government's commitment to human rights.
As a result of the objection, organisations like Nanaso, the AIDS Law Unit, the Walvis Bay Multi-Purpose Centre and the AIDS and the Rights Alliance for Southern Africa (ARASA), which is based in Windhoek but represents 14 organisations from the SADC region, probably won't be represented at the meeting expected to take place in New York at the end of May 2006."
NGOs are being excluded despite Government signing a 2001 declaration of commitment on the disease.
The UNGASS declaration, as it is known, stresses the importance of human rights in the context of HIV and the need for partnerships with civil society in an effective response to the disease.
The objection to the NGOs' accreditation to the UNGASS review meeting also flies in the face of Government's commitment to human rights.
As a result of the objection, organisations like Nanaso, the AIDS Law Unit, the Walvis Bay Multi-Purpose Centre and the AIDS and the Rights Alliance for Southern Africa (ARASA), which is based in Windhoek but represents 14 organisations from the SADC region, probably won't be represented at the meeting expected to take place in New York at the end of May 2006."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Govt, Unions in New Civil Service Wage Deal
Govt, Unions in New Civil Service Wage Deal: "It will mean that from the end of April, civil servants who earn up to N$36 000 a year will get an additional N$100 a month, while those earning up to N$91 968 a year will get N$250 a month.
Those civil servants who earn up to N$257 289 a year will get an extra N$400 a month under the new scheme that was agreed by the Government, Namibia National Teachers' Union and the Namibia Public Workers' Union."
"Under the agreement, Government employees who use their private vehicles to travel on official trips will get N$1 per kilometre - increased from 68 cents per kilometre."
"The bargaining agents and the Government agreed to increase the maximum qualifying amount for staff members below management level from N$200 700 to N$300 000 because of the drastic increase in the cost of houses.
From next year, a transport allowance will be introduced for civil servants below management level and the issuing of bus tickets will be abandoned.
Those who earn up to N$36 000 a year will get an allowance of N$10 per day, while those who earn up to N$170 724 will get N$9 per day."
Those civil servants who earn up to N$257 289 a year will get an extra N$400 a month under the new scheme that was agreed by the Government, Namibia National Teachers' Union and the Namibia Public Workers' Union."
"Under the agreement, Government employees who use their private vehicles to travel on official trips will get N$1 per kilometre - increased from 68 cents per kilometre."
"The bargaining agents and the Government agreed to increase the maximum qualifying amount for staff members below management level from N$200 700 to N$300 000 because of the drastic increase in the cost of houses.
From next year, a transport allowance will be introduced for civil servants below management level and the issuing of bus tickets will be abandoned.
Those who earn up to N$36 000 a year will get an allowance of N$10 per day, while those who earn up to N$170 724 will get N$9 per day."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Energy Fund's N$50m to Help Plug Fuel Gap
Energy Fund's N$50m to Help Plug Fuel Gap: "MINISTER of Mines and Energy Erkki Nghimtina says Government is under pressure to compensate oil companies for petrol imports during 2005, having sold it for much less than the cost of bringing it to Namibia.
The National Energy Fund will receive N$50 million from the 2006-07 National Budget to help plug the gap.
Nghimtina told the National Assembly this week that Government could not allow itself to be caught in the same position this year and would continue to monitor and adjust prices in line with the cost of importing petroleum products."
"Over the next three years, Government will contribute N$750 million to the development of a gas-fired power station at Oranjemund - Kudu Gas.
Nghimtina said his Ministry was also committed to ensuring an interconnection between Zambia and Zimbabwe to increase Namibia's chances of engaging actively in regional electricity trading."
The National Energy Fund will receive N$50 million from the 2006-07 National Budget to help plug the gap.
Nghimtina told the National Assembly this week that Government could not allow itself to be caught in the same position this year and would continue to monitor and adjust prices in line with the cost of importing petroleum products."
"Over the next three years, Government will contribute N$750 million to the development of a gas-fired power station at Oranjemund - Kudu Gas.
Nghimtina said his Ministry was also committed to ensuring an interconnection between Zambia and Zimbabwe to increase Namibia's chances of engaging actively in regional electricity trading."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: German Company in Computer Donation
German Company in Computer Donation: "The Polytechnic of Namibia, together with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and the Namibian Police, received second-hand computers from Gebracom, a German computer leasing company, valued at N$ 200,000. Gebracom, which is based in Stuttgart, also donated Bosch power tools to the Save the Rhino Trust. According to a statement from the Polytechnic of Namibia, on behalf of all the recipients, this is the third time that Gebracom has come to the aid of Namibian institutions."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Alexander Forbes Denies Milking Local Pension Funds
Alexander Forbes Denies Milking Local Pension Funds: "Financial services group, Alexander Forbes, which is facing allegations of illegally earning interest on money it handles on behalf of pension funds, was this week maintaining that it was clean in the face of growing pressure that it bulked Namibian client accounts with South African pension fund money.
The group told the Economist that its Namibian client accounts are bulked locally and, as a result, its clients earn enhanced rates. However, given the size of local pension funds industry, the bank balances are smaller, hence the benefits are relatively less than those of South African clients. In South Africa, Alexander Forbes has been accused of lawfully plundering retirement fund savings through bulking. Alexander Forbes is the largest independent administrator of pension funds in Namibia. Debbie Kotzen, the head of group corporate affairs at Alexander Forbes, said the investigation by the Financial Services Board in South Africa relates to disclosure of fees earned for bulking accounts. 'It is not relevant in Namibia as we did not earn a fee for negotiating the higher client interest rates,' said Kotzen in an email response to the Economist.
Explaining the bulking scheme, Alexander Forbes said it negotiates with banks to treat each individual retirement fund current account as part of a large group solely for the purpose of setting the interest rate that the bank will pay. The bank pays a higher interest rate based on the 'bulk' of all accounts in the group than they would on the individual accounts, thus securing a better interest rate for each of the clients."
The group told the Economist that its Namibian client accounts are bulked locally and, as a result, its clients earn enhanced rates. However, given the size of local pension funds industry, the bank balances are smaller, hence the benefits are relatively less than those of South African clients. In South Africa, Alexander Forbes has been accused of lawfully plundering retirement fund savings through bulking. Alexander Forbes is the largest independent administrator of pension funds in Namibia. Debbie Kotzen, the head of group corporate affairs at Alexander Forbes, said the investigation by the Financial Services Board in South Africa relates to disclosure of fees earned for bulking accounts. 'It is not relevant in Namibia as we did not earn a fee for negotiating the higher client interest rates,' said Kotzen in an email response to the Economist.
Explaining the bulking scheme, Alexander Forbes said it negotiates with banks to treat each individual retirement fund current account as part of a large group solely for the purpose of setting the interest rate that the bank will pay. The bank pays a higher interest rate based on the 'bulk' of all accounts in the group than they would on the individual accounts, thus securing a better interest rate for each of the clients."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Lister the 'New Voice of the Cabal'
Lister the 'New Voice of the Cabal': "Die-hard elements within the SWAPO movement have not made peace with Hifikepunye Pohamba's victory at the 2004 SWAPO Congress and are continually stoking the fires of rebellion.
In Gwen Lister of the Namibian, these erstwhile revolutionaries have found an ally to wage psychological warfare so as to destabilize the relationship between Pohamba and Sam Nujoma in the first place and usher in an opportunity for their ascendancy to power in the second instance. It is all about power at all costs.
In this game of politics, Gwen Lister who masquerades as political analyst-cum-journalist is the point woman for the onslaught against Nujoma. Being a SWAPO outsider Gwen Lister is well positioned to wage the war against Nujoma on behalf of her proteges who cannot gather the courage to play ball and stomach the consequences.
Gwen Lister is the central plank in the attempt to wrestle power from Pohamba whom these elements consider a Nujoma man. She is the visible face of the hidden cabal within SWAPO that seeks to reverse the gains of the 2004 SWAPO Congress if not that of our revolution."
In Gwen Lister of the Namibian, these erstwhile revolutionaries have found an ally to wage psychological warfare so as to destabilize the relationship between Pohamba and Sam Nujoma in the first place and usher in an opportunity for their ascendancy to power in the second instance. It is all about power at all costs.
In this game of politics, Gwen Lister who masquerades as political analyst-cum-journalist is the point woman for the onslaught against Nujoma. Being a SWAPO outsider Gwen Lister is well positioned to wage the war against Nujoma on behalf of her proteges who cannot gather the courage to play ball and stomach the consequences.
Gwen Lister is the central plank in the attempt to wrestle power from Pohamba whom these elements consider a Nujoma man. She is the visible face of the hidden cabal within SWAPO that seeks to reverse the gains of the 2004 SWAPO Congress if not that of our revolution."
allAfrica.com: Namibia: Maerua Mall - Biggest Investment of Its Nature
Maerua Mall - Biggest Investment of Its Nature: "The extension of Maerua Mall officially opened its door to the public on Thursday this week after President Hifikepunye Pohamba gave his blessings on Wednesday night.
Before officially opening the extension, Pohamba toured the complex accompanied by the First Lady, Penexupifo Pohamba, and Charles Karuaisa, the chairman of the Namibian listed company, Oryx Properties, which developed Maerua Mall phase two.
The extension was undertaken at a cost of N$270 million, which Pohamba described as the biggest investment in the country of that nature.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba and the First Lady, Penexupifo Pohamba, touring the extension of Maerua Mall on Wednesday night. They are flanked by Barbara Kahatjipara , who was the director of ceremonies at the official opening of the extension, and the chairman of Oryx Properties, Charles Karuaisa "
Before officially opening the extension, Pohamba toured the complex accompanied by the First Lady, Penexupifo Pohamba, and Charles Karuaisa, the chairman of the Namibian listed company, Oryx Properties, which developed Maerua Mall phase two.
The extension was undertaken at a cost of N$270 million, which Pohamba described as the biggest investment in the country of that nature.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba and the First Lady, Penexupifo Pohamba, touring the extension of Maerua Mall on Wednesday night. They are flanked by Barbara Kahatjipara , who was the director of ceremonies at the official opening of the extension, and the chairman of Oryx Properties, Charles Karuaisa "
New blog
This is where I'll be posting news and web-information on Namibia, for my own future reference.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
