Sê jou sê met debat

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Sê jou sê met debatCalitz topspreker in Khomas Concordia College het tydens ‘n onlangse toernooi vir hoërskole meer as 45 debatspanne uitgestof.

Pull quote: “’n Tekort aan geld maak dit moeilik vir Namibiese leerlinge om op internasionale vlak met ander lande mee te ding.” – Edward Shati, sekretaris-generaal: Namibiese Debatvereniging

Michelline Nawatises

Die grootste debatkampioenskappe vir hoërskole in die Khomasstreek het onlangs in Windhoek plaasgevind.

Concordia College het meer as 45 debatspanne uitgestof en is as algehele wenners aangewys.

Die byeenkoms is vanaf 24 tot 25 Mei by Windhoek Hoërskool gehou.

Concordia het die Senior Sekondêre Skool Delta in die eindronde gewen. Windhoek Gimnasium was in die derde plek.

Ernst Calitz, ? graad 12-leerling van Windhoek Gimnasium, is as die beste spreker van die toernooi aangewys.

Twapewa-Ashihe Mungoba van Delta en Christiaan Prinsloo van Windhoek Hoërskool het die tweede plek gedeel.

Die byeenkoms is deur die Namibiese Debatvereniging aangebied. By die toernooi is 18 leerlinge gekies om eersdaags aan proewe deel te neem. Daarna sal die topnege gekies word om verdere opleiding te ontvang ter voorbereiding van die nasionale debatkampioenskappe later vanjaar in Suid-Afrika waar hulle Namibië sal verteenwoordig.

Die Namibiese Debatvereniging poog om leerlinge aan meer internasionale toernooie bloot te stel sodat hulle hul intellektuele talente ten toon kan stel.

Mnr. Edward Shati, sekretaris-generaal van die Namibiese Debatvereniging, het gesê daar is uitdagings wat dit vir Namibiërs moeilik maak om internasionaal mee te ding.

"Ons probeer hard om die uitdagings te oorkom. Dit was nog nooit vir Namibië moontlik om op hierdie standaard mee te ding nie, maar ons het die plaaslike debatkringe hervorm en ons sal voortgaan om die land internasionaal mededingend te maak," het Shati gesê.

Die vereniging doen 'n beroep op die sakegemeenskap in Namibië om debat-inisiatiewe te prioritiseer en te help met finansiering in die nakoming van hul korporatiewe sosiale verantwoordelikhede.

Finansiering vir die nasionale debatspan van Namibië om internasionale debatgeleenthede by te woon sal 'n beduidende verskil maak en hulle in staat stel om op internasionale vlak mededingend te wees, sê die vereniging.

Namibië het verlede jaar die Afrika-debatkampioenskappe (ADC) gewen. Die span sal vanaf 28 Junie tot 4 Julie hul titel in Johannesburg in Suid-Afrika verdedig. Voorbereiding vir die toernooi sal intensiewe opleiding oor die naweke insluit.

Die Namibiese Debatvereniging het sy dankbaarheid teenoor die ministerie van onderwys, kuns en kultuur in die Khomasstreek uitgespreek, asook die ouers wat ? belangrike rol speel met borgskappe vir verskeie debat-aktiwiteite en uitstappies.

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Concordia and Rocky Crest clash!

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Parkies o.13-rugbyspan ontvang borgskap

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Concordia and Rocky Crest clash!

Concordia College and Rocky Crest High School recently clashed in the annual FNB Classic Clashes tournament at the HTS soccer field in Windhoek. “We were very excited to be in the Classic Clashes again and winning was the cherry on top,” said Romeo Kaangundue, a player from Concordia College. According to him, their main goal was to win with a score of 2-0, and they achieved it. “The game against Concordia was full of tension, but also a wonderful game to watch,” said Ndjipomasa Menjengua, the captain of the Rocky Crest under-19 soccer team. They were not happy with the result and plan to come back stronger in their remaining matches.

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Parkies o.13-rugbyspan ontvang borgskap

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Redimere Akademie: Die hart van Tsumeb

≪ Previous: Concordia and Rocky Crest clash!

Parkies o.13-rugbyspan ontvang borgskap

Die o.13-rugbyspan van Laerskool Pionierspark het Vrydag amptelik hul rugbydrag ontvang wat Safland geborg het. Mnr. Morné van Zyl van Safland het die oorhandiging gedoen aan dié span wat mnr. Jannie Steyn afrig. Die borgskap sluit onder meer ’n hoedjie, rugsak, broek, oefenhemp en rugbytrui in. Kaptein Carlo Hawanga het gesê die span as geheel is gereed om die seisoen by die horings te pak.

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Redimere Akademie: Die hart van Tsumeb

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Bly kalm en herwin

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Redimere Akademie: Die hart van Tsumeb16 leerlinge per graad By ‘n topskool in die Noorde word ook vir leerlinge met verskeie leerprobleme voorsiening gemaak.

Michelline Nawatises

Redimere Akademie is 'n privaat skool op Tsumeb wat ook vir leerlinge met leerprobleme soos disleksie voorsiening maak.

Die skool was voorheen bekend as El Shaddai en is in Januarie 2013 deur me. Jolene Nel gestig met net een leerling en ‘n onderwysers.

Die woord “redimere” is Italiaans vir “verlosser” en die skool se naam is gekies deur een van die graad 12-leerlinge van 2018. Die skool het ‘n projek van stapel gestuur waarby alle leerlinge betrokke was om op ‘n naam te besluit.

Die hoofrede waarom die skool gestig is, was om kinders met leergestremdhede te help. Die sukses wat die studente gevolglik behaal het, het ander ouers bereik en die skool het aansienlik uitgebrei. Die “hart van Tsumeb” het ook vier klubs, naamlik vir drama, debat, skaak en dans.

Redimere Akademie maak voorsiening vir leerlinge in preprimêr tot 12 en volg die Cambridge-sillabus vir hoër onderwys. Die skool se visie is duidelik gefokus op die leerlinge se “reis” van die eerste graad totdat hulle hul skoolbaan voltooi het.

Redimere Akademie het nie ? hoofseun en –meisie, maar net een hoofprefek en haar naam is Millicent Jansen. Toe The Zone vir Millicent gevra het hoekom sy by Redimere ingeskryf het, het sy gesê dit is omdat dit ? privaat skool is en genoeg tyd vir individuele leerlinge ingeruim word. “Dit sal my baie in my akademiese loopbaan bevoordeel,” sê Millicent

Volgens die skoolhoof, mnr. André Struwig, wat in Januarie aangestel is, was die Sekondêre Skool Etosha tot dusver altyd bereid om hul sportveld en -toerusting vir Redimere beskikbaar te stel wanneer dit nodig was. “Dit het die grondslag gelê vir die studente met groot potensiaal om uiteindelik te groei. Vanjaar het ons drie studente wat gekwalifiseer het om op nasionale vlak in Windhoek deel te neem.”

Redimere Akademie het ook tot so 'n mate uitgebrei dat hulle vanjaar hul eie atletiekdag op Tsumeb kon aanbied.

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Bly kalm en herwin

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Local Rössing jobs safe

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Bly kalm en herwinHelp red die aarde Die Skole-herwinningskompetisie se wenners is onlangs in Windhoek beloon.

Evany van Wyk

Die 20ste Mei was ‘n vreugdevolle dag by die spesiale skool Môreson in Khomasdal in die hoofstad waartydens die Namibiese herwinningsorganisasie Recycle Namibia Forum (RNF) sy jaarlikse prysuitdeling gehou het.

Die RNF is in Junie 2011 as ‘n niewinsgewende organisasie gestig met die hoofdoel om projekte te koördineer wat herwinning, asook vermindering en hergebruik van afval ondersteun.

Die Skole-herwinningskompetisie, wat RNF tien jaar gelede van stapel gestuur het, brei jaarliks uit.

Aanvanklik het tien skole deelgeneem, maar dié getal staan tans op 44. Die doel van die kompetisie is om ‘n platform te skep waar skole in Namibië besoedeling kan teenwerk en meeding om die meeste herwinbare afval in te samel. Die kompetisie is nie net waardevol vir die omgewing nie; deelnemende skole kan ook ‘n inkomste daardeur skep.

Die spesiale skool Môreson het vanjaar met die groot prys weggestap. Elke leerling van dié skool het sowat 219 kg afval ingesamel wat herwin kan word. Hulle het N$10 000 kontant van Namibia Breweries ontvang vir hul uitmuntende poging om die aarde skoon te hou. Me. Anita Kreft, die skoolhoof, het die borge verseker hul belegging is die moeite werd. “Dit gaan nie oor ‘n maand of jaar of watter tydperk ook al wys nie, want julle belê in ‘n kind se lewe,” het Kreft gesê.

‘n Môreson-leerlinge, Lise Sawas, het aan The Zone gesê sy is ongelooflik trots op haar skool.

Die Dagbreek-skool was in die tweede plek, met 212 kg afval wat elke leerling ingesamel het. Die skoolhoof, mnr. Paul du Plessis, het aan The Zone gesê hy wil meer skole aanmoedig om aan die kompetisie deel te neem. “Dit kan net goeie dinge beteken.”

Dagbreek het N$5 000 ontvang wat deur Collect-a-Can geskenk is. In die derde plek was All Nations Christian-skool wat 92 kg afval per leerling ingesamel het. Hulle het N$2 500 van Plastic Packaging ontvang. Wat die prestasies nog meer beduidend maak, is dat al drie die skole betreklik klein is, met ongeveer 120 tot 150 leerlinge. Combretum Trust en Pro-Ed Akademie was in die vierde en vyfde plek en het N$1 000 en N$2 000 onderskeidelik van Rent-A-Drum ontvang.

Die RNF het ook ‘n prys uitgedeel vir die skool wat die meeste verbeter het met hul herwinning. Weer eens het Môreson die prys opgeraap. Die afval wat hulle ingesamel het, het met 20 ton toegeneem en het vir hulle ‘n reis na NaDEET gewen. NaDEET is ‘n omgewingsopvoeding-organisasie wat in die woestyn geleë is.

Die Hoërskool Dawid Bezuidenhout was in die tweede plek. Hulle het binne ses maande 8 ton afval ingesamel. ‘n Reis na B2 Gold se omgewingsopvoeding-sentrum was hul prys. Die hoofseun, Ariclene de Sousa, en hoofmeisie, Hertha David, het in hul bedankingstoespraak gesê: “Ons ontvang hierdie prys met uiterste dankbaarheid namens die Omgewingsklub by ons skool, asook dankbaarheid vir ons onderwysers se eindelose ondersteuning.”

Me. Anitta Witt, die RNF se koördineerder, het gesê: “Dit is regtig ongelooflik hoe hierdie program kinders wat met gestremdhede leef, kan help in terme van werksgeleenthede.” Volgens haar “gee herwinning aan hierdie kinders lof en toekenning wat hulle nooit anders sou kon kry nie”.

Die RNF het ook aangekondig die kompetisie gaan deur die loop van die jaar Oranjemund en Rundu insluit. “Ons is vol vertroue dat die jeug in albei dorpe gretig sal wees om deel te neem en hul verbintenis tot ‘n skoner en groener Namibië te wys,” het me. Gloudi de Beer, die voorsitter van die RNF, gesê.

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Local Rössing jobs safe

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Nurse’s rape case postponed again

≪ Previous: Bly kalm en herwin

Local Rössing jobs safeChinese uranium miner promises to keep Namibian workers China National Uranium Corporation says it has no intention to replace local Namibian employees with foreign nationals.

ADOLF KAURE

The Namibian Competition Commission (NaCC) on Thursday held a public hearing on the China National Uranium Corporation’s proposed acquisition of Rio Tinto Namibia’s stake in Rössing Uranium.

The discussion was held to inform stakeholders about the acquisition and provide the merging parties the opportunity to raise concerns.

The proposed transaction is that China National Uranium Corporation (CNUC) will acquire 100% of Rio Tinto Namibian Holdings Limited’s 68.62% in Rössing Uranium and also acquire control over Rössing Uranium Limited.

CNUC vice-president Li Youliang said once the proposal was approved by the NaCC, he did not foresee Namibian employees being replaced by foreign nationals.

“Concerns are being raised that subsequent to the acquisition, the foreign company will replace Namibian employees in favour of foreign national employees.

“CNUC understands the importance of local employment to all stakeholders and especially Rössing Uranium’s employees. There is no intention to replace local Namibian employees with foreign nationals solely as a result of this transaction. In fact, CNUC has a strong commitment to maintain the current level of local employees,” he said.

He added that CNUC would comply with all Namibian labour laws and regulations once it acquires the mine.

“The transaction and CNUC’s long-term plans for Rössing Uranium will contribute the continued operation of the business for many years into the future, securing long-term employment for the workforce and wider benefits to the community.

“CNUC can confirm that post acquisition, Rössing Uranium will continue to comply with the stipulation of the Namibian labour act, the Affirmative Action Act and all other labour laws and regulations,” he said.

According to the NaCC’s director of mergers and acquisitions, Johannes Ashipala, there are four factors that determine the approval of a merger or acquisition.

“These factors include whether the merger substantially prevents or lessens competition in the relevant markets, acquiring or strengthening dominant position, whether there are any technological, efficiency or innovation gains by the merger and the NaCC assesses the publi- interest effects,” said Ashipala.

Other public concerns include prospective mining and generation of nuclear power, whether CNUC will make use of foreign procurement, and further acquisition of more exploration and mining licences in the Erongo Region by CNUC.

The NaCC will submit a report on the discussions to its board of commissioners. The board will then decide within 30 days whether to approve the acquisition.

If the acquisition is approved, it will be gazetted. If it is declined, the mine will face closure in June 2020.

Rössing Uranium’s current benefits to Namibia include local procurement of N$2.49 billion, a tax contribution of N$130 million, royalties of N$78 million, and employment for 923 people.

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Nurse’s rape case postponed again

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Chasing the forensics dream

≪ Previous: Local Rössing jobs safe

Nurse’s rape case postponed again

KENYA KAMBOWE

The case against a Rundu state hospital nurse, who was arrested in December last year for allegedly drugging and raping a patient, has been postponed to July as the Rundu Magistrate’s Court awaits laboratory test results.

Shintango Mbambi (35) last week appeared before Magistrate Hellen Olaiya, who postponed the matter to 29 July as the laboratory test results are still outstanding.

Police investigations into the matter continue and Mbambi remains in police custody.

The case stems from an incident on 6 December last year in the hospital's tuberculosis ward, where the complainant was receiving treatment.

It is alleged that Mbambi drugged the complainant before raping her. The complainant then told other hospital staff what had allegedly taken place.

Mbambi was arrested on 14 December 2018, eight days after the alleged rape, following an internal investigation by the hospital management.

A case was opened by the police on behalf of the complainant.

During his first court appearance on 18 December last year, Mbambi was denied bail. He indicated that he would apply for legal aid.

The State opposed bail on the grounds that Mbambi was charged with a serious offence.

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Chasing the forensics dream

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Six elephants exported to DRC

≪ Previous: Nurse’s rape case postponed again

Chasing the forensics dream Believing in order to achieve Tiffany du Plessis recently graduated from the University of Pretoria in South Africa, in the field of medical criminalistics.

Justicia Shipena

Tiffany Seralda du Plessis (25) was born and raised in Windhoek.

She attended Emma Hoogenhout Primary School and completed her matric in 2012 at Jan Mohr Secondary School. She ended amongst the top 25 students in Namibia.

In 2013 she started her studies at the University of Pretoria in South Africa.

She graduated with a BSc in medical sciences in 2017 and recently attained her postgraduate degree (BScHons Medical Criminalistics).

Du Plessis told The Zone she always wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. Initially she wanted to study a bachelor of medicine and surgery degree and eventually specialise in paediatrics,

However, she ended up studying psychology in her first year, which she quickly came to realise was not for her. In her second year she transferred to biological sciences. After biological sciences she started her medical sciences studies.

Her majors included human anatomy and physiology and dissections were what excited her the most about the degree.

In her final year she applied for her honours in medical criminalistics and out of 96 students she was one of the few that got invited for an evaluation, which involved a real-life autopsy with a fresh cadaver.

“I was always very intrigued by death and what causes it, as well as solving problems, and this was right in my league,” she said.

She had a tough first year, being away from home in a strange place and with no family around.

Although it was a hectic few years, with sleepless nights and loads of work, it was also very exciting, as South Africa is known for its crime rate, and thus she was in an excellent environment to receive the best education.

Her studies consisted of a theory and a practical component. The theory consisted of medical law, pathology, forensic science and ethics.

“My practicals consisted of autopsies, crime scene investigation and court attendance,” she said.

Du Plessis encourages young people to go into this field as it is a very rare and important field.

However, they have to have a passion for it, accompanied by the right personality, because working with gruesomeness not for everyone. “Anyone interested in this field should also be ready for long hours, as we are only a few and the work load may become a lot.

“Any Namibian that is interested to follow this path should be prepared to emigrate, as there are currently no opportunities in this field in Namibia, even though it is such a rare and high-in-demand field. I am saying this because I have my degrees and yet I’m unemployed,” she said.

She said it is vital to enforce this field’s knowledge onto young people, because it is such a rare field and they are our future. Young people can bring more energy as well as a new or better perspective to each case, Du Plessis added.

They can also develop new technologies needed in the field and they may find easier and more effective ways to solve cases.

She would like to thank her teachers at Emma Hoogenhout Primary School and Jan Mohr Secondary School, who played a role in helping her achieve her goals.

“I was once told that forensics is not for me, but I somehow made it mine. Chase your dream, because only you can achieve it,” she said.

Did you know?

The University of Pretoria was established in 1908 as the Pretoria campus of the Johannesburg-based Transvaal University College, and is the fourth South African institution in continuous operation to be awarded university status.

Facts about Tiffany

· She loves dancing.

· She loves to network with other people.

· She is always ready to give a helping hand to others.

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Six elephants exported to DRC

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Introducing the Sanlam Innovation Works winners

≪ Previous: Chasing the forensics dream

Six elephants exported to DRC

A family of six elephants was this weekend successfully exported to the Democratic Republic of Congo from the Port of Walvis Bay.

The operation, which lasted over 20 hours, required approximately 50 staff members from various stakeholders.

The elephant family consisted of two adults (a bull and a cow) and four calves.

They were loaded onto the vessel El Nino on Thursday night, destined for a tourism game park in Kinshasa, DRC.

After being loaded onto the vessel, the elephants endured a four-day journey to the DRC.

According to a statement issued by Namport this was the first time a consignment of such magnitude, involving adult elephants, had left the country.

The manager of corporate communication at Namport, Taná Pesat, said it would not be the last consignment of this nature, as it was a trial run to guarantee that future exportations are conducted smoothly.

With regard to the safety of the animals during the transhipment, Dr Ulf Tubbesing of Wildlife Vets Namibia said that a team of experts were involved during the entire process of the transportation of animals and also accompanied the consignment up to time of discharge to ensure that the elephants are well looked after.

Stakeholders involved in the operation included Namport, the home affairs ministry, finance ministry, Honesta Investment 32, Blue Bush Investment trading as Wildlife Vets Namibia, KLD Ship Agency, Walvis Bay Stevedoring, Erindi Game Lodge, Mount Etjo Lodge, El Nino Crew members, Pronto Global Air and Ocean Freight and Camel Transport.

Late last year, a consignment of 205 animals was transported from Walvis Bay to the same game park in Kinshasa.

According to Dr Tubbesing the animals, which were released into strictly non-hunting reserves, are doing well and have reproduced.

Another consignment of elephants is expected to be shipped to DRC in June.

ELLANIE SMIT

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Introducing the Sanlam Innovation Works winners

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Be kind to bees

≪ Previous: Six elephants exported to DRC

Introducing the Sanlam Innovation Works winners The fifth Sanlam Innovation works initiative, undertaken in conjunction with the Namibia Business Innovation institute (NBII), has awarded five winners this year for their innovations, with the aim to inspire and unlock passion in young Namibians and aspiring entrepreneurs. They each received start-up capital of N$50 000 from Sanlam and...

Motlee HR Systems Namibia

Q: Tell The Zone about your innovation.

A: One of our innovations is the Motlee Central Recruitment Platform - online recruitment software that helps companies to recruit candidates by providing a fully, semi-automated integrated online recruitment platform that links them to potential candidates. One of the foremost advantages of our software is that all candidate information is stored and shared securely online, forming a centralised hub of recruitment activity for both recruiters and candidates that can be accessed both on our active web platform and mobile application, which we will be launching in July 2019.

Q: What inspired you to come up with such an innovation?

A: What inspired us to create this software is the increasing high employment rate amongst the youth and the struggle they go through to find employment, which at times can be time-consuming and costly.

Q: What societal need are you fulfilling with this?

A: The social need we are fulfilling is access to information, especially information regarding employment opportunities, both locally and internationally.

Q: How would you describe the mentorship programme with the NBII?

A: The mentorship programme at NBII is has been very helpful to us as entrepreneurs and our business, in setting our objectives and business mode on how we can best implement and scale our business as we grow.

Q: What shortcomings has Sanlam curbed by starting this initiative?

A: One of the shortcomings for most start-ups like ours is finance and the right skills to turn an idea into an actual business. We were fortunate to get assistance from Sanlam through this initiative, which has helped us overcome most of these shortcomings.

Q: How has the process of developing your business been since the announcement of the winners?

A: Since the announcement our progress has been very good and productive. We have been able to fast-track the development of our software by five months, as financing the project was one of our major setbacks when we first started.

Linda Creations

Q: Tell The Zone about your innovation.

A: We manufacture and supply cleaning materials, more specifically dishwashing liquid under our brand name Kitchen Captain Made in Namibia for Namibians.

Q: What inspired you to come up with such an innovation?

A: From my experience I have seen that it is passion that makes a business and not money. Many people consider the government as a main source of employment. This has led to a large number of graduates being unemployed. There are many graduates out there who are meant to be employers, but they have not seen the fact that maybe the reason they can’t find a job is because they were not meant to find a job but to create employment.

Q: What societal need are you fulfilling with this?

A: I am creating employment

Q: How would you describe the mentorship programme with the NBII?

A: Even though these are still early times, the NBII mentorship programme has provided the basics for the sound business foundation. They have opened their doors and offered guidance on growing and monitoring progress in the business.

Q: What shortcomings has Sanlam curbed by starting this initiative?

A: Capital is a major problem for all emerging businesses. This initiative by Sanlam Namibia has given a vital injection of funds to our businesses.

Q: How has the process of developing your business been since the announcement of the winners?

A: With some capital available we looked at broadening our product range and targeting corporate clients, as well as the market at large.

MISTAL

Q: Tell The Zone about your innovation.

A: The MIST Agricultural Laboratory (MISTAL) food department analyses the nutritional information of agricultural products and other ready-prepared food like home-made mahangu biscuits and guava jam to provide our clients with certificates and labels of these nutritional analyses, so they can sell their food in retail shops and other commercial places.

Q: What inspired you to come up with such an innovation?

A: We identified gaps in the food quality assurance and nutritional information labelling industry - a major contributing factor towards the shortage of Namibian food products being sold commercially.

Q: What societal need are you fulfilling with this?

A: Our aim is to assist more Namibian food producers in selling their food and value-added food products in commercial retail places, so that they can generate more revenue. We also aim to create more awareness about the importance of food nutrition and quality assurance.

Q: How would you describe the mentorship programme with the NBII?

A: The programme is a great initiative. The training has so far brought so many aspects of the business and entrepreneurship industry that we were initially not aware of and it is helping us improve in managing our innovations and business.

Q: What shortcomings has Sanlam curbed by starting this initiative?

A: Sanlam has allowed for us to receive appropriate training as we launch our innovations. Our lab is now transitioning from the research phase to the trial-run phase where we are confirming our analytical methodologies with a liaison laboratory. Sanlam is owed a deep gratitude for allowing us to commence this transition.

Q: How has the process of developing your business been since the announcement of the winners?

A: There is an escalation in some activities and milestones, and others have stagnated. Overall however, the announcement has given us more confidence and we are positive that we are moving in the right direction.

Nambush Feeds

Q: Tell The Zone about your innovation.

A: I, Rejinio Albert Camm, is the proud founder of Nambush Feeds. This business strives to produce animal feed of the highest quality. What is innovative about this is that we are using encroach bushes like the swarthak and the three thorn bush, where we will be mixing them with other supplements thereby making 12 variations of the product. Nambush Feeds aim to solve or help curb two problems with this project, namely bush encroachment and the loss of livestock due to drought.

Q: What inspired you to come up with such an innovation?

A: The love for animals and my love for business is the true inspiration behind this initiative. Following my passion for these two elements, gave birth to this project in the agricultural sector. Another contributing factor was that the drought that hit Namibia over the past years, which costs massive loss of livestock, as the veld does not have enough nutrients to sustain the livestock.

Q: What societal need are you fulfilling with this?

As mentioned before, this product will help farmers to sustain their animals. This product will cater to commercial farmers, especially to resettlement farmers, as they do not have enough capital to purchase supplements to sustain livestock throughout the drought. This business will create employment for the local community of Aroab and other small towns like Bethanie and Berseba, etc. The business will help improve the rangeland, as invader bushes will be de-bushed, creating new space for grass to grow.

Q: How would you describe the mentorship programme with the NBII?

The mentorship programme from NBII is very productive. The eight-month programme will further assist me to better operate this initiate. Several workshops will form part of this programme and I believe that the knowledge I will gain during this mentorship will be vital throughout my entrepreneurship journey.

Q: What shortcomings has Sanlam curbed by starting this initiative?

A: One of the greatest challenges that an entrepreneur faces is the availability of capital. There are a countless number of people with amazing business ideas, but there is a lack of the necessary capital to make these dreams a reality. Sanlam noticed this challenge and crated the opportunity for entrepreneurs to come forth with their initiatives. I trust and believe other great companies shall follow the example set by Sanlam.

Q: How has the process of developing your business been since the announcement of the winners?

Nambush Feeds set out several milestones since the announcement of the winners. Extensive research has been done on the types of bush feeds. We are currently busy with our pilot project. We are busy testing our feeds on samples of livestock. We held talks with local farmers from the south. At a recent meeting in Aroab, farmers showed interest in what Nambush Feeds offers. They are waiting in anticipation for this product to hit the market.

I would further encourage the youth to read and come up with great ideas, which can help boost our economy and create employment, thus increasing our GDP.

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Be kind to bees

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Stop insulting elders - Shiweda

≪ Previous: Introducing the Sanlam Innovation Works winners

Be kind to bees

A Namibian beekeeper is urging Namibians to qualify as beekeepers and to support Namibian honey production while also advocating for stringent fines to deter the harming or killing of bees or their hives.

On the occasion of World Bee Day, celebrated annually on 20 May, Namibian beekeeper Roland Graf zu Bentheim highlighted that Namibia imports 99% of honey but could instead nurture a buzzing local economy.

Zu Bentheim believes Namibia could produce 90% of the honey it currently imports from South Africa (95%) and Germany (4%).

Yet there are only 500 beekeepers in the country, most on a small scale. Only 10 beekeepers produce honey on a commercial basis.

“Namibia can be turned into bee-land. But we urgently need 1 000 professional beekeepers to produce enough bee products and to create awareness of bees in the country.”

In light of the severe threats faced by bee populations around the world, zu Bentheim this month proposed a N$50 000 fine for harming bees or their hives.

Bees are a crucial pollinator species that plays a significant ecological role and contributes to the preservation of wild and cultivated crops.

Zu Bentheim warned that although Namibia's wild honeybee population (Api mellifera Scuttelata) is still thriving, the country must not rest on its laurels and urgently needs to boost local beekeepers and spread awareness and knowledge in schools and elsewhere.

“Every person is called on to do something for our bees. Namibia is praised for other conservation and environmental efforts, but for the bees we do nothing,” he said.

Danger

According to the Honeybee Health Coalition approximately one in three bites of the food we eat every day relies on honeybee pollination services to some degree. A loss of biodiversity can have serious implications throughout the agricultural ecosystem.

“It is estimated that without insect pollination, about one third of the crops we eat would have to be pollinated by other means, or they would produce significantly less food. Up to 75% of our crops would suffer some decrease in productivity,” the organisation says.

In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 20 May as World Bee Day in order to create awareness of the dramatic decline bee populations face around the world.

The resolution was made in the wake of a 2016 global assessment of pollinators, the first of its kind, which warned that a growing number of pollinator species worldwide are being driven toward extinction by diverse pressures, many of them human-made.

The extinction of these pollinators, including bees, threatens “millions of livelihoods and hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of food supplies, according to the first global assessment of pollinators”, the report stated.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Stop insulting elders - Shiweda

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Stop insulting elders - ShiwedaYouth risk 'compromising the fruits of independence' The deputy agriculture minister says it's disheartening to observe the decaying of discipline among young people, including schoolgoing children.

Namibian youth run the risk of compromising the fruits of independence, if they continue on their “unacceptable behavioural trend” of insulting elders, especially on social media.

This is according to deputy agriculture minister Anna Shiweda, who was speaking at a belated Cassinga Day commemoration held this past weekend at Ondugu village in the Omusati Region.

She called on youth to exercise maximum discipline in order to equip and prepare themselves to take over the leadership of the country. Shiweda said that as Namibians reflect on 4 May 1978 and other painful events that occurred during the colonial occupation of Namibia, they are constantly being reminded to understand that the freedom, peace, security, stability and independence they enjoy were not given on a silver platter.

She said hundreds of Namibian sons and daughters lost their lives at Oshatotwa, Oshikuku, Epinga, Singalamwe, Shantuhu, Ondeshifilwa and many other places in Namibia, Angola and Zambia in 1978.

Even after 40 years, the Cassinga massacre still evokes the haunting and unforgettable memories of the pain and horror that our people endured, Shiweda said.

“Those sons and daughters selflessly gave their lives so that we can build a united, tolerant, inclusive and harmonious society, free from discrimination, tribalism and racism. They gave their lives so that we can reverse the injustices of the colonial past that have robbed our people of their dignity,” Shiweda said.

She said Namibians should learn valuable lessons from their history about the importance of unity and working together like their forefathers did.

“We should continue to harness the spirit of unity of our forefathers for the betterment of our country's future.”

She said Namibians should, therefore, strive to build a better society, free from all forms of discrimination that are contrary to the ideals of those who lost their lives during the course of the liberation struggle.

“In their honour we must join hands to combat poverty, expand and improve the provision of education, healthcare, housing, clean drinking water, electricity, sanitation, better infrastructure and other basic public amenities.”

Shiweda specifically urged the youth of the Tsandi constituency and the Omusati Region to take a serious interest in national activities and events in the country.

“I am pleading with them because they are the future leaders of our country, and whether they like it or not, they will have to take charge of the future of this country one day. Therefore, they must know the history of this country so that they can lead the country into the future.”

Shiweda further said it is saddening how young people today speak to and insult their elders, especially on social media.

“It is, equally, disheartening to observe the decaying of discipline among young people, including the schoolgoing children. These types of behaviours do not conform to the African tradition, cultural values and norms. Please stop imitating cultural practices that are foreign and that you do not understand,” she said.

“Therefore, if you are to take the mantle of leadership for the future, the time is now for you to change your behaviours by respecting your elders and listening to them when they speak to you, and by exercising maximum discipline at all times. This is the only way that you can equip and prepare yourself to take over the leadership of our country.”

Shiweda said that cultivating a culture of reading is a big challenge in Namibia.

“Taking reading as a hobby could keep you busy and keep you away from unbecoming behaviour, such as the consumption of alcohol or stealing that have increasingly, become serious problems among the youth in our country.”

ELLANIE SMIT

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Nedbank invests in career guidance

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Nedbank invests in career guidanceLearners engaged at 11th annual career expo Nedbank Namibia came on board as a sponsor for this year’s national career expo, with a financial investment of N$250 000.

Ester Kamati

The Nedbank Namibia Career Expo, held at the Windhoek Country Club Resort from 22 to 24 May, was attended by 3 500 learners and comprised of 30 local and international exhibitors.

A welcoming cocktail was held on 21 May.

Nedbank introduced their humanoid robot Pepper at the expo and schools from outside Windhoek were fairly represented by their learners at the event.

Education minister Katrina Hanse-Himarwa commended the founders of the initiative and expressed the belief that it will grow from strength to strength, adding there is still a lot that needs to be done in the schooling system.

“We need more stakeholders to come on board so that we can become bigger and better,” she said.

She described the event as the biggest career expo in Namibia and said its future growth was assured.

“Events of such nature comprise of technology, skills development, educational innovation and creativity,” she said.

Hanse-Himarwa explained that the objective is to create an interactive platform to connect directly with the future workforce (learners) and to provide career information and guidance, which is crucial.

She added that in the eyes of others, this could be seen as a small initiative but the education ministry deems it a significant activity that opens up many opportunities.

Youth activities were described as an important sector that corporate Namibia must invest in by Nedbank’s head of marketing, Gernot de Klerk.

“It is such a great pleasure to co-host the Nedbank Career Expo with a number of notable entities, companies and individuals,” he said, adding that this is about exposing the youth of the country to opportunities, as they look into potential careers and creating a future for themselves.

Nedbank has introduced Pepper, a humanoid robot from South Africa, who was a client service ambassador at this year’s career expo, to showcase the technological advancement that Nedbank is aspiring towards as a corporate entity.

Namibia Career Expo chairperson Jason Kasuto said the expo reaching its 11-year is a milestone, indicating a journey of sacrifice. “The backdrop of our mission stemmed from the reality that information is the key that unlocks the potential of young minds,” he said.

“As a not-for-profit initiative the Namibia Careers Expo has grown into the premier career exhibition in the country. The careers expo aims to expose, inspire and educate young learners and graduates on the vast amount of career paths and opportunities available for them.”

The career expo brings together local and international exhibitors with a common goal of providing valuable career information, scholarships and mentorship to learners. For the past three years, the expo has been experienced by different towns, in addition to the Windhoek events. This year, it will be held in Rundu on 6 to 7 June, after being held in Walvis Bay and Ongwediva in past years, and plans to take the event to the south in future are in the pipeline.

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A ray of light

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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A ray of light Namibian Community Trust donates classroom The Namibian Community Trust has once again proved to be a ray of light in dark times.

Evany van Wyk

When Ebenhaeser Primary School in Karibib experienced a shortage of space to accommodate learners, it decided to reach out and ask for help.

On 21 May, Angelina Sinvula, a Namibian Community Trust trustee for the past 28 years, travelled to Karibib to officially hand over a new classroom that was funded by the organisation.

“I can imagine how excited the teachers and learners will be as they move into it,” said Sinvula during her speech.

She further emphasised that modern facilities not only improve the school’s physical environment, but also the learning culture.

“It is, however, not the building alone that can infuse the vision and passion that will lead the school to further develop, but the human spirit,” she said.

Her hope is that this initiative will serve to help overcome the problem of overcrowded classrooms.

She is hopeful that the trust will grow so that it will be able to help more people all over Namibia.

Other important figures who attended the joyous event included Erongo governor Cleophas Mutjavikua and regional education inspector Engelhardt Uirab.

Mutjavikua said the region is doing its utmost to beef up school infrastructure to ensure a safe environment for the learners.

“I want us to decide on a dream; this dream is that we will look after this facility, to show our appreciation of this wonderful gift,” he said.

The learners, teachers and school principal Wallace Doeseb were also present at the event. The learners put on quite a show for their esteemed guests.

There was a musical performance by the school choir, as well as various cultural performances. The school takes great pride in its diverse cultures.

Fidelis Muyunda, who attended on behalf of Karibib constituency councillor Melanie Ndjago, said: “It is great to see the different cultures celebrated. It is also clear that the learners, teachers and parents of Ebenhaeser Primary School are taking their education seriously.”

The vote of thanks was done by two of the learners, Hendrina Thomas and Martha Shihepo.

“Thank you is only two words, but if it comes from the bottom of our hearts; it means a lot. Today marks another milestone in the development of Ebenhaeser Primary School.” said Thomas.

She added their journey in life is just starting and knowing there are people who are willing to help is a great feeling.

“A special thanks to our teachers, who always welcome us with open arms and help us to move forward in life. Thank you so much for the efforts,” Shihepo said.

The festivities ended with the official opening of the classroom and a tour of the school for the guests.

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Namibia fifth on media index

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Namibia fifth on media index

Namibia has been ranked fifth in the just-launched Africa Media Index, which aims to provide insights on trends and knowledge of the media sector and how it affects investment, governance, local business and economies.

The study on the media landscape in Africa was conducted by advertising media company GroupM.

The index comprises data from 14 African countries such as the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Zambia, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Mozambique, Botswana, Angola and Ethiopia.

It identifies trends that are relevant to industry investors looking to increase their footprint and reach multiple audiences in a meaningful way across the continent.

The report focuses on five key categories - economy and business, media landscape, media consumers, technology and governance and legislation.

South Africa came out top in each of the five categories, putting the country first in the overall rankings.

Ghana was ranked second, even though it underperformed in the media consumers and government and legislation categories, ranking fifth in both.

Botswana is in third place, with consistent third-placed rankings in four of the five categories, but disappointing in the media landscape category in which it was ranked fifth. Kenya came in fourth, as it struggled in the technology and governance and legislation categories, ranking sixth in both.

Namibia rounded out the top five countries, scoring well in the category for media consumers (third) and government and legislation (second).

In the technology category Namibia was ranked seventh, for media landscape ninth and economy and business category 12th.

Zimbabwe, Angola and Mozambique were the bottom three nations in the overall rankings in the index.

“Many companies - both those already on the continent and those wishing to reach consumers and businesses across Africa - often struggle to find consistent and reliable information which gives a clear understanding of the media landscape. The intention of the Africa Media Index is to bridge that gap,” said the CEO at GroupM sub-Saharan Africa, Federico De Nardis.

According to the study sub-Saharan Africa hosts 17% of the world's population today, but only represents 2% of world GDP, and even less when advertising investment is taken into account, which is US$2.6 billion or 0.47% of global investments.

However, due to mobile and internet expansion, strong urbanisation and a booming middle class, the next 30 years should tell a very different story, according to the study.

“While the African middle class population is growing impressively, so is their access to technology and media consumption. This is demonstrated through the rising sales of televisions, which now replace radio as a preferred purchase option in places where electricity supply is increasingly available,” the report said.

The study notes that access to the internet also accounts for a large growth in the media landscape. However, internet use is restricted by high data prices in various regions. More than 83% of respondents believe online media is growing significantly, while 75% of them think radio, through internet broadcasting, is on a high trajectory. However, the same respondents are also bullish about television, with nearly 62% of positive growth.

In addition it says that print media in Africa is experiencing positive growth, contrary to what is happening in the rest of the world. For example, in Kenya newspaper consumption has grown by 14% in 2018 compared to the previous year, and 12% in Nigeria.

Of the surveyed respondents, 49% of East Africans and over 36% of Southern Africans think media corruption is “highly prevalent”, while 41% West Africans say the media is hopelessly corrupt. Corrupt state media, bribe taking journalists and self-censorship by the independent press were cited as examples of corruption.

As a result, the risk impact of changes in legislation and regulation have increased considerably, as many African governments continue to implement laws governing information and ethical operations of businesses.

ELLANIE SMIT

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US chips in with drought aid

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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US chips in with drought aid

Some of Namibia's most hard-hit communities struggling to survive amidst the ongoing drought are set to benefit from N$1.4 million in relief aid donated by the United States government.

Yesterday US ambassador to Namibia, Lisa Johnson, announced a US$100 000 contribution towards Namibia's emergency drought actions to be funnelled to communities most in need.

The aid, provided via the USAID's Office for Disaster Assistance, follows a plea for support by President Hage Geingob amidst the escalating drought crisis.

The funds will be directed towards humanitarian disaster relief with water, sanitation and hygiene interventions to be provided by the Namibia Red Cross Society to targeted drought-affected communities.

The aid follows the president's declaration earlier this month of a state of emergency due to the persistent and crippling drought conditions and the Namibian government's call for international support to supplement national efforts.

“This drought disaster assistance is a symbol of America's commitment to work in partnership with the Namibian government to help Namibia prosper,” Johnson said in a statement.

She said the US will continue to support the Namibian people and “together, I know we can alleviate some of the challenges this drought is causing”.

The drought has crippled many parts of the country following record low rainfall in the majority of regions. Crop production has been impacted while farmers are reporting loss of livestock due to the drought conditions.

Based on a five-year average vulnerability assessment, 556 000 people are estimated to be affected by the drought situation, which is almost one in five Namibians.

This is the third time in six years that government has declared a national state of emergency as a result of drought.

Drought was also declared a national crisis in 2013 and in 2016.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila earlier this month announced a N$572 million government intervention strategy in the National Assembly.

“Given the extent of the drought, these interventions will require the support of all Namibians, especially the business community and the international community. We therefore call on all Namibians and development partners to assist in any way possible, so that we provide for our people who are affected, as well as the livestock,” she said.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Decolonise yourselves – Geingob

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Decolonise yourselves – GeingobPresident not amused by youngsters Student leaders who told the president that universities should be “decolonised” got more than they bargained for.

What started out as a plea by the Namibia National Students Organisation (Nanso) leadership to decolonise tertiary institutions turned into a history lesson when President Hage Geingob schooled them at State House last week.

Geingob stepped in when the student leadership appeared to have little knowledge of Africa Day, which was celebrated this past Saturday.

The president reminded them that African dignity and history is based on an African set of values, which starts with respect for elders.

“Today the insults youth hurl at old people is something else; it is not the African culture. Decolonise yourself to know African history properly and do not misinterpret it,” he said.

When he asked whether they knew their history or what Africa Day is about, in chorus the students shook their heads to confirm they do not really know.

The Nanso leadership includes three law students, a political science student, a sociology master's student and a microbiology student.

The group solemnly told the president they want to decolonise tertiary intuitions so they accept sick notes from traditional healers.

They also want government to introduce mother-tongue instruction and increase African content.

Nanso secretary for education, training and research, Ephraim Paulus, informed the president that tertiary education institutions refuse to accept sick notes from traditional healers.

“Regionally the discussion on the decolonisation of the education sector continues,” he said.

According to him one of the measures that can move Namibia towards having a decolonised education sector includes the introduction of mother-tongue languages as mandatory mediums of instruction at primary schools.

Another measure is for all institutions of higher Learning to increase African content in the curriculum.

“Government should incentivise the study of African culture, medicine, history and languages. Educators and parents should teach learners and students the importance of indigenous skills. All people living in Namibia should implore African dignity,” Paulus urged.

The president, however, said he is disappointed and worried that the Namibian youth are becoming increasingly tribalistic and disrespectful.

“I am worried that you are more backward and tribalistic. You are telling me I must go and throw the stones,” he said in response to their call that sick notes from traditional healers be recognised.

“Is this a crucial and burning issue,” asked Geingob, adding they must decolonise their “mind of dependency”.

“I am afraid that if you want to go back to the old customs. Where we will be?” he asked.

“When are we going to build up this country to get to the Fourth Industrial Revolution when you talk about traditional healers?” he asked.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Unconditional love deserves so much more

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Unconditional love deserves so much more Mariselle Stofberg

When people are mistreated we get enraged. When we see a person being abused we are urged to intervene. When we see a person in need or distress most people don’t hesitate to offer aid or assistance. When we see an animal in the same situation, however, something changes. Somewhere along the line we stop caring, because they are only animals. We make ourselves believe they have no feelings. Animals are reduced to objects we can use and abuse as we see fit. When those eyes stare at you, pleading to be helped or just to be loved, we somehow stop caring.

Our laws are not able to provide these animals with the necessary protection. Our legal system has an inability to punish offenders. We post and share videos of people mistreating animals. We might not share this mentality of degrading animals to objects, but we don’t speak up. Silence makes you an accomplice to this detrimental part of our society. The sad part of this entire cycle is that those animals that are mistreated love you unconditionally. To them you are their world. You are the most important thing in their lives and they will forever be loyal to you, even if you mistreat them - even if you abuse them or ignore them. They believe that we, as humans, might someday change. They believe in the possibility of love even amidst the pain they are experiencing.

I had the unfortunate opportunity to once again see the inability of people to take five minutes to help animals that were not able to help themselves. Two dogs were standing along the road, and one of them starting walking into the middle of the road. He was scared, underweight and desperate for anyone to stop and help. No one stopped. No one was interested to give that poor dog five minutes. When we stopped and I opened the door he came running into the car and jumped onto my mother’s lap. Instantly he laid down his head and the gratitude in those brown eyes nearly broke my heart. Upon closer inspection we saw that someone tried to castrate that poor dog and had left the piece of wire still attached to the dog. He was severely injured, scared and frightened. The other dog was so concerned about her companion and afraid of being left along the road that she tried to jump through the window in an attempt not to be left behind.

When we opened the door she jumped in and laid down on the seat. Both dogs were severely malnourished, scared and in very poor condition. At the first sign of love and someone who was willing to help, their entire demeanour changed. They stopped trembling and a sense of complete appreciation was evident in every part of their being. At that moment I broke down. My heart broke and my soul wept for this cruelty I was forced to witness. Tears of frustration, disappointment in the human race and simple anger kept rolling. I was unable to comprehend how one person could mistreat two beautiful animals who only want one thing in life - to be loved.

Pythagoras once said that animals share with us the privilege of having a soul. They are intelligent beings who poses the ability to care and feel. They are the image of loving someone unconditionally. They love you more than they love themselves. They are utterly loyal, even when we don’t deserve it. They forgive you, even when you are not able to forgive yourself. They see the best in you, even when the world only sees your mistakes. They are excited to see you every time you walk in the door. They crave your company in a world where people are too busy to pay attention. They see past your walls. They see the pain you try to hide and they care about you - not your looks, the car you drive, your salary or societal status. In a materialistic world, they only care about your soul.

My dog makes me feel wanted and special every single day. She has the ability to sense when I need comfort. She always makes me laugh. She’s highly intelligent, sensitive, clumsy, funny, energetic, loveable, overdramatic, forgiving, strong and loyal. She was willing to jump between an attacker and my sister when they broke into our house. She was stabbed and thrown with a glass bottle and still kept defending her family. She was willing to put her life at risk to save ours. She had to fight for her life on an operating table because she wanted nothing more than to protect her family. ‘Objects’ don’t possess such bravery, unconditional selflessness and strength, which are an integral part of the nature of animals. They deserve so much more than we are giving them.

If we could have even a fraction of the soul of animals, how different this world would be.

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Respect works both ways

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Respect works both ways Deputy agriculture minister Anna Shiweda has become the latest high-profile voice to admonish the youth for being disrespectful and insulting elders on platforms such as Facebook.

Speaking at a belated Cassinga Day commemoration held this past weekend at Ondugu village in the Omusati Region, Shiweda said: “It is, equally, disheartening to observe the decaying of discipline among young people, including the school-going children. These types of behaviours do not conform to the African tradition, cultural values and norms.”

This may be fair comment, but what exactly is it about the musing and vexing of youth on social media that has the Swapo and government leaders crying foul time and time again?

Earlier this year information minister Stanley Simataa moved to counter what he described as a deliberate distortion of what he meant in a statement in which he urged the nation not to hurl insults at leaders.

Simataa had taken issue with citizens who insulted leaders on social media, saying that the government would not shy away from using the provisions of the law to hold the perpetrators accountable.

The minister said he had noted with great concern a deluge of derogatory and insulting messages, directed at President Hage Geingob, cabinet members and the entire government, circulating on social platforms.

The minister did not divulge the identity of those hurling these insults, nor did he tackle those insulting on behalf of those in power.

It is all good and well to harp on insults, and these should not be condoned. However, the intent behind this constant reminder to be respectful may have a deeper meaning.

Perhaps it is tied to the belief that if leaders can be publicly tackled, there will no longer be an unquestioning following of the former liberation movement that has now ruled this country for 29 years. That would also explain why the notion of independent candidates standing in local and other elections is being treated like a leper’s rag by the powers that be. And in any event, respect works both ways.

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At home in the saddle

May 27, 2019, 4:00 pm

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At home in the saddle Timothy has big plans for the future Timothy Liebenberg wears bright neon socks for luck during a show.

Michelline Nawatises

Timothy Liebenberg 16-year-old learner at Otjiwarongo Secondary School.

The ambitious youngster started riding when he was seven years old and rode his first competitive endurance ride when he was eight. Riding has taught Timothy self-discipline and perseverance, as well as to work hard when he wants to accomplish something.

One of the things Timothy has learned while riding is to always stay calm, no matter the situation. He says the horse can feel your energy and reacts to it. The pre-rituals Timothy performs include planning his performance in his head and making some jokes with his coach to calm his nerves. “Just before I mount my horse I ask the Lord for a clear head and soft hands,” he says.

Timothy is motivated by his desire to be the best rider he can be, so that both he and his horse enjoy the experience. One of the goals he has for himself and his horse is to qualify, participate and help the Namibian team to win the Saddle Seat World Cup.

The rider does supplemental activities to stay in shape for riding and he has a strict fitness and diet programme before a show, as well as daily lessons with his trainers. He also does an endurance ride at least once a month to stay riding fit.

He says his biggest supporters are his parents, trainers and especially his grandparents, who always stand by his side through all the harsh and rewarding moments as a rider.

He usually practices endurance as well as saddle-bred riding. The Zone asked Timothy which other discipline he would like to try and he mentioned gymkhana.

“My great-grandfather was a legend and I grew up hearing stories about him and his horses,” he said.

His immediate future goals include being selected for the Namibian team to participate in the Saddle Seat World Cup in 2020, as well as to participate in the saddle-bred show in Kentucky in the United States. One of Timothy’s best show memories and the horse that left the biggest impact on him was when he received the prize as park horse champion on Sable Kingston.

“He was my first competitive saddle-bred and has taught me many lessons and has always given me his best at a show, and nothing less. However, all my horses are special to me and each has its own unique character,” he said.

Timothy currently has 8 000 competitive endurance kilometres to his name and also holds the record for the youngest person to ever complete the 300-miler. (480 kilometres over 4 days on one horse). He did this when he was 11 years old on his horse Jenny.

When he was 12 he was thrown off a very wild horse and broke his jaw, upper arm, several ribs and had a severe concussion, yet this did not keep him out of the saddle. The following year he went on to win the children's division of the African championships at Walvis Bay for endurance riding on his horse Zabubega Shaker. He placed sixth overall, recording one of the highest overall placings for a child ever at the championships. That year he received the horsemanship and rider of the year award, as well as the award for the fastest registered Arabian at the championships, among others.

Facts of Timothy

*He only started riding saddle-bred horses when he was 14 years old.

*In 2018 he was the SA reserve champion in the children’s fine harness.

*In 2019 he was reserve champion in two championships

*His future plans are to study medicine at Unam and then specialise as an anesthesiologist.

* He is influenced by his trainer Mart Viljoen and his parents.

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