Nust battle: Shimming-Chase quits

June 18, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Nust battle: Shimming-Chase quits Namibian Sun has reliably learnt that Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) council chairperson Esi Shimming-Chase has resigned.

Shimming-Chase and fellow council member Kondjeni Nkandi resigned during a meeting last week, impeccable sources have confirmed. According to a statement issued by the university on Monday afternoon Goms Menette is now the acting chairperson. The statement followed a WhatsApp message that circulated over the weekend, which said Shimming-Chase's resignation came after higher education minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi insisted that the recruitment process of the new Nust vice-chancellor be halted. The minister is adamant that the new council will oversee the recruitment process. The current council's term ends in August. In recent weeks Shimming-Chase and Kandjii-Murangi have exchanged blows over who has the last say on matters relating to governance at the university. The biggest bone of contention has been the replacement of long-serving vice-chancellor Tjama Tjivikua, who stepped down in April. The search for his replacement started in earnest in September last year. Five candidates were shortlisted for the position - University of Namibia (Unam) academics Frednand Gideon and Erold Naomab (the only Namibians), Nigerian national Abraham Ogwu, Botswana national Otlogetswe Totolo and Turkish national Said Irandoust - but eventually none of them were appointed.





The position was re-advertised in March.





Last month Kandjii-Murangi told the council in a letter dated 13 May that the recruitment process must halted, pointing out that “it will not be in the best interest of the university if the current council recruits an incoming VC”.

The minister has also informed the council that she is already recruiting new council members.

This in particular seemed to have annoyed Shimming-Chase who told the minister in her strongly worded response that this violates the Nust Act and statutes, as well as the Public Enterprises Governance Act and good governance.

Shimming-Chase also accused the minister of interfering in the constitutional rights of council members and egregiously abusing her powers.

When contacted for comment, Kandjii-Murangi said she was in a “the middle of something” and would call back.

Shimming-Chase was not reachable.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Red hurricane on trade balance

June 18, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Red hurricane on trade balanceBest ‘chinas’ Copper exports and re-exports are driving exports to China, resulting in an increasing trade surplus with the industrial giant. Jo-Maré Duddy – China has claimed the top spot for third consecutive time as Namibia’s export destination in the first three months of 2019.

In addition, Namibia has recorded a trade surplus with the super power for the sixth consecutive quarter.

The latest figures released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) show that for every N$4 Namibia registered as export earnings in the first quarter of 2019, N$1 was generated by the Chinese market.

Total exports to China in the past quarter were nearly N$5.44 billion, about N$1.98 billion or around 57% more than the first quarter of 2018.

Namibia has seen a massive increase in exports to the eastern giant in the first quarters since 2014, when only about N$343 million worth of goods were destined for the Chinese market. In just five years, exports to China has skyrocketed by some 1 485%.

At the same time, imports from the country in the first quarters have dropped sharply – peaking at N$1.8 billion in 2018 during the five years under review. Namibia imported goods worth N$859 million from China in the past quarter.

China only became one of Namibia’s top 10 export destinations in the third quarter of 2017. Exports to the country first burst through the ceiling of N$1 billion then.

Surplus

Namibia recorded a trade surplus with China in the first quarter of this year, with exports exceeding imports by about N$4.6 billion.

This is the biggest consecutive surplus since Namibia moved into positive trade balance territory with China in the last quarter of 2017. Namibia’s trade surplus with the country has been growing rapidly since the last three months of 2017, when it was a mere N$195 million.

2018 was the first year that Namibia recorded an annual trade surplus with China – exports exceeded imports by more than N$10 billion and the country was Namibia’s most important export market.

In 2017 – when China was only the fourth biggest export destination - Namibia still reported a trade deficit of nearly N$1.3 billion with the country.

Resource hungry

Copper, zinc and ores – but especially copper - drive China’s insatiable appetite for imports from Namibia.

In the past quarter, about N$3.3 billion or 61% of all exports to China was copper. Ore exports totalled nearly N$1.9 billion, followed by zinc with N$141 million.

Compared to the first quarter of 2018, copper exports rose by about 60%, while zinc and ore exports were up 50% and 574% respectively.

The NSA’s 2018 annual trade report clearly illustrates China’s growing importance as a copper export market. In 2017, Namibia exported no copper to China. Last year, the commodity was Namibia’s no.1 export product to the industrial giant with nearly N$9.8 billion worth of copper making its way to China. This represents about 60% of Namibia’s total exports to the country in 2018.

According to Reuters, China accounts for nearly half of global copper demand estimated at about 24 million tonnes this year.

Nearly N$5.96 billion worth of ores from Namibia was destined for China, up 233% from 2017. Ore exports consisted mainly of uranium, followed by a small percentage of zinc and other ores.

Trough state-owned enterprises, like China National Uranium Corporation Ltd (CNUC), China owns 90% of Swakop Uranium’s Husab uranium mine, as well as 25% of the Langer Heinrich mine, currently on care and maintenance. Rio Tinto has also agreed to sell its entire stake of 68.62% in Rössing Uranium Ltd to CNUC. The transaction is pending regulatory approval.

Zinc exports in 2018 jumped by 69% on an annual basis, totalling N$311 million. Natural minerals and stones were the fourth most important export product to China, earning Namibia N$164 million – 27% more than 2017.

Re-exports

Namibia has to rely on re-exports to meet China’s demand for especially copper.

China was Namibia main re-export partner last year.

Nearly N$9.78 billion of copper was re-exported to the country, while zinc re-exports amounted to N$21 million.

In the first quarter of 2019, China kept its position as re-export market of choice. Total re-exports to the giant exceeded N$3.28 billion, an increase of 55% compared to the first three months of 2018.

Nearly N$3.27 billion worth of copper was re-exported to China.

Imports

During the quarter under review, China was Namibia’s fifth biggest import market. About N$859 million worth of Chinese goods landed locally, 52% less than the first quarter of 2018.

Last year, China was Namibia’s third biggest import market. Imports from the country totalled nearly N$6.3 billion or 6% of Namibia’s total imports. Compared to 2017, Namibia imported 36% less from China.

Industrial machinery (N$1.3 billion) was the most important import, followed by electrical machinery (N$1.1 billion).

Other import products of interest were oils and mineral fuels (N$296 million), motor vehicles and parts (N$196 million) and plastics (N$139 million).

Economic giant

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month concluded its annual Article IV consultations with China.

The IMF expects economic growth in China to moderate to 6.2% and 6.0% in 2019 and 2020, respectively. The government’s planned policy stimulus will partially offset the negative impact from the recent US tariff hike on US$200 billion of Chinese exports, it said.

“Uncertainty around trade tensions remains high and risks are tilted to the downside,” the fund concluded.

The IMF’s first deputy managing director, David Lipton, said growth is expected to gradually slow to 5.5% by 2024 as the economy moves towards a more sustainable growth path.

Lipton said no additional policy easing is needed, provided there are no further increases in tariffs or a significant slowdown in growth.

“Exchange rate flexibility should increase to facilitate adjustment to the new external environment. However, if trade tensions escalate further, putting at risk economic and financial stability, some additional policy easing would be warranted,” he said.

“The global economy would benefit from a more open, stable, and transparent, rules-based international trade system,” Lipton added.

“China and its trading partners should work constructively to address shortcomings in the trading system and enable a system that can more readily adapt to economic changes in the international environment. China can also play an important role and benefit from further opening up and other structural reforms that enhance competition.

“’Trade tensions between the US and China should be quickly resolved through a comprehensive agreement that supports the international system and avoids managed trade,” Lipton said.

Nyambe, Stephanus, Ketjijere nurse injuries

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Nyambe, Stephanus, Ketjijere nurse injuries Ryan Nyambe, Willy Stephanus and captain Ronald Ketjijere are nursing minor injuries ahead of Sunday's Afcon 2019 group match between Namibia and Morocco.

Coach Ricardo Mannetti is, however, optimistic that the players will be ready for the big clash.

“On the injury front, captain Ronald Ketjijere, winger Willy Stephanus and defender Ryan Nyambe are nursing minor knocks but the coach is confident the medical team will take care of it in time for the opening match,” the NFA website reports.

It was also announced that the Brave Warriors will have no problem with the weather in Cairo, Egypt.

They kick off their Group D campaign against African footballing superpower Morocco and will also clash with Ivory Coast and South Africa in what many have termed 'the group of death'. The team jetted into Cairo from Dubai on Tuesday afternoon and had their first training session at their Afcon base yesterday morning.

“Everyone understands their role in the team and how we can play and where we want to be. The selection of the final 23 players says it all in terms of tactical harmony,” Mannetti said.

“We have not beaten Morocco in about six games now and we have a lot of hope because of our preparations. It's a once-off match and it will be tricky and different, and a draw or victory against Morocco will be key.”

Mannetti added the response from the players during the training session also added value to the preparations.

“During the run this morning the guys said they can handle this weather, which is good, because we will play in the afternoon on Sunday, and compared to night temperatures of 33 degrees Celsius in Dubai, they can surely handle it.

“The team is poised to improve on their latest heroics and that can only be good for us,” Mannetti added. The Brave Warriors will take on South Africa on 28 June, also at Al Salam Stadium, and will play their final group game against Ivory Coast on 1 July at Cairo International Stadium.

Sport Reporter

Fit Meroro eyes Lagos glory

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Fit Meroro eyes Lagos glory Former Pan-African interim cruiserweight champion Vikapita 'Beast Master' Meroro and his team will jet off to Nigeria on Monday.

Meroro will clash with Nigerian boxer Tony Salam for the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Pan-African cruiserweight title in Lagos on 30 June.

The Namibian will be accompanied by his manager Risto Ashikoto and trainer Andreas Moyanale.

“We did the final preparations and I can say that I am ready for this fight. I had this title before and I am definitely bringing it back to Namibia.

“I have watched the boy and he has proven to be a smart fighter but he is in for a big surprise,” Meroro said. Moyanale is adamant they will be able to outsmart the Nigerian in his own backyard.

The trainer feels that Meroro possesses the power that can send the Nigerian to the canvas.

“I am impressed with Meroro's fitness levels because he has lost 17 kilograms since he fought last year.

“We do have a plan for the Nigerian boy and I believe that we are going to outsmart him,” Moyanale said.

Meroro has a record of 27 wins and seven losses in 36 professional fights, while Salam comes into the fight with an impressive record of 13 wins and only two losses in 15 fights. Meroro last fought in November last year, when he beat Mussa Ajibu via unanimous decision, while his opponent's last fight ended in a knockout victory over Kwesi Tutu in December 2018.

Ashikoto revealed that Meroro will be fighting in Mshasho-branded kit he received from award-winning musician King Tee Dee.

“I would like to thank Mshasho for sponsoring us with kit for our boxer. It is so far the only sponsorship we got but we remain open to more sponsorships.

“Meroro will do his best in Nigeria and we are confident that he will bring the title home,” Ashikoto added.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

Belarus run riot

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Belarus run riotMengo says Namibia need to 'regroup' Captain Magreth Mengo says the team will have to regroup after losing to Belarus. Namibia's senior women's field hockey team have lost their first encounter at the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Series Finals in Valencia, Spain against Belarus 0-7.

Captain Magreth Mengo said the first match was their most important and they let themselves down.

“There was no energy; we have a young team and they need to learn to deal with the pressure of a first game.

“The way forward is that we need to lift our heads and work hard. It's not over yet, so we need to regroup, focus and have a better strategy for the second game,” Mengo said.

Belarus are ranked 20th in the world and started the encounter on the front foot by attacking Namibia's defence. They dominated all four quarters of the match.

Both teams are in Pool A and this was their first clash since 2013.

Belarus, who won bronze at the 2018 FIH Indoor World Cup, brought a furious attacking game and disciplined defence.

The Namibians were Africa's sole representatives at last year's Indoor Hockey World Cup in Germany and need to pull up their socks against 21st ranked Canada, if they want to keep their dreams alive of qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

They clash with Canada in their second group match tomorrow.

The Canadians will, however, be a tough nut to crack.

They turned to crowdfunding to finance their trip to Valencia, with the hope of finishing tops in the eight-country tournament.

Rated 42nd in the world - the lowest ranked in their group and the whole competition - the Namibians need to perform above par in their third match against Spain as well, who are ranked seventh.

The pool winners get a bye ahead of the semi-finals clashes, while the second- and third-place finishers' will clash to decide the other two semi-final teams.

The Namibian squad is as follows: Magreth Mengo (captain), Petro Stoffberg, Jerrica Bartlett, Sunelle Ludwig, Gillian Hermanus, Kiana-Che Cormack, Dure Boshoff, Taramarie Myburgh, Danja Meyer, Cele Wessels, Berencia Diamond, Jahntwa Kruger, Emilia Kashopola, Ina Louis, Joane van Rooyen, Armin van Staden, Jocelle Deysell, and Jivanka Kruger.

The coaching staff consists of Erwin Handura (coach), Rachel Freeman (manager), Randolf Slabbert (assistant coach), Manuel Carballo (fitness and mental health), Donatha Ngunovandu (team medic) and Maryke Short (video analyst).

LIMBA MUPETAMI

Inside Tyson's 165-hectare cannabis resort

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Inside Tyson's 165-hectare cannabis resort Former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson has revealed plans to launch a 165-hectare cannabis resort.

When you have as much wealth and time as Tyson likely has, anything is possible. The Tyson Ranch will complement his cannabis company Tyson Holistic Holdings, which he created in 2016. It sells marijuana strains, edibles and merchandise. The ranch will include a festival venue and the world's longest lazy river, which will apparently take an hour to float down.

There are even plans for a hotel. It will also include Tyson University that will be dedicated to teaching cannabis growing techniques to would-be farmers.

Tyson will also use the ranch for research purposes, as he dedicates himself to his new business venture. Tyson Ranch will span across 165-hectare and according to GQ, you will be able to smoke anywhere on the Californian plot, but marijuana will not be available to buy onsite. Work started on the ranch near Desert Hot Springs in 2017. In an interview with Cannabis Tech Today, Tyson outlined his vision.

“I thought about how much good I could do by helping people with cannabis. It was a no-brainer,” he said.

When he's not building his cannabis empire, Tyson hosts a podcast show. He recently had Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan on as a guest, with the outspoken presenter sparking up on the show. Describing their wide-ranging, cannabis-fuelled chat for Mail Online, he added that the former boxer gave him a weed-themed goody bag from his ranch. Piers wrote in his column: “Whatever your side of the debate about marijuana - I view it as less dangerous than alcohol or cigarettes - I've never seen a happier, calmer Mike Tyson.”

Michael Gerard Tyson, born on 30 June 1966, is the former undisputed king of heavyweight boxing and competed from 1985 to 2005.

He holds the record as the youngest boxer to win a heavyweight title at 20 years, four months and 22 days old.

Metro

Brazil denied by VAR

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Brazil denied by VARSamba Kings draw with Venezuela in Copa America clash Brazil left the field to boos but remain top of Group A with four points from two games, with one match to play. Brazil were held to a 0-0 draw by Venezuela in the Copa America on Tuesday after a dramatic finale which saw a late Philippe Coutinho strike ruled out by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Coutinho thought he had fired Brazil into the quarterfinals in the 87th minute when he bundled home a finish from Everton Soares' driving run down the left wing at Salvador's Arena Fonte Nova.

But for the second time in the match, Chilean referee Julio Bascunan ruled out a Brazilian goal after being alerted to an infringement by the VAR.

The goal appeared to have been disallowed due to a touch by Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino, although it was not clear that Firmino had been offside as the ball grazed him on the way into the net.

Venezuela have two points from two games and will fancy their chances of advancing with their final game coming against Bolivia, who suffered their second straight defeat earlier on Tuesday in a 3-1 loss to Peru.

Brazil coach Tite meanwhile had no issues with the two VAR-assisted decisions that ruled out his side's goals. “They made the right call with both goals,” Tite said. “VAR was correct. I have absolutely nothing to demand we got justice,” he added.

Venezuela coach Rafael Dudamel meanwhile praised an “almost perfect” performance from his team.

“Today is very important, but this result will mean nothing if we don't qualify from the group,” Dudamel said. Brazil, who had made hard work of beating Bolivia in their opener, once again struggled to find a creative spark against well-organised opponents.

“We did not have the creativity we were looking for,” Tite said. “The team was a bit anxious in that respect. We have to improve; we rushed our finishing and we didn't give their goalkeeper much to do.”

Firmino was kept quiet by Venezuela's defence, with Yordan Osorio and Mikel Villanueva neutralising the Liverpool striker.

The tale of the first half lies in the statistics from the opening 45 minutes, with Brazil recording only one hot on target despite enjoying 75% possession.

In fact, the best chance of the half fell to Venezuela, when Salomon Rondon headed Yangel Herrera's cross just inches wide with Alisson beaten. Firmino did put the ball into the Venezuela net in the 38th minute, but the goal was disallowed after Bascunan ruled Villanueva had been fouled in the build-up.

Brazil left the field to loud boos and whistling, and manager Tite wasted no time in making a change at halftime, bringing on Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus for Richarlison.

Jesus made an instant impact, looking lively down the left flank and curling a shot just wide of the post on 57 minutes.

Moments later Jesus looked to have fired Brazil into the lead.

Once again the striker advanced menacingly on the Venezuela penalty area and unleashed a fierce low shot. The ball deflected off Villanueva into the path of Firmino, who then squared for Jesus who continued his run.

The striker took a touch and buried his finish as the home fans erupted. But the festive atmosphere fell flat as the goal was referred to the VAR, who promptly chalked the score off after ruling Firmino had been offside when he collected the ricochet. A deflated Brazil took several minutes to regroup but grew increasingly desperate as valuable minutes ticked away and Venezuela held firm.

Jesus went close again in the 76th minute when Dani Alves whipped a cross into the six-yard box.

But again Venezuela's defence was rock-solid, with Jesus bundled off the ball and unable to get a shot away.

Coutinho looked to have broken the deadlock three minutes from time, but the VAR's intervention rescued a precious point for Venezuela.

Fernandinho almost snatched victory with a header in the 10th minute of time added on, but his effort rolled just wide of the post.



NAMPA/AFP

Unam Wolves leave for eSwatini

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Unam Wolves leave for eSwatini The University of Namibia (Unam) Wolves basketball team departed from Windhoek on Tuesday to partake in the weeklong eSwatini Invitational International Basketball Tournament (EIIBT).

The games are taking place from tomorrow until Sunday.

Team captain Allan Nghixulifwa said they were grateful for the university's support by making transport available to the team, while the players themselves will cover their own accommodation, meals and participation fees.

“With the current economic situation in the country, any kind of help in sport is massive, as it helps Namibian athletes to test themselves against the best. This tournament will give Unam Wolves the much-needed platform to test themselves against the best in the region,” he explained.

Nghixulifwa said they will go to the tournament with the hope of winning and learning, since it will be held under International Basketball Federation (IBF) standards.

A total of 34 teams have confirmed their participation in this year's tournament, with 10 of those being female clubs.

The ladies will have two groups of five teams each, while the men will have four groups of six teams each.

The tournament is aimed at bringing SADC countries together to play basketball, while exposing teams to international competition standards.

This is the first time that a team from Namibia will participate in the tournament, which features clubs from the host country eSwatini, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana and South Africa.

NAMPA

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Namibia okuli moshiponga shomikithi

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Namibia okuli moshiponga shomikithiOopresenda 49 dhAaNamibia kadhi na uundjugo Olopota ndjoka ya pitithwa kehangano lyuundjolowele muuyuni oya holola onkalo tayi halutha kayi na uuyogoki, moka AaNamibia taya lumbu nonkalo ndjoka oyi li tayi etitha omikithi odhindji dha yooloka. Pethimbo oshilongo tashi kondjo nomukithi gwohepatitis E, ehangano lyuundjolowele muuyuni olya holola olopota kutya oopresenda 49 dhaakwashigana kadhi na uundjugo na ohadhi longitha owala iihwa nenge omahala ga andjuka mokwiikwathela nokutula oshigwana moshiponga shomikithi.

Pauyelele wolopota ndjoka ya pitithwa koUnited Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) oshowo World Health Organisation (WHO), aantu ye li poomiliyona 2.5 moNamiba, oopresenda owala 35 dhi na omayakulo gopauyogoki okuya momvula yo 2017.

Kwiikwatelelwa kolopota ndjoka, oopresenda 49 dhaakwashigwana natango ohadhi longitha owala omahala gaandjuka ngele dha hala okulongitha uundjugo.

Omanga momvula yo 2000 omwaalu ngoka gwa li poopresenda 56.

Komikunda olopota ndjoka oya holola kutya momvula yo 2017 oopresenda 18 dhaakwashigwana kadhi na omayakulo guuyogoki omanga oopresenda 73 dhaantu taya longitha iihwa nenge omahala gaandjuka onga uundjugo, okuyeleka nomvula yo 76 moka omwaalu ngoka gwa li poopresenda 76.

Moondoolopa, oopresenda 53 dhaakwashigwana odhi na omayakulo guuyogoki , omanga oopresenda 23 kadhi na uundjugo nomwaalu ngoka ogwa londo pombanda okuza poopresenda 14 momvula yo 2000.

Olopota tayi ithanwa 'Joint Monitoring Programme report, Progress on drinking water, sanitation and hygiene: 2000-2017: Special focus on inequalities' oya mono kutya nonando okwa pondolwa kashona mokugandja omeya ga yogoka koshigwana nomayakulo guundjolowele nuuyogoki, ope na omwaka omunene megandjo lyomayakulo ngoka.

Oobiliyona 2.2 muuyuni kadhi na omeya gayogoka omanga oobiliyona 4.2 kadhi na iikwaniipangitho yuuyogoki omanga oobiliyona 3 kadhi na iikwaniipangitho yokwiiyoga kiikaha.

Olopota oya tsikile kutya oopresenda 83 dhAaNamibia odhi na omeya gokunwa ga yogoka momvula yo 2017 naashoka osha li e yo pombanda noopresenda 6 okuza momvula yo 2000.

Omiyalu dhopaife odha holola kutya oopresenda 69 dhaakalimo yomuushayi oshowo oopresenda 96 dhaakalimo yomoondoolopa oya mono omayakulo gomeya gayogoka okuya momvula 2017.

Nonando ongaaka olopota oya popi kutya oopresenda 12 dhaakalimo yomuushayi natango otaya nu omeya inaga yogoka omanga oopresenda 60 dhaakwashigwana dhi na omeya gayogoka momagumbo gawo momvula yo 2017. Miitopolwa yomuushayyi oopresenda ndhoka odhi li po 46 omanga moondoolopa dhi li po 75.

Oshifokundaneki shoNamibia Sun osha holola kutya okuya momasiku 2 gaJuni nuumvo, iipotha yi li po 5 309 yomukithi gwohepatitis E ya lopotwa miitopolwa oyindji moshilongo omanga aantu yeli 45 ya hulitha komukithi ngoka konima nkene gwa dhidhilikwa tango momalukanda mOvenduka, oomvula mbali dha piti.

Oshipotha shotago shomukithi ngoka osha lopotwa muKotomba gwomvula yo 2017 moshipangelo mOvenduka. Omikithi ngoka ogwa taandele miitopolwa yilwe moshilongo unene momalukanda sho onkalo yuuyogoki ya nkundiala omahala ngoka.

Omalukanda ngoka ga gumwa unene ongaashi Havana noGoreangab mOvenduka.

MoSwakopmund, olukanda lwaDRC okwa hololwa kutya olwa gumwa noonkondo konkalo ndjoka omolwa iikwaniipangitho yuuyogoki ya ngambekwa.

Omiyalu dha pitithwa kuuministeli wuundjolowele oshiwike sha piti odha holola kutya oopresenda 57 dhaalumentu odho dhwa gumwa nomwaalu guli po 3 020 omanga aakiintu yeli po 2 289.

Etukuko lyomukithi ngoka mOshitopolwa shaKhomas, olya taandele kiitopolwa yilwe ngaashi Erongo, Kavango, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto oshowo Omaheke.

Oshitopolwa shaKhomas osho shili ponomola yotango sho mwa lopotwa iipotha yili po 3 469, iipotha yi li po1 249 oya lopotwa Erongo omanga iipotha yili po 591, ya lopotwa miitopolwa yilwe iheyali.

Oopota yoUNICEF oshowo WHO oya holola kutya aantu yeli poobiliyona 1.8 muuyuni oya mono omeya gokunwa gayogoka okuza momvula yo 2000 ihe ope na omwaka yokwaahathika pamwe megandjo lyomayakulo ngoka.









ELLANIE SMIT

Aahupi yomithima oya li ya kunkililwa - Shilongo

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Aahupi yomithima oya li ya kunkililwa - Shilongo ILENI NANDJATO

Olopota ya ngongwa po kOmunambelewa Omukuluntu gwOshitopolwa shaHangwena Fillipus Shilongo oya hololwa kutya, ongundu yaahupi yomithima oyali ya kunkililwa opo ya hulithe po iilonga yawo mbyoka mOkatope moka aalumentu yaali ya hulitha konima sho ya gwililwa po kevi omanga yeli moshilambo shomuthima shoka ya li taya hupu.

Shilongo okwa popi kutya omukomeho ngoka a li ta kwatele komeho mboka taya hupu omithima okwa li a ka konga ekwatho lyiilongitho kombelewa yakansela Johannes Hakanyome omanga oshiningwanima shoka inashi holoka mOlyomakaya moka oomwenyo gwomunamimvo 29 Kashima Junias Hauwanga oshowo 36 Jacob Hangula dha kanene.

Ombelewa yakansela inayi gandja omakwatho ngoka nopehala olya kunkilile kutya evi momudhingoloko ngoka kali shi ewanawa nokuhupa omithima.

Hauwanga naHangula oya li ya gwililwa po kevi moshilambo shoometa hamano omutenya gwOlyomakaya nomalutu gawo oga monika owala ongula yOsoondaha.



Pahapu dhaShilongo, Fillipus Shaduka okwa lopota kumwene gwomukunda gwawo Frida Melila kutya okwa hala okuhupa omuthima gwopaumwene mepya lye na okwa kutu aantu yane ye mu longele okuhupa omuthima.

Shilongo okwa popi kutya omukomeho gwaamboka yali taya hupu okwayi kombelewa yakansela opo ya vule andola okupewa omayakulo ihe shoka inashi vula okuningwa molwaashoka omuthima ngoka gwa li tagu hupwa ogwopaumwene nopehala kansela okwe ya kunkilile owala kutya evi ndyoka kali shi ewanawa ihe omupya omunene inaya tula miilonga ekunkililo ndyoka ya pewa.



Shilongo okwa gandja oshinakugwanithwa komukomeho gwoshikondo sheyandjakaneko lyomeya moshitopolwa nuuyogoki Lazarus Shikololo, chief administrative officer for emergencies, Thomas Mwandingi, oshowo omunambelewa gwocontrol administrative moshitopolwa shaHangwena Josephine Oiva, opo ya konaaakone kutya oshike sha ningwa po mOkatope.

Pahapu dhaShilongo, Shaduka okwa lopotele Melila oku na ohokwe okuhupa omuthima gwopaumwene mepya lye oshinano shoometa 50 okuza pegumbo.





Nonando aakwashigwana otaya popi kutya oshiningwanima shoka osha holola omolwa enota nompumbwe yomeya momudhingoloko, Shilongo okwa popi kutya omudhingoloko ogu na oopomba dhomeya dhepangelo dhi li moshinano shookilometa mbali dhoka tadhi vulu okulongithwa kaantu oshowo kiimuna.



Omeya popomba yimwe oga kala taga ende kashona okuza petameko lyomweedhi nguka, shoka sha etitha omikweyo omileeleka. Melila okwa popi kutya oye na woo omithima ndatu tadhi longo momudhingoloko.

Shilongo okwa popi kutya pamakonaakono ngoka ga ningwa kombinga yonkalo yomeya momukunda ngoka, omuna oopomba dhomeya dhi li ne ndhoka dha tungwa kepangelo, noopomba mbali odhi na omatemba gokunwina iimuna. Yimwe otayi longo yimwe oya pata omolwa oondjo dhomeya. Opomba ndjoka yi li popepi negumbo lyaShaduka oyi li meni lyoshinano shoometa 900.

Shaduka pamwe naakwashigwana yamwe oya lombwele oNamibian Sun kutya omolwa onkalo yoshikukuta aashiinda inaya hala we omithima dhawo dhi longithwe naashoka osha hwahwameke onkalo aantu ya tameke okuhupa omithima dhawo.

Shilongo okwa popi kutya okwa pumbwa okufilwa elambo moka aalumetu mboka ya sile molwaashoka oli li lya nika oshiponga kaantu unene aanona oshowo iinamwenyo.

Millions spent on unfinished govt office

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Millions spent on unfinished govt office A N$16 million fisheries ministry infrastructure project in Rundu, which has been under construction since 2012, is still standing incomplete, resulting in officials operating from dilapidated rented offices.

According to the ministry the Kavango East regional office project has stalled because the contractor, Africa Civil Engineering, which was handed the site on 7 August 2015 to complete remaining work, has decided to inflate the price, which the ministry is not prepared to tolerate.

The works ministry is currently in the process of terminating the contract for this reason.

Executive City Construction was the initial contractor in 2012, until their contract was terminated for failing to carryout and complete the work as per the original scope.

“The project has gone for determination of contract, hence is not complete due to the price escalation, which is not permitted. Therefore the Ministry of Works and Transport is determining the contract of the contractor,” the fisheries ministry said in its response when contacted for comment.

It was reported in May last year that Africa Civil Engineering would complete the project by the end of 2018.

At the time Africa Civil Engineering's Petrus Kapula was quoted by New Era saying they have demonstrated their capacity to complete the project.

“We have demonstrated our capacity and capability to the ministry to conclude this project. Once everything and all agreements are in place, we will probably finish this project within six to seven months,” Kapula said.

It was further revealed that Africa Civil Engineering was paid about N$5.8 million for work done from 7 August 2015 to 7 July 2017.

About N$643 000 was retained by the works ministry, which was to be paid once the project was completed. Attempts to get comment from Kapula since last Friday proved futile as he was unreachable on his cellphone.

Africa Civil Engineering is currently constructing the N$7 million Kavango East Swapo office at Rundu, which has been delayed and was expected to be completed by April this year.

Namibian Sun visited fisheries office site and was greeted by a security guard, who was guarding the incomplete structures.

This was followed up by a visit to the Namibia Industrial Development Agency (NIDA) offices, formerly known as Namibia Development Corporation (NDC), where the ministry has been renting 13 offices and two storerooms for its officials for more than a decade.

The officials expressed their dissatisfaction with their working environment, as some plug sockets and the lights are not working and space is limited.

“As you can see the lights are not working and this is not my office; I just moved in here because in my office the plug is not functioning for me to connect my computer,” one official said on condition of anonymity.

“We are not informed about the incomplete office you are enquiring about, but all I can say is that we cannot carry out our work effectively.”

The ministry explained they are faced with a number of challenges at the rented premises.

“The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources is currently renting offices from the NDC in Rundu for the 17 staff members of the DoAIF (directorate of aquaculture and inland fisheries) and operations. These offices do not have lab facilities for research and ponds for demonstration. Also lacking is a proper internet and telephone system,” ministry deputy director Elizabeth Swartz said. Swartz said the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute at Divundu is currently performing the research and demonstration function in Kavango East. Namibian Sun understands that once the office project is complete it will house an office building, ablution block, workshop, wash bay and net drying facility, a fish feed store, a boat, a trailer storage facility, garages, a generator room and a guard house.

The regional office will also offer installations of specialist services, equipment and associated ancillary site work.

KENYA KAMBOWE

DBN claims N$3m from medical bigwigs

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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DBN claims N$3m from medical bigwigsHealth minister cited A loan secured in 2012 was restructured twice and more than the original loan amount is still outstanding. A status hearing was held yesterday before High Court Judge Marlene Tommasi in a matter in which the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) is suing the Windhoek Emergency Care and Trauma Centre for more than N$3 million.

The other defendants listed in the matter are acting health director for Oshikoto, Dr Helen Nkandi-Shiimi, health minister Kalumbi Shangula, Dr Taurayi Marange and Dr Tatenda Mawire.

Dr Nkandi-Shiimi holds a 40% stake in the centre while the remaining respondents each hold 20%.

The hearing was held to ascertain the progress made on settlement negotiations.

According to the bank's particulars of claim, a N$3 million loan was taken out by the centre in June 2012, payable over 96 months of which 10 months were granted as a grace period. Interest at prime rate would be applied.

Nkandi-Shiimi offered N$360 000 for surety while Shangula provided “unlimited suretyship for the liabilities” of the centre. Marange ceded his N$3 million life cover and Mawire offered N$540 000 in terms of erf 2021 in Klein Windhoek.

Should the centre not observe the terms or suffer a default judgment or be placed under judicial management or liquidated, the agreement stipulates that the arrears be restructured at a fee of the total and that legal action can be taken.

During March 2017, the centre applied for a restructuring of the loan. This was approved and the loan, 48 months old, had another 47-month repayment period added. Interest of prime plus 1% would be levied.

A second restructuring application was made three months later by Nkandi-Shiimi, which was approved. The loan would now be for a period of 96 months at prime plus 1% interest. The monthly instalment was fixed at N$48 000.

The bank says that at 30 September last year, payments had not been made as agreed and the total outstanding debt stood at N$3 168 385.23, including interest of 11.5%.

The bank asked for an order of execution in sale of erf 2021 in Klein Windhoek and since sureties had been granted by the other shareholders, that they jointly or severally, be held responsible for the settlement of the loan. The bank also asked for costs and 11.5% interest.

The centre and its principles filed notices of intention to defend, but the matter will now be settled.

Francois Bangamwabo of FB Law Chambers appears on behalf the centre and the four respondents, while Patrick Kauta of Weder, Kauta and Hoveka appears for DBN.





YANNA SMITH

Kalahari in LPM’s sights

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Kalahari in LPM’s sightsMilitary involvement described as ‘sinister’ The LPM says it will seek intervention from the United Nations and other countries, if government does not halt the participation of soldiers in Operation Kalahari Desert. The Landless Peoples Movement (LPM) has added its voice to the growing clamour for the government to withdraw members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) from Operation Kalahari Desert.

LPM leader Bernadus Swartbooi said the deployment of the NDF against unarmed civilians is illegal because President Hage Geingob has not declared a state of emergency.

“A war has been declared on civilians; the soldiers are not trained to work with civilians,” Swartbooi fumed last week.

He said the killing of Zimbabwean taxi driver Talent Fambauone Black, allegedly by NDF corporal Gerson Nakale, came as “no surprise”.

“It was to be expected. We could have predicted that this would happen. It is an indication that the Namibian government is ready and willing to unleash its power against civilians. This is a common purpose murder; the police and army acted with the same intent. This begs the question: Who is in charge?” Swartbooi asked.

The LPM strongly condemned the killing of Black in a statement and threatened to mobilise a huge protest march if NDF members are not removed from the streets with immediate effect.

“We shall mobilise the masses to defend themselves against Geingob’s bloodthirsty army,” said Ivan Skrywer, the LPM’s national coordinator of logistics and events.

Skrywer said the LPM will also seek assistance from other countries “in the form of military and diplomatic intervention to ensure the safety of unarmed civilians”.

Skrywer said their first port of call will be the United Nations (UN).

He said the deployment of the army onto the streets is not to fight crime, saying that there is a darker, more sinister motive, which is to intimidate citizens who will be voting in the upcoming national elections in November.

“As a party we will protect the constitution and the lives of unarmed civilians. The unarmed civilians are the custodians of peace and stability in this country; not the corrupt leaders,” Skrywer said.

Police inspector-general Sebastian Ndeitunga is adamant that the NDF members will remain part of Operation Kalahari Desert.

CATHERINE SASMAN

Schools no place for political gain

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Schools no place for political gain The education executive director Sanet Steenkamp has called on the public to refrain from using schools for gatherings, campaigns and fundraising activities for political gain.

In a media statement issued on Tuesday, Steenkamp said in light of the current political activities ahead of the upcoming elections, the ministry has observed trends of uncoordinated access of groups, particularly political parties, to school premises under the pretext of motivational talks for learners and teachers.

She warned that learners should also not be addressed on political matters on school premises.

“Although the ministry’s mandate upholds that education is a collective responsibility and nurturing can take many forms, the ministry’s regulations and stance in this respect are very clear,” she cautioned.

Steenkamp noted that while the ministry recognises the constitutional human rights of freedom of association, its mandate is to ensure a secure school environment for all, saying that schools are sensitive and secure areas with the ministry having to fulfil a critical role of responsibility for all learners.

The executive director therefore urged school management at regional and school level to safeguard against political activities on school premises.

Namibia will hold its seventh Presidential and National Assembly elections on 27 November.

NAMPA

Union, MMI cement relationship

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Union, MMI cement relationship MMI Holdings Limited (MMI) yesterday formally recognised the Namibian Bank Workers Union (NBWU) through the signing of a recognition agreement.

MMI Holdings Namibia interim group CEO Grant Marais said the agreement reflects the company's collective resolution to have employees represented by the union, as per majority wish, and thus ensures they are able to exercise their democratic right to representation and association.

The signing event, described as a historic moment, was praised by NBWU secretary-general Moses Mamba as a showcase of the “outstanding” relationship between the union and MMI that other institutions could learn from.

Marais underlined the agreement was signed at a time when the country is facing “its worst economic downturn in decades”, which is further exacerbated by one of the worst droughts in Namibia's history.

He said MMI is not exempt and is facing “significant challenges” and the parties to the agreement should be “responsible in creating an enabling negotiating platform in respect of all issues” to ensure a win-win for all stakeholders.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Namibia on its way to blue economy

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Namibia on its way to blue economy STAFF REPORTER

The first public consultative meeting of the inter-ministerial blue economy committee will take place today.

The meeting will be take place at the Khomas regional council hall from 09:00 to 17:00 and will be attended by government organisations, ministries and agencies, the private sector, inter-governmental and non-governmental organisations, as well as members from the public.

The objective of the workshop is to raise awareness on the blue economy and solicit input from the participants on the Namibia Sustainable Blue Economy Policy.

The blue economy technical committee is spearheading the development of the policy. In order to deliver the policy by 30 June this year, in accordance with a presidential directive, the committee will be technically, administratively and financially supported by the Benguela Current Convention (BCC) through its Benguela Current Large Marine Ecosystem Project (BCLME III Project).

In addition to regional activities, the project has national level activities, with the focus on Namibia promoting the blue economy. The BCLME III Project is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

In May 2017, President Hage Geingob signed the Fifth National Development Plan (NDP5) that serves as a blueprint or a roadmap on how the country can accelerate development, grow an inclusive economy, eliminate poverty and reduce inequality to achieve Vision 2030.

In order to achieve structural transformation and ultimately inclusive, sustainable and equitable growth, NDP5 proposes interventions in several focus areas, one of which is the blue economy. It is foreseen that by 2022, Namibia will have implemented a blue economy governance and management system that sustainably maximises economic benefits from marine resources and ensures equitable marine wealth distribution for all Namibians.

To achieve this, the blue economy technical committee was established in 2018, to steer the process of implementing blue economy strategies.

Fresh water could turn hepatitis tide

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Fresh water could turn hepatitis tide Unless the lack of clean running water and toilets within informal settlements is tackled urgently, the 19-month tide of hepatitis E infections across the country which has infected thousands and killed 45 will be difficult to stem and threatens to become an endemic disease such as HIV or malaria.

In addition to the more than 5 300 cases of hepatitis E reported in most of the 14 regions since September 2017, the latest situation report ending 2 June, revealed 37 cases of hepatitis A cases in the Omusati region.

Hepatitis E and hepatitis A are both transmitted through the faecal-oral route or via contaminated food and water and occur in areas with poor sanitation. According to Unicef, Namibia “has of the lowest sanitation coverage in eastern and southern Africa” and nearly half of Namibians defecate in the open.

“We need to break the chain of transmission. We haven't broken it yet,” Dr Bernard Haufiku, who is heading the National Health Emergency Management committee in response to the outbreak, told Namibian Sun this week. He underlined that hepatitis E and now hepatitis A, “far from being only a health issue, is a socioeconomic issue” related to poverty, unemployment, poor hygiene and other struggles faced by communities living in the country's poorest, and unserviced informal settlements.

He stressed the outbreak “begins with sanitation, water provision and personal hygiene. And it will end with us addressing those three challenges. Those are the three fundamental challenges we are facing.”

Running water

According to the Namibia Inter-censal Demographic Survey (NIDS) 2016, 26% of urban households lacked access to sanitation, with an estimated 288 000 people therefore forced to resort to using the bush or riverbeds as toilets.

Informal settlements in the Khomas Region account for nearly 3 500 of all hepatitis E cases, while 1 249 cases in informal settlements in the Erongo Region have been reported to date.

Haufiku said although the provision of clean water to all Namibians is “a daunting task”, especially considering the costs and the ongoing drought, it should be “priority number one” in the fight to end the outbreak.

In line with these priorities, a high-level meeting held in Windhoek recently, which included representatives from the City of Windhoek and several ministries, focused on a push for a concept called Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS).

CLTS is aimed at enabling communities to analyse their sanitation conditions and collectively understand the impact of open defecation on public health and their environment.

It aims to completely eliminate open defecation. Haufiku underlined the strategy can only work if clean water is provided to these communities. “We have to make it a priority.”

Haufiku told Namibian Sun this week that preventing the outbreak from becoming endemic is why “breaking the chain of transmission” is vital.

He warned that endemic diseases are “much more difficult to eliminate”.

Yet, despite the challenges he pointed out a notable success in recent months has been a steep drop in fatalities from hepatitis E. He said the significant decrease is a credit to those working on the frontlines, including doctors, nurses and the health facilities where the first responders are based.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Rundu filth back in spotlight

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Rundu filth back in spotlightOne step forward, two steps back The clean-up campaign has made not a dot of difference to the Rundu residents who continue to dump. The Rundu town council is unable to collect household waste because its collection truck is out of service, which has resulted in road reserves yet again being turned into dumping sites.

This is according to acting Rundu CEO Sikongo Haihambo who was responding to why the Maria Mwengere road reserve, which was cleaned up by various stakeholders earlier this year, has once again turned into a filthy eyesore.

“This week and last week, our skip container truck was out of service. As soon as its back it remains our priority to keep the streets clean,” Haihambo said.

“That area is supposed to have skip containers on a permanent basis. Basically there was supposed to be two and the intention was to increase them so that we have three, but the limiting factor is that we do not have the resources to buy at the moment.” Haihambo could not say as to when the skip container truck will be fixed. In February the Kavango East Regional Youth Forum, in conjunction with the regional council, hosted a clean-up campaign to which residents devoted their time and resources, with Maria Mwengere Road being the focus point. It is the main road that leads to the University of Namibia (Unam) Rundu campus, the Rundu Vocational Training Centre and the Kaisosi and Kehemu settlements.

Children from the nearby houses are occasionally seen playing amongst the filth, exposing them to diseases; something the health ministry has strongly advised against.

Some of the residents from nearby houses said it is not their intention to throw their waste along the road reserve, but they do not have an alternative. They said if the council has enough skip containers along the road, the road reserve will be kept clean. “It's not because we want to throw the rubbish along the road, but we have no alternative. Its either there are no skip containers or when they are placed here, they get full within a day and are left to overflow,” one resident said on condition of anonymity.

Kavango East Regional Youth Forum chairperson Anselm Marungu also called for more skip containers to be put in areas that are dumping hotspots. Marungu said they will not blame the residents, as it is a responsibility of the town council to put an effective management plan in place.

KENYA KAMBOWE

Congo general awarded N$12m settlement

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Congo general awarded N$12m settlement Congolese general Francois Olenga was awarded a settlement of US$850 000 (N$12 350 500 at yesterday's exchange rate) by the High Court of Namibia on Monday.

Olenga had sued Swakopmund-based estate agent Erwin Sprangers for monies he transferred into Sprangers' account for the purposes of acquiring a property.

Judge Thomas Masuku, in his judgment, held that although Sprangers had denied the amount was paid into his account and moreover, “averred that the amount was paid by a buyer who had been introduced to him by Olenga for the purchase of an 18th century Chinese vase”, the version given to the court by Olenga “is more probable and consistent”.

Masuku said that witnesses from Hungary had testified how the monies had been transferred, at the instance of Olenga, into Sprangers' bank account. Sprangers' “version regarding the sale of the vase was highly improbable as it had many gaping holes that were left unexplained, rendering it not worthy of credit”, Masuku said.

Masuku further charged that 20% interest would be levied on the amount from the date of issue of summons and instructed Sprangers to pay the costs of the action - one instructed and one instructing counsel for both legal teams. The matter was originally brought before the court in 2011. General Olenga, a Congolese army chief who leads the onslaught against the M23 rebels in his country, brought the matter to retrieve the money he left with Sprangers. He said the money was to be used for the development and expansion of a property Olenga owns at Swakopmund.

Olenga told the court he and Sprangers entered into an oral agreement in January 2010 regarding the development of the property.

Olenga owns two plots at the coastal resort town. Thus, the amount of US$900 000 was paid into the trust account of Kintscher Estate Agents and Auctioneers, for whom Sprangers worked as an estate agent. In September the same year, Olenga asked Sprangers to pay US$100 000 into his bank account, but only US$50 000 was paid, leaving Sprangers with US$850 000 of Olenga's money. He said he never instructed Sprangers to use any of the remaining money. In December 2010, Olenga asked Sprangers to give back the remaining money - a request that to date was not complied with. Ramon Maasdorp appeared for Olenga and Ankia Delport for Sprangers. Criminal charges have been brought against Sprangers and his wife Heidi. A matter of five counts of theft by conversion and one of fraud will be heard in the High Court.

YANNA SMITH

Killing dreams

June 19, 2019, 4:00 pm

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Killing dreams The school sport fraternity has rightfully greeted the news that there will be no government financial assistance when it comes to international participation with a deep sense of shock and outrage.

To say that the hopes of school athletes lie in tatters would be an understatement. Our kids, just like senior athletes, look forward to donning national colours.

A statement released by the sports ministry dated 14 June said there are no funds to implement various international sport programmes planned by the Namibia School Sports Union (NSSU).

The ministry said further that the NSSU should implement school league systems in circuits, clusters constituencies and regions, which have limited or no transport implications, with immediate effect.

“As you are aware, financial constraints have been hampering the implementation of various sport programmes. In recognition of this reality, you are hereby informed that there are no funds available for sporting activities until further notice,” the statement said.

Furthermore, the NSSU has been directed to do away with any trials for the selection of teams.

NSSU national coordinator has highlighted the massive impacts, saying that when they do manage to take the athletes through to senior competitions, “they will be a laughing stock because they are not prepared well at junior level”.

“How will they compete then on international level if they are not exposed well? I don't have a problem with junior athletes competing locally, but at the end of the day, there should be a carrot tangling in front of the athletes so that they can have something to look forward to,” Duiker added.

Sport, and school sport in particular, has often been stepchild or even orphan when it comes to government funding, but yet this new turn of events is shocking indeed. Our children need inspiration and aspiration, and many get this from their exploits on the sports field. Taking away the dream of representing one's county on the international stage is thus cruel indeed. We urge government to reconsider.