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A new journey

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A new journeyA new journeyNamibia's newest gospel star Lady May Africa on her first gospel album. Lady May Africa is back in the spotlight with a brand new gospel album titled Unbroken, released under D-Naff Entertainment last month.

One of the most credible artists in the Namibian music space, she talks to tjil about changing genres, transforming her life and more.

Lady May Africa said the album took a while to make due to the fact that it's her first gospel album, and she needed to pay attention to the details as well as merge into the genre with care.

“I was impressed by my vocal ability that came out so perfectly. Singing gospel entails walking with God, so I needed to understand that I was not just singing to some people somewhere, but worshipping a great God who is paying attention to my gift,” she said. Her hope for this new journey is to hear as many testimonies as possible from people who have been touched by her work. “That is the purpose of this body of work.

“I am just grateful to God that He gave me a chance to be called His child and accepted me without judgement. I feel light. I appreciate my fans who stood by me since day one, and the media at large,” she said.





Packed with 11 songs featuring D-Naff, Franklin, Maranatha, Apostle HB Goroh, Berthold Mbinda and Naomi Classif from Nigeria, the dilemma the singer now faces is which songs to shoot music videos for.

“We love all the songs, so we want to shoot at least five videos,” she said.

Gospel star and record label owner D-Naff mentioned that Lady May Africa approached him when she was looking for a gospel record label to work with.

D-Naff shared that the conversation started at a show and he is grateful that they have been able to produce stellar work. “After she approached me, I wanted to see if she still had the ability to sing. We went to the studio and ended up recording Let It Shine,” he said.

He also mentioned he had to inform Lady May Africa that her the gospel journey requires different things, as it is not only about singing.

“Your lifestyle and everything else has to change. She said she was ready and she is committed to the cause and this journey.”

As the record label executive, D-Naff's task is to help Lady May Africa penetrate the gospel music community with ease, as he wants her to be able to be accepted as a gospel artist. D-Naff admitted that Lady May Africa is still a newbie when it comes to making gospel music, but as an artist, she is far bigger than some of the gospel artists he knows.

“Musically, she's ready. She's doing what Kanye West is doing in the US. Some people are still like: 'This one insulted us that night.' I like to refer to that particular incident as her being overwhelmed by a necessary evil spirit.

“It is necessary in the sense that she has really changed her life now, and even if you meet and engage with her in person, you will be able to pick up that she has transformed herself as a person,” said D-Naff.

Both Lady May Africa and D-Naff are content with how Unbroken has been received. The album is available countrywide.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Greener together

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Greener togetherGreener together Drive-through recycling facility at Dagbreek School

One of the top-performing schools in the annual Recycle Namibia Forum (RNF) Schools Recycling Competition, Windhoek’s Dagbreek Special School, has introduced a drive-through collection point for recyclable waste.

FNB Namibia, which has been a valued partner in the RNF Schools Recycling Competition since its inception in 2012, handed over a newly refurbished recycling stand to Dagbreek School to assist in the collection of recyclables.

“Our strategy is based on the four P’s, of which one is the Planet pillar and includes the development and protection of our environment. Through the RNF’s Schools Recycling Competition, we wish to convey a positive environmental message,” said FNB’s corporate social investment (CSI) manager, Revonia Kahivere.

“Environmental issues are not only the problem of a group of people, such as municipalities and government, but also the concern of every Namibian citizen. If everybody plays their part by picking up litter, recycling, saving water and more – all over the world – the planet can become a better place to live in.

“Remember that we are all affected by climate change. If we do not hold hands to address or minimise these issues with people and organisations, we will fail as a nation,” Kahivere added.

In addition to its new drive-through facility, the Dagbreek School also offers containers for collecting hazardous waste such as batteries, light bulbs and electronic waste.

“This makes the school a perfect one-stop visit to responsibly dispose of a variety of items,” said RNF coordinator Anita Witt.

“The drive-through, which is located on the premises of the Dagbreek School in Hebenstreit Street, Ludwigsdorf, opened to the public over the festive season.

“RNF invites the Windhoek community to make use of this facility to correctly dispose of recyclable material such as paper, plastic, glass and cans,” Witt said.

Windhoek among most expensive

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Windhoek among most expensiveWindhoek among most expensiveRent prices, groceries cheaper in SA According to a study the average take-home salary per month is N$19 221 in Pretoria and N$17 356 in Johannesburg, while in Windhoek it is N$13 046. Namibia, and in particular Windhoek, remains one of the most expensive places to live in the sub-region and outperforms both Johannesburg and Pretoria on a variety of indices. Property prices are not the only factor weighted; groceries and local purchasing power draw a grim picture of the capital.

According to a new global study ranking the world's most expensive cities, consumer prices in South Africa are 0.98% lower than in Namibia, rent prices are 21.73% lower, grocery prices are 9.92% lower and purchasing power is 32.75% higher in South Africa than in Namibia.

Windhoek is now ranked the fourth most expensive city in Africa in the 2020 Numbeo Cost of Living Index that was released this week.

The most expensive city in Africa according to the index is Pretoria, followed by Johannesburg and Cape Town. Nairobi in Kenya is ranked fifth. The study indicates that local purchasing power is about 29% higher in Johannesburg and 46.1% higher in Pretoria than in Windhoek. Rent prices are 15.35% lower in Pretoria and 0.49% lower in Johannesburg than in Windhoek, while restaurant prices are 11.42% higher in Johannesburg and 4.88% higher in Pretoria than in Windhoek.

According to the study the average take-home salary per month is N$19 221 in Pretoria and N$17 356 in Johannesburg, while in Windhoek it is N$13 046. The study indicates a person would need at least N$35 145 in Pretoria to maintain the same standard of living that they can have with N$35 000 in Windhoek, assuming one rents accommodation in both cities. In Johannesburg you would need N$35 929 to maintain the same standard of living that you can have with N$35 000 in Windhoek, assuming you rent in both cities.

The Cost of Living Survey indicates that rent for a one-bedroom flat in the Windhoek CBD costs about N$7 500 and more than N$5 200 in the suburbs. In Pretoria it costs about N$5 000 to rent a flat in the CBD and N$5 400 in the suburbs, while in Johannesburg it costs N$6 700 and N$5 800 respectively. Besides rent, the monthly cost of utilities in Windhoek for an apartment of 915 square metres is N$1 149. Pretoria's utilities cost N$1 400 and in Johannesburg the cost averages N$1 327. Buying a new Volkswagen Golf or an equivalent car would cost about N$301 500 in Pretoria and in Johannesburg N$300 000 while in Windhoek it costs N$245 000.

A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs about N$476 in Windhoek while an average bottle of wine can be as expensive as N$80 and a plain loaf of bread costs about N$11. In Pretoria a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs N$485, an average bottle of wine N$65 and a loaf of bread N$12.

In Johannesburg a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs N$500, an average bottle of wine would be N$70 and a loaf of bread costs N$12.36.

In Windhoek local beer is much cheaper than in Pretoria and Johannesburg at about N$21 for a 500 ml draught and about N$18 for a 500 ml bottle. In the two South African cities beer costs N$27 for a draught and around N$19 for a bottle.

Eggs, milk, rice, fruit and vegetables are much more expensive in Windhoek. For example, apples cost N$31.75 per kilogram in Windhoek, 22.69/kg in Pretoria and 21.93 in Johannesburg. Potatoes are N$20.89/kg in Pretoria, N$16.40 in Johannesburg and N$24.05 in Windhoek.

Milk costs N$21.32/litre in Windhoek and N$14.32 in Pretoria and N$16.00 in Johannesburg, while rice is N$24.75 in Windhoek in comparison to the N$17.91 it costs in Pretoria and N$20.00 in Johannesburg.

In Nairobi you would need around N$31 647 to maintain the same standard of living that you can have with N$35 000 in Windhoek, with local purchasing power about 55% lower than in Windhoek. In Seychelles, which is ranked as the most expensive country in Africa, consumer prices are 66% higher than in Namibia, rent is 100.66% higher, restaurant prices are 116.3% higher and local purchasing power is 60.63% lower than in Namibia. The cities rated the most expensive to live in globally are all in Switzerland, namely Zurich, Basel, Lausanne, Geneva and Bern. The least expensive city in the world is Thiruvananthapuram in India.

ELLANIE SMIT

Shanghala employeeon abandons bail bid

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Shanghala employeeon abandons bail bidShanghala employeeon abandons bail bid Nigel Van Wyk, who faces charges related to the Fishrot corruption case, had to abandon a bail application scheduled for 10 January because he could not afford to pay his former lawyer, Mervin Katuvezirauina.

Van Wyk is accused of obstructing the course of justice by trying to remove material believed to be evidence from the house of former justice minister Sakeus Shanghala. The case will return to the Windhoek Magistrate's Court on 20 March. Van Wyk's new lawyer, Boris Isaacks, would not comment yesterday. Van Wyk is believed to be an employee of Olea Investments, a company owned by Shanghala. Olea allegedly received US$330 000 in bribes paid by Icelandic seafood company Samherji, which is at the centre of the Fishrot scandal.

A woman who was arrested along with Van Wyk at Shanghala's house was later released without being charged.

Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) investigator Phelem Masule said the evidence against her was not compelling enough to keep her in custody.

The charge against Van Wyk is linked to the Fishrot saga in which Shanghala, former fisheries minister Bernhard Esau, former Investec MD James Hatuikulipi, suspended Investec manager Ricardo Gustavo, Esau's son-in-law Tamson Hatuikulipi and Hanganeni employee Pius Mwatelulo are said to have taken bribes from Samherji in exchange for lucrative fishing quotas.

The six accused are being held at the Windhoek Central Correctional Facility until their next court appearance on 20 February.

The so-called Fishrot Six have approached the Supreme Court in a last-ditch attempt to have their arrests overturned. In December the High Court rejected their application to be released on the grounds that their arrest warrants had been invalid.

OGONE TLHAGE

Katrina turns to Supreme Court

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Katrina turns to Supreme CourtKatrina turns to Supreme CourtApplies for leave to appeal conviction The former education minister has hired South African celebrity lawyer Barry Roux to represent her in a possible Supreme Court appeal against her conviction for corruption. Former education minister Katrina Hanse-Himarwa is turning to the Supreme Court to challenge her criminal conviction.

The former Hardap governor, who was found guilty of corruption by High Court Judge Christie Liebenberg, yesterday applied for leave to appeal her conviction.





Judge Liebenberg sentenced the former minister to 24 months' imprisonment or a N$50 000 fine. Hanse-Himarwa paid the fine. She was further sentenced to a one-year prison term which is suspended for five years. She said yesterday that she would no longer be represented by Sisa Namandje.

“I and Sisa agreed, based on his heavy load, that for the appeal I must take Murorua, but they will work together. Sisa was even present in the court yesterday,” she said.

Hanse-Himarwa was found guilty of corruptly using her former office as Hardap governor for gratification, and for removing two Mass Housing beneficiaries from a waiting list to make way for two of her relatives.

The State was represented by Advocate Ed Marondedze yesterday, while Hanse-Himarwa has roped in South African heavyweight lawyer Barry Roux.

When arguing in mitigation of sentence last year, Namandje said Hanse-Himarwa deeply regrets her actions and has already paid a steep price for her crime.

Namandje put on record that Hanse-Himarwa's annual income took a battering when she stepped down as minister, dropping from over a N$1 million to “just above N$690 000” as an ordinary member of parliament.

Further, her legal bill totalled N$1.4 million, of which she still owed more than N$800 000.

“The legal bill is a massive financial burden on her shoulders. This is again part of the pain and suffering arising out of her commission of the offence,” he said.

Namandje further, at the time, urged the court to take into consideration that the “victims” of Hanse-Himarwa's crime were not wronged in the long run. “There was no complete denial of an important part of their lives. There was simply a delay of a month or two,” Namandje argued.

He further pointed out that apart from supporting several children, two of whom are unemployed, and two grandchildren, Hanse-Himarwa is responsible for the care of her elderly and sickly mother. Her husband is also struggling with his health, the court was told.

-jemima@namibiansun.com

Leading by example

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Leading by exampleLeading by exampleActions speak louder than words Bank Windhoek has appointed Frieda Beukes as its new Oshakati branch manager. Mariselle Stofberg



A strong leader is able to inspire their colleagues to be the best version of themselves and encourage them to reach their full potential. As the new Oshakati branch manager of Bank Windhoek, Frieda Beukes aspires to instil not only these values in her colleagues, but also respect and humility.

“I hope people learn to stay humble at every stage of their success. They should also learn to treat everyone, old and young, as they would expect to be treated. These are my key beliefs in life.”

In her new role, Beukes is accountable for the performance and overall running of Bank Windhoek’s Oshakati branch and its sub-branches at Ongwediva, Oshakati North, and Okahao.

“She will also provide management and leadership capability to the branch by optimising resources and effectively managing risk to achieve the bank’s objectives,” says Bank Windhoek’s executive officer of retail banking services, Chris Matthee.

Beukes’s journey with Bank Windhoek started in 1997 at the Mariental branch as a cheque administration clerk, after completing the bank’s Candidates Bankers Training (CBT) programme. Over the years, she grew her expertise in banking operations as she worked as a teller, later moving to the enquiries desk.

In 2004, Beukes was transferred to the Ondangwa branch as a credit clerk. In 2007, Beukes briefly left Bank Windhoek and rejoined in 2008 within the credit department, where she progressed through the ranks to senior credit officer.

Having moved between departments, Beukes has proven that being adaptive is an incredibly important characteristic for any employee.

“When I move into any new environment, I first observe the culture of doing things and then integrate myself into that specific environment. If I see changes I initiate living the change. I believe that less is more and one does not need to talk too much, just be the change by leading by example.”

Beukes has completed several advanced banking-related training and management courses, including the Leadership Development Programme, completed through the University of Pretoria and the Capricorn Group Senior Management Development Programme (SMDP) facilitated by the University of Stellenbosch Business School. She is also currently enrolled for an online master of business administration (MBA) course.

“My short-term goal is to be a leader that serves not just with words, but by actions of what is possible. The long-term goal is to make our team within Oshakati branch and sub branches such as Ongwediva, Oshakati North and Okahao known as the best team to be a part of. In the end, they should believe that all things are possible with perseverance and hard work,” Beukes says.

“Her progress at Bank Windhoek shows that continued professional development pays off. We wish her all the best as she starts this exciting journey as Bank Windhoek’s new Oshakati branch manager,” concluded Matthee.

Supreme Court must seal EVM debate

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Supreme Court must seal EVM debateSupreme Court must seal EVM debate Today the Supreme Court hears arguments about the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in Namibian elections, particularly those held on November 27 last year.

For too long the country has been polarised by the debate around EVMs, with critics of the Indian-made devices arguing that their use erode transparency. Proponents of the machines, including the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), argue that EVMs are perfect and usher the country into a new world of doing things.

The debate has raged for years and has seen numerous court challenges being lodged. Elections are the greatest element of our democratic dispensation and if the electoral process sparks trust issues, then it is time the country resolves the matter once and for all. We must be a country that resolves one issue and move on to the next instead of being perpetually stuck in emotional rhetoric. Here is a chance, with today's case, to reach consensus once and for all. Whether such consensus sprouts from an order declaring that there is nothing distrustful about using EVMs, or that the ECN must cease using them, we must embrace it. Right now we have a situation where losers complain about the use of EVMs, but jump in celebration like sungura dancers when the same devices deliver victory for them. It's not their fault.

But the country must get on a path of trust in its electoral processes. We should complain about long, slow voter queues or late opening of polling stations rather than the authenticity of electoral outcomes.

The people need to have trust in the process that handles their democratic choices and the Supreme Court has a chance to help enhance that belief and faith in our electoral process.

As the nation awaits with bated breath the outcome of the court application lodged by Panduleni Itula, it is imperative that everyone remains calm and collected. The ruling of the highest court in the land must be accepted and respected, for it carries the voice of ultimate authority.

Connecting clients to the correct networks

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Connecting clients to the correct networksConnecting clients to the correct networks Making the right link Ester Kamati

With internet connection, there is no stopping Macveren Kapukare, a telecommunication engineering graduate who is passionate about making a difference in the world and is keen on teaching children programming.

“The internet is an incredible source of information and you can teach yourself almost anything through tutorials,” says self-taught programmer Macveren Kapukare. Kapukare did a lot of heavy reading on the subject of computers and software and later shifted his focus to developing software.

With the knowledge he gained from this, he later created what is known as EstApp: an application that can be used to link tenants and landlords. As a young graduate, Kapukare was faced with the reality of finding a place to live that not only suited his lifestyle needs but met his budget as well. That was when he realised that “trying to source the right property in the right suburb at the right price is not an easy task.”

This drawn-out process involves going through newspapers, online listings and supermarket bulletin boards. “The information is very fragmented and therefore time-consuming,” he says. He spotted a need for a single platform where such information is collated for people looking to buy or rent property.

That was the beginning of EstApp. Kapukare and a few partners kick-started the development of the app to help bring Namibian property seekers, property providers and agents together within seconds.

“EstApp is an app that connects buyers with sellers, match roommates and tenants with landlords or home owners letting property.”

Tenants can pay their rent through this app. Estate agents can also list and sell their properties on EstApp, which could save them money compared to listing on different platforms.

Users of the app are provided a “simple, convenient, one-stop platform to browse for their housing needs, all at a touch of a button on their phones. It’s a little like having your very own estate agent in your pocket with you at all times.”

EstApp was conceived over a year ago and went live in mid-2019. Kapukare says although coding an app is not very difficult, it takes time to create one with a friendly user interface and to get it bug free.

Financial constraints were among the challenges faced by the dedicated team of five app developers. With the assistance of the GIZ Start-up Namibia project, a company that is keen on assisting start-up businesses, they managed to pull it off and get EstApp positioned in the market.

The development of the app will continue as they hope to add new features and listings for their established users and those who are yet to use their app.

“With GIZ as well as Bank Windhoek in our corner we feel confident that we can go from strength to strength,” Kapukare says.

“The world is a global village and to actively participate and contribute you need to learn and adopt technology or else you will be left behind.”

Kapukare believes that the world is inevitably moving online and the change is visible.

Although his time is normally occupied with trying to grow the business, Kapukare spends the little free time he has playing chess or reading and loves to go cycling.

“Namibia is such a beautiful country and seeing it on a bicycle gives you a real chance to marvel at the beauty of Namibia and its natural surroundings.”

Encouraging people to “be proactive and try to make your ideas, concepts and businesses a reality,” Kapukare emphasises that vision is nothing without action.

The idealist says that the sky is the limit and he has big plans for EstApp, which he hopes will grow and become a large employer locally and internationally. According to Kapukare “technology lies at the future of our economic development and we as a nation need to embrace this.”

Fearless manager - Game of Phones

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Fearless manager - Game of PhonesFearless manager - Game of Phones Michelline Nawatises

Leandro van Wyk, call centre manager at MultiChoice Namibia, started his career in the banking industry in 2001 as a back-office ledgers clerk, after which he was promoted to a teller.

According to Van Wyk, in those days a teller position was still considered as important. In 2004, he braved the big bad world and embarked on a working holiday to the UK.

“Upon my return, I was the assistant manager of my brother’s restaurant and in 2008, I started working at MTC as a call centre advisor. Later, I was promoted to a call centre supervisor,” he says.

In 2018, Van Wyk started working at MultiChoice Namibia as a call centre supervisor and was promoted to his current role as call centre manager. He is currently studying towards a bachelor’s degree in business management and majoring in project management.

His job consists of managing the call centre through consistent execution of the quality framework developed for MultiChoice Africa.

“This includes maintaining and improving call-centre operations by monitoring system performance, identifying and resolving problems, preparing and completing action plans, and analysing quality assurance to improve the customer service experience,” Van Wyk explains.

He also reports on call-centre performance and initiatives and manages team members to ensure effective delivery of business unit objectives while developing a high-performing team by embedding formal performance development and informal coaching.

When asked by Careers what his challenges have been during his career, he mentioned that one of the biggest in the corporate environment is building a rapport with the people you work and interact with.

“Building long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationships and maintaining one’s integrity at the same time is what I consider key to my success,” he says.

His day at office consists of supervising call-centre resources to deliver what is called a “first-call resolution” as well as collecting and analysing call-centre statistics.

“I analyse and implement relevant interventions pertaining to workloads, trends, patterns and peaks; determine and analyse development needs for the team while ensuring that identified training requirements are executed,” he says.

He is also responsible for scheduling regular meetings with the team to stimulate teamwork, identifying and addressing gaps and generally empowering the team.

“I also encourage frequent knowledge sharing between team members, and motivate team members to ensure that their efforts are recognised,” he adds.

One of his passions in life is self-development and progress in all aspects and encouraging this in others to achieve a well-balanced and fruitful life.

The advice he would give to aspiring young people out there is to develop a culture of constant development and self-appreciation.

“Set goals to develop a new skill every day to remain relevant in a constant evolving future,” he advises.

His future plans are to continue with his self-development by completing his studies and taking on more leadership roles in the corporate world, which he hopes would contribute to community development.

Who's who in EVM Supreme Court battle

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Who's who in EVM Supreme Court battleWho's who in EVM Supreme Court battle The bench



Chief Justice Peter Shivute

Justice Sylvester Mainga

Justice Dave Smuts

Justice Elton Hoff

Justice Baaitse Nkabinde



Counsel for the applicants



JJ Gauntlett, SC QS (SA)

Assisted by: FB Pelser (SA)

Instructed by: AngulaCo Inc.



Counsel for first and second respondents



WR Mokhare, SC (SA)

Assisted by: S Akweenda (Namibia)

Instructed by: Government attorneys



Counsel for third and fourth respondents



WR Mokhare, SC (SA)

Assisted by: E Nekwaya (Namibia)

Instructed by: Government attorneys

EVMs challenged amid by-election joy

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EVMs challenged amid by-election joyEVMs challenged amid by-election joyAs Itula heads to Supreme Court today to challenge their use in elections Despite delivering landmark victories in Wednesday's by-elections for the opposition and independents, electronic voting machines (EVMs) will be at at the center of a Supreme Court challenge this morning. The opposition, which now comprises of the new independent candidacy phenomenon, yesterday celebrated by-election victories against Swapo at Walvis Bay and Keetmanshoop on the eve of an application challenging the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the Supreme Court today.

Although independent candidate Panduleni Itula's court challenge against the EVMs is premised on his defeat in the presidential election last November, a ruling in his favour could have far-reaching implications on even this week's by-elections.

Independent candidate Knowledge Ipinge, who supported Itula's presidential bid last year, won the Walvis Bay Urban constituency councillor's election – defeating Swapo candidate Sirie Topulathana and opposition candidates who contested. The Landless People's Movement (LPM), which alleged that last year's election was rigged by Indian hackers through the use of EVMs, celebrated its candidate Maxie Minnaar's election as new councillor for Keetmanshoop Urban constituency, who defeated Swapo and opposition candidates in the race.





Swapo won two of the four by-elections held on Wednesday, prevailing over the opposition in Khomasdal and Gobabis constituency through its candidates Angolo Samuel and Augustinus Tebele respectively.

Although the opposition and independent candidates have opposed the use of EVMs in previous elections, they have rejoiced in the victories of their candidates - attained through the use of the same electronic devices.



While courts are not supposed to be influenced by public opinion or events, those opposition parties who secured seats in parliament may have to answer for their double standards during the Supreme Court challenge against the use of EVMs.



A full bench of the Supreme Court sits today to hear Itula challenging the legality of using EVMs in the November general elections.



Political commentator Ndumba Kamwanyah yesterday remarked that the opposition and independent candidates cannot have their cake and eat it too – suggesting they should either wholly embrace the use of EVMs or condemn it in totality.



“It's a double standard for the ICs and opposition parties who are readily embracing their own victories through the very same EVMs they are questioning. But it is difficult to predict how those issues will play out in the Supreme Court,” he said.



Political commentator Graham Hopwood also argues that some parties are jumping on the anti-EVM bandwagon without really having evidence of wrongdoing.



“Wednesday we saw how the EVMs can work effectively with the results being announced quickly and with plenty of journalists and election agents at polling stations and collation centres to observe that everything was done transparently. If they seriously have evidence of EVM manipulation, they should bring cases to the electoral court. With election agents having access to the collation centres in November, they should have been able to collect evidence regarding any irregularities,” said Hopwood.







Supreme Court



Meanwhile, opinions are divided on the strength of Itula's challenge, with some saying he must bring more to the table.



Constitutional law expert Nico Horn however believes Itula's case may withstand the test today, but pointed out that it would have no effect on the parliamentary elections.



“Itula claims that the presidential election did not meet the expectations of the Constitution or the Electoral Act, and that subsections 1 to 4 of Art 97 of the said Act should have been enacted together. If he succeeds, the Supreme Court will in all probability declare the November 2019 presidential elections invalid and rule that the presidential electoral process should start over. Should the Supreme Court decide that a new presidential election must be held, it will not affect the present elected National Assembly unless the Supreme Court makes a specific ruling,” said Horn.



Horn also said that if an independent candidate wins a new presidential election, they can invite any member of the NA to serve in their cabinet, but political parties can decide whether they want their candidates to serve in such cabinet.



Hopwood believes Itula's challenge is a tall order.



According to him, it is unlikely that the court will nullify the election outcomes, a big event with huge implications for our democracy, on the basis of hearsay evidence and speculation.







jemima@namibiansun.com

JEMIMA BEUKES

Louw suspended for Cash Converters shenanigans

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Louw suspended for Cash Converters shenanigansLouw suspended for Cash Converters shenanigans The Electoral Commission of Namibia has suspended its technical director, Milton Shaanika Louw, who allegedly pawned five laptops belonging to the Commission.

“I can confirm he is suspended,” chief electoral officer Theo Mujoro told Namibian Sun upon inquiry.

Louw allegedly pawned five ECN laptops at a local pawnbroker before the general election last November. He later returned the laptops to the Commission.

When rumours started that Louw had sold the laptops, he claimed that it was part of a ploy to show that the election results had been rigged and that votes had been stolen from the Swapo Party. Mujoro did not respond when asked whether an investigation into Louw's conduct had been initiated and whether he had appeared before a disciplinary committee yet. Mujoro would also not say whether Louw had been suspended with pay. A pawnshop manager in Windhoek, who did not want to be named, claimed that Louw had borrowed money against the five laptops, which he repaid.

“When he finished paying all our money back, we gave him all the laptops back. He got the laptops back before the elections took place,” the manager said. Louw was arrested on a theft charge in December. He was released on N$4 000 bail and is to return to court on 13 March.

Louw could not be reached for comment about his suspension.

OGONE TLHAGE

Suspended Okahandja CEO postpones swearing-in ceremony

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Suspended Okahandja CEO postpones swearing-in ceremonySuspended Okahandja CEO postpones swearing-in ceremony Okahandja municipal CEO Martha Mutilifa, who was put on suspension by the town's councillors, cancelled the swearing-in ceremony of office bearers at the town while suspended.

The councillors showed up at the council chambers on Wednesday but Okahandja senior magistrate Leonard Mateus failed to turn up.

The councillors were at the council chambers on the invitation of the acting CEO, Pasella Nunda.

It is said that the magistrate did not show up because Mutilifa had written him a letter indicating that the event had been cancelled.

Namibian Sun has seen the letter that Mutilifa wrote to Mateus, in which she indicated that four Swapo councillors had been recalled by the party district executive, hence there would be no swearing-in ceremony.





“Today your attention is drawn to another letter by the Swapo district executive dated 13 January 2020 addressed to my office that is reaffirming their decision to recall four councillors on Swapo ticket until further notice,” reads the letter from Mutilifa.

In the letter with a municipal stamp, Mutilifa asked the senior magistrate no to make any arrangements for the ceremony, and purported that she was still the one making such decisions.







“Please take note not to make any arrangements for swearing-in ceremony without communication from the authentic chief executive officer, who is myself, and not anyone claiming to be acting on my position, for as long as I am still employed by council. Accountability is not transferable,” she wrote to the magistrate.



Officials in the municipality confirmed that Mutilifa does not have access, nor is she allowed anywhere near the office, raising questions on how she got hold of the municipality's official stamp while on suspension.



The suspended councillors, according to documents seen by Namibian Sun, are the town's mayor, Johannes 'Congo' Hindjou, deputy mayor Hileni Iita, management committee chairperson Gideon Uwu-Khaeb and Helmi Maruru, a member of the management committee.



The withdrawal did not affect Swapo councillor Sophia Upite.



The four were suspended on 16 December, supposedly on instruction of the Swapo district executive committee.



Based on this district executive's directive to suspend, Mutilifa ordered the four to vacate council offices in terms of the Local Authorities Act, which stipulates that a member of a local authority council shall vacate his or her office if he or she is withdrawn by the political party that had nominated him or her for election.



Mutilifa requested the councillors to hand in all council property in their possession, including the mayoral chain, office keys and car keys.



The Swapo district coordinator at Okahandja, Martha Mwadingi, dismissed the recall of the councillors and in fact wrote a letter in December to Mutilifa informing her that the letter from the Swapo district executive was not legitimate as the district executive has no authority to recall any councillor.



“It can only recommend to the regional executive committee. Proper investigations on the authors of the letter will be done and all necessary steps will be taken against the culprits,” reads the letter.



Mwandingi this week reiterated her stance that the four councillors are not suspended. “We did not recall anybody,” she said.



Mutilifa was suspended with full pay by the management committee on 24 December to allow the council to investigate allegations related to abuse of funds, corruption, fraud and insubordination.



She refused to comment on the matter, saying: “I have nothing to comment, just confirm with your sources.”



Nunda, the municipality's executive for finance, IT and asset management, has been appointed to act as CEO for three months.



The swearing-in of office bearers has been postponed to a later date.

STAFF REPORTER

Make education your New Year’s resolution in 2020

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Make education your New Year’s resolution in 2020Make education your New Year’s resolution in 2020 Albin Jacobs

With the holiday season drawing to a close it is time to focus on the new year, 2020. Almost everyone makes some kind of New Year’s resolution, even if it is only in your mind. Saying them out loud means that friends and family can call you out when you falter or cheat mid-January or abandon the resolutions altogether by February. However, with the start of a new decade I would urge you to make one promise to yourself, and that is to pursue an education.

Resolving to educate yourself means investing in broadening your knowledge and expanding your intellectual horizons. Starting to study in 2020 can lead to improving your position within the company or organisation that you are working for. Achieve that promotion you have had your eye on, or make the switch to the career or company that you have always dreamed of. Like all resolutions, this takes real commitment and discipline and that is why providing the facilities to make learning and earning degrees as easy as possible is now the trend. Distance learning is definitely the way to keep to your commitment that you made to yourself, and perhaps your family.

In 2020 technology and the world have changed immensely and Namibia is no different. Everything now is ‘on demand’ and tailored to suit your needs and fit into your lifestyle. Just take Netflix, Uber, and online shopping 24 hours a day. The list is endless and distance learning fits into this list as well. This is where academic institutions like Southern Business School Namibia and Embury play an important role. Distance learning and e-learning have become an integral and vital part of the educational landscape with many advantages. People often don’t realise that distance learning is a real, viable option, providing you choose a properly NQA-accredited institution that provides quality education.

There’s no hassle to get to and from classes, or worrying about being late for a class, or childcare and work issues. These challenges do not occur with distance learning, as you do it all from the comfort of your home, or even while you are traveling or on holiday. So, that is one excuse out the window when it comes to keeping the New Year’s resolution of starting to study and earning a qualification.

Modern technology also helps you be disciplined and keep the promise you made to yourself. Internet, e-mail and other forms of technology ensure access to a wealth of up-to-date information for distance students. Motivation, or lack of it, is usually the reason why resolutions fall by the wayside by mid-February. Through the network that Distance Learning institutions like SBS Namibia and Embury provide, you will definitely stay motivated and keep your eye on the prize. You’re not learning in isolation; your network of fellow students, lecturers and tutors are all online and act as a support structure.

Life these days is all about convenience and distance learning makes it as convenient as possible. It’s easy to apply and register online for the course of your choosing. There’s even a road show that Southern Business School organises so that you can register. Your course material is sent to you or to a convenient location and exams are written in 15 exam centres across the country. There really is no excuse to not stick to your resolution of furthering your education in 2020.

So, make the commitment and tell your friends and family about this resolution. Amaze them by actually sticking to your resolutions well past February and all the way to the conclusion of your course or degree, and be rewarded with an accredited degree in one of the many fields of study or qualify to become a teacher. Empower yourself and boost your education and career. Let self-improvement and education guide your resolutions for 2020.

*Albin Jacobs is the director of Southern Business School Namibia.

Destined to inspire

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Destined to inspireDestined to inspireBuilding bridges to shape role models Sem Mandela Uutoni, born and bred in the Land of the Brave, is a passionate and focused young man who is keen to change the way young people see possibilities for themselves. Ester Kamati

Sem Mandela Uutoni’s desire for community development manifests itself in his work and is what drove him to pursue a bachelor’s degree in regional and rural development, plus a master’s degree in regional development and environmental economics, which he attained summa cum laude.

Uutoni’s quest to be a bridge builder, especially when it comes to providing young people with access to opportunities, is something that started as a passion, but became a reality with the establishment of Africa Pathfinder Leaders Initiative (APLI) two years ago.

“To be quite honest, the biggest accomplishment with APLI has been starting and getting it off the ground,” he says.

The 26-year-old had wanted to do something in youth development for over five years before eventually starting the initiative in 2018, which he describes as a major accomplishment.

The leadership initiative, led by a specifically selected group of leaders, has the main aim to mobilise change makers across the country and ultimately address the shortage of skills, resources and networks encountered by young people as they aspire to achieve their own goals and contribute to development.

“APLI gives us all a platform to put our passion into action as they aspire to achieve their own goals and contribute to development,” Uutoni says about the initiative which caters to leaders in various fields.

He added that the frontrunners at APLI are “exceptional at what they do and passionate about youth development.”

Windhoek being at the forefront when it comes to information and opportunities, it is a challenge for APLI to reach young people outside the Khomas Region.

Although APLI is aware of the pool of talented and passionate young people who live in various regions of the country and are doing incredible work in transforming their communities, applicants and consequent trainees are mainly from Windhoek.

The organisation is thus challenged to come up with new ways to reach and engage talent in regions and give them access to the opportunities.

The current focus for APLI is to increase and diversify its impact across the different age groups of the youth demographic, starting with rolling out a foundation programme aimed at training high school leaders.

In the next two years, APLI is keen on establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with various stakeholders as they understand the imperativeness of collaboration.

Uutoni values friends and family and normally spends any free time that he would have in the company of his loved ones.

“I enjoy being in the company of people who are dear to me, so I spend a lot of time with my family, especially my siblings and my friends.”

He has a fulltime job as a development advisor at the National Planning Commission, which he is excited and passionate about.

“I like to end off my day with a good read,” he says, adding that he currently has two books keeping him busy - ‘Expect The Extraordinary’ by Jerry Savelle and ‘Allah is not obliged’ by Ahmadou Kourouma.

“I had the honour of being raised by two strong women, my mother and grandmother. They were able to transcend all the afflictions that were in their way and made incredible sacrifices to ensure that I got chance to be educated. Education has given me a voice and a seat at the table where the decisions of the future are made. Their work ethic, tenacity and sacrifices inspire me daily.”

The young man is driven by growth and the desire to constantly do and be better. “Whether it’s in myself or other people, I am fuelled by helping people overcome what inflicts them from attaining an improved quality of life,” he says.

Uutoni describes a leader as “anyone who has the conviction to do something greater [than] themselves, and most importantly acts on that conviction,” and he strongly associates leadership with service.

He further explains that leadership ties together with being able to recognise one’s social and civic responsibilities and acknowledge how fortunate and privileged one is to have access to opportunities and experiences.

“We have a responsibility not only to rise but to ensure that we take someone with us on the rise; in that way we all win and when we win the entire system wins.” These are the words of Uutoni’s mentor, Mee Helena, as he fondly calls her. A wise woman who also constantly reminds him that “the future is not always linear.”

10 fun facts about Sem Mandela Uutoni

He has a pug called Bokkie.

He collects paintings.

He loves travelling, and has been to 32 countries so far.

He is still trying to figure out a thing called swimming.

He is very good at 30 Seconds.

He loves smiling.

He enjoys cooking.

He loves tea.

He played basketball in high school.

His friends describe him as a perfectionist.

Be a footballer with a good name

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Be a footballer with a good nameBe a footballer with a good nameShimoshili lauds Ipinge Football can be a stepping stone towards a political career, as Knowledge Ipinge has proved with his recent election as regional councillor for Walvis Bay Urban. Former Blue Waters executive member Robert Shimoshili says current footballers must follow the footsteps of Knowledge Ipinge and many others.

Shimoshili said this following independent candidate's Knowledge Ipinge's victory in a regional council by-election.

Ipinge was elected as Walvis Bay constituency councillor in last Wednesday's by-election.

The former Blue Waters and national under-20 footballer garnered 1 636 votes, followed by Swapo's Sirie Topulathana with 1 313 votes.

“It is a great thing to see a former footballer taking positions in big offices. “I would like to congratulate Ipinge for winning the elections and also encourage others that are playing football to follow in his footsteps.

“This should also serve as an example to many footballers that there is indeed life after your career in football has ended.

“This shows that if you are a footballer with a good name, you can actually win the hearts of many citizens,” Shimoshili said.

The former Blue Waters executive further encourages current footballers to pursue education while playing football.

Shimoshili has warned players against drug abuse and ill-mannered behaviour. Ipinge follows in the political footsteps of Brave Warriors midfielder Congo Hindjou, who later became the mayor of Okahandja.

“There are also examples of players such as George Weah who became the president of Liberia.

“The likes of former Senegal player El Hadji Diouf and Zambian International Kalusha Bwalya are also classical examples of what earning a good name in football can do for your future,” he said.

Football commentator Isaac Hamata also congratulated the former player on a Facebook group.

“Political affiliation aside, his achievement should inspire other sports people to not feel limited in any way,” the post reads.

JESSE JACKSON KAURAISA

Kuchar wins Singapore golf in Olympic boost

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Kuchar wins Singapore golf in Olympic boostKuchar wins Singapore golf in Olympic boost Olympic medallist Matt Kuchar fought back from a triple-bogey to win the Singapore Open Sunday in a boost ahead of the Tokyo Games, while fellow Rio winner Justin Rose finished second.

The three men's golf medallists from the 2016 Rio Olympics appeared at the event, with their performances closely watched for clues about their form before the Tokyo Games start in July.

While Rio bronze medallist Kuchar of the United States and gold winner Rose of England had good tournaments, there was disappointment for silver medallist Henrik Stenson who finished 23rd.

Kuchar looked strongest throughout and went into the final day of the US$1 million event with a three-shot lead, but nearly let victory slip from his grasp on the par-five seventh.

His tee shot came up against the root of a tree and he missed the ball on his first bid to hit it clear.

His approach shot then flew left of the green and went out of bounds, but he eventually managed to hole a putt from 10 feet for a triple-bogey eight. He staged a strong comeback however, with birdies on the 11th and 16th helping him push ahead of his closest rivals, before he sank a birdie putt to win the tournament with a final round one-under-par 70.

“Seven was a disastrous hole to make (a) triple-bogey,” said the world number 24. “I felt like I was cruising along and had a four shot lead (at) that point and it was awfully comfortable.”

But he added: “I'm awfully proud of being able to bounce back from adversity and being able to not let hard things get the best of me.”

The win was a boost for Kuchar in his campaign to qualify for the Olympics.

Before the Singapore tournament, there were 12 Americans ahead of him in the world rankings, meaning it could be tough for him to earn a spot in Team USA.

NAMPA/AFP

Rosario stops Williams

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Rosario stops WilliamsRosario stops WilliamsBoxer wins super-welterweight titles Jeison Rosario was tearful as he was handed the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation super-welterweight belts. Dominican challenger Jeison Rosario won the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation super-welterweight titles on Saturday, stopping hometown hero Julian Williams in the fifth round.

Rosario landed a staggering right hand and followed with a flurry of punches before Williams fell to the canvas. He rose only to be hammered by a right uppercut and left hook before referee Benjy Esteves stopped the fight 97 seconds into round five.

“I've got to keep crying because I'm so emotional in this moment,” he said.

The showdown at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was the first defense for Williams (27-2 with one drawn) of the 154-pound (69.9kg) crowns he took from American Jarrett Hurd by unanimous decision last May.

Rosario, in his first world title bout, improved to 20-1-1 with his 14th victory inside the distance. It was his sixth win in a row and he improved to 8-0 with a draw since his lone loss in 2017.

“When I lost my last fight I said I wasn't going to lose again until I am world champion,” Rosario said. “And I've done it.” Rosario, 24, opened a cut over the left eye of Williams, 29, with a left jab early in the second round, the gash nagging the champion throughout the fight as toe-to-toe exchanges of hard punches continued.

“It blurred my vision a little bit,” Williams said of the cut. “But that wasn't the reason why. He was the better fighter tonight.”

In the fifth, Williams was staggered early in the round, taking a dozen blows against the ropes before falling face first to the canvas.

After Esteves allowed the fight to continue, Williams landed his powerful uppercut and Williams slumped back against the ropes, prompting Esteves to stop the fight. “I'm sorry I couldn't get the win but I'll be back,” Williams told his hometown supporters, noting he had a rematch clause in the fight contract.

“We'll see if we can get it real soon.”

NAMPA/AFP

Gattuso 'scared' as Napoli hit 'rock bottom'

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Gattuso 'scared' as Napoli hit 'rock bottom'Gattuso 'scared' as Napoli hit 'rock bottom' NAMPA/AFP



Gennaro Gattuso said he was "worried and scared" as Napoli fell 2-0 at home to Fiorentina on Saturday leaving last season's Serie A runners-up scrambling to save their season.

A third consecutive defeat saw the southern giants slump to 13th position as they sit closer to the relegation zone than the Champions League places.

Napoli are without a league win at their San Paolo Stadium since October 19 ahead of hosting Barcelona in the Champions League in a month's time.

For Gattuso the "soulless, unwatchable and embarrassing" defeat was his fourth in five league games since replacing Carlo Ancelotti on December 11, with the club then in seventh spot.

"I'm very worried," admitted the 42-year-old former AC Milan coach.

"We have hit rock bottom and we need to understand what we are going towards.

"We're not looking at the Champions League, we're looking at the scary ranking. We're playing with fire."

Federico Chiesa and Dusan Vlahovic scored in either half to give Fiorentina a valuable win in Naples.

"The performance was embarrassing, we must apologise to the fans and the city," continued Gattuso.

"We only did a little bit in the first 20-25 minutes, then we were unwatchable. We tickled the opponents, without competitive fury."

Gattuso said the team had agreed to head straight to a training retreat at Castel Volturno, northwest of Naples, before hosting Lazio in the Italian Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday and welcoming champions Juventus to Naples next weekend.

"We have to look at each other, be together, let off steam and look for solutions. What we are doing is not enough," explained Gattuso.

"I was convinced that we would have a great performance today but I saw a team that did the opposite of what we had prepared."

Ancelotti was sacked despite a 4-0 win over Genk sealing Napoli's spot in the Champions League last 16 in December.

The veteran coach disagreed with club owner Aurelio De Laurentiis ordering the players into a week-long training camp after a 2-1 league defeat at rivals Roma on November 2.

The players broke the lockdown and returned home and were reported to have been fined a combined total of 2.5 million euros ($2.7 million) for their insubordination.

"It would be too easy for me to say that the problem is the fines, but this is a team that does give me so much in training," said Gattuso.

"When we get out there for a match, we don't do anything that we had prepared.

"It's not just a technical and tactical issue, but a mental one.

"I've played football with some really irritating people, but I always gave what I had on the pitch, even for those I didn't like."

In his playing days, Gattuso won two Serie A and two Champions League titles in 13 years at AC Milan.

He also won the World Cup with Italy in 2006.

He stepped down as coach of AC Milan last May after they missed out on the Champions League places on the final day of the season to city rivals Inter.

"I want to find a solution, I didn't come here to stay two months. I like difficult challenges," he warned.

Napoli have not won a trophy since the days of Argentina great Diego Maradona, who lifted them to their only Serie A titles in 1987 and 1990 and the UEFA Cup in 1989.

Tour de France repeat is Bernal's 'one big goal'

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Tour de France repeat is Bernal's 'one big goal'Tour de France repeat is Bernal's 'one big goal' Egan Bernal warned rivals on Saturday that defending his Tour de France title remains his “big 2020 goal” despite the competing attraction of the Tokyo Olympics which follows quickly in the slipstream of the world's greatest cycling race.

In 2019, Bernal became the youngest post-war champion on the Tour at 22 and this year will share Team Ineos' assault alongside 2018 champion Geraint Thomas and possibly even four-time winner Chris Froome.

“I want to arrive fresh for the Tour de France and this year with the Olympics and the Giro (either side) it doesn't leave much time,” said Colombian Bernal who will keep his hopes of an eventual Giro d'Italia bid on the back-burner.

“I want to have just one big goal, it will obviously be the Tour.”

Co-captain with Thomas, Bernal rode much of the 2019 Tour with a low profile, before surging into the overall lead and claiming the yellow jersey.

Bernal, who grew up in the high-altitude Andes town of Zipaquira, warned however that some factors may conspire against his Tour de France title defence.

“It's strange there is no team time-trial,” said Bernal. “This will be my third Tour and the first one without a team time-trial. “There's lots of mountains, not really long ones and not the same altitude we had last year,” added Bernal, who operates well over long climbs at high altitude, but less well over the short, sharp climbs that punctuate the 2020 route.

“It looks like a really hard Tour, but it does look like it'll be won by a climber.”

The Colombian says he knows he will be targeted by rivals this season after also winning Paris-Nice and the Tour de Suisse in 2019.

“I will try and go again for the GC (overall win) and I'm really motivated,” he said.

“The team has a lot of confidence in me and I really respect this race.”

Of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic road race, which takes place at Mount Fuji om July 25, just six days after the end of the Tour, Bernal confirmed: “I'll be taking part. I want to do well for Colombia, but my biggest goal will be the Tour de France.

“I don't want to be thinking about two races just focus 100 percent on the Tour.

“In any case, the Olympics come a week after the Tour, so if I finish the Tour in good condition, I will be good in the Olympics too.” With the Tour and Olympics back-to-back, Bernal will have to temporarily shelve his Giro dream. He was initially Ineos' Giro captain in 2019 but a broken collarbone saw him race the Tour de France instead.

“Maybe next year, at some time in the future, maybe I'll go for the Giro,” he said.

“That's a big change for me from last year. I will be really focussed on the Tour.

“Last year I was preparing the Giro and I think I maybe did too many kilometres and it maybe wasn't the ideal scenario to perform well on the Tour.”

NAMPA/AFP
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