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Algeria, Ghana face daunting World Cup

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Algeria, Ghana face daunting World CupAlgeria, Ghana face daunting World Cup African football giants Algeria and Ghana could have their hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia irreparably damaged if they lose difficult away matches this weekend.

Algeria, ranked third in the continent behind the Ivory Coast and Senegal, face resurgent Group B pacesetters Nigeria in Uyo today.

Fifth-ranked Ghana tackle Group E leaders Egypt a day later in Alexandria with the hosts lifting a security-induced ban on spectators to permit a 50 000 crowd.

Should 2014 World Cup qualifiers Algeria and Ghana lose, they will trail Nigeria and Egypt by five points in their groups with a third of the six-matchday schedule completed.

Ghana are seeking a fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, which would equal the African record held by Cameroon, and Algeria a third in a row.

While Algeria could not hold an early lead in a surprise 1-1 home draw with Cameroon last month, Nigeria made a perfect start by winning 2-1 in Zambia.

English Premier League pair Alex Iwobi of Arsenal and Kelechi Iheanacho of Manchester City scored the Nigerian goals before the visitors survived a second-half Zambian onslaught.

Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel of Chelsea says a young, hungry ''Super Eagles'' squad are desperate to compensate for failing to make the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations finals.

“It is nice to play with young footballers who are hungry and want to establish themselves as first choices,” he told the Nigerian media.

“I am reminded of my early days in the national team, playing beside stars like Jay-Jay Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu. It was a great pleasure playing with them.

“It is the same with guys like Alex and Kelechi. We enjoy representing our country, creating scoring opportunities and following the instructions of the coach.”

Recently appointed Germany-born coach Gernot Rohr hopes to complete a hat-trick against Algeria after wins over Tanzania in the Cup of Nations and Zambia.

He believes the Africa Cup failure can be turned to the advantage of the five-time World Cup qualifiers.

“Missing out on the 2017 Cup of Nations in Gabon means there is an extra motivation to win our group and go to Russia,” he said.

“Everybody knows Algeria have great players, but we also have really good footballers and a family-like atmosphere within the squad.”

The Uyo showdown marks the debut of Belgian coach Georges Leekens, the third handler of Algeria this year after Frenchman Christian Gourcoff and Serb Milovan Rajevac.

Gourcoff quit while Rajevac lasted just two matches after players complained about his training methods, team selections and inability to speak French or Arabic.

Ghana coach and former Chelsea manager Avram Grant seems unperturbed by a poor start in Group E last month as bottom seeds Uganda forced a 0-0 away draw.

“We have five matches to go and there is no need for panic,” he told reporters. “After losing our opening game at the 2015 Cup of Nations, we went on to reach the final.”

Grant welcomes back fit-again Andre ''Dede'' Ayew, but injuries sideline fellow midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah and veteran striker Asamoah Gyan.

Egypt pulled off a 2-1 comeback win in Congo Brazzaville and will be fired up to avenge a humiliating 6-1 away thrashing by the Black Stars in a 2014 World Cup play-off.

“I know what Ghana did to us, but that is history,” said Argentina-born Egypt coach Hector Cuper. “We fear no team and our target is qualification for Russia.”

Morocco coach Herve Renard comes up against a former team when reigning African champions and Group C leaders the Ivory Coast play in Marrakech Saturday.

The Frenchman guided the Ivorians to a long-awaited Cup of Nations title in 2015 and has had a positive impact on sleeping giants Morocco since taking charge last March.

Under-pressure South Africa coach Ephraim ''Shakes'' Mashaba knows that anything less than a win against Group D pacesetters Senegal in Polokwane Saturday could see him axed.

NAMPA/AFP

Hot topic before summer

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Hot topic before summerHot topic before summer The Namibian Basketball Federation (NBF) will host a German basketball commissioner who is visiting the country for three days to familiarise himself with how the game is run here.

The president of the Basketball Association of Baden-Wuerttemberg (BBW), Joachim Spägele, has been assigned as a basketball commissioner to Namibia to engage NBF and other stakeholders in basketball development affairs.

Spägele touched down in Namibia on July 25 and is expected to leave tomorrow. Among other things, he will discuss the way forward with the NBF.

He will also be paying a courtesy visit to the Sports Commission and the Directorate of Sport to discuss cooperation to develop the game of basketball in Namibia.

Speaking to Nampa last Thursday, NBF president Andrew Masongo said Spägele’s visit would mean a lot to Namibian basketball, as they expected to learn a lot from him during his three-day visit.

“We had a memorandum of understanding with the German Basketball Federation (Deutscher Basketball Bund – DBB), which ended last year.

“They have now assigned someone to come and observe on what never worked between the two organisations and how we can improve on their support in going forward,” he said.

He added that the BBW would be engaging with the NBF from the grassroots level, which is the most important part of any sport development programme.

WINDHOEK–NAMPA

Taking suicide seriously

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Taking suicide seriouslyTaking suicide seriously After reading recent reports on how high the rate of suicide is in our country especially during this time of the year; the fact that people are out there feeling so alone, so unloved, so worthless, so abused and hurt to the extent of taking their lives has really been weighing heavily on my heart. I just can’t even begin to wrap my head around the fact that people wake up thinking “why am I still here?” I imagine how tormenting it must be to reach that point in your thought process where you feel that there is absolutely nothing to live for anymore. With the rate of suicide in Namibia - so high that it is now beyond worrisome - the time to speak openly about suicide and its causes and possible prevention has clearly arrived, especially with the festive season approaching, which is the season during which the rate of suicide tends to peak. We simply tend to ignore this growing social issue; perhaps because we are in denial which is fitting because denial is one of the phases in the grieving process and clearly we are mourning the loss of life through suicide which has been plaguing our nation for years now. However, silence on these issues only perpetuates them and causes stereotypes that prevent would-be victims from seeking the care, attention and intervention that they so deeply crave and need. Social issues such as poverty, unemployment, gender-based violence and emotional disturbances such as depression are factors that can be linked to suicide. If a friend or family member is talking about suicide, it should be taken very seriously. Talking about intentions to commit suicide is a cry for help that deserves to be met with a listening ear and a warm heart. There are a few clear-cut signs which should sound off the alarm bells if a loved one or friend is experiencing feelings of anxiety, agitation, substance abuse, insomnia, extreme mood and behavioural changes, feelings of hopelessness, social withdrawal, reckless behaviour and uncontrolled anger. If a person talks about it or you experience yourself wanting to hurt or kill yourself, or is someone threatens to hurt or kill themselves, or talks about looking for a method to kill themselves, seek immediate help or guidance by contacting a mental health professional or a suicide prevention hotline like those offered by Lifeline Childline Namibia or at the Windhoek Central Mental Hospital. Suicide is often seen as a selfish act and victims and survivors of suicide are often met with contempt which is counterproductive in the prevention, healing and helping process. As challenging as it may seem, do your best not to pass judgement, or deny, and most importantly do not promise to keep it a secret… it is imperative that you help others to or seek support for yourself and your loved one, should you find yourself in the midst of such a predicament. Help and support is readily available if only you tap into your personal power, courage and strength to reach out and receive the care that you deserve.

www.yogabybeauty.wordpress.com

Watch for mozzies

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Watch for mozziesWatch for mozzies Rainy season brings its own challenges While the rains have been welcomed by one and all, standing pools of water and moisture coupled with high heat increase the prevalence of mosquitoes and malaria. Malaria can occur if a mosquito infected with the Plasmodium parasite bites you. An infected mother can also pass the disease to her baby at birth. This is known as congenital malaria. Malaria is transmitted by blood so be careful.

Mosquitoes that perch with their backsides up, as illustrated in the photograph, are the species that transmit malaria. Mosquitoes love standing pools of water to breed in so be careful around your home. The symptoms of malaria typically develop within ten days to four weeks following the infection. In some people, symptoms may not develop for several months. Some malarial parasites can enter the body, but will be dormant for long periods of time. Common symptoms of malaria include shaking and chills that can range from moderate to severe; high fever; profuse sweating; headaches; nausea; vomiting; diarrhoea; anaemia; muscle pains; convulsions; coma and bloody stools.

Your doctor will be able to diagnose malaria. If you have symptoms of malaria, your doctor must order additional blood tests to confirm your diagnosis. These tests will show what type of malaria you have and if your infection is caused by a parasite that''s resistant to certain types of drugs.

Malaria is deadly and Plasmodium falciparum, the most common of the four species of the disease, is resistant to quinine. It develops into cerebral malaria which is very dangerous. Stay alert.



HEALTHLINE

Omakonaakono melongithonayi lyiimaliwa mOmusati ga pu

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Omakonaakono melongithonayi lyiimaliwa mOmusati ga puOmakonaakono melongithonayi lyiimaliwa mOmusati ga pu Oomiliyona dhi vulithe po-12 odha longithwa pambambo Omakonaakono gelongithonayi lyiimaliwa ngoka taga ningilwa omunambelelwa omukuluntu gwElelo lyaMusati oshowo omupeha omukomeho gwIiyemo melelo ndyoka Aanambelewa mboka ya li ya kuthwa miilonga, otaya ka pulakena oshizemo shomakonaakono ngoka ga ningwa moshiwike twa taalela. Sha landula ezimino lyekutho lyawo miilonga pakathimbo kOkakomisi kAaniilonga yEpangelo.

Omunashipundi gwElelo, Modestus Amutse, okwa lombwele oNamibian Sun kutya sha landula oonkundathana dha ningwa nOkakomisi kAaniilonga yEpangelo, okakomisi hoka oka taambako etokolo lyelelo lyOshitopolwa shoka opo kukuthwe miilonga Omunambelewa Omukuluntu gwOshitopolwa Protasius Andowa, oshowo omupeha omukomeho gwoshikondo shIiyemo, Elizabeth Mutota, opo ku vule okuningwa omakonaakono.

“Ongundu yomakonaaakono oya manitha nale omakonaakono noshizemo shaashoka sha monika po otashi ka gandjwa momutumba gwelelo ngoka tagu ningwa oshiwike twa taalela. Otaku ka tokolwa momutumba ngoka ngele naya tamanekwe nenge ahowe. Monena inaya tulilwamo natango iipotha.”

Amutse inaya muule kutya omolwashike aanambelewa mboka yaali ya kuthwa miilonga pakathimbo ihe okwa popi owala kutya oshi na ekwatathano nelongitho nayi lyiimaliwa yelelo okutameka mo-2012.

“Otwa pula uuministeli wetu wu tukwathele aanambelewa yomakonaakono. Oye tu tumine aanambelewa taya kwatelwa komeho komuyalulimambo omukuluntu mUuministeli wOmayambulepo gOondoolopa nIitopolwa,” Amutse ta ti.

Namibian Sun oku na uuyelele kutya oshe ya polweela kutya Andowa naMutota oya longitha pambambo iimaliwa sho ya ndopa okuyelitha kutya imaliwa ya thika poomiliyona 12.3 oya longithwa ngiini.

Pauyelele wa gandjwa konzo, mboka yaali oya gandja uuyelele wiifundja kungoloneya gwoshitopolwa pethimbo kwa tseyithwa olopota yopapangelo yoshitopolwa shoka.

Momasiku 24 gaAguste, Okakomisi kAaniilonga yEpangelo oka shangele Amutse ombaapila ka hala opo a shunithwe miilonga aanambelewa mboka, okwa ningwa oonkundathana naAmutse nokakomisi oka zimine ekutho lyawo miilonga.



ILENI NANDJATO

Omulumentu a zimine edhipago lyomukadhi

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Omulumentu a zimine edhipago lyomukadhiOmulumentu a zimine edhipago lyomukadhi Uukodhi owo wa etitha omusamane a dhipage omukulukadhi gwe omulongiskola, mOshitopolwa shaShana muJuni gwomvula ya piti.

Shoka osha uvika mOmpangululo yoPombanda yaShakati pethimbo omulumentu ngoka holoka mompangu.

Johannes Shipanga (59) okwa zimine kutya okwa yaha omukulukadhi gwe momukunda Onalulago mOshana momasiku 17 Juni omvula ya piti, omanga ina hwikapo olutu lwe ndoka a fikile mohauto.

Shipanga okwa popi kutya yepamwe nomukulukadhi gwe omunamimvo 51 Justina Shipanga, oya li ya fala ombaapila yaantu puushinda na oya tameke taya nyenyeta popepi negumbo lyawo shoka sha etitha eso.

Aahokanathani mboka oye na aanona yane, ngoka omukuluntu oku na oomvula 26 omanga omushona e na oomvula 18.

Shipanga okwa popi kutya omanga yeli mohauto, okwa pula omukukadhi gwe kutya ota galuka ethimbo peni ihe eyamukulo lye ineli pandula sheetitha opo e mu yahe.

“Onde mu pula kutya ota galukile kegumbo ethimbo peni, ihe okwa yamukulandje kutya kandi na uuthemba wokumu pula ngaaka na itandi kala nuuthemba wokumupula….Omayamukulo ngoka oga etitha ndi longe iilonga mbyoka yasatana, kanda Ii ndi na okuyi longa,” Shipanga ta ti.

Shipanga okwa popi kutya okwa yaha omukulukadhi gwe lwali momutse. Okwa popi kutya sho emuyaha oholo yotango okwa gwile komatundji ge na okwe mu yaha ishewe. Okwa tsikile kutya okwa tomeke ehauto omulilo nolutu lwomukadhi olwa pi italu vulu okudhimbululwa.

“Ondi na ondjo, ondina ondjo koshipala shaKalunga nEpangelo. Kanda li ndi na okuninga shoka nda ningi. Onda tula aanona yandje mehalakano oshowo oofamili adhihe,” Shipanga a lombwele ompangu.

Uukodhi nuupyakadhi wiimaliwa

Shipanga okwa hokolola kutya ondjokana yawo yuule woomvula 26 oya tameke tayi ongotele sho a kanitha iilonga mo-2009 na okwa uvu omifofodholo kutya omukulukadhi gwe okwa tameke ekwatathano lyopahole nomulumentu gwedhina Joseph Iyambo.

Shipanga okwa popi kutya omukulukadhi gwe kali a hala we okutopolwa iiyemo ye naye konima sho a kanitha iilonga, onga omulandithi goopolisi, omanga omukukadhi a li omulongiskola pOlulago Combined School.

“Omukulukadhi gwandje okwa indikindje ndi longithe uukalata wokunana iimaliwa. Okwa hulitha po okuulukilandje okapayslipa ke, nomomasiku moka ha kwata okwe ya megumbo ina landa sha.”

Shipanga okwa popi kutya ina kala iikolelela mondjambi yomukulukadhi gwe ihe okwa popi kutya sho ya dhiki ondjokana yawo mo-1988 ayehe oya tsu kumwe opo ya kale taya topola iiyemo yawo mokupalutha ofamili yawo.

Kombinga yekwatathano lyopahole, Shipanga okwa zimine kutya ke na uumbangi ihe okwa uvu onkundana ndjoka komulongi gwoposkola yaOnguma, mpoka Iyambo ha longo.

Omufali gwiihokolola kompangu , okwa popi kutya nakusa kali a hala okukala mekwatathano naShipanga shiikolelela koonkundathana dhawo dha hugunina omanga ina dhipagwa. Na okwa pula ku gandjwe egeelo lyoomvula 40 sigo 45 modholongo. Omukalelipo gwaShipanga ota pula egeelo lyoomvula 18 konima yekumba, ta popi kutya omuyakulwa gwe okwa ulike kutya okwa longa oshimbuluma oshiwinayi na okwa gandja uuyelele awuhe kopolisi nokuzimina woo ondjo. Okwa pula woo ombili okuza koyana naakwanezimo.

Omupanguli Marlene Commasi okwa undulike oshipotha komasiku 24 gaNovemba. Shipanga ota kala modholongo.



KENYA KAMBOWE

US election may disrupt Volkswagen settlement

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US election may disrupt Volkswagen settlementUS election may disrupt Volkswagen settlementEmissions scandal could be prolonged Volkswagen fears that Donald Trump''s election might delay a multibillion-dollar settlement with the US authorities. Volkswagen has expressed concern that Donald Trump''s election as US president could disrupt talks to reach a settlement with US authorities over the German carmaker''s cheating on emissions tests for diesel cars.

“I hope the election result won''t have more negative consequences for Volkswagen,” chief executive officer Matthias Mueller said on Wednesday at a conference in Munich.

“I think we''re at a point where a ''consent decree'' could be reached, but that''s the Department of Justice''s decision, not mine.”

While Volkswagen has agreed to a US$14.7 billion civil settlement covering 480 000 cars with 2.0-litre diesel engines, the company is still faces criminal penalties and has yet to reach a deal on about 80 000 cars with tainted 3.0-litre motors.

A delay in the talks would prolong the scandal and complicate Volkswagen''s efforts to emerge from the crisis, which erupted in September 2015.

Mueller said talks with US authorities were “constructive” and nearing completion. “We''re now waiting how to continue the good work and bring it to a good conclusion,” he said.

NEWS24

We are Bermuda Music

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We are Bermuda MusicWe are Bermuda Music The new face of rap music Hip hop and rap artist KK introduces his campaign, artists under his label and their album releases this month. KK believes that his label can change the face of Namibian music because the company is about the passion, drive, the consumer, of course the music and staying focused. Like all or most potentially successful record labels, ''Bermuda Music'' started as just a dream and later sprouted into a vision driven by mere hunger and the ambition to have and become more. “I decided to start Bermuda Music so we could do our part in helping and directing these young talents and help them mold a better version of themselves. At Bermuda Music we are more than just artists, we are a family that stands together,” says KK, who has performed along international and local artists before.

Bermuda Music was established in 2012 and currently manages three young talents, namely KBrizzy, Raymondo and KK. The record label is driven by the notion that no feat is unreachable and therefore strives to bring the best talents and the best events to the people. Their highlights so far are the Snap Backs and Tattoos show in 2014 which brought in the likes of K.O. and Kid X.

KK admires the fact that over the years South Africa has managed to make great strides globally in the music industry because they learnt the art of Ubuntu. “But that Ubuntu has to start at home so that is why we are starting the Namibia Rise Up campaign. The “Rise up” campaign is an initiative to unite our industry, to build that trust and loyalty amongst artists and fans. In order for your favourite artist to grow you as the fan have to support the cause and help build this empire. Gone are the days where we go to events just because there are South African acts. It is time we as a nation “Rise Up” and stand together,” he said.

Bermuda Music are preparing to launch new music and kick start this summer of madness and bliss with brand new music that will surely cater to most if not all. The new KK album titled “Kaleidoscope” is due to drop on 26 November alongside Ray & Kbrizzy''s debut or freshman album titled the “48 Genius Summers”.

June Shimuoshili

Aunty Nangy

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Aunty NangyAunty Nangy What is love?

?I am a 14-year-old girl and I have a problem. I don''t believe in love because boys like me and I just want to be friends with them but they say I am beautiful and they like me a lot because of my beauty.

Please help me to understand what love is please. Someone has defined love as ''an intangible connection between two people that feels exceptionally good''.



?You don''t have a problem my dear. I think you know what you want.

Most girls of your age get confused by the hormonal changes that take place in their bodies during this puberty stage and go wild.

Keep your cool and keep your wisdom and stay away from the boys who will not only break your virginity, but your heart too.

You are beautiful and you have said it so, don''t rush and get into premature love affairs that can spoil your bright future for good.

He has gone cold

?I''m a girl, 15, and I fell in love with a 17-year-old boy. At first, everything was going well but now he doesn''t even text or call me anymore as he used to do.

He used to tell me that he loves and respects me. Are we still together? Help me please Aunty.



?My dear, before I can help you, also help yourself. At 15, you are too young to sound so desperate and worry about a boy who seems to have found a better love nest. Stop stressing yourself about men who want to take you for a ride. Forget about this guy, he definitely does not love you and this is just a passing infatuation. Life is larger than love. Love yourself and have confidence in yourself.

Dating a man

I have never seen

? I have a problem with my boyfriend. He doesn''t like to reply my texts sometimes. We have been dating for two years but we never met. Does he love me?

? You have been blind dating for two years? Aunty Nangy finds it very difficult to understand how you claim to be in love with a man you have never seen for the past two years and you are not worried about it.

Are you saying there are no serious men around you that you can fall in love with instead of waiting for a man you have never seen? Come on baby, wake up and stop abusing yourself. That man is not a problem but yourself.



She doesn''t

reach orgasm

?Aunty Nangy, I have a problem with my girl. We love each other so deeply but the problem is that she doesn''t produce spasms or is she afraid? I''m confused about it. Please help me.



?I am not sure whether I understand what you are telling me as your problem. What spasms are you talking about? You mean the shiver and trembling that a woman and a man experience when they reach orgasm when making love? If this is what you mean then you are the one who is not taking her to cloud 9! The man is the driver who takes the woman to the sex destination so take her to her destination.

Don''t just come and go in a heated rush. She wants a slow hand!

Whose problem is it?

?Auntie Nangy, l am 31 years old and I am dating a woman who is 26 years old. She doesn''t

have a kid in her life, but l have a child from another woman. We have been together for seven years, but have no kids together. Who has a problem?



?You have to be very careful here, because indirectly you are saying it could be the woman, because you have a child with another woman. What makes you so sure that child is yours, because some women sleep with several men and just choose to give one man the child. I also know couples who both had children before meeting, but they failed to have children together. Both of you must see a gynaecologist to see where the problem lies.



She left me

? l have a problem. l am 37 years old and l am dating a woman who is 27. We have a house. My woman left and it is four months now. She does not want me to bring another woman in our house. What can l do? Please help me.



? For sure you have a problem. But you did not tell me why she left home and where she went to. I am not siding with the woman but you seem to be holding back important information which will help me to give you good advice. I find it strange that a lover can just leave the relationship for no reason. From what you have said I think that you two are just living together and in a very casual sex relationship.

If this is the case, then no one takes the other person seriously because your relationship is just child''s play. It appears she is the one who owns the place that you live in and if it is her house, then for sure you cannot have sex with another woman in her house. Get your own sex nest and maybe that is why she left you and she is doing it away from you. Try fasting, she will come back.

The good the bad and the ugly

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The good the bad and the uglyThe good the bad and the ugly Good fashion, poor organising Evidently, the event was the first of its kind in Namibia and as such, the organisers were at the first at the unfortunate end of the learning curve but despite the blunders, the local and international designers put on a blazing show. The Windhoek Fashion Week (WFW) started off with poor attendance of the fashion talk workshops which were hosted for two days by the fashion council. The talks and workshops covered aspects on how to market oneself as a model, an introduction to trend forecasting and upcoming trends, and the importance of fashion photography. The talks were done by local fashion designer and columnist Leah Misika and renowned photographer Trevor Stuurman. Organiser and workshop speaker Kalistu de Trinidad said the poor attendance was due to the fact that designers and models whom they catered for where busy preparing for the main event.

The evening of 4 November wasn’t smooth either as Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards (ASFAS) Ugandan representative Manuela called the official launch presentation off due to poor coordination of logistics, lack of promptness and misunderstandings between the local hosts, the Windhoek Fashion Week organising committee. According to Manuela, the ASFAS will not be doing justice to the southern African nominees as they treated other nominees much better. “The planning of the launch in southern Africa is not up to standards of the ASFAS and due to that I will not be doing my presentation," said the then upset Manuela who told the crowds to rather mingle since there was nothing more to be done. Many who attended where very disappointed as their money was in vain for tickets as personality Bonang Mathebe who was supposed to make an appearance was a no-show.

De Trinidad, a member of the Windhoek Fashion Week said it was rather unfortunate that things happened as they did but it was because of poor timing. “The host Luis Munana was not at the event because he was busy sorting out accommodation for South African personality Bonang Mathemba who was put on a late flight from South Africa which was booked by the ASFAS committee. We were in constant communication with Manuela''s team so it doesn''t make sense for her to accuse the Windhoek Fashion Week for poor logistics," said Kalistu. The Namibian ASFAS nominees are still in the competition which will take place on 9 December this year.

As if the drama from the previous night weren’t enough, the WFW organisers failed to consult the local weathermen because the rain started pouring before the beginning of the event and the entire set up was drenched and had to be dismantled. The first and second slots of the day were planned to take place at the Grove Mall rooftop parking lot like all the others but were later postponed to the following day at the same venue, but one floor below.

By then some members of the WFW organisation and sponsors had pulled out of due to what seemed to be disastrous event because they didn’t want to be associated with the bad publicity awaiting. Nevertheless those that remained where able to put together a good fashion show that was put together within seven hours and possibly, a sleepless night.

The last day saw all collections being showcased in one night, back-to-back. The turnout was great and it included people from all walks of life, near and far. Local musicians like KP Illest showed and Drummer Queen who hails from Kenya simply flew in just to see Namibia and what they are capable of putting together. Designers, bloggers, models and media from countries like South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe also came to witness the historic fashion event. The designers that stood out included the collections Waterfall by Ingo Shanyenge, Earth by Mellisa Poulton, Ria by Maria Nepembe, Manzvat by Nankhova Alves and Palse, just to mention a few.

Many that attended were however disappointed as the seating arrangements could not accommodate VIPs and standard ticket owners from both nights, and some had to stand during the slots despite their type of ticket.

Distinguished South African designers from David Tlale’s The Intern programme were the finish to the WFW as he announced which local designer he was going to take under his wing for a year-long mentorship. David Tlale chose fashion council member and designer Taati Sibolile but he added upcoming and promising Deon Mathias to the programme. The two interns are said showcase at some big fashion weeks in South Africa and across Africa including the Mercedes Benz Joburg, Lagos and Uganda fashion weeks.

The WFW organisers say their event was an achievement and plans for next year’s event are on the roll already. “Despite the mishaps and the hiccups, it was a successful event for us. From the beginning it was about fashion and never been about the organising team. This is a platform for people to show their creativity. We will learn from our mistakes and involve other people to make the next events more successful,” said De Trinidad and also thanked everyone that was supportive throughout the event.

June Shimuoshili

Friends with benefits much?

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Friends with benefits much?Friends with benefits much? Who runs the entertainment industry? The answer is circles of friends! This week has been such a turn-off and also very educational for me. I''ve been at half of all the corners of entertainment categories from fashion to music to downtown avenue and to films and I want to believe that I''ve come across the many secrets I have!

Firstly, I don''t know if it''s because we are really a small country in terms of population and hence we will all inevitably cross paths someday - that''s why everyone knows of everyone''s issues and try to be all up their businesses. I mean I don''t blame you because we lack recreational facilities where one can go chill but that is a story for another day altogether tog.

I want to talk about how some people are so cocky and want to do things that will only benefit them and those near them. I spoke to someone who was convinced that the majority of people that deal with big events or gigs only ensure that their friends get in on the job so they can all reap together. I mean I would also do the same and I''m sure you do the same too. It''s becoming normal now.

The problem comes when you get people in with no experience or work ethic until your secret is out. This could be the end of your career too if you are not careful. No one likes someone that doesn''t deliver. At least if you are going to bring in your whole clique or some of them, ensure it is those friends that can get the job done.

However, there are challenges here too. Renting your friend can also destroy relationships and it is also advisable not to work with one''s friends. There''s just something that happens and so-called true colours come out. They might end up ditching you at the first sight of trouble because there''s a difference between you saying what you will do and how you will act. I also know for sure that relationships have ended this past weekend and I would want to see your friendships fail. Lol. So moral of the story is know whom to do things with.



June Shimuoshili

Gauteng, Erongo to strengthen collaboration

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Gauteng, Erongo to strengthen collaborationGauteng, Erongo to strengthen collaborationMakhura eyes the Erongo Region South Africa''s industrial heartland is to help Namibia''s Erongo Region with industrial development. South Africa''s Gauteng Province and Namibia''s Erongo Region will sign a cooperation agreement next year.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura announced this during the presidential gala dinner of the Invest in Namibia international conference in Windhoek on Tuesday.

“Governor Cleophas Mutjavikua and myself are keen to work together to take industrialisation efforts to regional and city level, following on the footsteps of our two countries'' bi-national agreements,” he said.

Makhura said South Africa was ready to contribute resources and capabilities towards the important goal of industrialisation in Namibia.

He said Namibia, through its Growth at Home Strategy, seeks to facilitate the development of a competitive and diversified industrial base that optimally utilises local resources through comprehensive value addition in the areas of mining and agriculture.

This, he said, goes together with the creation of an enabling environment for increased investment and sustained growth in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Makhura said the two-day investment conference provided an opportunity for South African business people to exchange ideas and encourage trade and investment between the two countries.

“As Gauteng, we are delighted to be part of this investment conference in order to deepen mutually beneficial economic relations between South Africa and Namibia, as well as Windhoek and Gauteng.”

The Gauteng premier has been in Namibia since Monday and visited uranium mines, water reclamation plants, informal settlements and informal business and industrial parks in the Khomas and Erongo regions.

NAMPA

Investor conference successful

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Investor conference successfulInvestor conference successful Government spin doctor Tjekero Tweya expressed his satisfaction at the closing of the Invest in Namibia conference, describing the investor conference a success.

In a short statement, Tweya said: “I am happy to inform you that the Government of the Republic of Namibia through the Ministry of Industrialisation, Trade and SME Development successfully hosted the Invest in Namibia Conference.”

More than 1 700 participants attended the two-day conference, 400 of them from African countries. The largest business delegations to the conference were from South Africa (80) and Germany (40).

“The Namibia Investment Centre has signed an agreement on the establishment of the Turkey-Namibia Business Council with the Foreign Economic Relations Board of Turkey.

“The purpose of the Turkey-Namibia Business Council will be to promote trade and investments between the two countries, contribute to the industrial and technological collaboration between Namibian and Turkish companies and institutions, and facilitate the participation in trade fairs and exhibitions,” Tweya said.

“MK International, a South Korean company, and Otavi Rebar Manufacturing, a public-private partnership between private investors and the Otavi Town Council, have signed a joint venture agreement in order to set up a reinforced-steel manufacturing plant. The plant will be strategically located on the SADC Walvis Bay Corridor Network at Otavi and will be known as Namibia Steel Manufacturing,” he announced.

Tweya said the initial production capacity of the plant will be 580 000 tons per year and the projected investment is estimated at US$250 million. More than 800 skilled and 700 semi-skilled jobs will be created.

STAFF REPORTER

Schlettwein invites private-sector partners

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Schlettwein invites private-sector partnersSchlettwein invites private-sector partnersInvest in water, energy, housing The government alone cannot fund all national development projects, the minister of finance has told potential investors. With a plethora of projects lined up, the government is relying on the successful adoption of a soon-to-be-introduced public-private-partnership framework.

Speaking to delegates at the just-concluded Invest in Namibia conference, Finance Minister Calle Schlettwein invited the delegates to invest in a number of electricity, water and housing projects.

“Even though it''s a key responsibility of the government to ensure delivery of public services such as water, electricity and other infrastructure at acceptable standards to the citizens, government alone cannot fund all national development projects, therefore we remain committed to creating conducive conditions to harness private investments and expertise in infrastructure development and delivery of public services,” Schlettwein said.

He said a public-private-partnership unit had been set up in the Ministry of Finance.

“The National PPP Policy was approved in 2012. In line with the policy, the public-private partnerships directorate has been set up at the Ministry of Finance.

“The formulation of PPP legislation is also at an advanced stage, the draft bill is finalised and due for tabling in parliament.”

Hangala Group director and former Nampower managing director Leake Hangala added to the discussion, calling for roles to be defined in a public-private-partnership.

“The roles of the parties must be understood. Partners need to understand each other''s roles and capacities. We must understand what partnership is. There must be a shared vision.”

Advising local stakeholders, Hangala added: “We are struggling when it comes to timelines.”

Giving an example of a proposed partnership his group had to sign with a local authority, he told delegates how the Hangala Group had to wait two years for the authority to make a final decision on a proposal submitted for a housing development.

“It took the local authority two years before they came back to us. This was for housing development,” he said.

“Public-private partnerships are not an end in themselves.”

In an effort to put the delegates at ease, Schlettwein said: “We are conscious that PPPs are not the best approach in every instance, and that poorly conceived PPP projects may lead to excessive or unintended fiscal burden.”

OGONE TLHAGE

Anti-Trump protests

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Anti-Trump protestsAnti-Trump protests Across the US, Americans say ''not my president'' Protests against Donald Trump''s victory took hold across the US with some of them turning violent. Thousands of protesters around the country took to the streets on Wednesday to condemn the election of Donald Trump as president.

The demonstrations were mostly peaceful, authorities said.

In Chicago, several thousand people marched through the Loop and gathered outside Trump Tower, chanting “Not my president!”

Chicago resident Michael Burke said he believes the president-elect will “divide the country and stir up hatred”. He added there was a constitutional duty not to accept that.

A similar protest in Manhattan drew about 1 000 people. Outside Trump Tower on Fifth Avenue in midtown, police installed barricades to keep the demonstrators at bay. Hundreds of protesters gathered near Philadelphia''s City Hall despite chilly, wet weather. Participants – who included both supporters of Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and independent Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, who lost to Clinton in the primary – expressed anger at both Republicans and Democrats over the election''s outcome.



''Impeach Trump

In Boston, thousands of anti-Donald Trump protesters streamed through downtown, chanting “Trump''s a racist” and carrying signs that said “Impeach Trump” and “Abolish Electoral College”.

The protesters gathered on Boston Common before marching toward the Massachusetts Statehouse, with beefed-up security including extra police officers.

Hundreds of University of Texas students spilled out of classrooms to march through downtown Austin. They marched along streets near the Texas Capitol, then briefly blocked a crowded traffic bridge.

Marchers protesting Donald Trump''s election as president chanted and carried signs in front of the Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC.

Local media outlets broadcast video on Wednesday night showing a peaceful crowd in front of the new downtown hotel. Many chanted “No racist USA, no Trump, no KKK.”

Another group stood outside the White House. They held candles, listened to speeches and sang songs.

Earlier on Wednesday, protesters at American University burned US flags on campus.



Trump supporter hit

In Oregon, dozens of people blocked traffic in downtown Portland, burned American flags and forced a delay for trains on two light-rail lines.

Earlier, the protest in downtown drew several Trump supporters, who taunted the demonstrators with signs. At one point, a lone Trump supporter was chased across Pioneer Courthouse Square and hit in the back with a skateboard before others intervened.

Protests also were reported at a number of universities in California and Connecticut, while several hundred people marched in San Francisco and others gathered outside City Hall in Los Angeles.

The only major violence was reported in Oakland, California, during a protest that began shortly before midnight and lasted into early Wednesday morning.

Some demonstrators set garbage bins on fire, broke windows and sprayed graffiti at five businesses in the downtown area, police said. No arrests were made.

Another protest began on Wednesday evening downtown, with several hundred chanting, sign-waving people gathering in Frank Ogawa Plaza.

In San Francisco, hundreds are marching along Market Avenue, one of the city''s main avenues, to join a vigil in the Castro District, a predominantly gay neighbourhood.



Female vote

In the meanwhile, despite sex assault allegations hounding him, fat-shaming a former beauty queen and his controversial abortion stand, a large number of women voters helped put Donald Trump in the White House.

Though his rival, Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, clinched 54% of the female vote, Trump was backed by 42% of women voters, which contributed to his stunning victory, according to CNN exit polls.

Some 53% of white women voters supported the Republican candidate, CNN said, the majority of them (62%) non-college educated.

The results upended predictions that sexist and degrading comments Trump made against women would sway female voters - who accounted for about 52% of the electorate on Tuesday - in favour of a candidate that could have broken the glass ceiling.

Experts said the outcome is not surprising, and reflects an election in which issues about the economy, jobs and immigration were much higher on all voters'' priority list than gender issues.

NAMPA/AP

Meet Tjipenandjambi Nguasananongombe!

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Meet Tjipenandjambi Nguasananongombe!Meet Tjipenandjambi Nguasananongombe! A friend of mine, Tjipenandjambi Nguasananongombe, who just returned from a year’s stay in the United States - minus his sense of humour and his ability to speak Otjiherero, the language he used for over 30 years. In fact, the brother had insisted that I organise a welcoming committee at the airport as he touched down at Hosea Kutako International.

The man hardly recognised me as I ran up to him with open arms to welcome him to the land of the brave. He was encircled by three huge muscular dudes who he ordered to stop me from touching him. I couldn’t believe what I was witnessing.

Well, being the well-mannered boy my mother raised, I opted to play along just to see how far my friend would push this stunt. Oh, did I mention that his name changed to Shiznit Aka K.A.M.

Ja, the man says he has been liberated and has seen the light. He says his old name reminds him of how his people suffered in the village of Otumborombonga. By the way, that village is now also to be known as Tumboro City.

“So, broer what’s with the new image”, I asked him at one point on our way home from the airport.

“You see Charlie from Omaheke, you boys don’t get life. Life is about living and is for the living and not for those who are not living. So live your life like you are alive ….”

I thought long and hard on whether I should really continue with the conversation, given the line of argument that my friend seemed to be advancing.

“So, you are saying that you now see things differently?” I asked after collecting my thoughts for what felt like the longest three seconds of my life.

“Nah dude, that ain’t it. It is deeper than that bro ... this is some deep s***t right there. You know, I have a dream that one day this nation will be free ….”

“Who said that … ,” I asked. “… Martin Luther King?”

“Nah dude … I just did. Man, you ain’t listen’ng my brother. Pssst, damn … ain’t gonna waste my breathing any longer,” he responded.

He probably meant ‘waste his breath any longer’ but I didn’t dare challenge him. As we approached the house, I saw his grandmother walking towards the car to greet us. ‘This is going to be interesting,’ I thought to myself.

“Muatje uandje (my child) omuatje uandje uakotoka (my child has returned) …,” she said, ululating as she opened the car’s door for the young man to get off.

The story of the prodigal son who returned home after wandering around the world crossed my mind. But one look at my friend brought me back to reality – this is no prodigal son. This is a man that has ‘forgotten’ his language in just over a month away from home and has stopped listening to Ongoro nomundu because the music apparently sucks!

After the family exchanged greetings in unfamiliar fashion, we were once again on our own. I politely asked if the bodyguards can excuse us, as I had something I needed to share with my friend.

“Bro, I don’t think this new image of yours will be cool with the chicks … you might end up being a lone bro,” I said, knowing I ought to catch his attention being the ladies’ man that he is.

“Dude … what you saying man. That they won’t like all of this? I mean, look at me … who can say no to all of this?”

That was the last time I tried convincing him to get off his spaceship and touch the ground.

Just the other day I ran into him at the local eatery. He greeted me warmly in Otjiherero and offered me the juiciest piece of steak I have ever seen.

“So, what happened to the Obamaism broer?

“Who … ?”

I left it at that - was just grateful to have my friend back. From what I hear, the brother was not even studying in the States – he was picking ticks from pigs at paltry pay. But that remains a secret for now. If you must tell someone, let it just be one person and make him promise you to only tell one other person.

Until then…

Tjatindi@gmail.com

When populism courts bigotry

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When populism courts bigotryWhen populism courts bigotry With the results of the American presidential election still fresh in our minds, there are some very poignant lessons to be learnt in its aftermath. In spite of Americans electing their first black president to the White House, Barack Obama, they now appear to have swung entirely in the opposite direction. It is therefore pertinent to ask whether this has been the underlying sentiment among the majority of Americans all along, or whether Obama''s term in office caused extreme polarisation. Suffice to say, it is clear that bigotry rules supreme and that Americans have finally been exposed for what they really are. On the other hand, perhaps America is a nation so desperate for change that they are prepared to accept any change, for better or for worse. If one looks at the first option, then it is no different from what we are experiencing in Southern Africa and in other parts of post-colonial Africa and South America. Populism and neoliberalism are in fact very close together, populists (the Malemas, Zumas and Trumps of the world) inevitably become puppets of neoliberalists after they gain power. Populists appeal to bigots, racists and the downtrodden of society, all those that are swept away on a tide of promises for a better future. Populists will do and say anything to get what they want, they will even appeal to the dark side of humanity and goad it out of its closet. Unfortunately their rhetoric is short-lived, as is their commitment to their election promises, which only emerge at election times. In the meantime, America has propped up many populist regimes in the world to serve their own interests, entrapping their leaders with neoliberalist tactics – but now the tide has turned. Some Americans are crying foul, but it is too little too late. After seeing a world superpower fall victim to populism, let us guard against it and go to the election booths with open eyes, cognisant of the pitfalls of a populist vote and mindful of leaders that don''t keep their election promises.

Friday cartoon

Man gets 23 years for killing mother

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Man gets 23 years for killing motherMan gets 23 years for killing mother Hacked her to death Siegfried Uirab will languish in jail for 23 years after being found guilty of hacking his mother to death. A man who was earlier this month found guilty of hacking his biological mother to death with an axe at the Otjimbingwe settlement three years ago, was yesterday sent to jail for 23 years.

High Court Judge, Christie Liebenberg handed down the sentence.

Siegfried Uirab was on 5 October 2016 found responsible for causing the death of his 64-year-old mother Erika Uiras when he hit her with an axe at the settlement located south-east of Karibib in the Erongo Region on 21 November 2013.

She was hit five times on the back of her head with the axe. The pensioner died of head injuries while receiving treatment in a Windhoek hospital two days after the attack.

On this count, Uirab was sentenced to 23 years imprisonment.

The 26-year-old Uirab was further found guilty on two counts of assault with the intention to cause grievous bodily harm and assault by threat after he attacked his sister, Ruth Uiras, by hitting her on the head with the same axe and for chasing another relative, Lizette Uiras, with the same weapon on the day of the incident.

On the two counts, Uirab was sent to jail for two years and six months.

The sentences imposed on the last two counts were ordered to run concurrently with the punishment imposed on the murder count.

In the end, the matricide convict was sent to jail for an effective 23 years. The judge said Uirab was irrational and out of actual character as he abused alcohol and cannabis.

“The attack on the victim was unprovoked and very vicious and it is really shocking for a parent to die at the hands of your own child.”

He said the killing of innocent people in the country should be discouraged at all costs through appropriate sentences by courts.

“The taking of another person''s life cannot go unpunished and the interests of society demand that punishment for murder cases should not be lenient.”

State Advocate, Felistas Sikerete-Vendura asked for 40 years in the count of murder, while Uirab''s defence lawyer Titus Ipumbu appealed for mercy and a lenient punishment of 18 years in respect this count.

Uirab maintained during trial that he was possessed by “strange unknown spirits” that forced him to commit the crime and could thus not be held criminally responsible for the death of his mother.

He said he was suffering from substance-induced psychosis as he abused alcohol and cannabis prior to and at the time of the incident.

In addition, the axe used in the killing incident was forfeited to the State.



NAMPA

Investors sought for desalination plant

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Investors sought for desalination plantInvestors sought for desalination plant Desalination was heavily punted at the Invest in Namibia International Conference as a viable investment option.

A planned 25 million m3 per annum capacity plant was this week presented to potential investors.

The Ministry of Water, Agriculture and Forestry would drive the project with the assistance of a private partner, according to finance minister Calle Schlettwein.

Explaining the urgency of developing a desalination plant, the minister said: “with the backdrop of persistent drought conditions and continuing expansion of economic activities in the western and central regions of the country it is clear that sources of supply of potable and industrial use water need to be expanded. In line with this requirement, the Harambee Prosperity Plan has mandated the development of a 25 million m3 per annum capacity desalination plant at the west coast of Namibia on a public-private partnership basis.” According to Schlettwein, the development of a desalination project will be a significant investment.

“In this scenario, it will be useful to have a project arrangement where the design, construction and operation risks are allocated to a competent private firm and NamWater or alternative,” he said. Plans for a desalination plant date as far back as the early 90s when NamWater commissioned a study for the construction of its own plant. Rössing Uranium Namibia has also announced plans to construct its own desalination plant. Israeli investors Shimon Dadon and Shay Shoham from the World Youth Bank Group told Namibian Sun on the sidelines of the investment forum that the country has great potential, adding they are keenly following developments around water infrastructure.

“We believe there is great promise and we would like to get involved in some projects. We would not fly 12 hours if we did not think there were no opportunities here,” Dadon said.

“If you look at Israel, it is very much like Namibia, albeit larger. We have been using desalinated water and we are the pioneers in this field.”

They are optimistic that Israeli-backed technology could be used locally with ease.

Shoham further revealed that they had already engaged with water officials.



OGONE TLHAGE
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