All set for Mandume centenary

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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All set for Mandume centenaryIcon's commemoration is for everyone The centenary of the death of the legendary and enigmatic Mandume Ya Ndemufayo will take place next weekend. President Hage Geingob is expected to lead the centenary commemoration of the death of one of Namibia's most feisty kings, Mandume Ya Ndemufayo.

The four-day centenary commemoration will take place from next week Friday at the palace of the Queen of Ovakwayama Mwadinomho Martha Kristian Nelumbu at Omhedi in the Ohangwena Region.

The events will stretch to Monday, 6 February, with the queen leading a delegation for the wreath-laying ceremony at Oihole, in the Cunene Province of Angola.

Mandume died at Oihole while in combat at the tender age of 23 in 1917 – just six years after he ascended the throne of the Ovakwanyama Kingdom.

Former presidents Sam Nujoma and Hifikepunye Pohamba have also confirmed their attendance according to the organisers, as well as other high-ranking officials, including traditional leaders from different parts of the country.

A glittering line-up of speakers will pay tribute to King Mandume who is revered as a national hero in both Namibia and Angola during the four-day event.

The organisers say everything is in place to host the thousands of people who will be flocking to the event.

“Everything is in order. The security is in place and we are ready to serve our guests,” one of the organisers Philip Hikumwah told Namibian Sun yesterday.

Hikumwah emphasised that the centenary event was not only an occasion for the Ovakwanyama people, but for all Namibians.

“The queen has dedicated this event to the youth of this country and it is important that we should study and acquaint ourselves with the history of our heroes like King Mandume. This is not an event for the Ovakwanyama, but for all Namibians. It is not a segregated event because everyone is welcome to attend. We have already received confirmation from basically all the traditional authorities in Namibia that they will attend.”

The programme will start on Friday with a number of events, including the launching of the book on the Oukwanyama history by Queen Mwadinomho.

On Saturday, the main programme will feature, among others, the history of the Ovakwanyama tribe that will be narrated by historian Abednego Nghifikwa.

There will also be an address by the governor of the Cunene Province in Angola, while a commemorative King Mandume stamp will be also be launched by Nampost, before an address by the queen and Geingob.



Oihole logistics

Regarding the one-day trip to Oihole on 6 February, the organisers have indicated that all logistics have been put in place to cross the border to Angola and to Oihole, which is situated about 40km southeast of Ondjiva. “We have consulted our embassy in Angola through the ministry of international relations. Both the governors of Cunene and Ohangwena have also been communicating in ensuring that all arrangements are in order for the trip to Oihole,” he said.

STAFF REPORTER

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ACC investigates Hoperise College

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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ACC investigates Hoperise CollegeCity allows and disallows operations Hochlandpark residents are up in arms over a college in the residential area that continues to operate despite countless objections to the Windhoek municipality and its City Police. The alleged lack of action by the Windhoek municipality and the City Police has propelled frustrated residents at Hochlandpark to approach the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to investigate the operations of Hoperise College in the residential area.

The municipality's department of urban planning and property management issued a “cease operation” notice to the college in March last year after it was found to have no permit. The college has, however, continued to operate undisturbed despite numerous complaints by the frustrated residents.

After a visit to the regional director of education this week, residents were surprised to see that the municipality's department of economic development and environment had in fact issued a certificate allowing Hoperise to operate.

The certificate was issued on the same day, on 30 March, that the municipality's planning department had given Hoperise 28 days to cease its operations.

The residents say this made them suspect corruption, hence the complaint lodged with the ACC.

Residents of Barbet and Osprey streets say they have repeatedly complained about a huge increase in traffic, noise emanating from the college, the infringement on their privacy and littering.

They say they also asked the municipality about real status of Hoperise College. The residents say they tried to get a copy of the “cease operation” notice served by the municipality but only managed to get a copy of the 28-day notice served on the college. Some of the residents in September filed formal charges of fraud and falsification with the Namibian Police against the director of Hoperise, Wellington Vambe, and Rosa Nandago. They claimed the two had fraudulently deceived them into signing a consent form by misrepresenting the college as an examination centre. To the contrary, it offers tuition and has between 60 and 80 students on the property at any given time, the residents charge.

Vambe last year said the college had decided to “add value” to the examination centre by “coaching” students. He also said the college had taken steps to minimise the increased traffic and concerns about parking.



CATHERINE SASMAN

No more hotel conferences for government

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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No more hotel conferences for government JEMIMA BEUKES

A senior government official and a seasoned economist have welcomed a government decision to halt the hosting of workshops and conferences outside Windhoek.

Cabinet secretary George Simataa this week issued a directive instructing permanent secretaries to cut conferencing costs and stated that only government facilities in Windhoek may be used.

The letter does not state how the travel costs of public servants from the regions will be affected.

Economist Omu Kakujaha-Matundu commented that the directive confirmed that the government was struggling financially.

“In the past government officials went to Swakopmund for every small workshop or conference because this is where the public servants drew the highest subsistence and travel allowances. I think this directive is long overdue and public servants were allowed to milk government for S&T,” he said.

He felt that the directive should not be temporary but should become a standing order.

“Government will never have enough money; any savings must start now. We are having a problem because we do not use resources sufficiently. If they do not do this now then there will come a day when they will have to lay off public servants,” he cautioned.

According to the permanent secretary in the education ministry, Sanet Steenkamp, the directive is not unreasonable. She feels it is time for the government to become prudent with its finances.

She too, believes the directive must become a permanent order.

“I think sound financial principles require consistency and integrity and this should be built into the work ethics. We need to cut slack on having to travel outside to get things done,” she said.

Zambezi issues flood warnings

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Zambezi issues flood warnings Flood warnings have been issued for the Kabbe South and Kabbe North constituencies in the Zambezi Region.

The governor of the Zambezi Region, Lawrence Sampofu, said the seasonal floods seemed to have started much earlier this year, as the river currently stood at 1.5 metres compared to 0.97 metres this time last year.

He said that a disaster risk management meeting was held yesterday. He urged people to start relocating to higher ground. Schools will be relocated to prevent disruption.

The governor will travel to Zambia next week for discussions about relocation routes during floods.

He said the regional government had about 232 tents available and some of them have been dispatched to schools.

At Katima Mulilo heavy rain fell for several days last week, flooding houses and streets.





Sampofu told Namibian Sun that flash floods in Katima Mulilo lasted until Saturday, destroying about 50 homes in the settlements surrounding the town.



He said one man was sleeping in his mud hut when the wall collapsed and fell on him, breaking his leg.



He added that fields were under water in the Katima Mulilo area.



According to him, the rain has subsided since Saturday. No schools have had to be closed.



“This is however the early stages,” he said.



The rainy conditions that have been experienced in some parts of the country over the past few days will start to clear up as a high-pressure system moves in.



While heavy rain was predicted in the north-central, north-eastern and eastern regions until yesterday, weather forecaster Richard Nashikaku says dry air will move in over Ondangwa and east to Rundu today, with only a few showers expected.



Nashikaku of the Windhoek weather bureau says dry air is expected in the south today and the interior can expect isolated showers.



Today dry conditions are expected in the northwest and the south while the Omaheke, Khomas, Otjozondjupa and Zambezi regions can expect isolated showers.



On Friday the conditions should stay the same, but isolated showers are expected in the northeast. The interior will be partly cloudy.



On Saturday the Omaheke Region can expect isolated showers and on Sunday the eastern half of the interior can expect isolated showers.



Nashikaku says temperatures will rise as the cloud cover dissipates. The Karas Region can expect cooler weather in the wake of a weak cold front that has already passed.



Another cold front will pass through tomorrow and maximum temperatures should drop by about five degrees.



On Tuesday Namibians across the country posted rain photos on Facebook.



At Westdene in Keetmanshoop 28mm was reported and at Bergheim 10km south of Windhoek 25mm was reported.



At Regenstein near Windhoek 50mm was reported and east of Helmeringhausen the arm Sterreprag received 29.2mm.



At the Fish River Canyon Roadhouse 35.6mm was measured, at Otavi 20mm and at Otjiwarongo 15mm.



Reports of rain were also received from Windhoek and Okahandja.

Govt against ancestral land claims

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Govt against ancestral land claims'Will promote Bantustans and tribalism' The land reform minister, Utoni Nujoma, has finally broken his silence on the contentious debate of ancestral land claims. The minister of land reform, Utoni Nujoma, says the government will not entertain any talk about ancestral land, because that would promote Bantustans and tribalism.

Nujoma yesterday emphasised that the Land Bill would be reintroduced in the National Assembly when it resumed next month.

“Don't forget we had been fighting for the independence for this country and ancestral land claims are based on Bantustans which we fought against persistently and consistently.

“So let it be very clear to you who think this government will succumb to reintroduce tribalism and Bantustans,” Nujoma told ministerial staff.

Bantustans were territories in Namibia and South Africa that were designated for the majority black population as part of the apartheid system.

The apartheid regime had divided the black population according to ethnic groups or tribes and assigned them to separate regions, which were considered ethnic homelands.

The minister emphasised that the land resettlement process was transparent, but could not confirm whether a list of beneficiaries would be made available to the public.

“The newspapers are invited to cover the handing-over ceremonies, so it is transparent. You will be surprised when you get the list.

“The media have alleged that people from the north are resettled, but the people from the San community and people from the //Karas and Khomas regions have been resettled. And those farmworkers who had been farming in corridors after independence,” he said.

This is despite claims by farmers in the //Karas and Hardap regions that they are being overlooked while people from the northern and north-eastern regions are resettled in the south.



Land Bill

Opposition parties and land activists have threatened to stage protest marches if the Land Bill is re-tabled in the National Assembly before consultations and the holding of the second land conference.

The bill was withdrawn following a barrage of complaints that it was riddled with shortcomings.

The government is expected to hold the second land conference in September.

Opposition parties have particularly questioned how the bill in its current form intends to address the issue of dispossession in a way that makes historical sense.

Swanu president Usutuaije Maamberua said the bill was riddled with inconsistencies and did not address the plight of descendants of genocide victims or the issue of ancestral land.

However, Nujoma yesterday made it clear that ancestral land claims were denounced during the 1991 land conference in order to promote national unity.





Residents of the two southern regions claim that the land reform process is skewed and needs to be reformed.

They have particularly shown support to former lands deputy minister Bernadus Swartbooi, who was fired after criticising Nujoma in public over the handling of the land resettlement process.

Under the banner, 'Progressive Landless Namibians', groupings have planned to host mass land protest meetings to voice their frustrations.

These meetings are scheduled to take place at Keetmanshoop and Maltahöhe. Swartbooi is expected to be a main speaker.



Land conference

The minister said the land conference would be budgeted for, provided the ministry received sufficient funds from the treasury.

He also rejected calls by communities to delay the tabling of the Land Bill until after the land conference.



According to him, the bill has been “over-consulted” already.



He also accused local community leaders and opposition politicians of “making noise” but failing to submit input for the bill.







Land delivery







According to Nujoma his ministry has managed to acquire 22 farms measuring 140 000 hectares at a total cost of N$187 million. It had planned to acquire 98 000 hectares in the financial year 2016/17.



He added that purchases of three farms measuring 10 000 hectares were pending at a cost of N$17 million.



The ministry has managed to resettle 78 beneficiaries this financial year.



Nujoma added that 260 000 hectares of land had been developed with 811km of fencing, 18 kraals, 30 new boreholes drilled, 35 boreholes rehabilitated and 98km of water pipelines installed.



This was done with the financial assistance of the European Union, GIZ and the KFW.



“These infrastructural developments will benefit about 7 800 members of farming households in communal areas.



“The development of 105 000 hectares of communal land is expected for the next financial year. These developments will include the construction of four handling kraals and the drilling and installation of 25 boreholes,” he said.



JEMIMA BEUKES

Illegal carwash sweep starts

January 25, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Illegal carwash sweep starts JANA-MARI SMITH

City Police officers were out in force yesterday at the start of a city-wide campaign to shut down illegal car-wash operations and to ensure compliance with building and business regulations.

Roughly 19 fines were issued and water and electricity supplies to erven supporting these illegal operations were cut

Any businesses where infrastructure such as washing bays and shadow nets encroached on public land were shut down.

According to municipal and City Police officials the campaign will continue for at least a week, until all carwashes on pavements or in road reserves have been shut down.

At the start of the campaign led by City Police Senior Superintendent Gerry Shikesho yesterday morning, several car-wash owners complained that the steps taken against them were unfair.

Martin Kapika Shuuveni, owner of MK Car Wash, said he was fined N$2 000 for operating an illegal business, and for having no business registration or fitness certificate. His water and electricity supply was cut.

Shuuveni argued that he had stopped all operations following last week’s warnings by the municipality.

Shuuveni’s business has operated for about one year and he claimed he employed six workers.

After the police left, Shuuveni’s employees began breaking down the washing bays.

Shuuveni is determined to reopen shortly, once all relevant business certificates have been obtained.

City Police spokesperson Cillie Auala officers had visited hundreds of carwashes last year to inform them of regulations.

“Throughout the whole of last year the objective was to educate business owners. We concentrated the entire year on audits and education,” she said.

The audit revealed that there were more than 300 illegal operations in Windhoek, and only 20 carwashes complied with City regulations.

Auala said the illegal operators were warned that the regulations would be enforced this year.

The current campaign will continue to educate business owners about the requirements for operating a carwash in Windhoek.

“We want to guide people in the right direction,” a municipal official said.

Business owners were warned that they could only reopen their businesses once they were fully compliant with relevant regulations and had obtained a valid fitness certificate from the municipality.

Carwashes that reopen without compliance would face even higher fines, officials warned.

Owners were also warned that they may only operate in areas zoned for business, and not in residential areas

Urikhob is raring to impress

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Urikhob is raring to impress Thailand's Super Power Samut Prakan FC player Sadney Urikhob says he is willing to perform much better for his club this season.

The Namibian international bagged 10 goals in 22 matches for his club in the Toyota Thai league last season.

His goals were not enough to earn his club a league title, though, and they ended fifteenth.

“We have been preparing for the new season which begins next month here in Thailand and I must say the morale at the club is high.

“I am willing to do more for this club and improve my goal-scoring record like I usually do in all the teams I have played for.

“At the moment I am happy at this club because the fans here are fantastic given that they are passionate about their football club,” Urikhob says.

Urikhob joined Super Power Samut Prakan Football Club at the beginning of March 2015. His contract with the club will end on 31 December this year.

The player began his club career at the Namibia Premier League's FNB Orlando Pirates before signing for Ramblers.

He later on moved to Civics where he played an influential role during his time at the Khomasdal-based side.

Urikhob then made a move to South Africa Premiership (PSL) Club AmaZulu.

Urikhob had an unsuccessful stint with AmaZulu FC, forcing him to return to his former club Civics where he had much joy as a player.

The player then made a lucrative move to Thailand's league, joining Saraburi FC for an undisclosed fee in 2015.

His career at the club was however short-lived and he decided to join his current club where he expects to play a vital role in the club's journey towards winning major trophies.

Queen's Baton here in April

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Queen's Baton here in AprilCommonwealth fever begins A message from Queen Elizabeth II, contained in the Queen's Baton, will be displayed in the streets of Windhoek this year. Namibia will host the Queen's Baton Relay in Windhoek from 28 to 29 April as preparations for the Commonwealth Games begin.

Next year's Commonwealth Games will be held on the Australian Gold Coast and the baton is expected to tour through 70 nations in a timeframe of 288 days.

Addressing a press conference in Windhoek yesterday, Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) president Abner Xoagub said the celebrations of this year's tour would even be more special.

“The Queen's Baton Relay is a much-loved Games tradition –an epic journey that unites the cultures and communities of our diverse and dynamic commonwealth.

“One single baton is passed between thousands of young people and communities across many terrains and time zones, carrying and protecting Her Majesty's message to the athletes and citizens of the Commonwealth Games,” Xoagub said.

He said he hoped many Namibians would get to hold the baton.

The baton relay has been a traditional curtain-raiser to every Commonwealth Games since the Cardiff British Empire and Commonwealth Games in 1958.

The baton carries a personal message to the athletes of the Commonwealth from Queen Elizabeth II.

“Every baton is designed differently for a specific Commonwealth Games and this one was made using macadamia wood and reclaimed plastic sourced from Gold Coast waterways.

“The baton's first call from London's Buckingham Palace after its launch on 13 May will be Sierra Leone,” Xoagub said.

Partnering the Namibia Commonwealth Games Association once again this year will be the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef).

The local representative of Unicef, Micaela Marques de Sousa, expressed joy about the partnership.

“I would like to thank the NNOC for affording Unicef the opportunity to partner with them as Namibia receives the Queen's Baton.

“A wide range of people –both young and old and from all across the economic and social spectrum - will all get the opportunity to be part of the excitement of the Games as well as to get to touch the baton.

“Apart from the fun festivities of the relay and culminating games in Australia, there is an opportunity to yet again demonstrate how sports play a critical role in the lives and wellbeing of children.” De Sousa said.

She explained that using sport as a vehicle to reignite the hopes of young people for better education, health and better protection was the reason why Unicef was on board.

Namibia will host a gala dinner in the presence of the baton to raise funds to assist athletes and officials travelling to the Youth Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas in July.

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Indoor hockey league kicks off

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Indoor hockey league kicks off SPORT REPORTER

The Bank Windhoek National Indoor Hockey League (NHU) starts today.

The first matches of the 2017 national indoor league will be played at the Windhoek showgrounds and Wanderers.

A record number of teams have entered in the three men’s and women’s national indoor leagues, with more than 50 teams and an estimated 470 to 500 hockey players from 12 clubs will participate this year.

The matches will be played at the DTS Hall, International Hall at the showgrounds, the Dome Sports Complex in Swakopmund and the Wanderers Hall.

This year the Premier League will be a showcase of exciting Namibian indoor hockey with a number of national players playing for their clubs’ premier sides.

The first men’s premier match for the season will be played between the experienced Unam side and the young and somewhat unpredictable Saints team on today at the showgrounds at 20:30.

Last year the Saints team, mainly consisting of U-18 players, almost caused an upset when they narrowly lost against Unam during their first clash.

Other premier matches for this weekend:

Friday, 27 January 2017

18:00 Unam v Wanderers

18:50 Gurus 1 v Wanderers

19:40 WOBS Masters v Dts

Saints Show Grounds

18:00 Saints v DTS

18:50 Saints v Unam

20:30 Saints v Unam

Saturday, 28 January 2017

WANDERERS HALL

11:20 DTS v Wanderers (Men)

13:00 DTS v United (Women)

14:40 Wanderers v WOBS BB (Men)

SHOWGROUNDS

16:00 - Saints v United (Women)

Top cyclists to vie for top spot

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Top cyclists to vie for top spotCraven yet to confirm participation The Pupkewitz Megabuild national road cycling defending champion, Dan Craven, is yet to confirm his participation in this year’s event. SPORT REPORTER



The Namibia Cycling Federation says confirmation is still pending from Dan Craven as to whether he will be back to defend his title.

The federation expects high level of cycling this year as some of the country’s top cyclists will vie for first place.

The annual cycling event takes place during the first weekend in February, when the Pupkewitz Megabuild National Road Cycling Championship is hosted by the Namibian Cycling Federation (NCF) in conjunction with Windhoek Pedal Power.

The individual time trial competition will take place on 3 February at 16:00, with the road race starting on Sunday morning, 5 February at 07:00.

A record number of entries is expected for the National Championship, with well-known cyclists such as Till Drobish, Costa Seibeb, Petrus Lotto, Xavier Paapo, Gerhard Mans, Martin Freyer, Vera Adrian and Michelle Vorster having entered.

Strong competition is also expected in the junior boys’ category, where a number of new talented athletes will compete for the top spot on the podium in their quest for inclusion in the national team for international races.

One of the biggest fields may be the veteran and sub-veteran category, with several older riders being active and participating in recent club races.

The NCF president Mannie Heymans thanked Pupkewitz Megabuild for their continuing support. “Without the generous sponsorship by the private sector, this beautiful sport will not be easy to organise in these tough economic times,” he said.

Pupkewitz Megabuild executive Jeanne Lowe said it was a privilege for Megabuild to be the main sponsor of the Namibian National Road and TT Championships.

“We believe a healthy body houses a healthy mind and that cycling is a family sport that gives you the opportunity to spend time with your family in the outdoors and this is the reason we are involved with cycling in Namibia."

In the road race, the cyclists will compete in a 23km loop route on the newly constructed bypass in the Brakwater area just north of Windhoek. The elite men will cycle this route six times (147km), while the elite women will cycle it four times (total 102km).

Sisters meet in Aussie finals

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Sisters meet in Aussie finalsAge-defying Venus ends major final drought The Williams were upbeat in the semi-finals as they convincingly booked their place into the Australia opens and hoping to make history. An unstoppable Serena Williams zeroed in on a record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam title Thursday by setting up an Australian Open final against her sister, Venus.

The ruthless American proved one step too far for unseeded Croat Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, whose fairytale tournament was finally ended in a crushing 6-2, 6-1 defeat on Rod Laver Arena.

Meanwhile, Venus Williams rolled back the years to battle into her first Grand Slam final since 2009 Thursday, brushing off the dangerous Coco Vendeweghe at the Australian Open.

The focused 36-year-old was imperious in banishing her power-hitting fellow American 6-7 (3/7), 6-2, 6-3 on Rod Laver Arena, striking a blow for the tennis old guard.

In making the decider, she becomes the oldest finalist at Melbourne Park in the Open era, joining a select list of 30-somethings to get that far including Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova.

The 13th seed also bags the record for the longest wait between major finals at seven-and-a-half years, following her last appearance in the 2009 Wimbledon final.

“This means so much, especially because she played so well, I had to play defence for so long,” said Williams, who screamed and performed pirouettes after clinching the win.

“There was never a moment of relaxation ever, so to be able to get to the final through a match like this I'm just – I'm excited about American tennis as well.

“It means so much, growing up all I wanted was to have an opportunity to play the tournaments. It's like more than a cherry on top, more than I dreamed of.”

Despite winning seven Grand Slams and being a seven-time runner-up, Williams has only ever made the final in Melbourne once before – in 2003, when she lost in three sets to sister Serena.

Another all-Williams final is on the cards with Serena the hot favourite to beat unseeded Croat Mirjana Lucic-Baroni in the other semifinal late Thursday.

“More than anything I'd love to see Serena across the net from me on Saturday,” said Venus.

Venus Williams has consistently said in Melbourne she has nothing to prove and was simply “living the dream”, and her relaxed approach has paid dividends.



Kept her cool

It was the feisty Vandeweghe, ranked 35, who pounced early, working four break points and going 1-0 up when Williams netted a forehand in her opening service game.

But Williams soon settled and she began to dictate from the baseline, handling the 25-year-old's powerful serve well.

A stretching crosscourt forehand winner gave her a break point in the next game and a double fault from Vandeweghe put them level at 1-1. Efficient serving from both players took the match to 6-6, with the two trading powerful groundstrokes without being able to find an opening in a tense struggle.

Vandeweghe was moving well and it was Williams who blinked first as the younger American took the tiebreak, pumping her fist and letting out a yell.

But it didn't faze the veteran, who continued to pick her shots well and conserve energy, with Vandeweghe showing frustration when Williams broke to go 2-1 ahead in the second set, slamming her racquet to the ground.

Williams' long experience came to the fore. She remained calm and composed and as Vandeweghe struggled with her serve, she went 4-1 ahead with another break.

Vandeweghe's frustrations were showing and she belted a ball into the crowd, but escaped a warning. The Williams serve was powerful and on its mark as she took the second set in 38 minutes to level the match.

Williams was getting extraordinary angles on her returns and she decisively broke the younger American's serve in the third set to take a 1-0 lead.

It was the only chance she needed, keeping her cool in the pressure-cooker atmosphere to write another chapter in her lengthy career, winning on her fourth match point.

NAMPA/AFP

Facebook hires Xiaomi's Barra

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Facebook hires Xiaomi's BarraExpert to lead VR efforts Hugo Barra is a Brazilian computer scientist, technology executive and entrepreneur. Facebook has hired Hugo Barra to lead its virtual reality efforts just days after he quit Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi Corp.

Barra, who led Xiaomi's international expansion, will now take on a different challenge as vice president of virtual reality.

He will need to navigate the competitive and young market, where Facebook's Oculus Rift and Gear products have drawn interest but not dominance.

Barra will draw on his experience building an operating system business, with Google's Android, and a hardware brand, with Xiaomi's phones, to help Oculus. Facebook in December gave the chief executive officer of Oculus, Brendan Iribe, a narrower role and started looking for a replacement for the division.

Facebook bought Oculus for about US$2bn in 2014.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg envisions virtual reality as a social platform, and says Barra will help the company achieve that. Competitors have been more focused on gaming.

“Hugo shares my belief that virtual and augmented reality will be the next major computing platform,” Zuckerberg said in a Facebook post.

“They'll enable us to experience completely new things and be more creative than ever before.”







FIN24

Meat, meat, let's eat!

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Meat, meat, let's eat!Red meat: Good or bad for health? The jury is still out on the health impact of red meat on us but, the fraternity is in agreement that amounts should be limited. Red meat contains numerous vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthful, balanced diet. In recent years, however, its reputation has been severely blemished, with studies suggesting that red meat intake can increase the risk of cancer and other diseases. But is it really that bad for us?

For many households, red meat is considered a food staple, with some of us consuming beef, lamb, and pork in different variations on a daily basis.

Last year, the average person in the United States is estimated to have consumed around 48kg of red meat.

Although this might appear a high intake, it is a significant reduction from the average 66kg consumed per capita in 1970.

Over the past 10 years alone, red meat consumption has fallen.

But why are so many of us cutting down on red meat?

It seems that millions more of us are opting for plant-based foods over meat-based products because we believe that they are more healthy. Polling found that 37% of American adults “always” or “sometimes” eat vegetarian meals when eating out, with 36% citing health reasons for their choice.

It is not only the health benefits associated with plant-based diets that are steering us away from red meat, however, but the health risks that might arise from eating red meat. We take a look at what some of these risks are.

Cancer: When it comes to red meat intake, cancer is perhaps the most well-established health implication. The World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report concluding that red meat is “probably carcinogenic to humans,” meaning that there is some evidence that it can increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, the WHO concluded that processed meats are “carcinogenic to humans,” meaning that there is sufficient evidence that processed meat intake increases cancer risk.

Kidney failure: When the kidneys are no longer able to filter waste products and water from the blood you are in serious trouble.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are among the most common causes of kidney failure, but in July 2016, one study suggested that red meat intake might be a risk factor. Published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, the study reported a dose-dependent link between red meat consumption and risk of kidney failure. For example, participants who were in the highest 25% of red meat intake were found to have a 40% increased risk of kidney failure, compared with those in the lowest 25%.

Heart disease: An unhealthful diet, high in saturated fat and cholesterol, is a well-known risk factor for heart disease.

A number of studies have suggested that red meat falls into that category, raising the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.

A 2014 study of more than 37 000 men from Sweden, for example, found that men who consumed more than 75g of processed red meat per day were at a 1.28 times greater risk of heart failure than those who consumed under 25g daily.

Another study, published in 2013, reported an association between red meat intake and increased risk of heart disease, but this link was not attributed to the high saturated fat and cholesterol content of red meat.

Although there are numerous studies linking red meat intake to poor heart health, other research challenges this association.

A recent study by researchers from Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN, for example, found that eating 31g of red meat three times weekly did not lead to an increase in risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis is a condition whereby inflammation occurs in one or more of the sacs that line the wall of the colon, which are called diverticula.

This inflammation can lead to a number of severe complications, including abscesses, perforation of the colon, and peritonitis (infection and swelling in the lining of the abdomen).

While the specific causes of diverticulitis are unclear, it has been suggested that a high-fibre diet can raise the risk of developing the condition.

A study suggested that eating high amounts of red meat may also increase the likelihood of developing diverticulitis.

Still, based on the evidence to date, public health guidelines recommend limiting red meat consumption.

The American Institute for Cancer Research, for example, recommend eating no more than 600g of cooked red meats each week to reduce cancer risk, while processed meats should be avoided completely.

However, while the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend cutting back on red meat intake, they do not specify a daily limit.

According to Dr Christopher Wild, director of the IARC, the 2015 report linking red meat intake to increased cancer risk supports public health recommendations to limit the consumption of red meat.

However, he notes that red meat has nutritional value, and that this should be considered in future research “in order to balance the risks and benefits of eating red meat and processed meat and to provide the best possible dietary recommendations.”

MEDICAL NEWS TODAY

Uranium output expected to grow

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Uranium output expected to grow22 new reactors planned Global uranium consumption is expected to rise 5% this year. New analysis by research and consulting firm GlobalData has forecast global uranium output to rise at a compound yearly growth rate of 4.3%, to 76 493 tons in 2020.

The company's latest report states that growth in production is needed to meet upcoming demand from new reactors.

There are 22 new reactors scheduled for completion in 2017, with a total capacity of 22 444MW. This includes eight reactors in China with a combined capacity of 8 510MW, two reactors in South Korea with a combined capacity of 2 680 megawatts, two reactors in Russia with a combined capacity of 2 199MW, and four reactors in Japan with a combined capacity of 3 598MW.

Global uranium consumption is forecast to rise by 5%, to reach 88 500 tonnes of uranium oxide this year. The major expansions to nuclear capacity are projected to occur in China, India, Russia and South Korea over the next two years. The US is forecast to remain the largest producer of nuclear power in the short term, with the recent completion of the 1 200MW Watts Bar Unit 2 reactor, in Tennessee, Global Data said.

“Commercial operations at the Cigar Lake project in Canada commenced in 2014, with an annual uranium metal capacity of 6 900 tons. The project produced 4 340 tons of uranium in 2015, compared with 130 tons in 2014. Meanwhile, production at the Four Mile project, in Australia, rose from 750 tons in 2014 to 990 tons in 2015,” GlobalData head of research and analysis for mining Cliff Smee stated.By contrast, production from the US fell by 32% in 2015, while in Namibia it decreased by 20%. “This was due to respective declines of 33% each at the Smith Ranch-Highland and Crow Butte mines in the US, and falls of 20% and 13.6% at the Rossing and Langer Heinrich mines, in Namibia,” Smee added. Spot uranium prices continued to rise this year and analysts believe prices have bottomed after major producer Kazakhstan said earlier this year it will curtail its uranium output by about 10%, and on growing optimism that shuttered Japanese reactors will finally be restarted.

MINING WEEKLY

Aveng secures diamond contract

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Aveng secures diamond contract Mining contracting company Aveng Moolmans is building on its 15-year presence in Botswana with its latest appointment, at Lucara's Karowe diamond mine.

It has been appointed for a six-year period to provide mining services that include all drill, blast, load and haul functions for both ore and waste at the wholly owned Lucara mine, where mobilisation is under way to ensure a timely start of mining activities from early March.

A member of the Lundin Group, Lucara is listed on the Toronto, Nasdaq Stockholm and Botswana stock exchanges.

As reported by Mining Weekly Online last month, Johannesburg Stock Exchange-listed eXtract subsidiary Eqstra Botswana announced that its five-year opencast mining contract at the diamond mine had been terminated on December 13 after two years.

Lucara president and chief executive officer William Lamb said that since then, ore from the south and centre lobe stockpiles continued to be processed, which is keeping the mine in line to achieve its 2017 production and operating guidance.

Aveng Mining operating group managing director Stuart White said his company was looking forward to adding value at the diamond mining operation, which has yielded 1.8-million carats that have generated revenue of US$1.02-billion at an average price of US$566 per caret.

Last month Aveng Moolmans won a contract to establish and mine the Gamsberg opencast zinc operation, which is being developed by Black Mountain Mining, a Vedanta Zinc International operation, in South Africa's Northern Cape province.

MINING WEEKLY

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New Year new menu

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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New Year new menu Visit Jojo's for a fresh and indulging new menu that will take you to different countries from the starters to dessert.

The Jojo's Music and Arts Cafe team have made it their personal mission to awaken their customer's taste buds by preparing food on time.

Most of the dishes take over 24 hours to be brought to perfection and that's just a little indication of how much they

care.

The new menu makes use of ingredients that are currently in season which adds flavour and an exquisite taste to the food.

Do make time to visit them for a tasteful adventure in your mouth.

Kunene radio on the horizon

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Kunene radio on the horizon The Kunene Region will soon have another community radio station in addition to the one in Khorixas.

The new radio station to be known as Kunene Community Radio (KCR) will be based in Opuwo. Youth activist and brains behind the station, Tjizumaue Undari confirmed this to Nampa on Tuesday. He said the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) of Namibia approved their application for frequencies to cover the geographical area of Opuwo with an output power of 500 watts. The radio station is 100% Namibian-owned and according to Undari, it will be operational no later than May this year.

Tjikunda Kulunga board chairperson of the station told this agency the broadcaster will be of great benefit to the local community because the majority of them are illiterate and depend on the radio for information on current affairs. He said they are considering broadcasting in OtjiHerero, Oludhimba, English and Oshiwambo. The approval letter by CRAN indicates that the area has sufficient frequencies available for new entrants in the broadcasting market. “The authority is of the opinion that the addition of another broadcaster will be beneficial to all Namibians living in and travelling through this area,” reads the letter.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation has injected N$. 689 000 into the project, which will be used to cover the capital outlay for a 500-watt transmitter and other technical equipment required to set up a radio station.

NAMPA

Switch off the internet

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Switch off the internetPeople losing sense of morals and humility Pleas have been sent out to law enforcement agents for them to draw a line where freedom of speech ends. People living in this world have become prisoners of technology and Namibia is not an exception. For the past few years we have seen people use social media in different ways and some not so appealing ethical like the exposure of pornographic content uploaded without the consent of those filmed. Sometimes people are uploading graphic content without considering people who will view it.

What it is

Cyber bullying which includes the harassing or tormenting another person using the internet or other technologies such as posting embarrassing pictures on social media or sending harmful messages has been on the rise in Namibia with nearly 40% of social media users having been a victim. Namibian human rights activists have since the past two years have been reviewing the cyber legislation bill but until that is set in motion; many will get away with ruining people’s lives.

Head of Police media relations, Chief Inspector Kauna Shikwambi addressed the issue after the leaked sex tape of a woman and her lover and urged the public to be cautious about their private affairs. “We should know that is bad to defame people. We have sent out warnings but still the public is not adhering,” she said. The only thing that can be done is for victims to open cases and investigations can take place.

Be smarter

Gender equality practitioner, Ngamene Karuaihe-Upi popularly known as Uncle G lashed out on people that take technological dives to the bedroom. “Sometimes smart people do really dumb things. Making a sex video is one of the dumbest things one can do on earth because even if no one has revenge on their mind at that time there are consequences. Children and families are affected. For those that are unaware that they are being filmed, it’s unfortunate. However, when the camera or phone is hidden, that’s a different story but when someone has a phone in your face you cannot be so dense to think it’s a phone call they are taking,” said Uncle G. He urged people not to be so trusting with their partners even if they have been together for a long time. “If you are enjoying each other, jumping on each other, don’t do a video,” he cautioned.

Experts speak

Psychological expert Dr Shaun Whittaker says that there is psychological impact on the victim that includes stress. “The purpose of posting such material is to embarrass the person and I would imagine it being very humiliating. This only says that the perpetrator is spiteful and revengeful towards the person about something and it’s completely driven by negative emotions,” said Dr Whittaker.

Dr Whittaker also urged society to be more supportive to someone who has been humiliated in such a manner by not sharing and not shaming them. “If anything I believe that society should condemn the behaviour but we have double standards because women are shamed and men are not. We have accepted men having several relationships whilst woman cannot and it is not fine. The fact of the matter is that the woman didn’t do anything wrong, the filming was done without her consent and her privacy was invaded. She didn’t do anything wrong she can really hold her head up high,” he said. Dr Whittaker also said it’s high time that the perpetrators are taken care of by the legal system and that something is done about cyber bullying.

Opinions

Personality and model Maria Nepembe publicly condemned the cyber harassment on Facebook saying she has been accused of having a sex video out. “Why are men like that? It wasn’t me in that picture by the way but if it were me I’d say it is not necessary to judge somebody because they didn’t do it intentionally. They did it because they trusted the person they were engaged with and instead of us bashing them we should try to uplift them. You never know how far your words can go,” said Nepembe.

Well known MC NSK insists on people being extra careful with their mobile devices. “Now we lose our phones and it lands in the wrong hands and boom...everything is out to the public. So we got to be careful with our phones. Either we store our nasty deep s**t on a laptop that stays at home. We all have our nasty side I got my nasty freaky side but in no shape or form would we want our nasty freaky side out in public. So if I do not want my freaky nasty side in public why are we so damn quick to make other peoples freaky nastiness public? It’s not fair.

June Shimuoshili

Keeping up with the Kamatis

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Keeping up with the KamatisThe much-anticipated second season to air from February Catch up with some cast members of the Third Will series as they talk about season two and their roles as the troubled Kamati siblings. The second season of Namibia’s very own series Third Will is set to premier the first week of February. The series surrounds the Kamati family who are literally at war over their father Henry Kamati’s multimillion-dollar company MeatExpo, after he passes away. Through deceit, greed, lies and betrayal, many of the family members’ bad and good sides came out in the first season. Season two promises to be quite twisted and even more interesting.

Tjil caught up with the ‘Kamati siblings’ who shared a little of what the audience can expect in the upcoming season. The director, Frans Kruges says there’s a lot that is to be expected from Third Will including international airplay. “The producer Bienvenu Lukoki and I are planning on sharing it in with the rest of Africa because it’s easily relatable. We have some positive feedback which is encouraging so far. Third Will is financially taken care of by the two of us which is difficult and we look forward to getting help,” said Kruges.

Glen-Nora Tjipura as Grace Kamati

Tjil (T): What about your role and and the series is going to surprise people in season two?

Grace (G): I believe that we as artists are getting better and that is something to look forward to. There is a new character Charlotte and she will be a big surprise for the audience. I don’t want to give too much away but she is definitely someone to look out for. From Grace, the audience will be surprised by her reaction to the family and how they treat her. I really can’t give much away (laughs).

T: Who in the series is the most like their character in real life?

G: (laughs) I won’t say it’s Thomas. It would be Michael played by Dice. I like the fact that we beef each other behind the scenes because we don’t get along as our characters. Dice is not as sweet as Michael but he’s close, he’s getting there! And perhaps Grace as well, my character, because she is so close to home, you know. I am the youngest on set and she’s the youngest in the family.

T: Without giving much away, what is your favourite line in season two as Grace?

G: “Because Maureen, unlike you is a much better person.” That line got me a slap though (laughs).

T: If you could play another character in the show, who would you be?

G: This is tricky because I’m one of the scriptwriters in the upcoming seasons but I’d want to be Lucia because she’s very devious or Ronel because she’s delusional, she’s just in her own world. I think I like all the villains, there’s just something about them. I think I will also be Charlotte.

T: What sort of person is going to love your character?

G: Mmmm, I think it’s going to come from parents mostly because here we have a young kid who has issues so they are likely to sympathise with me and maybe people that are addicted to something. People will definitely fall in love with Grace.

Pummue Eiseb as Thomas Kamati

T: Why did you get involved in the production of Third Will?

T: The way the storyline is written is very interesting and I liked it especially when we got the script for the first time, I was blown away. I just had to be part of it. I also knew the producer and director personally, so I could tell it was going to be a wonderful production.

T: What was challenging about bringing your character to life?

T: The only challenge is as an actor the first thing you need to do is get to know your character which meaning practising every day. The only thing that was new to me was having so many women around me on the show and that is Thomas, a ladies’ man. Thomas is also gullible and spoilt so that is also a challenge I should say.

T: What makes a good scene partner?

T: It’s definitely someone who knows their lines because it helps the next person to give their best too. You don’t want to be giving your best whilst the next person isn’t. Fortunately everyone on Third Will gives their all when on set. Look out for you Thomas because he is unpredictable and he will be getting into trouble as usual.

Dice as Michael Kamati

T: Do you feel that as an actor you have a responsibility to the audience in making sure that Michael gives back to the community in where he is portrayed?

M: It comes down to the script writers and directors at the end of the day but as an actor I have the responsibility of making sure that I execute the role properly. A lot of people can definitely look up to Michael with what he goes through like the family saga and the many inconveniences.

T: Is there a difference between Michael in season one and season two?

M: Yes there is. Michael has evolved in so many ways. In season one he had just returned from overseas when his father asked him to help with the company and just as he returns his father passes away and his mother is a prime suspect in a murder case. Then he falls in love with a certain girl but due to the circumstances he can’t be involved. He evolves because now he plays the role his father always wanted him to play. He has a good and bad side.

T: What was the most important lesson that you had learned being on the series that had a positive effect on your character?

M: Family is everything. It was a reminder to me that at the end of the day they are all you have. They are the people that can love you unconditionally. Appreciate your family more, it doesn’t matter what shape or size they come in.

T: As an actor, what part is harder, getting started or finishing up a scene?

M: The first few days of getting into character after a break are always the challenging but when you start shooting the momentum just keeps going. We have a very good director who always guides us.

T: What are four things that people don’t know about Michael?

M: He’s a hypocrite, confused boy that didn’t grown up with his father so he lacks the father figure role and he’s very persistent and he isn’t charming as he seems.

June Shimuoshili

PDK and Tate Buti ditch Omalaeti Music label

January 26, 2017, 2:00 pm

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PDK and Tate Buti ditch Omalaeti Music labelNo bad blood between them Three popular artists and one group have ditched the Omalaeti Music label. A source that prefers to remain anonymous said the musicians: Patrick Mwashindange, Dion Auala and Christian 'Kamtonyo' Andreas, popularly known as PDK and Tate Buti are no longer with the label. “They didn’t leave because of any bad blood. The artists simply didn’t renew their contracts for the 2017 as usual,” said the source.

The popular trio PDK have been in the public eye making hit Kwaito and Pantsula songs and music videos since 2006 releasing 10 albums. The 11th is rumoured to be released this year in early March under another label. A PDK group member, Mwashindange brushed off the remark when contacted by Tjil. “We will inform you when we are ready; right now there is no comment.” Tate Buti hinted on his Facebook account that he is no longer with Omalaeti. “Not Omalaeti anymore... It’s LaTangi.com,” read the status from his account under the name Tate Buti laTangi. When contacted, he said he was driving and gave the Omalaeti Music label owners contact details. John Walenga did not answer his phone when contacted for a comment.

Tate Buti recently released an electronically distributed album Onete which has many December hits including Iyaloo featuring Tash. When asked to comment on the sales, he referred Tjil to Walenga who was again not reachable for a comment. Tate Buti has a record of 10 albums under his belt and is known for putting on a massive show during live performances.

The source close to PDK and Tate Buti said the artists made a wise decision not to renew their contract saying they will do much better on their own than under Omalaeti label. The source also said that the contract that both PDK and Tate Buti did not renew is only the music one. They will still be doing productions that are not music related like adventurous movies of Captain Kalola.

June Shimuoshili