Too strong for opponents

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Too strong for opponentsSky 'steamroller' crushes Froome's rivals With several riders nipping at his heels Chris Froome is expected to win the Tour De France.

When Chris Froome's Tour de France rivals roll up to the start line in Dusseldorf on Saturday, they will be worrying not only about how to beat the Briton, but also his Sky team.

Sky has won four of the last five Tours and in each the team, as much as the victor (Bradley Wiggins in 2012 and Froome three times since) have proved too strong for the opposition.

Never was that more evident than last year when Sky managed to all but kill any suspense and drama by taking a stranglehold of the race from start to finish.

Froome only looked vulnerable twice during that race, once after being knocked off his bicycle on Mont Ventoux by a photographer's motorcycle, and then after crashing on a wet and slippery descent on the 19th stage.

However, he hardly lost any time from either incident while he usually had his all-powerful Sky team-mates surrounding him to keep him out of trouble.

On that 19th stage when disaster could have struck, Dutchman Wout Poels remained alongside Froome to guide him safely to the finish.

On the 11th stage he had Welshman Geraint Thomas to thank for helping him latch onto an attack from Peter Sagan to take advantage of crosswinds and steal some time on his rivals.

Once again Sky look to be bringing a formidable force to the race, even if the injured Poels is not amongst them.

“Not having Wout here is a big change, he was a big part of my victory last year and certainly we're going to miss him,” said Froome.

Former world champion Michal Kwiatkowski of Poland will be riding as a domestique for Froome while Thomas and Spaniard Mikel Landa, who had led the team at May's Giro d'Italia, will provide chief support in the mountains.

Those two suffered from crashes at the Giro that wrecked their overall hopes and have quickly switched to domestique duties.

Alongside them, Froome will also be able to count on Spanish veteran Mikel Nieve and Colombian talent Sergio Henao to help him negotiate the toughest climbs.

“We have an extremely strong team in the mountains, if you look at the other GC teams, I definitely feel confident going into the climbs.”

On the flat, former world time-trial champion Vasil Kiryienka of Belarus, Briton Luke Rowe and German Christian Knees will supply the power to keep Froome out of trouble.

It is an imposing outfit which the French describe as a “steamroller”.

And while Sky's strength may not make for great racing, it is crucial to helping Froome dominate.

“It's true that Team Sky's most common tactic is to impose a tempo at the front of the peloton that discourages my rivals from attacking me,” said Froome in the official race guide.

“This doesn't necessarily produce the best spectacle but, from our point of view, it's the ideal way to keep events under control.”

Last year Sky sucked the life out of the race but despite their strength, there are at least enough unknowns in bike racing to keep things interesting.

In 2014, for example, Froome's team could do nothing as he crashed three times in the wet over two days and was forced out of the race with a broken wrist.

He was also badly exposed once in 2013 when he lost all his team-mates on a crazy stage, although his rivals failed to capitalise as they raced each other for the minor placings rather than trying to put Froome under pressure.

If Froome's rivals are going to have a chance this time around, they need to first find a way to negate the strength of Sky, and that's not something that has happened often these last five years.

SUPERSPORT

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Sleeping on your feet

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Rand regains some strength

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Sleeping on your feetConstant exhaustion is commonplace mid-year You're only as old as you feel, the saying goes. But what if you feel old, tired, and rundown? Running on fumes? Here's how to stop feeling so tired all the time.

Fatigue is a common complaint, especially after people hit middle age. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple ways to boost energy. Some even slow the ageing process. Always opt for a natural solution and find options that you can maintain.

Here's how to refill your tank when your energy levels sputter.

1. Rule out health problems

Fatigue is a common symptom of many illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, anaemia, thyroid disease, and sleep apnoea. Talk to your doctor if you feel unusually tired.

Many medications can contribute to fatigue. These include some blood pressure medicines, antihistamines, diuretics, and other drugs. If you begin to experience fatigue after starting a new medication, tell your doctor.

2. Get moving

The last thing you may feel like doing when you're tired is exercising. But many studies show that physical activity boosts energy levels.

“Exercise has consistently been linked to improved vigour and overall quality of life,” says Kerry J. Stewart, a professor of medicine and director of clinical and research exercise physiology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “People who become active have a greater sense of self-confidence. But exercise also improves the working efficiency of your heart, lungs, and muscles,” Stewart says. “That's the equivalent of improving the fuel efficiency of a car. It gives you more energy for any kind of activity.”

3. Strike a pose

Although almost any exercise is good, yoga may be especially effective for boosting energy. After six weeks of once-a-week yoga classes, volunteers in a British study reported improvements in clear-mindedness, energy, and confidence.

It's never too late to try, either. University of Oregon researchers offered yoga instruction to 135 men and women ages 65 to 85. At the end of six months, participants reported an increased sense of well-being and a boost in overall energy.

4. Drink plenty of water

Dehydration zaps energy and impairs physical performance. “Our research shows that dehydration makes it harder for athletes to complete a weight lifting workout,” says Dr Dan Judelson, assistant professor of kinesiology at California State University at Fullerton. “It's reasonable to think that dehydration causes fatigue even for people who are just doing chores.”

Dehydration has also been shown to decrease alertness and concentration.

How to know if you're drinking enough water? “Urine should be pale yellow or straw coloured,” Judelson says. “If it's darker than that, you need to drink water.”

5. Get to bed early

Lack of sleep increases the risk of accidents and is one of the leading causes of daytime fatigue. The solution: Get to bed early enough for a full night's sleep.

When people enrolled in a 2004 Stanford University study were allowed to sleep as long as they wanted, they reported more vigour and less fatigue. Good sleep habits may also have important health benefits. Centenarians report better than average sleep.

If you do fall short on shut-eye, take a brief afternoon nap. Napping restores wakefulness and promotes performance and learning. A 10-minute nap is usually enough to boost energy. Don't nap longer than 30 minutes, though, or you may have trouble sleeping that night. A nap followed by a cup of coffee may provide an even bigger energy boost, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

6. Go fish

Good for your heart, omega-3 oils may also boost alertness. According to a 2009 study by scientists at Italy's University of Siena, volunteers who took a fish oil capsule for 21 days demonstrated faster mental reaction times. They also reported feeling more vigorous.

7. Keep time with your body clock

Some people get a burst of energy first thing in the morning. They're often called morning larks. Night owls are people who are at their best at the end of the day.

These individual differences in daily energy patterns are determined by brain structure and genetics, so they can be tough to change. Instead, become aware of your own circadian rhythms. Then schedule demanding activities when your energy levels are typically at their peak.

8. Shed extra weight

Losing extra weight can provide a powerful energy boost, says Stewart, of Johns Hopkins University. Even small reductions in body fat improve mood, vigour, and quality of life.

Most weight loss experts recommend cutting back on portion sizes, eating balanced meals, and increasing physical activity.

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Rand regains some strength

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Auntie Nangy

≪ Previous: Sleeping on your feet

Rand regains some strengthGreenback loses some allure among traders It is still uncertain as to whether the US Federal Reserve will raise interest rates later this year, a situation that might weaken the rand.

The rand traded firmer early on Thursday, boosted by a weaker dollar weighed down by disappointing economic data and waning bets that president Donald Trump's fiscal stimulus plans will pass the post. Moves have mostly been determined by offshore factors with a lull in local political ructions and a dearth of economic data.

The dollar index slipped to its weakest level since October as investors reassessed estimations of the pace of interest-rate hikes and growth in the world's number one economy. A recent batch of mixed economic data, including softer-than-expected house price figures on Wednesday, have dampened the lure of the greenback and previous bets that the Federal Reserve will lift rates further this year. Local bonds were firmer, with the yield on the benchmark government issue due in 2026 down 2 basis points to 8.64%

NAMPA/REUTERS

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Auntie Nangy

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: World music day, the day that was

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Auntie Nangy Dear Aunty Nangy, I am 19 years old and dating a 28-year-old guy. His desire is for us to get married after I finish my Grade 12 final exams this year but I not ready and he does not want to wait. He is saying he has he has been waiting for so long. Is this a healthy relationship… please help me.

My dear, romantic relationships are like any other project that needs proper planning before execution to make sure that romance fulfils your goals and objectives. If you jump into his pants like that, as if he is the last man on earth, you shall regret it and say Auntie Nangy warned me. Your education is your number-one priority and not your first husband because it will give you all the other material pleasures except sex. Many ladies are promised heaven by their lovers but I will tell you and you must please know that all that glitters is not gold. No, you can’t hurry love, no you just have to wait, as Phil Collins says in one of his songs. If you swallow this marriage hook you shall become his servant. You need to be an educated woman who can look after herself and not a sex servant that he wants to make you. You need the financial independence so that you don’t become a romance destitute. Do you want to rely on handouts the rest of your life? What if things don’t work out? Will you go back to study for a career and if so, who will pay for your studies. Any sane parent or parents expect their child to complete high school and university before they think about marriage whether you are a boy or girl. This proposal is not healthy at all, just wake up and be streetwise.

She is a cheat

Dear Auntie Nangy, I am 16 years old and my boyfriend is also 16. We love each other but he always tries to cheat on me.

You are both too young to settle for one partner. At this age, the mind is on a wild exploration of the human body and soul and our minds are full of imaginations and myths. This is when nerves are ignited just by looking at a sexy woman or handsome man on television and the erotic feelings wet our pants and briefs. This is just a phase. Believe me, it will come to pass. At 16, the mind is on an exploration journey. I am sure you feel the same too. It’s a time for puppy love.

Tempestuous affair

Dear Auntie Nangy, we have been dating for three years and we are both 26. But, we argue a lot even over simple things. She does not even want me near hear when she is angry. What do I do?

Some people have anger management problems and she could one of them. However, if you are constantly arguing there must be a communication challenge. Many people cannot communicate well. Anyone can communicate but what lacks in many communication episodes is effective communication. Both of you need to find a way of communicating. Learn how to communicate without hurting each other’s emotions. You need to try a little tenderness and the following tips can you that I researched for you can keep the fires of passion burning. Using small talk like talking about the weather and not the serious talk, can keep couples closer. Many people are not aware that even making the grocery list together and shopping becomes a way of sharing space and time and can become a way of sharing love. Doing things together like riding horses or bicycles, walking, jogging or washing dishes intensifies the romantic bones and fans the fire of love. You must learn to listen to each other and to be heard creates such a great feeling to strengthen the love bond. Avoid a relationship where one person is the one who is always talking and making the final decisions. An Idi Amin mentality is harmful to romantic relationships so always consider your partner’s input and effort.

Sex toy

Dear Auntie Nangy, I am a 21-year-old girl. I have been dating a boy for four years and we are still in love. However, my boyfriend never tells me something good about the future, he only asks me to have sex. What can I do? I don’t want him anymore.

Four years is a lifetime and if the man is not saying anything about having a permanent relationship with you then you have reason to feel inferior. He is definitely not the marriage type so I suggest that you refuse just to be used to satisfy his sexual appetite. I believe that if a man seriously loves you and that you are what he wants for life, it will not take him forever to make it a permanent relationship. When you start having this feeling that you are just a sex toy you might as well just leave the man.

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World music day, the day that was

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: A new queen to come

≪ Previous: Auntie Nangy

World music day, the day that wasMusic without borders The world music day festival is a hallmark to what the pervasive art of music represents, and that is connecting people from diverse cultures by breaking down superficial barriers and letting the ecstasy of well-crafted music unite us.

The past weekend marked the 35th anniversary of World Music Day which first took place in Paris, France also known as 'Fete de la Musique' in 1982. The idea is credited to former French minister of culture, Jack Lang, who advocated for people especially the youth, to participate in music and serve as a platform to showcase their musical prowess.

The atmosphere at the venue was truly captivating. It was a melting pot for hippies alike, eccentric personas of all sorts and average working citizens were also spotted in the swarm of people that gathered to celebrate the event. The performances represented various musical genres, including Jazz, Salsa, Hip Hop, Gospel and even Namastap, just to name a few.

Unlike other music concerts, this event did not discriminate against performers, based on popularity and ticket sale projections, but are chosen based on sheer artistry and the authenticity of your music. That is how far the motto strives to go. The quality of music could definitely be felt sensationally at the event.

The experience the event harboured was worthwhile. Most of all it was free, a much needed break from the Apple iTunes store.

James Jamu

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A new queen to come

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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A new queen to comeFarewell Lizelle Esterhuizen It's a bittersweet moment for Lizelle as she shares her moments as the 2016 country ambassador as she gets ready to hand the crown to the next Miss Namibia.

Here is what she had to say to tjil about her tenure and what she plans on doing next.

9 July 2016

She says she remembers waking up as early as 05:00 to get ready for the event which was going to take place in the evening. For her, it was a moment… the long week of dress rehearsals and modelling preparations were finally over and done with.

Being the youngest of all the contestants, she told herself that age was just but a number and her talent wouldn't fail her. “When they started with our makeup that's when the nerves hit me.

I told myself its crunch time and I had to do what I must do,” said Lizelle. The crowning moment arrived and Lizelle recalls not knowing what was happening until her name was called out and had to go and receive her new title. She says she didn't realise what her new title meant and the responsibilities that came with it until the following night.

“It hit me that I was still Lizelle but with so many responsibilities. How will I do it all? I think the day after crowning night was the longest and most difficult day of my life because I was only 20 years old and I had to be an ambassador for my country. But, I loved it all,” she said. Lizelle added that her year was a rollercoaster but she took each day, one at a time.

Reigning Lizelle

Every year, the Miss Namibia pageant celebrates beauty with a charitable cause. This honour initiates her drive to bring charity to the less-privileged, to promote deserving social cause, to serve as an example of purposeful living to the young and to bring honour and pride to our nation as a representative of goodwill and an ambassador of Namibia.

Lizelle worked with Michelle McLean on the Woman of Excellence as her official Miss Namibia obligations. She started her Meals on Wheels campaign which she plans on keeping active after her reign is over.

“I gave a lot of motivational speeches at schools and beauty pageants. People have a perception of Miss Namibia as an untouchable girl with good hair, makeup and clothes but, they tend to forget that underneath all, she is a normal girl,” she further says.

She has been fortunate to take two girls on a trip to South Africa with the Take a Child to Work Day project. Many have the perception that Miss Namibia is all about looking pretty but Lizelle says its more than that as many a times the heels must come off and the crown too, in order to deliver and be the best ambassador for the country adding; “It's more hard work than beauty”.

Best moments

Lizelle says being an influence and having impacted people's lives as Miss Namibia is by far the best thing about her reign. She also says being able to engage with young girls and people from all walks of life and telling them they are unique in their own way and strong enough to be who they want to be, was rewarding. “Being able to walk into a room full of people and hearing them gasp and whisper 'she's Miss Namibia' is the highlight of my whole year. The person I was then in my time is who I will always be,” says Lizelle.

Lizelle says another best and life-changing moment was when she represented Namibia in the Miss Universe beauty pageant in the Philippines. Namibia had not taken part in the past six years and having to tell and remind the rest of the world where on earth it is, and share the country's cultures was an amazing experience.

She says amongst many things, she had to learn how to get around by herself and learn how to do her own makeup and hair as she couldn't take a stylist with her. “The experience and doors that opened for me from that platform are overwhelming. Being able to tell people that Namibia is in this part of the continent and these people come from there was new.

The most shocking thing for many was to understand that Namibia and Africa in general, also had white people,” said Lizelle.

Lizelle impressed until the top 20 and she hopes the next Miss Namibia will build on her platform and take Namibia higher in the rankings.

Worst moments

Lizelle says sometimes she would get event organisers who wanted her to appear at their events out of Windhoek which is her hometown at her own expense. This has been tricky for her as Miss Namibia and having to do all the appearing and motivational talking at her own expense, forced her to turn down many of the requests. “Namibians like free things. I don't get paid as Miss Namibia meaning; if something is in Keetmanshoop I have to travel and accommodate myself which was unfair,” says Lizelle.

What next

The beauty queen says it is sad that her reign has come to an end but she's ready to give over her crown tomorrow night at the Windhoek Country Club and Resort to the next Miss Namibia.

The first thing that she will do immediately after handing over her duties is to spend time with her family. “I want to finish my degree in education and just to be in charge of my own time and schedule. It's a feeling that I can't describe really. I have to give the car, crown and sash back but I will never have to give away the title of Miss Namibia 2016,” she says. She thanks everyone who has supported her financially and emotionally through her journey and wishes the next winner all the best.

June Shimuoshili

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Protect your interests

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Last call for entries

≪ Previous: A new queen to come

Protect your interests Local musician Frederick Shitana, popularly known as Lt Shitana, was recently arrested for police impersonation, extortion and theft. His arrest was the talk of the town, on social media and at social gatherings. If you take a look at it from a law enforcement angle, it was wrong for him to impersonate the police. If you look at it from the entertainment and arts side, he was right to demand payment from the shebeen owners who play his pirated music - which is illegal.

I am not here to pass judgement or comment on Shitana's behaviour nor do I want to defend his actions but, I do understand why he did what he did and got arrested. What should an artist do when he does not have a body or union that protects his interests? When people pirate your music or art and make a profit from it while you do not even get a cent from it, what do you do? How should an artist react when many of his or her calls to have some sort of protection or control of their music are not heard?

For many years now, many Namibian artists have had issues with people who have access to their music illegally and make profit from it. These artists I am speaking about hardly make money from royalties even though Nascam receives royalties on behalf of the artists. Our artists shed their blood, sweat and tears to come up with amazing content but some business owners do not appreciate that and thus continue to pirate and make profit from our artists' hard work without paying them for the benefit. Drastic action has to be taken to open up the debate with regards to how Namibian artists' intellectual property is treated. Nascam has not even released a statement about the issue and it shows where their interest lies when it comes to the bread-and-butter issues that affect our musicians. Shitana has previously approached authorities to assist him and many other artists with regards to the illegal distribution of Namibian music in shebeens and implying that Namibian artists are not taken seriously in their own backyard. In order to be taken seriously, Shitana had to pretend he was a police officer to get what is rightfully his. Sadly though, I think Shitana's effort might not bear fruit.

What our artists need to do now is to stand up for their art. They need to take more control of their intellectual property and make sure it is not abused as is the status quo is at the moment. A body or organisation that protects artists' rights must be established so that artists do not resort to unlawful means in order to claim what is rightfully theirs. As fans, we need to support artists buying their music and products. We all need to work towards a goal that benefits the artists businesses and the entire nation.

June Shimuoshili

june@namibiansun.com

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Last call for entries

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Excelling as a female exec

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Last call for entriesArtists encouraged to participate Entries for the Bank Windhoek Triennial 2017 will close today. The competition is open to all professional artists, with Namibian citizenship, domicile or permanent residence.

The Bank Windhoek Triennials promote visual arts in Namibia; encourage conceptual creativity and individual expression. This is done in order to encourage development and exposure with the ultimate goal of being the most prestigious visual art exhibition in the country.

Each artist may submit a maximum of three artworks. All entries must have been created during the past two years. Artwork can be submitted in the following mediums: painting, print making, carving, clay sculptures and casting, 3D mixed media and construction, photography, video and installation, performance, public art and text / word art and interdisciplinary work. All artwork will be judged on an even field according to a set of clearly defined criteria. “Reason being that in the contemporary art context, merit is awarded based on both technical skill and concept. While each object must be considered in relation to the discipline in which it was produced, skill and concept are two categories in which artwork can easily be compared to one another across media,” said Gina Figueira from NAGN.

Artists are encouraged to attach as much information about the artwork as possible, including statements about the artwork. If there is not enough space on the submission form, feel free to staple extra pages to the submission form. Awards include$ 50 000 for the first prize, N$35 000 as second prize and third prize N$25 000. Most promising young artist will be awarded N$ 10 000. The competition's entry forms can be obtained from the NAGN, Regional Collection Centres, Bank Windhoek Branches, or can be downloaded from the following websites: www.bankwindhoek.com.na or www.nagn.org.na.

Staff Reporter

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Excelling as a female exec

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: FNB celebrates 110 years of banking

≪ Previous: Last call for entries

Excelling as a female execChallenging conventions in the workplace Nangula Kauluma has not let being a woman discourage her from setting bold career targets for herself.

A few years ago, Old Mutual Short Term Insurance managing director Nangula Kauluma set out on a journey to change her narrative for the better. She looked at her development plan and decided that it was time to become bold about achieving her career aspirations, crafting her path to transition from marketing to general management.

Her sheer bravado paid off but she admits that it has not been easy juggling motherhood, building a career and challenging conventions.

She recently shared her journey in an interview with Namibian Sun.

She joined the Old Mutual group in 2006 as a corporate communications consultant and was employed in the local business up until 2007.

In that same year, she took up an executive role as a marketing executive for Old Mutual Africa, thereafter taking on various roles within the group that would ultimately lead to her appointment as MD of Old Mutual Short Term Insurance.

Gearing for the corner office

“In 2006, I decided I was going to do an MBA thinking I wanted to transition into a distribution or operations role. I hadn't articulated necessarily what it was but I knew I wanted to eventually move out of marketing,” she says.

Tired of being a spectator in an enabling function, she submerged herself in the workings of the businesses she was involved in, making every effort to learn about the operations along the way.

“I made it my business to contribute to the conversation about the total business and not just my specialist function,” she says.

“A few years ago I finally changed what I had in my development plan, making it explicitly clear that I want to lead a full profit and loss operation, end to end.

Her upbringing, she says, has aided her ability to solve problems, something she traces back to her formative years in Windhoek.

“The upbringing that I had was interesting, due to the combination of being a struggle kid and a church kid. Our home was this place where lots of people were always coming and going. We had on average between 12 and 15 people at the dinner table every day,” Kauluma says of her family setup.

She attributes her problem-solving skills to her upbringing.

“It could be any hour of the night that someone would come in seeking shelter, needing support, just needing a safe place, so I grew up with a lot of exposure to many different people and as a result I believe that diversity is the essence of greatness. Creativity is enhanced if you have diversity and if you apply creativity it's a great way to solve problems, both big and small,” she says.

She attended an all-women institute of learning and believes that it provided a great foundation.

“Spelman was fantastic in that it gave me a strong base for winning in the world as a woman. It provided a good theoretical base around giving language and name to things that we certainly didn't learn growing up, such as the pedagogies surrounding the miscegenation of women and how to bust these,” she says fondly of her alma mater.

Her growth plans for old mutual's short-term insurance business

Having lost some market share to other short-term insurers, she emphasises the need to put customers, culture and people at the apex of her strategy in an effort to regain ground lost in the competitive insurance landscape.

“We've got the fundamentals in place and the quality of our business is sound. We've got good products, solid relationships with our distribution channels, and right now we are focusing a lot of effort on actions that will support growth, so looking carefully at delivering compelling propositions.

Adds Kauluma: “The other item that is high on my agenda is our people, really focusing on embedding a culture of excellence and service orientation, as well as building a strong pipeline of talent.

“Lastly, sustainability is high on my agenda. Maintaining a strong risk and control environment is a big priority, along with building strong relationships with our stakeholders and playing a meaningful role in our broader society,” she says.

Changing role of women in the boardroom

She admits that it is hard to be a female executive but makes no excuses.

“I can't think how many life moments I've missed over the years, but I've made a choice to make those sacrifices because I've wanted to provide the best I can for my kids.

“To become an executive is hard work for men and women alike. Furthermore challenging for women is the societal expectation that by a certain age that you should be a wife, that you should be a mother, a perfect wife and perfect mother, maintaining a perfect home. It becomes a lot to manage when you're also trying to achieve your professional aspirations - with peers who often have wives carrying the load at home - and I think that's the part people often don't talk enough about.”

Returning to Namibia has also been a good experience for Kauluma. She is encouraged that the narrative around women executives is slowly changing.

“Coming home recently has been great in many ways. One of the things I have noticed is that there are quite a few black women running companies and excelling in their respective professions, in a lot of instances, in professions that are traditionally considered for men,” she says.

“I would like to think that something is changing in our landscape and that we are moving to a system of merit based recognition and advancement,” Kauluma says.

OGONE TLHAGE

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FNB celebrates 110 years of banking

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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FNB celebrates 110 years of banking

From humble beginnings in Lüderitz in 1907 with only 12 employees, FNB Namibia has grown into a leading bank in the country and through active upskilling and localisation programmes today proudly employs more than 2 200 Namibian citizens, providing banking services via 55 branches and agencies throughout Namibia, while providing multifaceted financial services and products to the nation.

“It is with great pride that we celebrate 110 years in our beautiful country and look back at a numerous highlights over the years, which have made us the most innovative bank in the country,” said Sarel van Zyl, CEO of FNB Namibia Holdings Group.

“In 1997 FNB Namibia became the first locally registered bank to be listed on the Namibian Stock Exchange. Market capitalisation has soared from N$167.2 million to N$8.8 billion in 18 years, making us the biggest listed entity on the Namibia Stock Exchange.

“We are proud to say that we have delivered consistent earnings growth and created value for all our stakeholders.”

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Abandon fiscal tightening

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Ngatjizeko encourages free trade

≪ Previous: FNB celebrates 110 years of banking

Abandon fiscal tightening

The government has been advised to increase spending in an effort to stimulate the economy, according to independent analyst Mally Likukela.

He believes the government's best hope of staving off the effects of slowed growth, which could cause a recession, is to spend more money.

“The only hope for a speedy recovery is for the government to increase spending in a way that averts layoffs, creates jobs and puts money in the pockets of ordinary people,” said Likukela.

He added: “The dismal performance was largely on account of austerity measures which saw a number of capital projects put on hold and eventually sent the construction sector to its knees, taking along the entire economy.

“In our view, there's no chance consumers will soon be able to rescue the economy.

“The only hope for a speedy recovery is for the government to increase spending in the right ways.”

Ratings agencies Fitch and Moody's have on various occasions raised their concerns regarding the fiscal deficit, which did not help the GDP-to-debt ratio subside.

Likukela was of the opinion that the government should not have immediately heeded the call of these agencies.

“It is our considered view that we believe government could have made a terrible mistake switching its attention from jobs and growth to deficit reduction and as a result the country is now suffering the consequences,” he said.

He was also not confident that the private sector would come to the party, saying that he did not see enough demand to entice investment.

“The biggest question on everyone's mind is the duration of this recession.

“It's no longer so much about the impact of the recession, but how long before the economy recovers. Given the prevailing fiscal consolidation, all eyes are focused on private consumption to rescue the economy,” said Likukela.

“With the economy slowing and the government focused on deficit reduction, it's unlikely that these big corporations, not to mention still struggling SMEs, will invest more and increase spending locally,” he noted in his assessment.

While the government's intentions are all good and well, Likukela argued that it exacerbated an already vulnerable situation.

“Pursuing fiscal consolidation while the economy is weak hurts the economy more. Instead of helping, it makes the deficit worse.

“As unemployment rises and corporate profits shrink, so do tax revenues. What is needed right now is for the government to start spending more, but wisely,” concluded Likukela.

OGONE TLHAGE

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Ngatjizeko encourages free trade

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: UN convoy in Libya attacked

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Ngatjizeko encourages free tradeImplores MPs to endorse WTO agreement Free trade will help to ensure that private-sector companies have a bigger arena to compete in and improve efficiencies.

Trade minister Immanuel Ngatjizeko this week presented the World Trade Facilitation agreement to the National Assembly for rectification.

In seeking support, he explained that the agreement would reduce costs between Namibia and its trading partners, increase the competitiveness of local firms, improve export performance, attract foreign direct investment flows into Namibia and create jobs and income opportunities through increased trade.

“In seeking to increase [the] competitive business environment, Namibia has an inherent interest in trade facilitation at national, regional and international level,” he said.

Highlighting the benefits of trade, he said that it could contribute to the expansion of the private sector, thus spurring growth and reducing poverty. “Trade facilitation can provide important opportunities for Namibia by increasing the benefits from open trade and contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction.

The expectation is that full implementation of the free trade facilitation agreement will contribute to the expansion of private sector capacity to participate in international trade,” said Ngatjizeko.

He also said that the agreement would give local industry a wider space to operate in.

“Your positive consideration and rectification of this agreement will reinforce and give impetus to the implementation of the agreement and thus ensuring a widened economic space for Namibia's industries in the form of free open trade allowing access for our export products and a source of imports,” Ngatjizeko said.

Free trade according to him would also help encourage foreign direct investment flows into Namibia.

“This will further confirm the position of Namibia as an alternative destination for investment and trade with a predictable and reliable system,” he concluded.

Namibia has been a member of the World Trade Organisation since 1 January 1995.

OGONE TLHAGE

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UN convoy in Libya attacked

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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UN convoy in Libya attacked

Gunmen attacked a UN convoy near Libya's capital and abducted seven staff members on Wednesday before releasing them unharmed, a top security official in the conflict-wracked country said.

General Najmi al-Nakoua of the presidential guard service said the attack on the convoy took place near Zawiyah, about 50km west of the capital Tripoli.

“They have been released, they are all safe,” after an ordeal lasting only a few hours, he told AFP.

The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) confirmed the incident, saying “a UN convoy was hit today travelling between Surman and Tripoli” and added that it was later able to contact them and find out they were safe.

Lawmaker Abdallah al-Lafi, who was involved in the negotiations leading to the release of the UN personnel, said they were all “in good health”.

But he said they were still with him at a police station in Surman, about 70 kilometres west of Tripoli, awaiting their transfer to the capital.

Lafi said the UN convoy was made up of five men - including one from Malaysia, another from Romania and three Libyans - and two women, an Egyptian and a Palestinian.

The assailants, he said, had abducted them in order to negotiate the release of relatives detained in Tripoli.

But “we were able to convince them to release the UN staff before any negotiations,” he added.

Libya has been wracked by chaos since the 2011 uprising that toppled and killed longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival authorities and militias battling for control of the oil-rich country.

The North African country has rival administrations, with the authorities in the east not recognising the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA) based in the capital.

In its statement, the UN mission to Libya said it had “made contact with the staff concerned. There are no reports of casualties among UN staff”.

“UNSMIL thanks the Government of National Accord, House of Representative Members from Zawiyah and local authorities for their help in ensuring the safety of UN staff and is looking forward to their safe return to Tripoli.

“The UN remains committed to Libya and to supporting Libyans on their path to peace and stability,” it added. The British ambassador to Libya, Peter Millett, had expressed concern for the UN staffers on his Twitter account.

“Disturbed by attack on a UNSMI Libya convoy. Hope all safe. UN staff represent international community's commitment to help #Libya-n people,” he tweeted before the news of their release.

Diplomats in Libya have been targeted regularly by assailants and kidnappers since the uprising that ousted and killed Kadhafi.

On 11 September 2012, suspected jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda attacked the US consulate in Benghazi, in eastern Libya, killing ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans.

By 2014, most diplomatic missions had left the North African country, including that of the United Nations.

UNSMIL is based in Tunis, the capital of neighbouring Tunisia, but its members regularly carry out missions inside Libya.

NAMPA/AFP

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N. Korea wants Park dead

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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N. Korea wants Park deadBlames former South Korean president for assassination plot The North Korean government has issued an order of death on Park Geun-hye, currently incarcerated in South Korea on corruption charges.

North Korea said it has issued a standing order for the execution of former South Korean President Park Geun-hye and her spy chief for what it said was a plot to assassinate its leader, and it demanded that the South hand the pair over.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said on Thursday “revelation showed” Park had masterminded a plot to execute its “supreme leadership” - North Korean leader Kim Jong-un - in 2015 and it was imposing the “death penalty on traitor Park Geun-hye” and her spy chief Lee Byung-ho.

KCNA did not disclose the source of the “revelation” but a Japanese newspaper reported this week that Park approved a plan in 2015 to overturn the North Korean regime of leader Kim Jong Un.

Park was ousted in March over a corruption scandal and is in detention in South Korea while on trial.

South Korea's National Intelligence Agency (NIS) said it was “unpardonable” that North Korea made threats against its citizens and said the news report of a plot to kill Kim Jong Un “had no grounds”.

“We declare at home and abroad that we will impose the death penalty on traitor Park Geun-hye and ex-director of the puppet intelligence service ... criminals of hideous state-sponsored terrorism who hatched and pressed for the heinous plot to hurt the supreme leadership of the DPRK,” KCNA said.

“We declare that in case the US and the South Korean puppet forces again attempt at hideous state-sponsored terrorism targeting the supreme leadership ... we will impose summary punishment without advance notice.”

KCNA said the statement was issued jointly by the North's Ministry of State Security, the Ministry of People's Security and the Central Public Prosecutor's Office.

The NIS responded by dismissing Pyongyang's message as “groundless,” insisting Seoul will not tolerate threats against its citizens, according to local news agency Yonhap.

In May, North Korea accused the US Central Intelligence Agency and the South's spy agency of another plot to assassinate its “supreme leadership” with biochemical weapon.

NEWS24

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Cartoon

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Cartoon

Cartoon for Friday

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Property rights and political connections

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Property rights and political connections Namibia is really fast becoming a land of mind-boggling contradictions, inconsistencies and double standards. Recent media reports again highlighted controversy around the contentious issue of land delivery within the City of Windhoek's jurisdiction. The Namibian reported on Wednesday that the municipality was considering plans to sell houses to four city councillors as part of the special treatment enjoyed by political office-bearers. According to the report, councillors Immanuel Paulus, Agatha Iyambo, Joseph Kauandenge and Ignatius Semba are all demanding to be allocated land or houses of their choice. This comes at a time when there is renewed and intense debate over the land issue, which has been a spectacular failure in Windhoek. Recent revelations by urban and rural development minister Sophia Shaningwa showed that Windhoek has only serviced 371 plots in the last three years, compared to towns like Oshakati, Keetmanshoop, Katima Mulilo and Walvis Bay, who have serviced hundreds of erven for its residents. This is a huge shame for the City of Windhoek and confirms our long-held assertions that the city lacks a simple land release strategy. Until when will the well-connected continue to receive preferential treatment while the majority have no access to land and property rights? Rising prices have also put houses out of reach of ordinary Namibians, meaning more land needs to be serviced for residential purposes to reduce the mismatch between supply and demand. It is every Namibian's dream to have access to land and home ownership, but this cannot be realised if the City of Windhoek dishes out land to a connected few at discounted prices. All we want is fairness to prevail at all times as we are all equal before the law. If you make provisions for one person you are basically setting a bad precedent. What about the investments many families have put their life savings into, just to buy a home? At the moment the land allocation system at the City of Windhoek appears to be more of a lucky draw than a legal process to us as outsiders. This should not be allowed to continue unchallenged. It is unacceptable!

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I love my extended family

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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I love my extended family I have always wondered how people that have nucleus family set-ups survive without the thrills and awe provided by distant relatives. Seriously, what fun is there in driving home after work to a gated community where your dog is not even allowed to bark

I mean, in a rich couple's home, a husband comes home, grabs the newspaper and digs his head into it. The wife, on the other hand is glued to her favourite DSTV Channel – something to do with 'How not to die a pauper' or 'How to get rich in seven days'.

Their seven year old son is in his room tapping his fingers away at the controls of a play station, while the teenage daughter chats on her iPhone and, tweets on her blackberry and Facebook on the Apple Laptop.

Eish, I wonder what has happened to good old fairy tales at night with granny and the whole family? I bet the average modern father does not know a single fairy tale to save his skin.

Trust me; we all need a little drama in the form of an extended family set-up.

Ok, let's face it; all that those aunts and uncles from the village do when they visit town from their villagers is finish your monthly groceries in record time and complain about everything at home from the way you raise your children to your manner of walking!

But truth be told; the drama that always manifests itself when Aunt Ripuree and Uncle Japie visit is totally out of this world.

The other day Uncle Japie arrived out of nowhere with Aunt Ripuree. They just turned up and demanded that the kids show them where they will be sleeping. When my wife and I got home, Aunt Rips, as we know her, was busy cooking up a storm!

My wife did not take kindly to that; I mean, it's her house and she ought to decide when the family eats chicken and when do we have to do with 'Kainjas' – a delicacy this side of the great divide! Thanks to Aunt Rips antics, I had to endure another night of 'I have a headache, honey'.

My good Uncle on the other side thought my children were too weak and overfed.

“These kids will never be able to chase lambs into the kraal. Can they even ride a horse? I bet they can't. Just look at them,” he complained.

“But Uncle Japie, they were raised in town – hence their apparent inability to ride a horse, which, if you ask me, should not be a death sentence,” I interjected.

“Just listen to this one. So you think it is proper for your kids to be the laughing stock of the entire village due to their physical weakness?”

“No, not at all. On the contrary, shouldn't intellectual strength – like the ability to show humility, leadership and prudent decision making skills – count more than brute strength?

Those were the last words exchanged between myself and my uncle for the night. He went over to the kids room and exchanged his 'when I was young' tales in which he is always the hero.

I am told Uncle Japi never lifted a rifle in his life and that he once fled into the house and hid behind Aunt Rips when he mistook a neighbour's dog for a lion! Yet, he is always the hero in his own tales.

But you gotta give it to the old chap – I have never seen Aunt Rips crying. She say she'd rather have 'Bang Jan' (coward man) than 'Dooie Jan' (dead man). Well, I don't know about that – my wife would never have a 'bang Jan' at all!

See, at times my wife would call me in a middle of an argument she is having with some muscular male dude and say 'Honey, he just shoved me in the chest'.

Being the smart boy my mom raised, I would always say 'Ok, I hear that darling. But what did you say to him before he shoved you?'

Trust me dear friends, a woman will get you beaten up for the slightest reason – always ask and make your judgement based on that.

Until then…

tjatindi@gmail.com

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No refugee registration for 'UN millions'

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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No refugee registration for 'UN millions'

The Namibia Refugees Repatriated in 1989 movement have distanced themselves from allegations in local media that they have been organising refugees repatriated in 1989 under Namibia's Resolution 435, to register to receive millions of dollars supposedly owed to them by the United Nations.

The group's chairperson, Ueshitile Shekupe, said they have not invited any members of their group to ask for money from the UN. “We have never spoken about money and the allegations that we are asking for money is a made-up story,” said Shekupe. He said the purpose of the refugee group is to fight for the rights of refugees repatriated under Resolution 435. “We are just questioning the programme of Resolution 435 which Namibia fell under. The repatriation, rehabilitation and resettlement process was designed to readjust refugees into a new Namibia but some refugees were not treated well,” said Shekupe.

They disputed a report published in local media that their group was inviting veterans to register with them in order to receive money from the UN. In a petition the group sent to the United Nations in 2016, it asked for documents regarding to the UN's rehabilitation process for the 1989 refugees and the current refugee status of Namibian expatriates. “The principal objective is to request your excellency, in your capacity as UN secretary-general, to provide us with comprehensive information, including certified, detailed, original reports and budgetary commitments, monitoring and evaluation of the entire UN's repatriation, rehabilitation and resettlement process,” read the petition.

Shekupe said his group will be registering refugees repatriated in 1989 on 1 and 2 July at the ELCIN centre in Ongwediva. “We are registering people this weekend so that we have a database and information on those refugees of 1989 that were repatriated under Resolution 435 of Namibia so that when we approach the UN we have enough concrete information,” said Shekupe.

Shona Ngava

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Trafficking accused refused bail again

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Trafficking accused refused bail again

Three men accused of kidnapping and human trafficking were on Tuesday denied bail during their second appearance in the Opuwo Magistrate's Court, where the community demonstrated and petitioned against their release.

Dirk Rinovita, 39; Ngombe Tjambiru, 27; and Tjiposa Tjikundi, age unknown, were arrested on 11 May in connection with a baby girl who was allegedly stolen from her mother on the night of 6 May at Epupa village in Kunene Region.

It is alleged that Rinovita told Tjambiru and Tjikundi about his plan to steal the baby and hand her over to a certain white man.

Magistrate Leena Iyambo postponed the case to 28 July for further investigation.

Iyambo also denied them bail when they first appeared in court on 15 May.

The baby's Angolan mother, 20-year-old Ndjinaveva Kauyekua, was visiting relatives in the village at the time of the incident.

She was reportedly sleeping outdoors that night and did not find the baby next to her when she woke up to feed her.

Deputy Commissioner Rudolf Kanyetu said the baby is still missing and that Kauyekua has not returned to Angola and is still at Epupa.

Kanyetu said no further arrests have been made and police investigations continue.

State Prosecutor Oberth Masendeke represented the state in this case.

NAMPA

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Valombola to give fresh testimony

June 29, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Valombola to give fresh testimonyTrafficking accused refused bail again The northern businessman accused of murder, Maurus Valombola, will testify on Tuesday after his lower court testimony was ruled inadmissible in the Oshakati High Court.

Maurus Valombola, 58, accused of a murder committed in 2013, will on 4 July, testify in the Oshakati High Court after the lower court proceedings were ruled inadmissible.

Valombola is accused of killing Benhard Kalimbo, 32, by running him over with a car following an argument on 7 February 2013.

The incident took place in the Okeeke area of the Anamulenge Constituency in the Omusati Region.

Kalimbo died from his injuries at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital. Valombola was arrested the following day after handing himself over to the police at Ogongo and has been in custody ever since.

Judge Werner Januarie yesterday ruled the proceedings in the lower court as inadmissible after the defence in March argued that Valombola was not made aware of his rights and that the State allegedly asked him incriminating questions during cross-examination.

This means that on Tuesday, Valombola will stand in the dock and give his version of events as to what happened on that fateful day that led to his arrest.

The defence is also likely to call a witness.

Defence lawyer Pieter Greyling in his submissions in March argued that his client was not aware of his rights when he was cross-examined during his first bail application in the Outapi Magistrate's Court and consequently incriminated himself.

Greyling further said his client was treated unfairly, arguing that the court was supposed to ensure that he was informed of his rights and did not do so.

Making reference to the lower court proceedings, Greyling said during the cross-examination his client was also asked about his previous transgressions of the law, which should not have been allowed. Valombola was previously fined N$12 000 in a culpable homicide case.

However, State Advocate Lucius Matota counter-argued that Valombola had a lawyer at the time, who was supposed to have informed him of his rights and that the blame should not be shifted to the court.

Regarding the questions the State had asked Valombola during the cross-examination in the lower court, Mutota argued that the questions derived from Valombola's bail application, in which he admitted his involvement in the incident and previous transgressions, which he said could not be left out of the current proceedings.

Mutota at the time also said that if Greyling's submissions were taken into consideration it would defeat the purpose of cross-examination.

Valombola remains in police custody.

KENYA KAMBOWE

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