SARB defends inflation targeting

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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SARB defends inflation targetingDeputy governor says it creates price stability Monetary authorities say it may be time to look into the merits of inflation targeting. Inflation targeting has its flaws but is “the least bad option” for South Africa as monetary policy should be used to create price stability, central bank deputy governor Kuben Naidoo said on Thursday.

“Inflation targeting has its flaws but I think it's the least bad option for South Africa in the present environment given our economic circumstances,” Naidoo told a public lecture.

South Africa's Deputy Finance Minister Sfiso Buthelezi said last week there was need to debate whether the central bank's inflation targeting range of 3% to 6% was still relevant now.

The South African Reserve Bank introduced inflation targeting in February 2000 and worked on the average based on the year 2002 prices

As from 25 February 2009 the inflation target was set in the range of 3 to 6% for the year-on-year increase in the headline consumer price index for all urban areas on a continuous basis.

NAMPA/REUTERS

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All hail Suné January

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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All hail Suné JanuarySmall town girl with big city dreams Miss Namibia 2017 not only declared herself as a Namibian ambassador, but also as a voice for Namibian wildlife too. Here is how the night went, in a nutshell. For 37 years in Namibia celebrating beauty with a charitable purpose, Miss Namibia crowned its 2017 winner last weekend.

For the first time, judging stage presence, charisma and poise, more than nine girls walked away with an award on crowing night. With 30 days of fitness training, general knowledge quizzing and crazy rehearsal hours it all boiled down one being crowned as queen.

The 12 finalists held their composure through it all and while doing so much, they still had to smile throughout the whole show. Proudly dressed by Namibian designers Mc Bright Kavari, My Republik and Donald Diergaardt for their cocktail, day and evening wear they all looked stunning.

Having made it to the top five and answering a question by the judges, Suné January from Rehoboth was crowned by Miss Namibia 2016 Lizelle Esterhuizen, as the new queen. The first runner up is Swakopmunder Romilly Mouton and second runner up is Tessia Mutwamezi from Rundu.

The ten new awards were handed out to the following girls. Talent performance award went to Zandria Swart, general knowledge award to Elizabeth Ipinge, top model award to Suné January, public speaking award Zandria Swart, creative artist award to Sunet van Schalkwyk, athletics and fitness award to Suné January, Miss Congeniality to Sabina Samuel, the public choice award to Romilly Mouton and Miss Photogenic to Suné January.

The top five included Romilly Mouton, Suné January, Tessia Mutwamezi, Zandria Swart and Sunet van Schalkwyk.

The glitzy and glamourous event was attended by previous Miss Namibia winners and runner ups Odile Muller, Barbra Kahatjipara, Laina Bachler, Ndapewa Alfons and Tsakana Nkandih, who spoke about Miss Namibia pageantry then and now.

Laina Bachler of 1983 said so much has changed with technology something every finalist should appreciate. “The stage is so much bigger now even compared to my days. Every girl should be taking part in Miss Namibia, it's something to be proud of,” she said.

Barbra Kahatjipara of 1993 said a typical Miss Namibia is one who should know a little bit of everything because she is an ambassador of many people and the country.



June Shimuoshili

Idols starts Sunday

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Idols starts SundayLaugh your cold nights away with Idols season 13 Idols makes for great viewing because one is either utterly blown away, or cringing with embarrassment or pity… and it is back. Forget about the myths and the legends - this year, the famously “unlucky” number 13 is going to be the charm for one happy hopeful! After smashing the viewership numbers out the ballpark with a record number of people tuning in for last season's finale, Idols SA is all the way up.

But if you still need some convincing, here are 13 reasons why you should tune in this Sunday and every Sunday after. Idols Season 13 premières on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161 at 17:30 CAT.



Three's company…

With the exit of long-time judge Gareth Cliff, the judges' table has decidedly got more room. Will Somizi claim the space for his voluminous designer handbags, or will Unathi reserve the seat for an easy-to-reach box of tissues for when the tears come?



Guest judges

While we wait to see what happens with the empty seat during the live shows, some celebrity bums occupied it during the audition phase. RnB Muso Donald impressed in Cape Town, powerhouse vocalist Kelly Khumalo took charge in Jo'burg, the opinionista of the airwaves Phat Joe was in Durban and former Idols winner and music star Khaya Mthethwa gave love in Pretoria.



The Golden Disc

For the first time in Idols history, the show introduced the Golden Disc, a “get out of jail free card” that a judge can use to bump up a contestant to Theatre Week even if the other judges say no. Anticipate some heated debates here.



The small-town detour

Big cities are the Idols audition stomping ground, but this year headline sponsor Telkom helped take the road show to three smaller towns to give the out-of-towners a chance. Say hello to Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein and Polokwane!



The numbers

The fierce competition between Durban and Johannesburg continues unabated. This year, both cities enjoyed a record number turnout of about 2000 each. Jozi trumped Durban by nabbing the highest golden tickets between the two; but with the coastal city known to produce the most in the Top 10, it remains to be seen where this season will take us.



The Wooden Mic celebs

Who says you have to be crowned Idols winner to be famous? 2016's Wooden Mic Top 3 came out during this year's Durban auditions to “give advice and encouragement” to the newbies. Wooden Mic winner Mbishop, first runner up Phumzile and second runner up Mxolisi certainly don't believe in just 15 seconds of fame and take their unofficial Idols ambassadorship very seriously.



Somizi's flamboyance

Between gold lamé harem pants, bedazzled shoes and embellished jackets, this judge's wardrobe is only rivalled by his hairstyles as a topic of conversation. We wait with bated breath for the next outlandish hair colour and outrageous outfit. All hail Somgaga!

Unathi's tears

You have to admit that judge Unathi's tears never disappoint. She could be in the midst of silent mirth with rivulets of salty tears running down her face, or she could be experiencing one of her “touched” moments … you just never know with Unstar.



Randall mellows out

It's been years coming, but 13 might just be the charm number for Randall. With Golden Discs to give out, he will have to reach deep down to find his long-lost empathy for contestants. He might even crack a smile or two this season.



The returnees

The comeback kids have been a great source of contention on the judges' table. However, after two returnees made the Top Three in Season 12, the judges might be a little more forgiving to the multitude of hopefuls making a comeback this season.



The drama

What's Idols SA without a healthy sprinkling of spice? We look forward to who will attempt to romance a judge, who will leave them with their jaws on the floor, who will make Somizi jump out of his chair and on to the stage and who will have a few choice words for Randall

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The dazed and confused

There's something about the waiting room chair that just renders contestants blank. The red light will go on, the bullhorn will sound, yet they will still find a way of staying put on that chair with the most beatific expression on their faces!



Proverb

The Verb's quick wit, sly sarcasm and flying one-liners give us life. Finish and klaar!

Staff Reporter

Girls in their Sunday dresses

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Girls in their Sunday dresses The National Theatre of Namibia (NTN) under its Premier Production Project is staging And the girls in their Sunday Dresses, a play by Zakes Mda, acclaimed South African novelist, poet and playwright.

The NTN's Premier Production Project is aimed at staging productions with international themes and standards. These are either commissioned or self-produced works. These productions bring together the best of Namibia's actors, directors, producers, designers and technicians to present some of the world's challenging text to life on stage. The play is directed by Namibian director, Vickson Hangula and award-winning actor Odile Muller as the lady and six-time Theatre and Film Award Nominee Sepiso Mwange as the woman.

And the Girls in their Sunday Dresses is a highly entertaining and humorous story of two characters The woman and the lady who meet during a long wait in government queue for subsidised rice. The lady has brought her chair with her; she is a retiring prostitute, preoccupied by what has defined her for many years. Her mannerisms and appearance which she thinks all mark her as a sophisticated woman of the world. The woman, a domestic worker is a far less complicated and an insightful person. She is the one with the food, this make the two characters inter-reliant. As they wait, they share their individual stories and heartbreaks, and resolve to stop waiting and seize control of their lives.

This infectious, life-affirming and wonderful production sparkled with womanly wit, is sure to warm your heart on a cold winter's night, a real treat for the whole family. Get your tickets early to avoid disappointment. The production will be on staged from the 14 and 15 July at 19:00 at the NTN Backstage.

Staff Reporter

hottest

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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hottestThe latest Namibia has to offer It's that time of the year where tjil presents to you some of the latest the industry has to offer. From new kids on the block to the established artists that always deliver. Here is some of the latest on the market… in no particular order. It’s that time of the year where tjil presents to you some of the latest the industry has to offer. From new kids on the block to the established artists that always deliver. Here is some of the latest on the market… in no particular order.

Singles

Cota Mati – Ain’t no different

Cota Mati plays the devil’s advocate on his single Ain’t no different. On the song the MC brags about some of the things he does and how they are not different. He proclaims “I can go to the Kasi and wear Versace it ain’t no different”. The rapper laces the song with a catchy hook and powerful punch lines that will have you motivated for things you’ll be taking on today.

DjKboz ft Sean K - Be with You

DjKboz links up with the soulful Sean K on a song that will remind you of a beautiful spring day. The mellow beat and pulsating and electrifying voice of Sean K will have you singing along to each and every lyric. Sean K takes a different twist to his normal singing and even raps briefly on the song. The feeling of the song is somewhat old-school, laid-back and will remind you of TLC back in the day. This fusion of Jazz and RnB is a great take from KBoz!

DJ ft Jblack ft Bertholdt Mbinda - You

DJ features Jblack and Bertholdt on the song that only has the potential of being the tune of the summer. The bubbly song sees the artists open up about their relationships as they profess their undying love for the leading ladies in their lives. DJ and Jblack rap over the cheerful beat with verses that can only infuse nostalgia. Berthold does justice to the chorus with his pleasant and smooth voice.

Jeiyo ft Gazza - Ma Go Lower

From upcoming artist Jeiyo featuring Gazza produced by Sam E. Lee Jones, Ma Go Lower is an African flavoured pop track that is tempo yet one that can still get you winding and grooving on the dance floor. With playful lyrics from both Jeiyo and Gazza this is one track that you will want on your playlist and on repeat.

Desmond ft Sunny Boy - Wetin dey happen

A fresh comeback for RnB prince Desmond featuring hikwa king Sunny Boy Wetin dey happen is a track in Nigerian Pidgin English and Oshiwambo. This is a song to listen to on a slow night to bringing the roof down in a chilling place. Sunny Boy adds zest and his signature on the song with his witty lyrics.

Paul Da Prince - Dum Dum

Paul manages to fuse a house and RnB song together and still have keeps his fans happy. Paul teams up with South African DJ and record producer Pex Africah and created this mellow house remix which is taken off his debut album to be released soon. The song is literally for all moods and turn ups.

Dj Shoza ft Tequila - Lombwelenge

The promising deep house by GMP artists Shoza and Tequila is one you should have saved on your playlist for your December holiday. The song was made with lots of time and serious attention to detail as it well-mastered and mixed. Tequila’s lovely voice is the cherry on top to the beat that completes the song.

Albums

Lady Dyna - Set Apart

Whoever thought spreading the gospel could only be done one way? Lady Dyna proves that there are many ways to reach everyone when it comes to preaching the gospel and does so in a various genres on her latest album titled Set Apart. From reggae to house and RnB featuring local and international artists like Adora, Mark B3 and Swart Baster just to mention a few, this is a must have album in your collection.

Yashe Tati Pii - Omuthigona Ashuma

Yashe brings you volume three; this latest album which when loosely translated means a rich poor man. The album has 16 tracks that are worked on by Namibia’s prominent producers like Maj Beats, Glo and K-Ketu featuring D-Naff, Diop and Neslow just to mention a few. Some tracks on the album include Onale nale, Uuteku and Eembongo.

Fire 16 - Mellifluous Sonorous of Metonoia

The rapper gospel artist Fire 16 reached and searched in higher places for his latest 18 track EP. Fire 16 features artists from different genres to put his message across like the title suggest. With songs like Too Much Sauce and Real Ones on the album, you definitely have no excuse not to be spiritually uplifted.

Ethinix - Omutima

The very musically dangerous duo Ethnix is back after a long pause from the industry. The duo released a hit track Omutima, an upbeat dancehall and also traditional infused song as a treat to their fans before their debut album. The song is in both Oshiwambo, Ovaherero and English.

Videos

Kalux - Isa

As usual superstar Kalux never lets down his fans out down with his clean and well-directed music videos. This time he released his music video for the song titled Isa which is available on YouTube.

Oteya Ft Macky 2 - Whatagwan

Dance hall queen Oteya broadened music horizons as she featured Zambian hip hop artist Macky 2 on hit song Whatagwan. The tuneful love song has the duo express their irresistible fondness in a melody that will have you think about your own love story. The song and video which have massive air play in both Zambia and Namibia. Watch the video on YouTube.

June Shimuoshili

PHOTOS: Contributed

The numbers game

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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The numbers game There have been a few developments that I have been questioning regarding a few Namibian music platforms. There are a few discrepancies that I would like to question and point out. I think we are living in the era where some individuals are “doctoring numbers” on these local music platforms or websites. The numbers just don’t add up. The numbers I speak of are the number of times a song is downloaded… this on a questionable website that I’ve been monitoring for the past few months.

There is no questioning the importance of the website but if it is an illusion it is selling then I think someone needs to ask questions. The platform I speak of houses some Namibian songs. There have been complaints as well from artists who have been charged to be streamed on the website while others don’t get charged for such. People have been complaining about the preferential treatment of some artists because their music is always uploaded there while other songs don’t even get a chance to be on the website. So it’s really sad that the website that prides itself in promoting Namibian music appears to discriminate.

So back to the numbers I was talking about. I believe some of the numbers on the website just don’t paint an accurate reflection. The website I speak of allows you to see how many times a song has been downloaded and what the trending songs and such. What has been worrying me is how some artists who are not well known or ones who do not have enough publicity or promotion have been able to rake in thousands of downloads on this platform but on other platforms such their YouTube and Soundcloud accounts they can’t even get near the same amount of downloads or views. Another questionable thing is also how upcoming artists, some of which are not known at all, can top the download charts and beat out the already popular and established artists when it comes to downloads. We also don’t know how many times a song has been streamed but we do know how many times it has been downloaded. If it is possible to show how many times a song has been downloaded surely the website owners can show us how many times the song has been played. I may be wrong for coming up with my own conclusions but if the website owners can show us how many people frequent the website and such I’ll be a believer.

But for now I’ll have my suspicions until they are dispelled.

June Shimuoshili

june@namibiansun.com

Nascam spreads its wings

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Nascam spreads its wings Zambezi and Kavango artists’ music workshop a success After crying out loud for Nascam representatives to come and personally hear their daily problems as artists, Nascam heeded their call. The artist’s lodged complaints like unpaid royalty payments and the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) found out that this was because some radio stations have not been handing in their log sheets which indicate how many times a certain song has been played. “There are instances where certain artists get more air play compared to others and there are artists whose music gets used in adverts on radios without their consent… this robs artists. The artists said they are also scared of being vocal because they will get cut off and won’t enjoy air play at all,” said John Max, Nascam CEO.

Max said it was high time they started doing regional visits to engage with their members and they started this operation in the eastern regions Zambezi and Kavango. Max said the artists said they usually feel left out as they are far from the city and no one represents them. “The workshops have been successful. There were many newcomers in the industry who are not well acquainted with the role of Nascam and we effectively[MA1] cleared that up,” said Max. Other issues raised by the artists included them being left out as certain bashes that happen outside their regions and also mentioned event organisers who prefer to use artists outside of their regions at events such as trade fairs. Max urged the town councils to embrace new talent and give them a chance to showcase and to prove themselves. Artists from both regions also stated their problem with music producers who sell beats. According to them, many producers only alter a few things on the beats and at the end of the day all the beats sound the same.

Nascam will be doing regional visits and holding workshops for all their members. Nascam will hold its AGM on 14 July and artists that are members and the general public are welcome. Max pleads with interested parties to make their reservation beforehand.

June Shimuoshili

[MA1]

Construction expo a success

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Construction expo a successOver 500 visitors visit industry expo Construction role players recently presented new technologies and developments during a Concrete Day held in Windhoek. The above companies have been planning this event for over one year. The idea was to share information on concrete with the construction industry.

The suppliers supporting and displaying at the event were: Ohorongo Cement, Putzmeister, Chrysso, Doka /Gard- Tech and Windhoek Hire Sales and Services. Under the Banner of IBS and PLANT HIRE were ABE, Wacker Neuson and Diamond products.

Over 500 people from construction companies, architects, engineers and others were invited and the attendance was extraordinary, which shows that the industry is in need of sharing information.

Both Hans Peter Schulz from Namibia Construction and Wolfgang Büttner from IBS explained that it is of utmost importance that during this hard time everybody has to tighten the belt but that the industry needs to stay up to date with happenings so that when the upswing comes that they are prepared.

Both directors confirmed that although it is tough times for the construction industry both companies, City Concrete and Industrial Building Supplies, are there to support their clients.

During the day presentations were held and clients were informed on industrial flooring, concrete technology, cement types and compositions, additives and fibres, concrete vibration and support.

STAFF REPORTER

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Vedanta activities progressing well

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Vedanta activities progressing well OGONE TLHAGE

Drilling activities are going very well as the project is expected to concluded on time, according to Skorpion Zinc general manager Irvinne Simataa who provided a brief update on drilling activities at the revival of its Under-17 soccer tournament this week.

“We are in fact ahead of schedule. Am certain you have seen the massive movement of equipment to Rosh Pinah,” he said.

He was very upbeat and said that its partnership with Basil Read would result in the culmination of a very promising mining project.

“Through our partnership with Basil Read Mining Namibia, we are poised to deliver a world-class mining project. Through this partnership we have achieved a smooth and accelerated transition. We have used this opportunity to build a stronger and results oriented team enabled to deliver,” said Simataa.

A launch event to celebrate the start of drilling is also planned for August according to Simataa.

Skorpion roped in the drilling expertise of Basil Read earlier this year after its Rosh Pinah mine had reached the end of its mining life.

Vedanta’s vision to create an integrated zinc business in southern Africa and approved a capital investment of US$782 million over the next three years to create an integrated zinc business in southern Africa which include its Skorpion Zinc mine and refinery in Rosh Pinah, its flagship Gamsberg project

The first phase of the Gamsberg open pit mine, which is expected to have a life of mine of approximately 13 years, is currently on track to begin producing first ore in 2018. This phase will see Vedanta mine 4 metric tonnes per annum of run-of-mine ore, producing 250 000 tonnes per annum of zinc metal in concentrate.

Meanwhile, the refinery conversion at Skorpion will enable Vedanta to extend the life of the Skorpion Zinc Refinery beyond the life of mine, which is expected to close during the 2018/19 financial year.

-additional reporting by Mining Review

Ashburton opens for business

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Ashburton opens for businessNew asset manager for locals Ashburton was officially launched this week and forms part of the FNB Namibia Holdings group. STAFF REPORTER



FNB Namibia Holdings this week welcomed Ashburton Investments to its stable, marking the start of a new chapter for the local lender

Speaking at a launch event, its CEO, Josephat Mwatotele expressed his excitement about heading the new addition to the FNB Namibia stable: “The introduction of Ashburton Investments in the Namibian market allows us to offer our local clients access to broader investment product options, and a greater reach through extensive distribution network of the group.

“We are also able to localise decision-making with our specialist technical skills base, and have a larger resource base to call on in terms of research, product development and capital to drive new product innovation.”

FNB Namibia Holdings CEO Sarel Van Zyl called the launch historic.

“Tonight we are here to launch Ashburton Investments locally - an exciting and historic day – and a move which we believe is to the advantage not only of existing Pointbreak investors, but also all new future clients of Ashburton, who will now receive access to the wider range of investment products and financial services offered by our FirstRand Group,” he said.

Van Zyl added that Ashburton would seek to deliver a compelling service.

“As Ashburton Investments, or as the independent Pointbreak Wealth arm, rest assured that it is our commitment to serve and partner and grow your vision to the best of our ability. I believe we have the best team in Namibia to deliver to this promise,” said Van Zyl.

Sharing his excitement, he said Ashburton would add great value.

“I know that Ashburton Investments is going to add significant value to FNB Namibia Holdings – and I trust you all share in my excitement about the many personal, professional and corporate opportunities ahead,” said Van Zyl.

Battle for Mosul

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Battle for MosulSome 20 000 civilians trapped in city Iraqi forces are battling to regain control over Mosul with the Islamic State stronghold seemingly getting stronger. Up to 20 000 civilians are trapped in the last Islamic State group-held areas in Mosul's Old City, which Iraqi forces are battling to retake, a senior UN official said Thursday.

More than eight months since the start of the operation to retake Mosul from the Islamic State group, the jihadists have gone from fully controlling the city to holding a small pocket of territory on the west bank of the River Tigris.

But the fighting against the last IS holdouts is heavy, and civilians caught in the middle of the battle are in “extreme danger,” UN humanitarian coordinator in Iraq Lise Grande told AFP.

“Our estimate at this stage is that in the final pockets of the Old City, there could be as many as 15 000 civilians, possibly even as high as 20 000.

“The people that are still trapped inside of these pockets are in terrible condition,” facing shortages of food, she said.

“They're in extreme danger from bombardment, from artillery crossfire. The (IS) fighters that are still there are still directly targeting civilians if they try and leave.”

The battle has taken a heavy toll on civilians, nearly 700 000 of whom are currently displaced as a result of the fighting, she said.

IS overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, but Iraqi forces backed by US-led air strikes and other support have since regained much of the ground they lost.

NAMPA/AFP

US ready to work with Russia on Syria

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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US ready to work with Russia on Syria The United States is willing to work with Russia on establishing “no-fly zones” in Syria as part of a joint effort to stabiliSe the war-ravaged country, the top US diplomat said Wednesday, ahead of President Donald Trump's first face-to-face with Vladimir Putin.

In a wide-ranging statement, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Russia had a “special responsibility” to help create stability on the ground - or risk hobbling the fight against the Islamic State group.

Citing past cooperation in creating deconfliction zones in Syria, Tillerson made a strong case for both countries - in spite of their “unresolved differences on a number of issues” - to work together in Syria.

“The United States is prepared to explore the possibility of establishing with Russia joint mechanisms for ensuring stability, including no-fly zones, on the ground ceasefire observers, and coordinated delivery of humanitarian assistance,” he said.

Tillerson issued his statement before joining Trump in Europe, where the US leader will meet Putin for the first time on Friday on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany. Syria will loom large in their discussions.

It also came as US-backed fighters inched forwards in Raqa's Old City, in what Washington sees as a milestone in the campaign to defeat the Islamic State group in its de facto Syrian capital.

“ISIS has been badly wounded, and is could be [sic] on the brink of complete defeat in Syria if all parties focus on this objective,” Tillerson said, according to the written statement issued by the State Department.

“In order to complete the mission, the international community, and especially Russia, must remove obstacles to the defeat of ISIS.”

“We call upon all parties, including the Syrian government and its allies, Syrian opposition forces, and Coalition forces carrying out the battle to defeat ISIS, to avoid conflict with one another and adhere to agreed geographical boundaries for military de-confliction and protocols for de-escalation.”

Russia, Turkey and Iran - without the United States - agreed in May to establish four “de-escalation” zones in Syria.

These are supposed to include no-fly areas, where no warplanes can fly so as to guarantee the safety of civilians on the ground.

But on Wednesday those countries said they had failed to agree on the details, such as the boundaries of the zones and who will police them.

Tillerson also said Moscow as a key backer of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad had the responsibility of preventing his regime from further use of chemical weapons.

The United States launched a cruise missile attack on a Syrian air base in April in response to what it said was a government chemical weapons attack on civilians.

Tillerson, speaking later to Fox News aboard the flight to Europe, said US officials “have been engaged with Russia for some time” to identify areas “that we should have mutual interest in.”

Syria is “a very complex situation,” especially transitioning from defeating IS to stabilizing the country and starting the “lengthy process” of finding political solutions for the Syrian people.

US officials are at “the very beginning” of an effort “to rebuild confidence between ourselves and Russia at the military-to-military level, but also at the diplomatic level,” he said.

“At this point it's difficult to say exactly what Russia's intentions are in this relationship.”

He added that it was important for Trump and Putin to “have a good exchange... over what they both see as the nature of this relationship between our two countries.”



NAMPA/AFP

Thousands killed, detained in Burundi

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Thousands killed, detained in Burundi The political crisis which riddled Burundi since 2015 caused more than 1 200 deaths, and between 400 and 900 forced disappearances, according to a report.

The report was issued on Tuesday, by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) in collaboration with local human rights organisation in exile, Iteka Ligue.

According to the report, more than 10 000 people are arbitrarily detained in different penitentiary institutions.

However, the Independent National Commission for Human Rights (CNIDH) gave a different report for 2016. The president of this commission, Jean Baptiste Baribonekeza presented this 2016 report in front of MPs.

He confirmed “more than 340 killed, more than 120 kidnapped, more than 90 tortured and more than 830 arbitrary detentions”.

In their report, FIDH and Iteka Ligue, indicated nevertheless that the repressive structures had been gradually strengthened since 2015.

Pointing a finger to the youth affiliated with the presidential party, Imbonerakure, the organisation said: “Their role within the repressive system has grown over 2016 and the beginning of 2017.”

However, Willy Nyamitwe, the public information officer in the president's office, rejected the document and considered it to be a “false report”.

“Why is the aggression towards Burundi by Rwanda not mentioned?” Nyamitwe said.

“I don't understand why it doesn't even mention the coup-plotters who claimed to throw grenades in Burundi.”

Nyamitwe said “any attempt to destabilise Burundi will be defeated”.



NAMPA/ANA

The death of the craft of writing

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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The death of the craft of writing Oh how the art of writing has changed. Gone are the days when people used to write love letters to each other to express their emotions for each other. Ja, a man would pen the most amazing words to declare his true feelings to his significant other.

This true act chivalry has since died and has been replaced with a lame method referred to as texting. The problem with texting does not lie in the method itself, but rather in what has now become a new version of English.

I mean, how on earth does someone write “I 1 2 C U B4 8 2nite…”. Apparently, the common English, this would translate to “I want to see you before Eight (O’ clock) tonight…”. Seriously?

Every time I receive one of these messages that have been abbreviated to the core, I always nod my head in agreement with those that reason that the art of writing – a craft that is meant to not only transport ideas but also leave lasting emotions – has surely gone to the dogs.



Ask any man who was raised in the 70s, and he will confide in you that he had at least once written a long and ‘exciting’ love letter to the love of his life (at the time), in which he declared his love and promised heaven and earth. Oh yes, we could writeand pin unimaginable phrases together that relegated Shakespeare to levels Ordinary!

The trick in writing such letters was in the way you start it. I mean the lady you are after might have probably heard your name in passing and therefore has no idea in hell of who you are.

Therein lies your first major obstacle: you ought to first let her know who you are, why should she read a letter from you, and mostly importantly - what would a loser like you want with her.

And a loser I was. I never played soccer, sucked at Mathematics and wore school pants that belonged to my brother the previous year. Eish, it didn’t matter how much you clean and ironed those pants, they will still look the same way they did Friday afternoon.

But I loved them - they were my own version of the coat of many colours that the biblical Joseph wore. My brother was also proud of me for having made my dream of wearing black school pants come true, and I just couldn’t get myself to burst his bubble.

So, a typical love letter would start off with “Post of love…Violets are blue, roses are red… my love for you is everlasting. Neither the writer, nor the recipient of the letter could clearly define what loves was back then, but it didn’t really matter.

The 80s produced television commercials that were just out of this world; they had the most amazing taglines that left you wondering just how they do it. We used them in our letters too!

If she appreciates your advances, she would immediately swop places in class with another classmate to sit closer to you. She would be eyeing you throughout the lessons, and even give you a perky kiss on the cheek on the day just before the summer holidays. Forget about Duracell batteries lasting longer - I still remember and feel those kisses on my left cheek like it was yesterday.

The price to pay for such affection was high though: you have to carry her school bag for her in between lessons, buy her vetkoek during breaks, and walk her home even though you live kilometers apart from each other.

Trust me, those bags were heavy! You see, unlike guys who would carry a few books and leave the heavy Mathematics textbook at home to share with a friend in class; girls carried all their prescribed books to school!

The downside of it all is unimaginably cruel; your letter will be read out loud just before the History class, and for weeks after that you will become the talk of the class - for all the wrong reasons. The names that you earn for pulling off stunts like that will not simply wash away overnight - they get stuck on you!

Now you know why I am called “Mr My heart is on fire and you are the ice”!

Until then…

Tjatindi@gmail.com

Time to walk the talk

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Time to walk the talk Namibians are good talkers, at all levels - from the public forum to the social gathering - we can talk a good game, but guess what, nothing has ever been accomplished through talking. So stop talking and actually start doing.

In the same vein, we can complain… boy can we complain. It is always someone else's fault and someone else's problem. So here's the thing: Stop complaining, take responsibility, get off your backside and start doing! Or alternatively, keep quiet.

There is outrage on a daily basis about the carnage on our roads. Press releases about all the plans, all the polls in the newspapers about “the changing of attitudes”. Rubbish! Let us cut to the chase, traffic departments, wardens, City Police, get out there and start patrolling, enforcing, fining and arresting i.e.: do your job! Be visible! Be out there, where people can see you and report to you. You have got hundreds, if not thousands of pairs of willing eyes and ears on the roads daily, who will gladly assist you, for the benefit of all. But you have to be out there in order for that to happen.

There is currently a total disregard for rules, regulations and fellow road users, manifesting itself in the end result that we see as broken cars, bodies and lives. And it is anchored (and rightly so, at the moment) in a deep-seated sense of entitlement, that “I can do whatever I want, because nothing will happen to me”.

If you are a selfish moron at home, leave that behaviour there because on public roads, there are other people with just as much of a legal right to be there as your good self. And to law-abiding drivers on the roads, stop talking and start doing and if need be, report behaviour, take pictures and send to newspapers, put the pressure on and become part of a movement to shake all those in apathy out of their stupor.

Unfortunately, to the boys in blue, this will require a bit of doing, as opposed to the current favourite pastime of talking. No more lazy mornings and afternoons in the office, behind the desk or under a nice tree gathering the proceeds of the “easy pickings” of issuing and collecting speeding fines.

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Roadside job hunting

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Roadside job huntingMSR doing its part but opportunities are scarce Unemployed but trained men walk two hours in the morning and two in the evening to wait at the roadside for a job for the day. Following the conclusion of the National Labour Force Survey which found that the unemployment rate had increased by 6.1%, organisations like Men on Side of the Road (MSR) were established to help curb the high unemployment rate amongst Namibians, in this case, able young men.

Earlier this year, the Namibia Statistics Agency said that roughly 349 383 people are currently looking for work but are unable to find jobs, resulting in an unemployment rate of 34%. Hilya Kambanda, training and PR coordinator of MSR said in an interview with the Namibian Sun that the overall vision of the project is to “empower unemployed men and women to be better able to compete in the labour market through self-development programmes.”

According to Kambanda, this in turn gives them the necessary skills to secure jobs. MSR is responsible for giving vocational training to men who are unqualified. This training focuses on various fields ranging from bricklaying, forklift driving, gardening and plumbing. “Since our establishment in 2007, we have about 1 200 registered job seekers of which 364 received training and 287 were placed in fulltime or part time jobs,” said Kambanda. Although she listed these statics as successes, Kambanda added that it is a challenging task getting these men off the streets to receive proper training. “It is something that does not happen overnight. Most of these men have not even received basic education,” she added.

MSR is welfare organisation that depends on donor funding and as such, it is constantly in search of individuals and companies that can either aid them financially help with training. As with most organisations of this nature, MSR experiences a shortage of funds which limits the amount of beneficiaries that can receive training. “Every day, we receive men who interested in being registered with us and gain new skills, but training is very expensive,” she added. MSR has also tried partnering with different companies to increase chances of employment and internships for trained men. MSR has a newly established the project in Swakopmund, but it is not yet officially opened. “We would like to branch out to more regions in the country and we know there are many that need us in these different areas,” said Kambanda.

Every day, men from informal settlements come to the different pickup sites in Windhoek and wait for someone to pick them and give them a day’s job. Kambanda however urged the public to request MSR membership cards. This will show that the individual is a member and therefore, safe to employ. The MSR pickup sites are public areas and it is easy for criminals to masquerade as someone looking for work. While this has not yet happened, Kambanda says the public must be aware.

Although MSR tries to combat unemployment, their registered men told the Namibian Sun that finding a job is very difficult and it is a depressing task. Thomas Hiskia, a registered and trained member of MSR since 2009 in the field of forklift driving says he has not received work since his registration. “None of my mates that finished training with me got work either. I do not know what the problem is,” remarked Hiskia.

He also informed the Namibian Sun that on average, only one person amongst the men at the pickup sites are taken in for a day’s work. Angula David, from the Omusati Region also shared the same concerns and he too has also not received any formal employment since his registration in 2008. He is qualified in the fields of plumbing, interlocking, gardening and general work. A father of two, David walks every morning from Havana. He leaves at 04:00 in the morning and reaches the site before 06:00. “I came to Windhoek in search of employment, but life is even worse here. I walk back home empty handed and it is very stressful,” he said. “We are all poor here, so it is difficult to help each other. If your friend gets a job, he can help with N$5 for bread.”

Another resident from the Omusati Region, Petrus Kendjele was registered in 2010 and said the stress of poverty and unemployment can be very depressing. He said two men committed suicide over the years due to the “hunger of not getting work”. On an average day, these men are hoping for the best and are praying that the day does not force them to walk back to their families empty-handed.

TUNOHOLE MUNGOBA

Keetmans, Erongo deal under scrutiny

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Keetmans, Erongo deal under scrutinySELco dispute to be settled through court action The Keetmanshoop municipality is finalising its agreement with Erongo RED for electricity supply after a fallout with SELco. The arrangement pertaining to power supply at the southern town of Keetmanshoop between the municipality and regional electricity distributor, Erongo RED is currently under scrutiny according to Keetmanshoop municipal spokesperson Dawn Kruger.

According to her, senior personal at both the municipality and Erongo RED are attending to the contract, which upon completion will transfer the responsibilities once provided by the Southern Electricity Company to the regional electricity distributor.

Kruger could not be drawn to say when the deal would be finalised. “The agreement is currently being scrutinised by the Board and Management of Erongo RED, and the Keetmanshoop Municipal Council for approval and the terms will be communicated as soon as all the necessary approvals have been obtained,” she said.

The Keetmanshoop municipality is in the process of entering into an electricity management contract (EMC) with Erongo Red to handle the day-to-day operations of the newly established electricity business unit at the municipality, until such time that the envisaged SORED is established.

However, explaining probable structure of the deal with Erongo RED, the business unit will be managed by qualified engineer until such time that the position of area manager for the business is filled. The acting area manager will put processes in place for the running of the business unit. The area manager will report to the CEO of the Keetmanshoop with dotted-line reporting to the CEO of Erongo Red.

The municipality was also in the process of obtaining funds from the National Energy Fund to ensure continuation of operations.

“The municipality is in the process of obtaining funds from the National Energy Fund as bridging capital and to purchase material for the continued operations,” she said.

“The disputed NamPower account will be settled from the N$10 million outstanding debtors [owed the municipality] and the remainder from the funds withheld by SELCo. The municipality decided to resolve the dispute with SELCo through legal channels,” added Kruger.

She also called for calm, saying that her municipality would ensure power supply is not interrupted. “The Keetmanshoop Municipal Council wants to ensure the residents of Keetmanshoop that the situation is under control and that there is no danger of electricity down time,” concluded Kruger.

OGONE TLHAGE

Job seekers demonstrate, demand removal of governor

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Job seekers demonstrate, demand removal of governor Nearly 100 job seekers staged a peaceful demonstration in Otjiwarongo on Wednesday, demanding the removal of Otjozondjupa governor, Otto Ipinge, from his position.

The group accused Ipinge of failing to carry out “his mandate of fighting and representing” community members in need of jobs and development activities in the region.

The same group also wants Otjiwarongo constituency councillor Julius Neumbo out, saying he is siding with Chinese people, apparently busy harvesting resources of the country at Otjiwarongo.

Most of these protesters also handed over a petition to the governor's office on 10 June demanding jobs at the construction site of the Whale Rock Cement factory at Otjiwarongo.

The factory, trading under Cheetah Cement, started construction activities in March this year on a portion of land situated approximately 6 kilometres north of Otjiwarongo in the Otjozondjupa Region.

The land belongs to the municipality and was leased to the cement factory for a period of not less than 100 years.

The job seekers on Wednesday marched from the Orwetoveni residential area to the Otjozondjupa Regional Council, where both Ipinge and Neumbo's offices are situated.

“Down Ipinge down, down Neumbo down”, “We want you out please, we want new leaders” and “You have sold our resources to the Chinese” shouted the group shortly before handing over a petition to Neumbo.

Neumbo promised to hand it over to Ipinge.

The group further claimed that some easy jobs like pushing wheelbarrows and mixing concrete are allegedly being done by Chinese nationals contracted to build the cement factory.

The disgruntled job seekers suggested that jobs at the site be split into half for Namibians and half for Chinese.

The job seekers also called on the Namibian government to force the Chinese construction company to apply working conditions stipulated by the Namibian labour laws and regulations.

Whale Rock Cement Employee Relations' Officer, Willem /Nanub on 30 May told Nampa about 80 Chinese and 10 to 20 local Namibians are employed at the site to construct the administration block of the factory as the first phase.

/Nanub said the company will need more skilled and semi-skilled Namibians during the second phase of the project when construction of the plant starts in August this year.

He said over 400 job opportunities will be created during the second phase.

NAMPA

Massive poaching, theft at Outjo

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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Massive poaching, theft at Outjo Around 13 cattle carcasses were discovered at a bush butchery on a farm between Outjo and Khorixas.

The owner of the farm, who chose to remain anonymous, told Namibian Sun, “It is such an ugly sight to behold. It looks like something straight out of a war.”

Of the animals stolen and slaughtered, some were pregnant cows. The total damages suffered by the farmer, including stolen solar pumps, amount to N$180 000.

“I do not know what I was thinking to buy a farm between Outjo and Khorixas. Poaching, of both livestock and game is rampant in this area,” the farmer said.

He explained that the farmers in the area are working together to combat the scourge of poaching as police support, he said, is almost non-existent.

Frank Bockmuhl, owner of farm Tsuvandes in the same area, says at least four solar pumps have been stolen from various farms in the past four weeks. “When I went to go and purchase another solar pump, the store owner told me I was third farmer that day to buy a solar pump,” Bockmuhl explained.

The farmers are of the view that a syndicate is operating in the area, targeting solar pumps as they are in demand.

But it is not the first time that a butcher's site has been discovered on farms in the region. During July last year, Tsuvandes lost 10 oryx, a kudu and a protected mountain zebra to poachers. One of the oryx cows, who was lactating, was found still alive in the wire trap and had to be shot.

During the same period, another farmer lost 13 oryx and of these, five were found still alive but severely injured.

According to Bockmuhl, this has been going on for years. “We have been living with this for more than 20 years,” he said, adding that there are about 10 farms that are repeatedly targeted by an organised group of about 10 poachers.

He says he has filed countless reports with both the police and the environment ministry. They send out officials and then, nothing happens.

Bockmuhl added that he held a high-level meeting with police in Windhoek this week and is hoping that it will bear fruit.

At the moment, the farmers are making use of a private anti-poaching team to bring the poaching under control.



Francoise Steynberg

SPEC congress under way

July 6, 2017, 4:00 pm

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SPEC congress under waySwapo elders to elect new leaders The sixth ordinary congress of the Swapo Party Elders' Council is under way at Outapi in the Omusati Region. The Swapo Party Elders' Council's (SPEC) sixth ordinary congress has started, where a new leadership is expected to be elected.

The congress started yesterday and ends on Sunday.

According to SPEC secretary Mukwaita Shanyengana more than 500 delegates are at Outapi in the Omusati Region where the congress is taking place.

The official opening is scheduled to take place this morning. It will be addressed by Swapo Party secretary-general Nangolo Mbumba, while President Hage Geingob is expected to be the keynote speaker at the official closing on Sunday.

The congress will elect a new SPEC secretary and deputy secretary. The congress will also elect the 25 members who will form part of the SPEC central committee.

The central committee consists of 45 members - 14 regional secretaries, four members appointed by the secretary, and the SPEC secretary and deputy secretary.

At the congress, SPEC representatives to the Swapo Party congress will also be chosen. Shanyengana could say how many would be selected as that would depend on the outcome of the congress.

According to Shanyengana, the mandate of SPEC, which he described as a “special task”, is to advise the party, the government, the youth, the community and the entire nation on a number of issues.

“We discuss issues where we make resolutions which we can send directly to the office of the president or to the party,” Shanyengana explained.

Shanyengana added that his journey as secretary was a good one due to the good communication between his comrades.

“The journey was good as we are mature and experienced comrades so it was easy to communicate and understand one another and solve issues amicably,” Shanyengana said.

Regarding the conflicts between the youth and the party leaders, Shanyengana said they had talked to both parties on several occasions to address the issue but they understood the different backgrounds and stances.

“We talked to the youth, we talked to the group several times and we understand them as they come from a different background. A young person's brain is always boiling as they do not have the experience their elders might have, which can lead to misunderstandings,” Shanyengana said.

When asked about likely candidates for the top positions, Shanyengana said that would only be known once the election started.

Asked whether he was willing to stand for re-election, he said he was able and willing to serve another term.

Mary Masule is the current deputy secretary.

KENYA KAMBOWE