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Master the PC with Namcol

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Master the PC with NamcolMaster the PC with Namcol Namcol is offering affordable basic computer literacy programmes customised to fit many pockets and skill sets, according to its marketing officer, Freddy Kaukungua.

The courses are easy to follow and provide a solid foundation for computer-shy individuals.

“This is a short, easy-to-master course on basic computer skills. Our goal is to give you a solid foundation. Once you have understood these basics, you will have a clear understanding on which to build your future knowledge of and skill with computers and the internet. This course is divided into four separate modules and includes the introduction to computers, e-mail skills, word processing and Excel skills,” says Kaukungua. Upon completion of the Introduction to Computers course, students should be able to identify computer components, successfully log on, log off, shut down and restart a computer and effectively use a mouse to click, double-click scroll and highlight.

The Microsoft Office course, on the other hand, empowers students to close and save Word documents as well as to change the location of an existing file, understand the use of the ribbon, know when to use the cut, copy, paste and paste special functions, as well as built-in functions to enhance productivity.

“This is just but many of the skills computer enthusiasts will learn apart from the many courses on offer,” said Kaukungwa.

“It means having some sort of level of comfort around computers rather than a look of fear and a feeling of foreboding. It will give you a good kick-start into entering any job, since computer skills are a basic demand in the workplace,” says Kaukungua.

The Basic Computer Literacy Course is open to anyone who would like to obtain knowledge in basic computer usage. No previous experience in the use of computers and application software is required.

He encourages interested participants to register for the course in droves.

“Registration may take place any time of the year. The duration of the course is two to three months. You will receive a certificate upon completion of the full course.”

SOS needs you!

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SOS needs you!SOS needs you! The SOS Children's Village is in desperate need of donor funding and its operations are counting on your support.

With your help, we can continue putting smiles on children's faces.

Well-wishers are welcome to make a monthly contribution, or one-off contribution, whatever you can afford.

You can also make an arrangement with your bank for a monthly debit order.

Our account details are: SOS Namibia Children's Village Namibia, Nedbank Namibia, account number 110 000 283 65, branch code 461001, Katutura branch.

SOS Children's Village is working with Namibian families in order to strengthen family ties and prevent children from ending up without parental care. The SOS Children's Village Association of Namibia was founded in 1984, the year when the first SOS Children's Village in Windhoek went into operation.

At present, the organisation is supporting Namibian children by providing day-care, education, medical assistance and other important services.

Our organisation has also been running SOS Family Strengthening Programmes to support families who are at risk of abandoning their children. Children whose parents cannot take care of them can find a loving home in one of the SOS families.

We are counting on your continued support.

Boost for entrepreneurs

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Boost for entrepreneursBoost for entrepreneursFNB Namibia establishes SME Special Fund for Entrepreneurs FNB Namibia recently extended a helping hand to entrepreneurs by launching a special scheme suited to SME pockets. FNB Namibia is proud to announce the establishment of a special fund which is aimed at upcoming SMEs who have bankable business ideas but lack the collateral or capital to set up the business.

Sam Ikela, head of the growth and SME division at FNB Namibia, says besides a lack of collateral and equity, clear business planning and the development opportunity for business management skills are often drawbacks too.

“We would like to extend a helping hand by encouraging budding entrepreneurs to believe in their business ideas and to talk to us about an unsecured SME loan.

“The scheme is specifically designed for clients lacking collateral. However, should a client be in possession of alternative collateral but not sufficient to cover the full exposure, they too can qualify under the scheme provided all other options of own contribution have been explored,” says Ikela.

“As with any loan there are always terms and conditions and in this case, we advise that mortality cover and short term insurance are compulsory. All loans approved must be opened with Special Loan Purpose and Loan Type: SME and normal credit initiation and approval process channels must be followed. “FNB Namibia's close association with SME Compete also opens the door for skills development for SMEs through sponsored training from the bank, should all criteria be met.

“The objective of SME Special Fund is to support, develop and grow the SME sector by providing the necessary financial and technical assistance on a sustainable basis.

“Enabling the SME sector to contribute to economic development through the promotion of entrepreneurship and the creation of employment, SMEs can be the nation's engine of growth.

We look forward to assisting Namibians with strong, innovative business ideas. We understand the needs and preferences of SMEs and have developed tailored value propositions to overcome the historical challenges of high credit risk and cost to serve.

“The bank's strategic intent is to, transact, invest, lend and insure and is not only focused on SME lending but also prioritises non-lending products to provide total customer value,” Ikela says.

FNB chief marketing officer Tracy Eagles adds: “Across the world the rise of the entrepreneur is on everyone's lips and the need for proper SME support has never been clearer.

“It's time to stop talking and start doing, so for the first time a bank is saying, what if the business idea and the ability to repay are also considered as contributions to collateral? What if someone is actually listening to those who are set to change the way we do business?”

STAFF REPORTER

Wangara places motorists first

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Wangara places motorists firstWangara places motorists first Wangara Tyre and Fitment Centre aims to give motorists quality for money, says its manager, Ken Joseph, who is at the helm of the trendy servicing centre.

Having just relocated to its new premises, Joseph says he wants to make sure each and every need of his customers is addressed properly.

“We just started operating from these premises last week Friday so it is literally a week. This location is better and designed for a tyre and fitment centre,” says Joseph.

According to him, a motorist can get all things that need to be handled under a car's bonnet and beyond attended to at the new premises.

“It is our one-stop solution for all your vehicle solutions. We can do all the fitment and tyre services here like balancing your wheels and correcting the alignment of your vehicle and we are the only tyre and fitment centre to inflate with nitrogen.”

Wangara also makes an effort to go to customers in distress.

“In addition we also offer mobile wheel alignment services for big vehicles like trucks and buses,” says Joseph.

He repeatedly emphasises that quality is king. “At Wangara, it is all about safety. We always emphasise that safety is not only about the drivers but about passengers too,” said Joseph.

He moves fast to quell any notion that Wangara is expensive. “We try to fit everybody's pocket so in essence we are trying to be in the middle ground. What that means for us is that we aim to provide quality services but at an affordable price. We have also made sure that our centre is fitted with the best quality,” says Joseph.

“Value for money is our motto. At the end of the day, we do not want to buy into a franchise, we believe we can create our own unique Namibia franchise and it is what we are working to.”

Wangara is situated at the B1 shopping complex on Independence Avenue, across from the Katutura State Hospital.

OGONE TLHAGE

Great tents on offer from Empire

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Great tents on offer from EmpireGreat tents on offer from Empire When looking for a tent, look no further then Empire Tents, Africa's most trusted and sought after stockists.

Empire goes the extra mile when looking for customised tents. Whether it is for wedding events, family gatherings, church events or exclusive parties, we have the right tent to suit your budget and your needs.

We have over 18 years' experience in the events and hospitality industry and have established ourselves as a leading supplier and manufacturer of tents in Africa. Empire Tents is the only tent company that give you high quality heavy duty PVC tents in Africa. All our tents are tested to make sure our customers are happy

Empire Tents offers its services to clients throughout the African continent. No project is too big or too small for us. You dream it, we can do it. In addition, we supply mobile chillers and freezers as well as décor accessories such as draping, flooring, stages and fairy lights.

Call us now on +27 76 335 8053 to book your tent and you will not be disappointed.

Tura expo starts on Tuesday

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Tura expo starts on TuesdayTura expo starts on TuesdayExpo organisers promise bigger and better event This year's Katutura expo promises a range of activities for entrepreneurs, visitors and farmers alike. Katutura Central councillor Ambrosius Kandjii has once again urged sponsors to come on board in support of the Katutura Expo, which opens on Tuesday next week.

According to him, while the organising committee has not yet raised enough money for the expo, this will by no means hinder the continuance of the much anticipated expo which features high on the agendas of local entrepreneurs from surrounding communities.

“The bottom line is we are in crucial need of support. From an organising point of view we are going to have the expo even though we are beyond breadline,” said Kandjii.

“For the first time too will the agriculture activities allow for dog and chicken breeders to come and showcase their finest animals,” Kandjii said.

This year's expo will start on Tuesday, 1 August 2017 and run until 6 August, ending with a special 'Sunday session', Kandjii said. This Sunday session according to him, will see the expo host several church services of various denominations. This celebratory spiritual event will bring the expo to a close.

Adults who visit the expo will pay N$30 to enter while students who present cards as identification will pay N$20. Learners will only have to fork out N$10 while pensioners and children younger than five will be allowed to enter for free.

On the Saturday, because of the entertainment line-up, the entrance fee will be increased to a fixed N$50 for adults, students and learners alike Kandjii explained.

This year's expo will comprise of a trade expo of small and medium enterprises, an agricultural show of various livestock breeds, sport activities and religious activities.

“As per our tradition we will also have musical performances from various local artists and traditional performances from renowned cultural groups,” added Kandjii

For the first time, there was an overwhelming interest from the agriculture sector, with calls for dog and chicken owners to exhibit their prized possessions.

“The agricultural exhibitions look very promising this year. We expect over 100 cattle and small livestock to be put on exhibition this year. People have also shown interest to bring dogs and chickens to the expo. There has also been an overwhelming interest from people who want to braai kapana. The applicants have been overwhelming,” Kandjii said.

“We have also given attention to football this year. On 4 and 5 August, we will have kiddies' football while two senior teams, Dolam Pirates and Airport Tigers, will battle it out for a cool N$20 000 in a Katutura central derby,” he said.

The match will take place after the expo on a date yet to be decided on.

This year's expo will be held with the theme 'Driving Towards Breaking Barriers of Economic Inequality'.

Kandjii called for support in great numbers. “I hope to see you come on board in full swing this year,” said Kandjii.

The expo was first hosted in 2011 and has been running uninterrupted ever since.

OGONE TLHAGE

Expo organisers raring to go

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Expo organisers raring to goExpo organisers raring to goFinding joy behind the sewing machine Mother's tailoring background inspires son to follow in her footsteps. Page Hei always admiringly stared at his mother while she was sewing garments for clients. His obsession with the sewing machine caught his mother's attention and she encouraged Page to take the time to try it out.

In 2007, he decided it was time to become involved in the business because he always loved working with his hands, something the 18-year old's mother noticed at the time.

“I have been involved in the business since 2007. It is actually my mother's business. It all started when my mother found me playing with her sewing machine. She encouraged me to practise on a box until I could sew in a straight line,” Hei recalls.

According to Hei, he does not have the patience to wait for month-end and enjoys earning his income by the day. “I like being self-employed. I am independent and I don't wait for month-end. I enjoy the business because it helps me put food on the table. I've been working in the business since 2006 when I would always come for school holidays.”

He admits that it has not always been smooth sailing and sometimes he must try everything to keep the business afloat.

“Business is not really consistent at times. At the moment it is only myself, my mother and my brother involved in the business. We also upholster car seats from home, where we have a machine. We can also work from here but we use this space really just to fix things,” says Hei.

He says other attempts have also been made to diversify the business.

“We also sell leather products like caps, handbags, belts and we have even made traditional Otjiherero dresses out of leather. We also have some bags for sale at the Craft Café in the CBD. A lady we know is selling for us from there.”

Sharing his experience of participating in expos, he says people often just look and don't buy anything.

“I participated in the Katutura Expo in 2015. The outcome was okay. People just looked and asked. The Zimbabwean trade fair in Harare was nice but we did not really sell anything. The people in Zimbabwe were friendly and there were also other upholsterers there. We just went to Zimbabwe to showcase.”

Hei says his working hours are flexible and he works till late if necessary.

“My business operates every Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, even sometimes as late as midnight. As long as I am not done with a customer's product I work until I finish the work given to me. I also work on Sundays sometimes but it is mostly just to clean my stall.”

Hei's stall is located in the Single Quarters stalls on Shanghai Street in central Katutura. For all your tailoring needs, Hei can be contacted on 081 465 9208.

Bigger, better Tura expo

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Bigger, better Tura expo Bigger, better Tura expo Katutura Central regional councillor Ambrosius Kandjii has promised to make the seventh edition of the Katutura expo a resounding success.

The event will dwarf all the expos that have been held in the past, he says.

“This year’s event will be bigger and better than last year’s event. We will also have performances by the likes of Exit, One Blood, Mr. Green, Dioup and many others.

“For the first time will the agriculture activities allow for dog and chicken breeders to come and showcase their finest animals,” Kandjii says.

This year’s expo will start on Tuesday, 1 August and run until 6 August, ending with a special ‘Sunday session’, Kandjii said. This Sunday session, according to him, will see the expo host church services of various denominations. This celebratory spiritual event will bring the expo to a close.

“I hope to see you come on board in full swing this year,” Kandjii appeals.

Adults who visit the expo will pay N$30 to enter while students who present identification cards will pay N$20. Learners will only have to fork out N$10 while pensioners and children younger than five will be allowed to enter for free.

On the Saturday, because of the entertainment line-up, the entrance fee will be increased to a fixed N$50 for adults, students and learners alike.

The Katutura Expo is being held at the Katutura sports complex, as has been the case in the past. The event will be opened by Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila on Tuesday.

SA mining industry on its knees

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SA mining industry on its kneesSA mining industry on its kneesJob losses, mine closures expected The Chamber of Mines says the country's Mining Charter, if implemented in its current format, will have a far-reaching negative impact on the industry. While global mining companies have seen an upswing in their market capitalisation and bottom lines on the back of a recovery in commodity prices, their South African counterparts are struggling to keep head above water amid regulatory uncertainty and an economy in decline.

South Africa's mining industry once contributed close to a fifth to GDP, but this figure has declined over the last five years from 7.7% in 2012 to 7.3% in 2016. Over the last five years, mining's contribution to GDP has declined by 0.2% per year, while domestic input costs continue to rise due to higher energy prices and labour costs.

Industry profits before tax over the five-year period declined by 48% and dividends paid to investors plunged by 52%. Chamber of Mines CEO Roger Baxter wrote in the Chamber's most recent quarterly update that several parts of the mining industry are continuing to struggle with the effects of weak commodity prices on revenues and profits. “By way of example, some 60% of the platinum sector remains loss-making with the attendant danger that unprofitable and labour-intensive mines might face closure.” These statistics show an industry in decline, but the situation is expected to deteriorate even further since mines minister Mosebenzi Zwane's gazetting of the third revision of the Mining Charter and an intention to halt all future mining rights transfers and the granting of new prospecting rights and mining rights. Within hours of the gazetting of the new Mining Charter, South Africa's mining companies listed on the JSE lost R51bn of their value.

In addition, pension funds that hold mining stocks lost R2.7bn of their value, affecting at least 60% of South Africans who hold shares in mining companies as part of their pension fund investments.

Analysts, lawyers and even the ANC raised alarm bells over the onerous provisions in the new Charter and cautioned that the elevated black ownership, employment equity and procurement targets will lead to further job losses and a drop in output.

NEWS24

Auntie Nangy

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Auntie NangyAuntie Nangy No condoms please

Dear Auntie Nangy, I enjoy sex without a condom and I am happy that the PrEP drug is now available in this country. The truth is when God created Adam and Eve, sex was without a condom and condoms are a manmade invention that takes away the natural sweetness of sex that I can now enjoy by taking PrEP. I really want you Auntie to explain to me in detail how it is used and how it works.



The way you feel is how many people feel about sex without a condom. The fact that there is barrier between the male and female sex organs during intercourse no doubt compromises the natural sweetness and pleasure if a condom is used. The condom is man's creation and an attempt to try and make people have sex with a condom but still enjoy it by using a very thin rubber to allow both parties to still get the sensation of the sexual act as if there is no barrier. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (DCD), Pre-exposure prophylaxis (or PrEP) is when people at very high risk for HIV, take HIV medicines daily to lower their chances of getting infected. PrEP can stop HIV from taking hold and spreading throughout your body. It is highly effective for preventing HIV if used as prescribed, but it is much less effective when not taken consistently. Daily PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 90%. Among people who inject drugs, it reduces the risk by more than 70%. Your risk of getting HIV from sex can be even lower if you combine PrEP with condoms and other prevention methods. So, the emphasis here is to consistently take the drug as directed and this information is available at the clinics that are dispensing the drug in Windhoek and Walvis Bay at the Walvis Bay Corridor Group clinic. They are free of charge.



Can I have children?



Dear Auntie Nangy, I m a 29-year-old woman. I slept with my boyfriend when he came from Windhoek and I was having my period. We did not use a condom and I later vomited. In September I had my period but in October, I did not menstruate until the last day of October. I am worried because I am now thinking that maybe I cannot get pregnant and my boyfriend thinks I am pregnant. Please help me.



Many women who have unprotected sex and have erratic periods afterwards ask this question. For someone who is 29, you are mature enough to understand or know when a woman can fall pregnant in her menstrual cycle. The first thing I advise any woman to do if they have unprotected sex is to see a doctor or nurses at the clinics in your area so that a pregnancy test can be done and immediately you will know whether you are pregnant or not and save you all this unnecessary stress. From the information that you have given me, I also find it too early to say that you cannot fall pregnant. If you get anxious like you sound in your letter that too can affect your falling pregnant. Take it easy and do not stress. Relax when you make love and let nature take its course. The processes that take place after your man injects his seed in your womb are beyond your and my control. It is not about how many rounds you have or how big or small the penis is or how tight or loose your vagina is. It is a Godly process.



Dear Auntie Nangy, I am 18 years old and I am dating a girl who is 17 years old. When I invite her to come to me, she always refuses. What should I do to convince her?



Man, you must come to Auntie for courting lessons. I have said before that a romantic affair is like political party. There is a lot of romantic propaganda that you must tell a woman that will melt her heart and wreak havoc with her emotions. You need tact to win the heart of a woman, young man. It could be she knows she is intensely attracted to you and if she finds herself in your arms she would not be able to stop you. Prevention is better than cure, so see it from this perspective.



Competition Scary



Dear Auntie Nangy, I need help. I am a 17-year-old boy and I have a lovely girl who loves me so much. Now, there are many boys who want my lovely girl. What can I do? Please Auntie, help me.



Any lovely girl attracts not only you but other men and there is nothing you can do to stop this. My advice to you is remaining on top of the situation. Remain competitive. Show her you are the best and like a politician, say all you have to say to make her vote for you with her heart.

LGBTIQA

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LGBTIQA LGBTIQA Things you thought you knew but didn't With the #WeAreOne campaign going on, tjil busts myths on the LGBTIQA+ community. In celebration of the rich tapestry of Namibia's LGBTIQA+ communities through a week-long advocacy campaign, under the theme #WeAreOne, tjil caught up with members from the community to tackle myths that are far from factual. Here is what they had to say.



Myth

People from the LGBTIQA+ community are bewitched and they are not part of any community.

Fact

When we talk about a community, we talk about the people around us. We make a community. We are a community. Every person who is born is first-born and then becomes part of a community. It's sad when we - and when I say “we” I refer to us as the 'regular' community - believe that the LGBTIQA+ people have been bewitched. The framework around the LGBTIQA+ speaks for itself however I think the community, especially in Namibia, have allowed a lot of tolerance around the framework. Let's change our mind-sets from the labels we place on people.



Myth

People are not born gay or lesbian but choose to be so.

Fact:

When people say you have chosen to be this way because you either never had your father around or you were playing with dolls or you were raised or surrounded by women a lot, I always simply ask. Show me one person who chose to be mocked, to be called 'moffie' or simply wanted these labels.



Myth

Members of the LGBITQA+ do not fall in love… they just have flings.

Fact

LGBTIQA+ and heterosexual people all fall in love. The misconception comes from when people see a 'gay person' they think 'promiscuous behaviour'. All sexes are promiscuous. An example is Somizi from South Africa. Why is it that people can glorify him but the same people would curse someone like that with words like 'Eshenge' or say this is not allowed? Gay is the new black. We also don't fall in love with anyone of the same sex we see. We have types and certain people we are attracted to just like straight people have.



Myth

People seek same-sex relationships after bad experiences with the opposite sex.

Fact

There are people that have only been in same-sex relationships so that in itself should disprove this myth.



Myth

Changing one's sexual orientation is unethical.

Fact

Sexuality is fluid. People might identify as straight or gay but have feelings for the same or opposite sex, whether emotionally or sexually. It's allowed. You might not understand that, but it's true nonetheless.



Myth

Members of the LGIBTQA+ are promiscuous.

Fact

It might be true, and yes we might be engaged in more risky sexual behaviour, but that doesn't take away from the fact that heterosexuals are just as promiscuous. What's the point of pointing out how promiscuous LGBTIQA+ are when we are all raised by single mothers and have 10 siblings from seven different mothers and one father. Please.



Myth

Members of the LGIBTQA+ don't have a faith or religion.

Fact

The bible says we are all made in the image of God. God doesn't judge and members of the LGIBTQA+ have a right not to be banned from practising religion. They shouldn't fear to be harmed. We are religious, Namibian and above all, people just like you.



The activities part of the #WeAreOne campaign include having a 'bond fire' gathering at the Out-Right Namibia offices this evening to bring community members together around a warm fire to share anything, and everything. After the 'bond fire', the critically acclaimed South African Drag Queen and comedian Lilly Slapsilli will be staged at the Warehouse Theatre from 20:00.

She assures those who plan to attend they will be entertained in the 23 costume change fundraising event where the proceeds will go to Out-Right Namibia for the establishment of a safe house for vulnerable community members. Tickets are N$130 at Events Today. On Saturday from 09:00 a parade with LGBTIQA+ members will take place along John Meinert Street and will proceed down Independence Avenue towards the Warehouse Theatre.

A mini-market festival with live entertainment will proceed at the Warehouse for the general public and parade participants.

There will also be a Lip Sync battle and the winners will walk away with N$3 000 and N$2 000 respectively.







June Shimuoshili

All-in-one money chaser

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All-in-one money chaserAll-in-one money chaserWhen your passion becomes your job Bubbly and outspoken radio presenter, dancer, MC and actor, NSK, bares it all. He is the guy you know but don't know. He appears to be a shy person but once he opens his mouth all that changes. Meet your breakfast show host, MC, actor and dancer, amongst many titles, NSK.

His love for making people happy started when he was still in high school by hosting events in the community of Walvis Bay. This was until nine years ago when Denzel Naobeb, known in the media fraternity as NSK, challenged himself to go beyond his town. Born and bred in Walvis Bay, NSK says he is a 'baai-naar' and gives credit to his community for grooming him because in Walvis Bay, a child belongs to everyone. When asked to describe himself he simply says he is an entertainer without limits. He said he realised that he had a passion for what he does when he hosted Miss Duneside High School. “I was usually a singer and I did very little talking so when I got a great response from the crowd I though okay, something is going on here. Later that week I delivered a speech at school and I can tell you I nailed it. That's when I was convinced that this could be my thing,” said NSK.

In 2009, NSK bid farewell to Walvis Bay for the city, like every matriculant, to come in pursuit of a better chance at life. For him things turned out the complete opposite and he says he does not regret any of his life choices. Like many, NSK recalls not being sure about what he wanted to study so he ended up studying something for the sake of being in tertiary education. “I remember fancy people from the then Polytechnic coming to my high school with pamphlets. I got that and applied for the first course I saw, human resources. Little did I know I was going to hate it,” said NSK who only stayed in school long enough to obtain a national certificate. During his short stay at varsity, NSK advanced his love for choral music by joining the Poly choir and learned something new about himself that added value to his current work. This was dancing. “There was a song that we sang in the choir that allowed us to go down a little bit. This song made me itch for more dancing and later that year I joined Equipped Dance Academy. I got exposed to a bigger crowd because choir is limited. It's because of Stanley Mareka I developed strong business ethics. It was a two for the price of one,” he said.

NSK started his radio career when he heard that Unam Radio was looking for presenters and took the opportunity. On his first trial he failed the audition. He went for another try out in 2011 and this time around, he got through. The workload became a lot and NSK was forced to drop his newfound passion dancing to give more time to radio. A highlight from his early Unam Radio days was with the programme called Industry Loops he did where he judged local music by giving very honest assessments. “My co-hosts and I picked up a lot of fans and a little bit of haters who didn't appreciate our input. Today Industry Loops is a column in a local daily that is published on Fridays. So yes, amidst all of this I am a writer too,” said NSK. At the beginning of 2012 he got a call from Radio Energy's production manager who wanted him to audition as he believed NSK had a great voice for news and presenting amongst other things. NSK says getting into Radio Energy shaped his career as he worked with many people who were interested and eager in building his presenter skills. “Energy taught me corporate governance. It taught me that as an entertainer you can't just be all about entertainment. You need to have human skills to an extent that you can hold down an interview with the president, one with an artist and a street sweeper too. It was at Energy where I learned that one could get paid just for talking and most importantly branding.” In 2015 his journey ended at Radio Energy when he joined 1FM and later this year FreshFM where he still is.

Whilst at Radio Energy, NSK also realised that his voice could earn him money and started his own business. He says the NSK brand grew when clients saw how he still continued to work when his paid gigs where done. “They saw that I could dance, talk for three hours with the same energy levels and maintain a crowd. This happened to a point where I left Energy and they still requested my services. When I work, I work. My brand is doing great,” he says.

When he is not MC-ing, presenting or dancing NSK is also a theatre actor. He has acted in two productions with the last being Tura Tour Guide. He is currently busy rehearsing for the latest production titled Madam President. It is about a woman who gets power hungry after becoming a politician and getting support from her husband. “It's a very strong play and it talks about the woman's role in today's society. It's very interesting also because there are just two actors in the whole play, myself and Nelago Shilongo,” says NSK.

The production will be at the COTA theatre school from 2 to 4 August. Tickets are N$80 and more details are available on his Facebook page.

NSK concluded with his catchphrase GMTM (Go Make That Money) and encourages people not to be shy about their hustle. “I know of people who claim to be doing what they do because it's their passion but I always ask what will pay the rent and bills. Make peace with the fact that we all need money and go get it passionately in your respective field,” he says.

June Shimuoshili

#WeAreOne

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#WeAreOne#WeAreOne The month of June is LGBTIQA+ Pride Month and many of those members in that community celebrate who they chose to be and it is also a time for them to reflect on some of the issues that affect them on a daily. Society is progressing but I think there is still a lot to be done for the LGBT community in Namibia.

In order for the LGBTIQA+ Community to progress and live in our societies without the secrecy that usually comes with being in that community, acceptance is key. Not only does the public at large need to accept that the LGBTIQA+ Community is here to stay but they also need to acquaint themselves with the issues that affect them. For those in the LGBTIQA+ Community, pride is important, but self-love is crucial because they rise above the negative issues they have to deal with coming from the people who judge and condemn them. They have been sufferers of discernment, such as being subjected to slurs or jokes, or suffering rejection by family members and friends. Those in the LGBTIQA+ community do not have to hide anymore. I understand that the situation is very sensitive for them and many choose not to come out but you need to be proud about whom you choose to be and should not let society decide for you. There's pride in being out and open and you shouldn't shy away and worry and confine yourself to society's definition of who you must be. Pride is the concept that LGBTIQA+ people should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender. For the members of the public who attach the LGBTIQA+ community those who are still persistently homophobic, your attitude needs to change.

Homosexuality does not bring great harm to society. Is accepting homosexuality equal to promoting homosexuality? I don't think so. Homosexuality is not a marketable invention like a car, cigarette, or beer. It is not a political agenda. It is simply a natural phenomenon, an equally qualified sexual orientation as heterosexuality that needs not promotion. It's not like after society accepts the LGBTIQA+ community that all of a sudden everyone will turn gay, and there comes the extinctions of the human race. I cannot stress the point enough that sexual orientation conversion is perpetual. Heterosexuals will be heterosexuals and they will continue with their lives and yours will not be hindered. The sun will still burn as the world will still revolve. Just as much as you can enjoy your sexual orientation and gender so should the LGBTIQA+ community.



June Shimuoshili



june@namibiansun.com

Calling on Miss High School

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Calling on Miss High SchoolCalling on Miss High SchoolThe battle of the youthful beauties The #Festival billed for September will be providing a platform for one lady to make a change in her community through Miss High School pageant. Namibia's Miss High School current title holders are urged to apply for the Miss High School pageant. The competition is part of the new initiative #Festival which is aimed to involve as many school children as possible to take part in the first of such an event which takes place from 7 to 9 September in Windhoek. Participants must be in grade 11 or lower and must be current pageant queens. Once crowned Miss High School, the winner chooses a community organisation or project that they will support for the coming year. Only nine Miss High School title holders nationwide will be selected for entries to compete at national level in this beauty competition. The sponsors say this is a good initiative to help instil strong charity work disciplines in young girls. Namibia Media Holdings (NMH) as a sponsor will support the winner in her community work. “One of the reasons I decided to sponsor the event is to show the trust that a young lady must have. Who knows, thanks to such opportunities, one of the young ladies might be crowned as Miss Namibia one day,” says Mrs. Daphne Voigts, Director of ACE Models Namibia.

The closing date for entries is 4 August. The entry forms are in all NMH's publications. The forms must be sent via WhatsApp to 081 440 0544 together with a picture of the participant and a video saying what charity work they will do in their community.

June Shimuoshili

IMF to launch new form of aid

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IMF to launch new form of aidIMF to launch new form of aidNew tool replaces cheap loans The new IMF seal of approval would make it easier for governments to access other forms of financing. The International Monetary Fund announced on Wednesday that it would launch a new tool to support governments in financial trouble - but one that involves no money - formalising a step it took last week for Greece.

Instead of providing cheap loans to member countries, the new IMF tool will serve as a good housekeeping seal of approval for a government's reform programme.

With that approval in hand governments would be more likely to be able to access other forms of financing from banks and bond markets, the IMF said in a statement.

“The new instrument is designed to help countries unlock financing from official and private donors and creditors,” the IMF said.

“It enables them to signal commitment to reforms and catalyse financing from other sources.”

The IMF last week revived a rarely used mechanism under which it approved a one-year loan to Greece but withheld the disbursement of funds until the country receives significant debt relief from its eurozone partners. That had a similar effect as the new tool: allowing Greece to return to markets this week to issue three billion euros (US$3.5 billion) worth of five-year bonds, and removing a major roadblock in the negotiations with the euro area. The IMF board this month approved the new non-financing Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI), which unlike traditional fund programs will not have any eligibility criteria, as long as the country is not delinquent in payments to the IMF. Rather than providing loans in exchange for strict adherence to an agreed programme of economic and financial reforms - with performance targets reviewed quarterly - the IMF will focus only on the government's policy package.

But the IMF stressed that “policies supported under the instrument would be required to meet the same standard as those required under a standard IMF loan.”

Fund staff would provide periodic reviews under the PCI, every six months or so, but the schedule would be flexible, as would the duration of the programme.

The IMF has always provided policy advice to member countries on a variety of topics including design of reforms for tax, pension or labour policies.

It also offers a programme called a Flexible Credit Line which is similar to the PCI in that it provides an IMF stamp of approval on a country's economic policies, but also makes available a line of credit that would only be tapped if the country faces dire circumstances beyond its control, like a severe drop in commodity prices or a global financial crisis.

Some economists have expressed concern, however, about the potential stigma associated with a country that goes to the IMF for financial assistance.

NAMPA/AFP

Samsung' record earnings see it overtake Apple

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Samsung' record earnings see it overtake AppleSamsung' record earnings see it overtake Apple South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics posted record-breaking earnings yesterday, putting it on course to better rival Apple's quarterly profits as it seeks to move past a bribery scandal and a damaging recall debacle.

The firm said huge sales of its new Galaxy S8 smartphone and demand for its memory chips were behind the jump in April-June and predicted another blockbuster report for the current quarter to September.

It said operating profit soared a forecast-beating 72.9% from the previous year to 14.07 trillion won (US$12.6 billion), compared with consensus forecasts of US$10.6 billion for US titan Apple, which is due to report next week.

However, Greg Roh, an analyst at HMC Investment Securities, told AFP: “Samsung has surpassed its rivals for now but Apple usually sees little fluctuation in its profits whereas Samsung's profits fluctuate largely on memory chip prices.” Apple is expected to outstrip Samsung in full-year results.

The world's top maker of smartphones and memory chips also said net profit surged almost 90% to 11.05 trillion won, its best quarterly result in five years.

Samsung shares ended down 0.08% in Seoul.

“The S8 has indeed helped get Samsung back onto its feet, hopefully putting the Note7 debacle behind it,” Bryan Ma, a technology industry analyst at IDC, said before the announcement.

“But we also have to keep in mind that a lot of Samsung's momentum is from memory and displays too, so it's not all about the S8, either,” he said, according to Bloomberg News.

Samsung has been trying to overcome an embarrassing recall last year of its flagship Galaxy Note 7 smartphone over exploding batteries, which cost it billions of dollars and dealt a blow to its reputation.

It has also been buffeted by a scandal that has seen vice-chairman and heir Lee Jae-Yong charged in connection with the sprawling corruption scandal that brought down South Korean president Park Geun-Hye.

The semiconductor business raked in 8.03 trillion won in operating profit in the second quarter, up 204 percent from the previous year. Samsung provides its chips to other companies including Apple.

“The components businesses drove significant earnings growth... thanks primarily to strong memory demand for high-density DRAMs and SSDs for servers,” the company said.

This month the firm said it will invest 20.4 trillion won by 2021 to expand and upgrade its chip plants in the South Korean cities of Pyeongtaek and Hwaseong.



NAMPA/AFP

Universal healthcare welcomed

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Universal healthcare welcomedUniversal healthcare welcomed87% rely on government Calls for collaboration in the health industry have been encouraged by NAMAF acting CEO Callie Schafer. A universal healthcare programme might be just what the health industry requires. This is according to the former acting CEO of Namibia Association of Medical Aid Funds, Callie Schafer, who spoke at a Business 7 engagement yesterday morning.

“Universal healthcare is coming, it is a reality. A fundamental healthcare programme will help to bring down medical aid costs and provide benefits to the population at large.

The ministry of health and social services is working towards formulating a policy,” said Schafer.

According to him, it was also necessary to change the perception of healthcare.

“About 230 000 Namibians contribute to PSEMAS, the majority of the population is covered by government. Eighty-seven percent of the population is not covered on medical aid. Government has to cater for the rest of the population and healthcare should not be a price commodity,” said Schafer.

He also called for closer collaboration in the health fraternity.

“The way forward is that we need to start doing healthcare differently. We need partnership and closer relationships going forward. We also need to sit around the table and deal with perceptions in the medical fraternity. There is mistrust and we need to deal with this mistrust,” said Schafer.

Following the Supreme Court ruling in favour of NAMAF, he said it was now more important than ever to seek collaboration in the medical aid fraternity.

“We need a win-win situation and work closely together in finding solutions, there are red lights going on that we need to change in the industry, get public-private partnerships involved as a mechanism to introduce entry-level services.

can also expect that the Financial Institutions Market Bill will guide us. We need to address the PSEMAS fraud.”

Rounding off his motivation, closer collaboration would according to Schafer bring about improved efficiencies.

“It is not only about finance costs, it is also about disease prevention and the optimal use of optimal human resources,” Schafer said.

According to him, Namibia ranked favourably in the provision of health aservices to its people. “Namibia is doing well on private healthcare as well as public healthcare,” concluded Schafer.

OGONE TLHAGE

Windfire acquires licence block

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Windfire acquires licence blockWindfire acquires licence block Canadian oil and gas explorer Windfire recently acquired a 91.5% stake in Riviera Mina, licence holders of petroleum blocks numbered 2815 and 2915. Riviera in turn, holds 76.5% in the two blocks.

The remaining interest in the licence is held by the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) and local Namibian partners.

Local partner King Indongo and proposed director of Windfire said the transaction was another major investment in the oil and gas sector.

“This transaction is expected to result in another major investment into the Namibian oil and gas sector and demonstrates the confidence that a globally respected company like Windfire and its management team has in the immense potential for discovering oil or additional gas in Namibia,” said Indongo.

He said the partnership was also aimed at advancing Namibia's position on the oil and gas scene.

“We will work closely with our Canadian partners not only with the goal of finding oil in Namibia, but also in striving to ensure that we contribute to the advancement of the Namibian nation,” said Indongo, adding that Windfire brought with it much-needed know-how.

“Windfire brings capital expertise, leading technical experts with significant offshore discovery success, and a work programme to lead to oil development in our great country.

With our international partners, Namibia is well positioned to realise its goal of energy independence,” concluded Indongo.

The licence is a strategically located off-shore petroleum exploration block with extensive technical studies already concluded, including 1137 square kilometres of third dimension seismic covering a significant prospective resource, that offers a drill-ready, multiple zone, oil and gas target in the Orange Basin.

The remaining stake in the oil block is owned by the Namibia Petroleum Corporation.

STAFF REPORTER

'Dark day' for Zim

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'Dark day' for Zim'Dark day' for Zim Prominent Zimbabweans Wednesday took to social media to slam a vote by MPs from President Robert Mugabe's party to change the constitution, just four years after the country adopted the new charter.

The Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.1) Bill, which gives the president the power to handpick top judges, is seen as a blow to the independence of the judiciary.

“Another dark day in the dark and tormented history of this country. I trust the Butcher is feeling proud of himself,” wrote former finance minister Tendai Biti on Twitter, using his nickname for Vice-President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who pushed for the amendment.

On Tuesday, after hours of stormy debate, 182 Zanu-PF MPs voted for the amendment, more than enough to get it passed.

“The ruining party has been consistent in its 37 years of misrule – it has always acted to strip away basic rights of the #Zimbabwe people,” wrote former education minister, David Coltart.

Constitutional lawyer and aspiring independent MP, Fadzayi Mahere tweeted: “Instead of amending laws to align them to the Constitution, Zanu is amending the Constitution to align it with its selfish ends. Yuck.”

A new chief justice, Luke Malaba, was appointed in March under the current constitutional system of public interviews, though High Court Judge President George Chiweshe was seen as Mnangagwa's preferred candidate. Analysts say that Chiweshe may now be promoted to deputy chief justice courtesy of this constitutional amendment.

Veteran human rights lawyer Irene Petras, responding to a video of Zanu-PF MPs celebrating in the National Assembly on Tuesday evening after the passage of the bill tweeted, with a large dash of irony: “Dear Zimbos, This is what your reps think of your “new” Constitution. Please vote them in again in 2018. Sincerely, Constitutionalism.”



NEWS24

DRC massacre probe is on

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DRC massacre probe is onDRC massacre probe is onUN names experts to do investigation A compromise deal with President Joseph Kabila's government has been reached allowing an independent investigation in the Kasai massacre. The United Nations named three international experts on Wednesday to investigate atrocities in the Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, some of which have involved government troops.

Experts from Senegal, Canada and Mauritania will be tasked with investigating the massacres in Kasai, according to a statement from the UN's human rights body, the OHCHR.

President Joseph Kabila's administration rejected a proposal to send an independent mission there to investigate the violence.

Under the compromise deal, Kinshasha will cooperate with the investigators who will in turn share their information with the authorities. And anyone suspected of involvement in the killings will be tried in DRC's courts.

Government troops, militia fighters and police officers have all been implicated in the killings, with a military court having already jailed government soldiers for killing civilians.

The violence in Kasai erupted last September after the death in clashes of a tribal chieftain, known as the Kamwina Nsapu, who rebelled against the authority of Kabila's regime in Kinshasa and its local representatives.

The killing sparked violence that has escalated, including gross alleged violations of human rights such as extrajudicial killings, rapes, torture and the use of child soldiers.

Two Western experts sent to investigate the conflict by UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres went missing in March. Their bodies were found in a shallow grave by peacekeepers a fortnight later.

The government blamed the tribal militia for their murders and the trial of their alleged killers opened last month.

In less than a year, the violence has claimed more than 3 300 lives, according to a tally by the influential Roman Catholic Church, and displaced 1.4 million people.

Around 80 mass graves have been uncovered in the region and the UN children's agency says more than 600 000 of the displaced are children.

NAMPA/AFP
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