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Hage slams dungeons probe

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Hage slams dungeons probeHage slams dungeons probeSays the focus should be on unity in Namibia The president used the occasion of Heroes' Day to criticise the dungeons probe and the demands by former SWATF soldiers for war veteran status, while also speaking of unity and peace. President Hage Geingob says the inquiry into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity said to have been inflicted by Swapo on Namibians in exile, and which is expected to officially start in Windhoek on 1 September, is retrogressive to nation building.

Geingob made these comments at the Heroes' Day commemoration at the Oshakati Independence Stadium over the weekend.

The president said Namibians need to move forward to develop the country, but these “selective calls to re-open the so-called Swapo dungeons” and compensation demands by former Koevoet soldiers do not need to be entertained.

“The policy of national reconciliation is there for a reason and trying to selectively open that painful chapter will open the floodgates of anger. The individualistic pursuits of a few should never be allowed to undermine the

peace that Namibians have enjoyed since independence,” Geingob said.

“We will never be convinced that entertaining the demands of former Koevoet soldiers to be recognised as war veterans is constructive. They were paid by those who hired them and they will not receive compensation from the government. Similarly, we will never be convinced that the selective calls to re-open the so-called Swapo dungeons matter are in favour of nation building,” Geingob added.

The Head of State said the wounds of the struggle will never go away, and people have simply learned to live with their oppressors, and they have learnt to live with one another, regardless of the role played during the struggle.

Geingob said Namibians must commit to taking Namibia forward in an inclusive manner, saying it is imperative to find the will and the way to ensure the pursuit of one Namibia, one nation. He said in order to achieve this strategy it requires the dismantling of structural poverty and inequality.

The Committee of Parents and the Truth and Justice Committee spearheading the probe, announced last week that the investigations into atrocities alleged to have been committed by Swapo to Namibians who were in exile will start very soon.

In September last year, the two groups said a commission of inquiry was necessary because the Swapo leadership had refused to account for the disappearance of fellow Namibians in exile. This refusal, the groups claimed, constitutes crime against humanity.

The groups also say the Swapo leadership refused to account for the whereabouts of the remains of murdered Namibian refugees. They further allege that the party continued to slander and defame both the murdered refugees and the survivors of the dungeons.

“Are we ready to come together as a united people in the spirit of Harambee to move forward towards Vision 2030 as one Namibia, one nation? Let us thoroughly examine our hearts and remember that we must bring the struggle to its logical conclusion of political, social and economic inclusivity,” Geingob said, questioning if the investigations are honouring the sacrifices of the heroes and heroines.

“Let us arm ourselves with the necessary armour and weaponry to ensure victory in this second phase of our struggle. Let us arm ourselves with altruism, patriotism, pan-Africanism and nationalism. These are the

only 'isms' we should practice. If we buttress them with the principles of equality and equity, there will be no river too wide to cross and no mountain too high to climb in the pursuit of these noble ideals,” Geingob stressed.

Thousands flocked to the stadium to commemorate Heroes' Day.

They were treated to a spectacular military parade by members of the Namibia Defence Force (NDF), including a parade march, a display of brigade armaments, fly-pasts and paratroopers.



Unity

The president, after lashing out at the dungeons probe and the demand by Koevoet soldiers for compensation, spoke of unity.

“Prior to our independence we were a divided nation that was engulfed by prejudice and mistrust. Today, we all admit that we have transcended that division and are conscious of the fact that we need one another,” Geingob said.

Geingob said there is a disturbing trend of indefensible and untruthful public statements gaining traction in Namibia. He said this trend is an antithesis to the unity of the country.

“It appears that as a society, we are starting to accept that the defamation, degradation and disrespect of others is normal. It appears we are starting to normalise the actions of those who have been persistent, since independence, in pushing for conflict by disregarding the blanket amnesty applied to both the South African forces and Swapo,” he said.

He said his belief in the need for the unity of the nation is as strong as his love for this nation.

“We say no more. We say never again. No more oceans of anguish, no more rivers of blood, no more pools of tears. The example of how our nation must act, think and speak must come from our leaders.”



ILENI NANDJATO

Sanctions for Nam firms with N. Korean ties

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Sanctions for Nam firms with N. Korean tiesSanctions for Nam firms with N. Korean ties The Japanese government has followed in the footsteps of the Trump administration by imposing sanctions against companies and individuals that support North Korea.

The sanctions have been imposed against the Chinese construction company, Qingdao Construction for its links with North Korea. This follows after Qingdao Construction took over four Namibian government construction projects from Mansudae Overseas Group of Companies, after the North Korean company was told to leave the country. Sanctions were also brought against Kim Tong-Chol who is listed as the managing director of Mansudae Overseas Projects and the deputy managing director of Qingdao Construction (Namibia). Mansuade Overseas Projects Architectural and Technical Services, the Namibian-based company of Mansuade, has also been sanctioned. Although Japan did not name any companies or individuals, it said it will impose fresh sanctions on North Korea by freezing the assets of Chinese and Namibian firms doing business with the nuclear-armed state. It is targeting six companies, four from China and two from Namibia, as well as one Chinese national and one North Korean.

The sanctions are aimed at disrupting the flow of cash that is funding North Korean weapons programmes which are in violation of UN resolutions.

The US on Tuesday however made the targeted companies and individuals that it is sanctioning public.

The US and its allies, particularly Japan and South Korea, have been on high alert in recent months as North Korea carried out successive missile tests.

In a statement the US said it has sanctioned Qingdao Construction for using North Korean workers to build statues overseas and generate revenue for the government of North Korea.

According to the US Treasury, Kim arranged for Qingdao Construction, to take over the four Namibian government construction projects as well as the employees and materials associated with the work.

Overseas labour is a source of revenue for the North Korean government, and the US Treasury contends that some of the labourers' income helped finance ballistic missile testing.

The treasury department also sanctioned Mansudae Overseas Projects for helping North Korean labourers work abroad, “usually in countries with authoritarian rulers, to build statues that immortalise the dictators.”

“Mansudae Overseas Projects (MOP) is known to have used these workers to build statues abroad to raise revenue. Some of the money has been used to fund the North Korean ballistic missiles programme,” the US Treasury said.

It continued, “Qingdao, a Namibia-based subsidiary of a Chinese company, was designated for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, MOP and Mansudae Overseas Projects Architectural and Technical Services (Pty) Limited. Kim Tong-Chol entered into an agreement with Qingdao wherein Qingdao would take over four Namibian government-sponsored construction projects, as well as MOP employees and materials associated with the projects.”

According to the US Treasury website Kim lives at 34 Herbst Street, Windhoek. His passport expires on 10 September.

The US brought sanctions against 10 companies and six individuals, the largest to date.

“Treasury will continue to increase pressure on North Korea by targeting those who support the advancement of nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, and isolating them from the American financial system,” said US Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin. “It is unacceptable for individuals and companies in China, Russia, and elsewhere to enable North Korea to generate income used to develop weapons of mass destruction and destabilise the region.”

MOP, North Korea's multinational, first entered Namibia to construct Heroes' Acre, however its business adventure in Namibia was cut short by the United Nations' security arm.

Namibia has commissioned the most public works by Mansudae Overseas Projects in Africa.

These includes the Heroes' Acre inaugurated August 2002, Okahandja Military Museum inaugurated 2004, State House of Namibia inaugurated 2008, and the Independence Memorial Museum inaugurated in 2014. Namibia informed the UN panel in July 2015 of the involvement of Mansudae in the construction of monuments and government buildings.

ELLANIE SMIT

BMX competition heads to Windhoek

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BMX competition heads to WindhoekBMX competition heads to Windhoek The RMB Namibia/NCF BMX national finals will take place on Saturday, 9 September at the SKW grounds in Windhoek.

The event will attract junior cyclists who are going to compete for honours.

RMB Namibia, through the FNB Namibia Foundation Trust, sponsored the Early-Rider Development BMX programme of the Namibian Cycling Federation (NCF) to the tune of N$218 750.

According to RMB CSI chairman Ray Auala, this programme is part of RMB's corporate social investment drive in Namibia.

“We enjoy the enthusiasm and dedication of the children and are proud that we are part of teaching them a new skill, while at the same time ensuring that children enjoy a healthy sport outdoors,” Auala said.

One of the events that form part of the programme took place at Omaruru on 12 August.

A total of 49 children, aged between six and 16, from 12 different schools took part.

The BMX #5 day was held on the Ozondje open ground and riders had to give it their all to manage the 200 metres, plenty of corners as well as stretches of hard gravel and soft sand.

Every child received a certificate of participation and the top three in each age category were awarded with a bronze, silver or gold certificate.

SPORT REPORTER

Germany supports Nam boxing

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Germany supports Nam boxingGermany supports Nam boxingBoxing federation gets help Amateur boxers will have a chance to train with new equipment thanks to a donation from the German embassy. Germany, through its embassy in Windhoek, has donated equipment worth N$80 000 to the Khomas Boxing Federation.

The equipment includes punching bags, boxing gloves and timers which the federation will distribute to all the boxing clubs in the Khomas Region.

The donation was made after the Khomas Boxing Federation had approached the embassy for assistance.

The German ambassador to Namibia, Christian Schlaga, said he was delighted to donate the equipment to the boxing federation.

“We are involved in sponsoring many sports federations in Namibia and that is why we have also decided to sponsor the Khomas Boxing Federation.

“We do hope that the federation will make good use of the equipment in order to develop top-notch international boxers,” Schlaga said.

There are around 10 boxing clubs in the Khomas Region and each club will be given equipment according to needs.

The federation has visited the boxing clubs to assess what they need.

The established clubs are likely to receive less equipment than those that are struggling.

The federation's chairman, Jason Naule, thanked the embassy.

He admitted that there had been problems hampering the growth of the sport in Namibia, including infighting among administrators.

But Naule was confident that the donated equipment would be a great help.

“Today we are here for a very good reason because this equipment will promote the Olympic style of boxing.

“It is the duty of the Khomas Boxing Federation to make sure that our young boxers become the best in the world,” Naule said.

The spokesperson of the federation, Immanuel Moses, assured boxing club members that the federation would continue looking for more help to develop boxing.

Moses said the federation wanted to help the clubs whenever they needed assistance.

“We went to the embassy with quotations for what we need and they transferred the money directly to the suppliers.

“This is a good way to handle things because the money will not need to be in the hands of anybody,” Moses said.

The federation also announced that it would stage boxing championships at the After School Centre in Windhoek from Thursday.

JESSE JACKSON KAURAISA

Swaziland beat Baby Gladiators

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Swaziland beat Baby GladiatorsSwaziland beat Baby GladiatorsPenalties decide the game The Swazis avenged their defeat against the senior Gladiators team by defeating Namibia's junior women's football team. Swaziland's national women's team beat Namibia's under-20 team, the Baby Gladiators, by four goals to three in a penalty shootout following a two-all draw at the Namibia Football Association (NFA) Technical Centre on Sunday.

This was Swaziland's second game in two days after their arrival in the country on Friday night.

They lost their first match by three goals to two to the senior women's team, the Brave Gladiators.

Namibia scored through Kyle van Wyk in the first half and Lillie Kasheeta in the second half, while Swaziland replied in the second half through double scorer Nqobile Dlamini.

Swaziland left immediately after the match, with their coach expressing satisfaction with their visit.

The matches were organised by the two football associations in preparation for the upcoming 2017 Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (Cosafa) Women's Senior tournament scheduled for Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, from 13 to 24 September.

The under-20 teams are preparing for their first-leg qualifier against South Africa, scheduled for 18 September in Johannesburg.

NAMPA

Oompangela dhokupungula omeya gefundja

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Oompangela dhokupungula omeya gefundjaOompangela dhokupungula omeya gefundja Onga oonkambadhala dhokuya moshipala onkalo yefundja ndjoka unene hayi dhenge oshitopolwa honooli yoshilongo, otaku ningwa oonkambadhala opo omeya ngoka ga vule okupungulwa nokulongitwa lwanima.

Uuministeli wUunamapya, Omeya nIihwa, otawu kongo omukalo gwokupungula omeya gefundja, go ga vule okukala taga longithwa.

Uuyelele mboka owa gandjwa komupevi muuministeli mboka, Abraham Nehemia, Etine lyoshiwike sha piti, pethimbp lyomutumba ngoka gwa ningilwa mOngwediva.

Oohapu dhaNehemia, odha endele pamwe nomaiyuvo gaaNamibia mboka ya kala nokupula epangelo opo li vule okupungula omeya ngoka gefundja go ga vule okulongwa monakuyiwa.

Uule womimvo dha piti, oshilongo osha kala tashi dhengwa kenota nompumbwe yomeya, sho oondama dhomeya moshilongo hadhi pwine mbala.

Onkalo ndjoka oya etitha oondoolopa ngaashi Ovenduka, yi tule miilonga omilandu dhokukwata nawa omeya.

Okwa li kwa ningwa woo ompangela dhokutula po oompungulilo dhomeya kohi yevi, ihe oompangela ndhoka odha kuthwa po lwanima.

Epangelo olya li woo lya longitha oomiliyona mokutha oomboola dhomeya gokunwa gaakwashigwana, ihe lwanima osha monika mo kutya omeya ngoka kage shi omawanawa nokunuwa, naashoka osheeta ongeyo mokati koshigwana shoka sha popi kutya iimaliwa yoshigwanaya hepekwa.

Nehemia, okwa yelitha kutya omudhingoloko ngoka pamudhingoloko tagu ithanwa kutya oCuvelai-Etosha basin ogwo gwa dhengwa kefundja muule woomvula dha piti, nonkalo ndjoka oya etitha aanafaalama ya kanithe oshindji.

Onga omukalo gwokukondjitha onkalo ndjoka, okwa tulwa miilonga iiyetwapo ya yooloka ngaashi Namibia-Unesco Water Sector Support Project (NUWSSP).

Opoloyeka ndjoka oya totwapo kepangelo lyaNamibia okupitila mUuministeli wUunamapya, Omeya nIihwa oshowo oUnesco.

Pahapu dhaNehemia opoloyeka ndjoka oya nuninwa okunkondopela oshikondo shomeya moNamibia.

Oshitiyali otayi ka yambulapo ompangela dhekondololo lyefundja noshikukuta moCuvelai-Etosha Basin oshowo okutula po oompangela dhomalolelo goIishana Sub-basin ndjoka yili oshitopolwa Cuvelai-Etosha Basin.

Nehemia okwa tsikile kutya eyokomeho mopoloyeka ndjoka olya kwatela mo etotepo lyoJoint Management Committee (JMC) oshowo etotepo lyomailongo gopombanda gomaster's degree moNamibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) oshowo University of Namibia.

Aailongi ya thika po-18 oya tambulwa moNUST opo yiilongele uulongelwe wopombanda woenvironmental engineering okutameka omwedhi Februali nuumvo.

Unam okwa tambula aailongi 25 mboka taya ilongele o master's degree in water resources management nootundi odha tamekele muAguste nuumvo.





KENYA KAMBOWE

Ehangano tali longele moNamibia lya tulilwa mo oondjindikila

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Ehangano tali longele moNamibia lya tulilwa mo oondjindikilaEhangano tali longele moNamibia lya tulilwa mo oondjindikilaAyehe mboka taya longele kumwe naNorth Korea taya tulilwamo oondjindikila Epangelo lyaJapan olya landula moompadhi dhepangelo lyaTrump nokutulilamo oondjindikila omahangano noohandimwe mboka taya yambidhidha North Korea. Oondjindikila ndhoka dha tulilwa mo omahangano taga longele moNamibia, ehangano lyaChina lyomatungo, Qingdao Construction ndyoka lya kwatakanithwa naNorth Korea.

Shoka osha landula sho ehangano lyoQingdao Construction, lya kutha ko oopoloyeka ne dhepangelo lyaNamibia okuza kehangano lyoMansudae Overseas Group of Companies, konima sho ehangano ndyoka lyaNorth Korea lya lombwelwa li thigepo oshilongo.

Oondjindikila ndhoka odha tulilwa woo Kim Tong-Chol ngoka kwa popiwa kutya okuli omunambelewa omukuluntu gwehangano lyoMansudae Overseas oshowo Qingdao Construction (Namibia). Mansuade Overseas Projects Architectural and Technical Services, na lyo olya tulilwamo oondjidikila.

Nonando Japan, ina popya omadhina gomahangano nenge oohandimwe mboka a tulilemo oondjindikila okwa popi kutya otaka tulilamo oondjindikila oompe North Korea, nokumweneka omaliko goongeshefa dhaChina naNamibia ndhoka tadhi ningi ongeshefa naNorth Korea.

Japan ota tala omeho omahangano ga thika pugahamano, gane okuza koChina, gaali okuza moNamibia oshowo omukwashigwana gwaChina gumwe nomuNorth Korea gumwe.

Oondjindikila ndhoka odha nuninwa okuya moshipala einyengo lyiimaliwa, mbyoka taku popiwa kutya oyo tayi yambidhidha ooprograma dhokulonga iikwalute moshilongo shoka, shoka shi li e yo pondje lyIigwana yaHangana.

Epangelo lyaUS nalyo olya tseyitha pashigwana tali ka tulilamo oondjindikila mboka taya kwatakanitha naNorth Krea.

US pamwe naJapan oshowo South Korea oya kala ya angala oomwedhi dha piti, sho North Korea a kala ta ningi omalolelo giilwitho ye yiikwalute.

Momukanda ngoka gwa pititha, US okwa popi kutya okwa tulile mo ehangano lyo Qingdao Construction oondjindikila molwaashoka otali longitha aaniilonga yaNorth Krea mokutunga nokugandja iiyemo koshilongo shoka.

Kwiikwatelelwa kuUS, Kim okwa ningi omalongekidho opo ehangano lyo

Qingdao Construction, li kuthe ko iilonga yoopoloyeka dhepangelo lyaNamibia, nokugandja woo aaniilonga niilongitho moopoloyeka ndhoka.

US okwa tulilemo woo Mansudae Overseas Projects oondjindikila omolwa okukwathela naaniilonga yaNorth Korea iilongo.

“Mansudae Overseas Projects (MOP) okwa tseyika kutya okwa longitha aaniilonga yaNorth Korea mokutunga moopoloyeka dhoka niimaliwa mbyoka otayi longithwa kuNorth Krea mokupula komeho nooprograma dhe ndhoka dhuuhwapindi.”

Omukanda ogwa tsikile kutya, “Qingdao, ehangano tali longele moNamibia na oli li oshitopolwa shehangano lyaChina olya yambidhidha paitungitho, iiyemo oshowo omakwatho gopautekinika. Kim Tong-Chol okwa yi metsokumwe nehangano lyaQingdao opo ya kuthe ko etungo lyoopoloyeka ne dhepangelo lyaNamibia.”

Pauyelele mboka wa gandjwa, Kim oha zi mepandanda lyaHerbst e ti 34, mOvenduka, nomukanda gwe gwomalweendo otagu pu ongushu momasiku 10 gaSepetemba.

US okwa tsikkile kutya ota kala nokutulila mo oondjindikila omahangano noohandimwe mboka taya longele kumwe naNorth Korea onga omukalo gwokuya moshipala egandjo lyomayambidhidho gopaiyemo kuNorth Korea.

MOP, ehangano lyopauyuni lyaNorth Korea, olya yi metsokumwe naNamibia oshikando shotango sho lya tungu Omawendo gOmapendafule , ihe ongeshefa yopoloyeka ndjoka oya yiwa moshipala meendelelo kIigwana yaHangana.

Namibia okwa hololwa shimwe shomiilongo ya longwa oopoloyeka odhindji kehangano lyoMansudae Overseas Projects muAfrica.

Omwa kwatelwa Omawendo gOmapendafule ngoka ga patululwa pambelewa mo-2002, Okahandja Military Museum ya patululwa mo-2004, Egumbo lyEpangelo lyaNamibia, ndyoka lya patululwa mo-2008 oshowo Independence Memorial Museum ndjoka ya patululwa 2014. Namibia okwa tseyithile Iigwana yaHangana, oompangela dhe okulongela kumwe noMansudae muJuli gwo-2015.



ELLANIE SMIT

Romania may join euro zone

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Romania may join euro zoneRomania may join euro zoneFive-year plan adopted Romania, a country of 21.4 million people, is one of the fastest growing economies within the European Union. Romania, one of the fastest growing European Union members, may join the euro zone in 2022, once the incomes of its poorest citizens rise, foreign minister Teodor Melescanu said.

“Already today we meet all formal requirements, we could join the currency union even tomorrow. But we're afraid that it will have a negative effect on the poorest, pensioners' incomes,” Melescanu told Polish Rzeczpospolita daily.

“I think that we will adopt the euro in five years, in 2022,” he also said.

The euro zone consists of 19 members. The latest one, Lithuania, joined the club in 2015.

Fostering more integration between euro zone countries could mean that those remaining outside the club may risk being left in the dark on some key decisions.

Romania, a country of 21.4 million people, is one of the fastest growing economies within the European Union, with gross domestic product expected to expand by 5.5-5.6% in 2017, according to Melescanu.

At the same time, the country is still one of the poorest EU members.

NAMPA/REUTERS

S&P satisfied with Zambia

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S&P satisfied with ZambiaS&P satisfied with ZambiaOutlook upgraded to stable from negative Zambia's improving growth gets modest ratings nod from S&P. Zambia's improving growth prospects and greater liquidity in its banking system have prompted S&P Global Ratings to tweak its outlook on the country to stable from negative.

The credit ratings firm said late on Friday, however, that this remained hostage to the government sticking to its budget plans and to outside factors over which Lusaka has no control - the international price of copper, and rainfall.

It also based the move - which accompanied an affirmation of Zambia's non-investment grade B rating - on an expected deal with the International Monetary Fund by the end of the year.

“Copper prices have risen by about 18% in 2017 and core liquid assets in Zambia's banks by some 44% over the same period,” S&P said.

The IMF visited Zambia in July and concluded that the economy was improving but that revenues were falling short of budget estimates but not spending.

“The near-term outlook for the economy has improved in recent months,” it said, citing a bumper harvest and increased hydroelectricity generation.

It projected real GDP to grow 4% this year compared with 3.4% in 2016.

NAMPA/REUTERS

MTC starts network expansion

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MTC starts network expansionMTC starts network expansion With the imminent launch of the 081Every1 project by Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC), close to a hundred companies attended a tender information session held on Thursday at MTC's head office in Windhoek.

The session gave prospective bidders a chance to ask questions about the tendering process.

The 081Every1 project was launched late last month. MTC plans to set up 524 network sites in order to achieve 100% network coverage.

MTC's transmission manager, Ludwig Tjitandi, said: “We look forward to partnering with competent Namibian companies in line with MTC's specifications to supply services such as ground clearing services, tower supply and design, yard building, civil work, antenna mounting, solar and grid battery power supply.”

MTC acting CEO Thinus Smit said many tenders would be invited for the N$1.1 billion project and Namibian companies would enjoy preference.

The company's corporate affairs officer Tim Ekandjo added that MTC was investing in the country as that would inject capital and at the same time boost the local economy.

The 081Every1 would create jobs at a time of rising unemployment, he said.

STAFF REPORTER

How to avoid financial potholes

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How to avoid financial potholesHow to avoid financial potholes Young people should make wise financial decisions early in life to ensure they are not affected by financial missteps committed during their youth.

“There's nothing as exciting as getting your first salary and realising that earning an income opens up many possibilities. However, this should also be the time to step back and start thinking carefully about your finances and what you want to achieve by earning an income. During this stage, every financial commitment should be carefully considered because how you start off will have a direct impact on your finances in the long term,” says Baronice Hans, chairperson of the Bankers Association of Namibia.

“It is quite common to see young people getting excited about earning money and then begin to take on too much debt to accumulate possessions they often don't need, without having made provision for savings,” adds Hans.



Here are some of the common financial mistakes that young people must avoid:

Not budgeting

By creating a budget, you will be able to plan your expenses and keep an eye on what your money is spent on. A budget can help identify any wasteful spending because it's designed to help you track your expenses and ultimately commit money to areas that take priority. Discipline is important but there's no harm in making room for entertainment now and then to reward yourself for hard work later.



Taking too much debt

When you suddenly have access to credit, it may be difficult resisting the temptation to just spend, but remember that debt is a major financial commitment; therefore it's better to take on debt that you can manage and not feel overburdened. By taking on too much debt you may find yourself not being able to cope with repayments. It's better to focus on saving money and earning interest on it, instead of unnecessary debt.



Not having an emergency fund

An emergency fund is designed to cover shortfalls when an unexpected expense occurs. A medical emergency or a car breaking down can have a huge impact on your finances and if you don't have funds for unplanned expenses you may end up relying on debt or having to tap into your other savings.



Delaying saving for retirement

The best time to start saving for retirement is when you are still young because any delay might cost you more in the long-term. While you might think there's enough time to save for retirement, it's always better to save as soon as you start earning an income. Starting early will most likely help you make building blocks towards a comfortable retirement, ensuring that you benefit from compound interest and keeping in line with the depreciating value of money.

“The road to financial freedom comes with self-awareness and financial discipline. Equip yourself with as much information as possible before making any financial decisions, in this way you avoid making mistakes that can possibly compromise your finances in future,” Hans advises.

STAFF REPORTER

Bidvest profit fall continues

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Bidvest profit fall continues Bidvest profit fall continues Sharp decline in trading profit The Bidvest group does not expect its trading conditions to change for the better any time soon. OGONE TLHAGE



Bidvest had a disappointing year in all its trading segments, according to its financial results released late last week.

The group reported revenue of N$3.8 billion, marking a decline of 2% while its trading profit was N$92.5 million, marking an even bigger decline of 68.6% of the corresponding period recorded last year.

“The fishing division continued to be challenged by negative factors and additional legislative levies. Average hard currency prices decreased by 7.5%, which was influenced by smaller fish sizes and a drop in actual prices, while the exchange rate also had a 6.5% negative impact on revenue. During the financial year a reduced own quota allocation was available and therefore this division’s gross profit reduced significantly,” Bidvest said.

In the automotive space, the company noted an equally disappointing performance, which it attributed to slowed consumer spending. Bidvest also said that it was working to spur sales of used vehicles.

“The automotive division disappointed mainly because the new-vehicles market plummeted due to lower consumer spending. The used-vehicle market as a result improved and showed good performance although this did not make up for the overall negative performance. Efforts are under way to reduce the dependence on the new-vehicle segment in this division,” Bidvest said.

The group did not expect its trading conditions to change for the better any time soon.

“Momentarily there is no indication that the group’s market segments and economic climate will recover any time soon. The operational challenges in all divisions are being addressed, including the implementation of various cost-saving initiatives,” Bidvest said.

Simonis Storm analyst Megameno Shetunyenga did not mince his words when he gave his initial impressions of the results.

“The results are very disappointing and fell short of our forecasts. [There was] pressure coming from all divisions in the group. We hoped to see a turnaround in the food and distribution division, however clearly that did not come through the numbers,” said Shetunyenga.

He was also not hopeful Bidvest’s performance would show improvement any time soon.

“In addition to the tough Namibian economic environment, we see the challenges that haunted the group in the past to continue into the future, we concur with management and do not foresee any turnaround soon.

“These challenges, in our view, are: uncertainty of quota allocations and the threat of new foreign and public sector entrants in the local fishing market, prevailing operational inefficiencies in the food and distribution division and a seemingly poorly executed capital allocation strategy with value destructive acquisitions through Taeuber & Corssen and Novel Motor Company,” he said.

Business savvy youth

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Business savvy youthBusiness savvy youthMore youth urged to start businesses A young entrepreneur in Windhoek is calling on the youth to discard the white collar job mentality and start their own businesses. The Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) incubation centre in Katutura is a bustling haven for local entrepreneurs.

The incubation centre is home to various businesses that offer services in the food catering, clothing, manufacturing and repair industries.

One of the entrepreneurs based at the incubation centre, is Samson Frans, and manager of NKY Enterprises and Manufacture, a business that specialises in amusement machines such as jukeboxes and jackpot machines.

They manufacture and repair damaged jukeboxes and jackpot machines and have been operating for the past 12 years.

Frans says as a young entrepreneur, business has been stable, adding that the current economic situation has not affected his operations.

“We are going through an economic turmoil and the government apparently does not have money. But luckily we do not have clients who depend on the government for money and our business has been stable so far,” said Frans.

He advised the youth to choose wisely when selecting the kind of careers they want to study because it sets them up for life and hence it is important to make the correct choice.

“Do not study for the sake of studying and make sure that you choose a career in line with what you are passionate about.

Educate yourself and read regularly,” shared Frans.

He said many young people venture into careers to please their parents and friends and urged them to make choices that are meaningful to them.

“You need to choose careers that are important because they allow you to work on something that you like and do not do it because someone forced you into it” Frans said explaining the importance of making the right choices.

He says although he studied psychology he has always been passionate about Information Technology (IT).

“I have a degree in psychology which I do not use but I apply it in my business because of the nature of the industry that I work in. I am really passionate about IT and hope to study that in the near future,” said Frans.

The entrepreneur psychologist and a graduate from the University of Namibia encourages the youth to venture into entrepreneurship.

“You can invest some money into starting up your own business. If you commit yourself and dedicate yourself to your own business you will soon reap rewards,” said Frans.

Shona Ngava

Business Savvy

Director of the HR and the legal department: Amanda Heydenreich

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Director of the HR and the legal department: Amanda HeydenreichDirector of the HR and the legal department: Amanda Heydenreich As the director of the human resource and legal department, Amanda Heydenreich's duties and responsibilities include providing proactive legal assistance and advice on various legal issues like commercial contracts, dispute resolution, agreements, regulatory, employment, and governance. “I also work with other managers on particular projects such as policies and procedures, disciplinary actions and employment agreements.

I also assist the company in compliance with all various legal requirements,” she explains.

In addition, her duties also include advising on minimal liability and legal exposure for the company, ensuring that the legal documents and other contractual documents are effectively drafted, reviewed, interpreted, and vetted, and she ensures that the company's framework, policies, process, systems and limits are communicated and contribute to the effective implementation

“If you are in a job you love you don't need inspiration because every day you do what you love.” As a qualified lawyer, her field of expertise is Labour Law. “Although it is important to make sure you have a good educational background, a qualification is not enough as it takes determination and hard work,” she advises.



A director of the HR and legal department should:

1. Have the ability to communicate, negotiate and then persuade people

2. Have a strong sense of fairness, justice and common sense

3. Have the ability to distinguish between what is right and wrong

Prosperity Health – Supporting Namibia's youth through the #Festival

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Prosperity Health – Supporting Namibia's youth through the #FestivalProsperity Health – Supporting Namibia's youth through the #Festival The Hashtag-Festival is not only destined to become a fixed date on the Namibian calendar, but is likely to evolve into one of the smartest one-stop solutions for parents and kids alike, as the event is not only held to promote sport, but first and foremost is intended to facilitate access to career advice and opportunitie.

This manner of thinking resonates well with a modern entity such as Prosperity Health, where the best results are found by thinking out of the box.

Prosperity Health is the sponsor, which has been joined up with the Oshana Patriots Franchise and Tuyeni Kweyo of Prosperity Health can be seen in the picture holding the left side of the flag, when she met up with a number of excited learners of Erundu Combined School, who accompanied their acting principal, Nadine Vrede (middle).

While franchise manager Festus Kandjala could unfortunately not be present, NMH patron Ester Hashiyana (of NMH in Oshakati; right) was able to attend the occasion.

Saturday is the highlight for the kids because this is when they compete against each other in Super 7s Rugby, Fast 5 Netball, Quick 5 Soccer, High 5 Hockey, Beach 4 Volleyball, Cheerleader Dance-offs, Fastest 40m Dash on grass and Tennis designed such, that none of the normal rules apply.

All things being equal the above activations are included in the package to raise interest, but never to overshadow the fact that the first two days of the #Festival focus primarily on the career expo, with educational institutions, professionals, tradesmen and sport-legends manning information stands and tending to presentations, which will allow Namibia's next generation to inform themselves and take an educated decision.

Fund manager: Wilhelmien Ellis

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Fund manager: Wilhelmien EllisFund manager: Wilhelmien Ellis Wilhelmien Ellis is a fund manager at Prosperity Health and has been working in the industry for the past 25 years.

“Later in my career I joined the private sector as a pension fund administrator.

My moving through the ranks and different divisions within the Ministry of Education sharpened and shaped me for this job,” she says.

A fund manager ensures good corporate governance and that funds are managed within the fund rules and all industry regulations as set by government as well as the Medical Aid Funds Act of 1995 and 1997.

Ellis was inspired to become a Fund Manager because she is task-driven. “The structured, task-driven and precise environment of this job fits me like a glove,” she says.

She became qualified through an online programme and she completed her IISA Certificate of Proficiency with Employee Benefits and Retirement Funds as her main subject.

She also obtained an intermediate certificate in Business Studies with Retirement Funds as a main subject.

“I see my work as an extension of myself – presenting myself well to clients and co-workers is very important to me,” she says.



A fund manager should:

1. Be confident in the rules and regulations of the Medical Aid Acts

2. Be determined to provide excellent service

3. Have respect for the time of clients and co-workers

Claims administrator: Claudia Tjizoo

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Claims administrator: Claudia TjizooClaims administrator: Claudia Tjizoo Providing excellent service to every customer is the personal mission of Claudia Tjizoo, who is a claims administrator at Prosperity Health Namibia.

Her job as a claims administrator involves managing the correct assessment of claims.

Further, Claudia needs to verify and distribute tasks to the assessors and mailroom clerks.

This she does according to the nature of the task or claim.

Another daily duty of a claims administrator is to review, control as well as manage paper claims and mailroom turn-around processes in order to ensure the smooth running of the claims department of a company.

She was inspired to become a claims administrator because of the “opportunity to make a difference in every client's life, which eventually leads to client satisfaction”.

For her, this is also closely linked to the “opportunity to encourage a client who is depressed by his or her condition and to restore hope in the situation for that client”, which is a highlight of her job.

Helpful character traits for being a claims administrator is being tolerant, accuracy in your work, the humility to accept instructions or being corrected, being able to work with deadlines, as well as the willingness to work in a team and be part of a team.



A claims administrator should:

1. Be accurate in their work

2. Be humble to accept criticism

3. Be a good communicator

The glitz and glamour of matric farewells

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The glitz and glamour of matric farewellsThe glitz and glamour of matric farewellsBehind the scenes of these extravagant events Every year, grade twelve learners all look forward to their matric farewells that are organised by their schools. Some spend close to N$9000 for the big day but, is it all worth it? With matric farewells for some schools already taking place, some still have to wait for another month or two while the anticipation slowly builds up to the big day. Matric farewells are considered important events in every school-leaver's high school education journey and it is on every learner's mind. Mostly girls look forward to these events compared to boys as females tend to care more about their appearance. When it comes to preparing for matric farewells, there are quite a few things that go into planning like your outfit, your hair, nails, and the car that would be escorting you, the photographer and who would be standing next to you as you enter the matric farewell venue. Most girls have started thinking of, whether they would opt to buy or design their dresses for that special day that marks the end of their school career. Most parents are against matric farewells, because they have to fork out a lot of money to make sure their children look the best.

“Matric farewells are organised by the school to say goodbye after 12 years of hard work. You are ending a certain stage of your life and entering a new one,” says Ellen Gudde, principal of St Paul's College in Windhoek. Gudde added that in society, it is a norm to celebrate certain milestones like birthdays, weddings and graduations so “matric farewells are also celebratory events.” She however explained to The Zone that matric farewells in today's world sometimes go overboard and children put a lot of pressure on their parents to make sure they look their best. “Matric farewells are not entirely there to say goodbye as the final exams are still to be written and most learners miss the mark,” she added.

Gudde matriculated in the 1960's and she shared that she also had a matric farewell party adding, “it was not extravagant at all.” Matric farewells of that time were hosted in school halls and less money was spent when it became to organise the event. “As a principal, I am not directly involved with the planning of the matric farewell as it organised by the head of Grade 12, relevant teachers and the learners themselves. It exerts a lot of financial pressure, especially on the parents so we have to make sure that the farewells do not affect the academics of our learners. That is why most matric farewells are done during the first week of the school holiday after the August mock exams. This is because we want our learners to have ample time to prepare for their final exams which commence in September. Gudde advised parents that they should put their foot down and they should not let their children dictate what must come out of their pockets.

Matric farewell spending has shot to more than N$8 000 as teens continue to go all out on this milestone. Where does all the money go? The Zone conducted a survey and found out that girls spent an average of N$1500 on a dress, N$600 to get their hair done and N$550 on their makeup. In addition, they fork out N$450 for shoes and N$350 on jewellery. Other matric farewells costs are likely to include car rentals, tuxedo rentals and dining.

Kristofina Iiyambo, a psychologist explained to The Zone that most teenagers go through immense pressure to try and make everything about their matric farewells perfect. “Matric farewells do not have to be your most favourite day of your high school experience. Honestly, I think events of this type are overrated.” She also added that matric farewells make learners materialistic and they focus on the wrong things. “You spend thousands on a dress that you will probably never wear again. It is literally just so you look good in pictures.”

Iiyambo added that although the matric farewell night fill one with anticipation, she urged teenagers to always be safe. These nights are known for drinking and young people find themselves in situations where the pressure to join is intense and irresistible. After their night, some teenagers hit the clubs and these indulgencies can turn ugly in a split second. The teenagers usually drive under the influence of alcohol and they drive at high speeds. Iiyambo suggests that parents should have open conversations with their children to warn them about falling victim to peer pressure. “Do not wait until prom night to talk with your kids. As a parent, you need to reassure your children that if they find themselves in a situation they know they should not be in, tell them to call no matter how complex the situation is. Let us also remember that underaged drinking is illegal.”

She also advised parents to set a curfew. “It may be lenient, but teens should not be out all night. They must come home before the crazy stuff happens,” Iiyambo advised. “You also need to have blunt conservations with your teenagers about sex on prom night. Even if it seems embarrassing, nights like these always involve sexual intercourse and teenagers are most likely to engage in risky sexual behaviour. Make sure your teen understands that “no means no. Pre-arrange cab fare and make sure your teen knows how to get transport to reach home safely.”

Matric farewells are goodbyes for teenagers organised by their respective schools, so Iiyambo warns parents and teenagers not to get caught up in undesirable situations at such events, but to focus on making sweet memories with close friends and prepare well for final examinations, saying life after high school is an on-going process that prepares them for adulthood.

TUNOHOLE MUNGOBA

Here's a book for you…

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Here's a book for you…Here's a book for you… Tangy Tshilongo recently published his book titled 'Inspired and Motivated by the Champion to Pass the Final Examination'.

The book strives to create awareness about the plight of learners and to motivate and inspire them to study and pass their final examination and uses Namibian boxer, Julius Indongo's life story to encourage learners to work hard.

The author says it took him a month to finish working on the book and says it was a very gruelling process that taught him about life and to encourage others to work hard to achieve their dreams.

“I managed to finish the book in one month and before that, I spent a lot of my time making sure that I did a lot of research on some of the issues I was focusing on,” said Tshilongo.

Tshilongo says he chose to focus on Indongo because of his achievements in the boxing ring and also to make the book more appealing to the youth. “Julius Indongo has many career highlights, he had a dream of becoming a champion and he became one.

In a way I was using his story to teach young children that they too can achieve their dreams if they are dedicated.

The book is a way to teach and inform learners about how they can do well in their examinations if they prepare well for them,” said Tshilongo.

Tshilongo plans on taking the book to different regions in the country because he wants more learners to get access to his tips on how they can improve their learning to pass their examinations.

“I will be doing learner conferences and motivational speeches during the school holiday in Ohangwena, Oshana, Omusati, and Kunene regions,” said Tshilongo. He advised all learners to make sure that they prepare for their examinations and not to let distractions get to them.

“You need to plan before you study for your examinations.

You need to make sure you know what to do and how to prepare for the examinations this will ensure that you pass all your subjects and eventually your final examination,” said Tshilongo.

The book gives learners tips on the importance of reading skills and why they are vital for learners. In some of the topics in the book, Tshilongo also highlights the attributes that make an ideal learner and shares guidelines with learners about time management skills, how learners can be dedicated to their studies and he also advises learners and teaches them how they can interact with one another to excel in their studies.

When The Zone contacted Indongo for a comment, he said it is an honour to inspire learners to study hard for their examinations and realise their dreams like him.

“I feel honoured to be associated with the youth in such a book and I encourage the youth to work hard, be disciplined and to respect their elders,” said Indongo.

Shona Ngava

Tutor

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TutorTutor He says the coaching empowers the learners to grow intellectually and helps them to realise their true potential.

“A tutor learner relationship is just not about the subject you are teaching, it is also about having an impact in that learner's life and making sure you teach them about life and motivate them to work hard,” Hashikutuva said.

He pointed out that subjects such as English, accounting, mathematics, physical science and life science are among subjects that many learners are finding hard to understand.

“The grades will show you that subjects such as English have a high failure rate as well as accounting, economics and business studies.

“I have seen that subjects that are applied or that require application are very difficult for many learners,” said Hashikutuva.

Hashikutuva says he usually helps learners based on the subjects that they are struggling with, saying he does not target learners who are performing badly. “What we normally do at AAA is to target the subject and not the learners and we analyse the subjects they find difficult and then assist them in those specific subjects,” added Hashikutuva.

According to him, when he started offering tutorials, he realised that many of the learners he was assisting were struggling because they had a low self-esteem and the environment they live in was also an issue.

“I think the environment the learners come from plays a huge role on how they perform and depending on they live, it can distract them from concentrating.

“Many students living in urban areas such as Windhoek have access to the internet and other resources that can help them with their studies compared to learners in remote rural areas with poor infrastructure. Due to poor learning environments, some learners perform badly,” said Hashikutuva.

Hashikutuva also said as a tutor, punctuality has been a huge stumbling block in his path of providing quality education to learners. “Punctuality is sometimes a problem because you agree with certain learners to start at a certain time and date, but they come late for classes and sometimes miss important lessons. Sometimes schools cannot provide classes to us because there would be functions booked to take place in those classes so that also hampers our work,” Hashikutuva added.

According to him, one of the biggest problems in the education system is that it is not functionally adequate, saying it is one sided and it does not incorporate all the aspects of many different learners. “The education system needs to take a look at the individual strengths and weaknesses of learners and focus on that.

For example, for learners who are very good in visuals they can be taught in colours or in a way that is appealing to them and for learners who like to listen, one can use audio instructions while learners with a passion for reading, are given their instruction in the form of reading exercises,” emphasised Hashikutuva.

He says career guidance for learners is important and parents and teachers need to guide learners on what careers paths to take.

“Many learners go to school because it is a requirement and thus usually do not know what career path to follow. Career guidance is important because it shows them a path in their life. If a learner knows the kind of career he or she wants to take, they must work on them from the very beginning in order to make better career choices,” advised Hashikutuva.

The University of Namibia accounting undergraduate says he usually tracks the progress of his learners by communicating regularly with the learners' schools for a constant update on their performance.

“Communication with the schools is very important. I usually make sure that I check the reports and see how well the learners are performing and look for subjects and areas they can improve on. As a tutor it is very important that you communicate constantly with the learners and schools and to always check on the learners' progress,” said Hashikutuva in conclusion.

Shona Ngava
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