IMF expects higher deficit than Calle

October 30, 2017, 3:00 pm

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IMF expects higher deficit than CalleSlashes forecast for real per capita GDP growth The IMF expects a deficit of 4.8% of GDP in the current fiscal year compared to the finance minister’s 3.6%.

Jo-Maré Duddy – If the International Monetary Fund has hit the mark with its latest forecast, finance minister Calle Schlettwein’s deficit targets set in his budget are in danger.

When he tabled the 2017/18 Main Budget in March, Schlettwein aimed for a deficit of 3.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) in the current fiscal year. Next year he wants to reduce the deficit to 2.5% of GDP.

In its Regional Outlook released yesterday, the IMF expects a deficit of 4.8% for 2017/18. In 2018/19 it will shoot up to 6% of GDP, the Fund forecasts.

Schlettwein is expected to table his mid-year budget review this week. This will indicate how reliable the IMF’s crystal ball is.

The IMF and Schlettwein are on par as far as their estimation for total government debt is concerned. Schlettwein’s main budget targeted 41.9% for 2017/18, while the IMF expects 41.5%. However, the two parties differ on the levels for 2018/19. Schlettwein’s target is 40.1% of GDP, while the IMF forecasts 43.6%.

Peers

Namibia’s debt burden for the current fiscal year compares favourably with the rest of region, according to the IMF’s latest forecast.

The average for government debt in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is 45.1% of GDP. For the Southern African Customs Union (Sacu), the average is 50.7%. The figure for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is 51.8%.

As far as deficits are concerned, Namibia is slightly below the averages. The average deficit forecast in SSA is 4.7% of GDP, the same as that of SADC. For Sacu an average of 4.3% is expected.

Namibia compares far less favourably when it comes to the IMF’s forecasts for government expenditure. For the current budget year, the Fund expects Namibia’s government expenditure to be 37% of GDP.

The average for SSA is 22.3%, while that of SADC is 28.7%. For Sacu an average of 33.7% is forecast.

The IMF estimates that government income in Namibia will amount to 32.1% of GDP in 2017/18. The Fund’s average for SSA is 17%, while it expects 23.6% for SADC and 29.4% for Sacu.

Economic growth

Namibia’s economy is expected to grow by 0.8% this year, according to the IMF. Schlettwein recently said the government now expects the economy to grow by between 1.8% and 2.3% this year, down from the forecast of 2.5% in the main budget.

The IMF’s average growth forecast for SSA is 2.6% and for SADC it is 2.2%. For Sacu the Fund only expects GDP growth of 0.9% in 2017/18.

The IMF slashed its forecast for real per capita GDP growth in Namibia this year. In April, the Fund forecast growth of 2.6%. Now it expects zero percent growth.

Compared to that the average forecast for SSA is 0.3% and for SADC it is 0.2%. Sacu has an average forecast of -0.6% for 2017/18.

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Rising debt, political risk dim region's economic outlook

October 30, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Rising debt, political risk dim region's economic outlook Debt servicing costs are becoming a burden. - IMF

MacDonald Dzirutwe - Economic growth is expected to rise to 3.4% in Sub-Saharan Africa next year from 2.6% in 2017, the IMF said in a report yesterday, but warned that rising debt and political risks in larger economies would weigh down future growth.

Nigeria and South African are the biggest economies in Africa south of the Sahara, but both nations have been clouded by political uncertainty linked to the tenure of their leaders.

The IMF said a good harvest and recovery in oil output in Nigeria would contribute more than half of the growth in the region this year while an uptick in mining and a better harvest in South Africa as well as a rebound in oil production in Angola will add to growth.

But political uncertainty loomed large in Nigeria, where President Muhammadu Buhari is afflicted by illness, causing speculation about whether he is well enough to run Africa's biggest economy.

South Africa has been clouded by the rule of Jacob Zuma, who has battled scandals, including corrupt allegations ahead of his ANC party's conference in December to elect a new party leader.

"Key downside risks to the region's growth outlook emanate from the larger economies, where elevated political uncertainty could delay needed policy adjustments and dampen investor and consumer confidence," the IMF said in a report launched in Harare.

"A further pickup in growth to 3.4% is expected in 2018, but momentum is weak, and growth will likely remain well below past trends in 2019."

To help maintain growth, countries should diversify from dependence on commodities and oil, implement fiscal reforms to stimulate growth and attract private investment.

Debt

The IMF said public debt would rise to 53% of GDP this year from 48% in 2016. More worryingly, most countries were now borrowing from local banks, which could distabilise the domestic financial sector and fuel inflation.

Debt servicing costs were also up, but high debt levels were in particular complicating the economic outlook for six nations, including Zimbabwe, which is gripped by a crunch forex shortage.

"Debt servicing costs are becoming a burden, especially in oil-producing countries ... and are expected to absorb more than 60% of government revenues in 2017," IMF said.

While some countries had made progress in reducing their fiscal deficits, others, like Africa's most advanced economy South Africa would see the deficit widen.

South Africa last week raised its estimate for this year's budget deficit, saying the country faced sluggish economic growth, shortfalls in revenue and costly bailouts of struggling state-owned companies.

Inflation pressures are easing especially in east Africa, which was hit by drought and the governments there increased maize imports to cut food prices. But in other places like Zimbabwe the high cost of imports is raising price pressures. – Nampa/Reuters

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Education bulletin is out

October 31, 2017, 12:32 am

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Education bulletin is out

The education ministry has finally finalised the Teaching Vacancy Bulletin 2018 and will publish it in local newspapers and digital platforms on Friday, 3 November.
This follows a string of demands, protests and a one-day demonstration by teachers to compel the ministry to release the bulletin.
According to the education ministry spokesperson Absalom Absalom the bulletin has been approved by the Secretary to Cabinet George Simataa and will now be made public.
The bulletin will be published in the Republikein, Namibian Sun, Allgemeine Zeitung, New Era, The Namibian, Confidente, Southern Times and the Informante newspapers.
A total of 2 569 posts will be advertised in the bulletin, 79 of which are for school principals, 198 for department heads and 2 292 for teachers.
“The above-mentioned teaching posts have been identified as critical and hence the need to be filled in order for the teaching and learning process not to be compromised. It should be noted that 119 of the posts have been newly created, due to pressing needs and as a result of the 15th day school statistics; while the remaining 2 450 posts are currently occupied by temporary teachers whose contracts will come to an end with effect from 31 December 2017, thus rendering the posts vacant,” said Absalom.
The 15th day school statistics is what the ministry use to plan its year ahead and determine the books, stationery and teacher needs in schools.
Prospective teachers will have two weeks to apply as the applications close on 17 November 2017.
JEMIMA BEUKES

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Awarding of sports legends produces unhappy few

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Awarding of sports legends produces unhappy fewQuestions about selection criteria MTC has come out in defence of MTC Sport Legends Awards amid ongoing criticism of the recently launched initiative.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

The initiative was launched at the MTC/NSC Sports Awards with the aim to pay homage to sporting heroes of yesterday in the field of football, professional boxing, athletics, swimming, golf and rugby.

However, some local sports fans felt that initiative awarding 17 sporting legends with N$10 000 each and free entrance to all MTC-sponsored events did not honour and represent all sporting legends who truly represented the country.

One sports fan who did not want to be named asked why active sports stars were awarded and not retired ones. “The people who were awarded are still writing their history and we have a lot who are retired. Why not award those first?”

John Ekongo, corporate communications officer of MTC, said the MTC Sports Legends is a uniquely MTC initiative and not a national initiative.

“Before this, there was none whatsoever and it is strange that nobody asked why nobody was doing anything to recognise our sports heroes. MTC has now taken this initiative on its own and instead of appreciating the initiative we question the criteria used.

“Our criteria were simple: we looked at sports personalities that delivered legendary performances, historical performances, performances that made us unite and smile and proud to be Namibian, performances that we will always remember and exceptional performances.

“We are well aware that this list of legends is not complete, and we hope that this initiative provokes the Namibian Sports Commission to start a hall of fame for sports in Namibia. The criteria and selection of the legends were based on our own discretion,” Ekongo said.

MTC chief human capital and corporate affairs officer Tim Ekandjo said they are not only MTC’s legends but Namibian legends that belong to all of us. “So we encourage others to come on board and show appreciation, whether it is a street name or whatever.

We are all aware that there are so many more pre-independence era sporting heroes, and we hope that this initiative will provoke the sport commission to establish a hall of fame for sport in Namibia,” concluded Ekandjo.

Inductees included the likes of Frankie Frederick, Luketz Swartbooi and Monica Dahl, who formed part of the first class of Namibian Olympians at the 92 Barcelona Games.

On the football side of things, former Brave Warriors striker Elifas Shivute, Ronnie Kanalelo, arguably the best goal minder ever to grace Namibian shores, Congo Hindjou, Ricardo Mannetti, now the second home-grown coach to charge the Brave Warriors successfully to a continental championship and 2015 Cosafa Champion.

As well as Collin Benjamin and Razundara Tjikuzu, the latter two being the only Namibians to have ever played in the tough German Bundesliga for over a decade.

Also inducted were professional boxers and world champions in their own right, undefeated boxing legend Harry Simon, Paulus ‘Hitman’ Moses, Paulus ‘Rock’ Ambunda and Julius ‘Blue Machine’ Indongo who ended up walking away with the Sportsman of the Year as well as Sports Achiever of the Year Award.

Swimming legend Monica Dahl, a two-time Olympian who was the youngest to represent Namibian at the Barcelona Olympics, first Namibian golf pro Trevor Dodds and acclaimed boxing promoter Nestor Tobias, who gained his first ever Springbok colours in 1982 and after retiring from professional boxing, ventured into promotion, coaching, mentoring and developing boxers.

He has managed to produce three world champions since 2009 and is also a four-time WBO Africa greatest boxing promoter recipient.

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Young Beast, Janitors crowned 3x3 champions

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Young Beast, Janitors crowned 3x3 championsKhomas leads in basketball Young Beasts and The Janitors from the Khomas Region dominated the national 3x3 basketball tournament on Saturday at the Basketball Artists School in Katutura.

In the female category, Young Beasts won all four of their games with an average of 14.5 points, accumulating a final score of 58 points.

On their way to the final, Young Beasts beat Living the Dream 20-0, following it up with a victory over Technical Basketball Academy (TBA) Queens by 21-3.

Ball Babes were next to fall, going down 9-7 in the final group stage match. Ball Babes and Young Beasts met again in the final, with the latter emerging victorious by an 8-0 score line.

In the male category, The Janitors were also in great form as they won the five games with an average score of 12.2 points, accumulating 61 points in total.

After beating Omaruru Boys 14-2, The Janitors went on to defeat Prhistking 11-6 and then followed it up with a 14-9 win against Team DGK before ending the group stage with a 13-1 win over The Landlords.

In the final, The Janitors defeated TBA Tax Collectors 9-8.

By winning their respective categories, Young Beasts and The Janitors automatically qualify to represent Namibia at the National Finals 3x3 Young Lions Cup in Botswana scheduled for 29 November 2017.

Namibia's 3x3 national coordinator, Penda Hamata, will serve as the competition director there.

Namibia Basketball Federation (NBF) development officer, Malakia Matias described the tournament as a success, saying all the teams from the regions participated.

“Ninety percent of the players who played are registered with FIBA (International Basketball Federation), meaning all the games they played gave them points, which is good for their rankings,” Matias said.

Seven female teams and nine male teams participated in the tournament.

He said the attendance was also impressive, while sponsorships came from OTB Sports, Streethouse and Fresh FM.

NAMPA

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MTC Nestor Sunshine Promotions best WBO promoter in Africa

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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MTC Nestor Sunshine Promotions best WBO promoter in Africa

The MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy's status as the leading promoter in Africa was once again confirmed when the World Boxing Organisation gave its Best Africa Promoter awarded to the academy for a fifth consecutive time at the just ended WBO Convention.

The 2017 WBO Convention took place on a cruise ship sailing to Cuba to honour the boxing-crazy nation.

The honour was bestowed on MTC Sunshine Promotions and its steward, Nestor Tobias, for their outstanding contribution to boxing, setting up professional bouts, the quality of the fights, frequency, and entertainment value.

“We have no doubt that the MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing & Fitness Academy deserves this award as the very best in Africa and of course a leading force to be reckoned with in the world of boxing, and this award is therefore in honour of their excellence,” remarked WBO president Francisco Varcarcel.

Tobias walked away with the Best Coach of the Year at the recent MTC/NCS Sports awards and was also inducted as an MTC Sports Legend along with all his former champions, Paulus Moses, Paulus Ambunda and Julius Indongo.

“We are honoured to be recognised by the WBO, and we are therefore accepting this award not on our own behalf, but on behalf of all our loyal boxing fans, our main sponsor MTC and our dedicated boxers who are committed to the sport of boxing,” said Tobias, who accepted the award in absentia.

Reacting to the news, MTC executive Tim Ekandjo said it was a remarkable and world-class achievement by the MTC Sunshine Academy, which is a reflection of world-class fans, a world-class sponsor and world-class boxers which they are proud of.

SPORTS REPORTER

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Aanooli onkene taya tungu omatungo gawo pomahala ga nika oshiponga

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

≫ Next: Omukiintu ta tamanekela edhipago lyomona a holoka mompangu

≪ Previous: MTC Nestor Sunshine Promotions best WBO promoter in Africa

Aanooli onkene taya tungu omatungo gawo pomahala ga nika oshipongaOmukalo ngoka ogwa nika oshiponga Iigongi ya yooloka mbyoka ya ningwa omvula ya piti kombinga yetungo lyomatungo shaaheli paveta poonkulo noondjila, oshowo kohi yoongodhi dhomalusheno monooli yoshilongo kayi na shoka ya pondola po.

Onkalo ndjoka ngashiingeyi oya lundalala na oya eta okwaahauvathana pokati kelelo lyevi lyaayehe, omalelo gopamuthigululwakalo, ooyene yevi naagandji yomayakulo ngaashi Roads Authority (RA), Telecom, NamWater, NamPower noNored.

Omalelo otaga lundile ooyene yomikunda kutya otaya gandja omavi inaya ninga oonkundathana naagandji yomayakulo mboka.

Omatungo ngoka otaga tsikile okutungwa mooha dhoondjila nonando okwa li kwa adhika etsokumwe omvula ya piti muNovemba, sha landula omutumba ngoka gwa ningilwa molukanda Opoto popepi nOngwediva. Okwa tsuwa kumwe kutya itaku ka pitikwa etungo lyomatungo omape popepi noondjila, popepi nominino ominene dhomeya oshowo kohi yoongodhi dholusheno. Omutumba ngoka ogwa li gwa kaliwa kiilyo yElelo lyUukwanyana, Opolisi yaNamibia, ooyene yevi oshowo aagandjoiyomayakulo ngaashi RA, Telecom, NamWater, NamPower oshowo Nored.

Elenga enene melelo lyUukwanyama, Amon Shipanga okwa koleke koNamibian Sun oshiwike kutya omatungo omape onkene taga tsikile nokutungwa mooha dhoondjila nonando okwa li kwa ningwa etsokumwe ndyoka.

Okwa popi kutya shoka osha ningwa pwaahena ezimino okuza kelelo.

“Onkalo ndjoka otu yi shi na itatu yi popile. Oshiwike sha piti sho nda li mondjila okuya kOndangwa onda mono omatungo omape ga tungwa pooha nondjila puAdolfi. Otandi ka konga uuyelele okuza kumwene gwomukunda Oikango kutya oshike sha holoka po. Uuna ooyene yomikunda taya gandja omahala ihaye tu tseyithile, uuna owala onkalo ya nayipala oopo haye ya kutse.”

Pethimbo lyomutumba ngoka gwa li gwa ningwa mvula ya piti, Shipanga okwa li a popi kutya ooyene yevi otaye shi ningitha oshidhigu okukondolola evi lyaayehe molwaashoka ohaya landitha po omahala gawo inaya tseyithila omalelo gopamuthigululwakalo. Okwa popi kutya omavi ngoka otaga landithwa woo koondando dhili pombanda noonkondo na otashi yi moshipala omalelo gopamuthigululwakalo ge ya indike. Okwa popi kutya ooyene yomavi ohaya ka tseyithila owala omalelo uuna ya taamba ko nale iimaliwa. Okwa tsikile kutya oye na iipotha oyindji tayi konaakonwa moka ooyene yomavi ya landitha omavi shaaheli paveta.

Omatungo ogendji ngoka taga tungwa ogoongeshefa nomunashipundi gwelelo lyevi lyaayehe mOshana,

Reinhold Iita okwa popi kutya elelo lyevi olyo owala tali vulu okuzimina egandjo lyevi lyongeshefa pokati kOshakati nOndangwa.

Okwa popi kutya omalelo gopamuthigululwakalo oge na owala oonkondo okugandja omavi gomagumbo omanga elelo lyevi lyaayehe li na oonkondo okugandja evi lyoongeshefa.

Oomwenyo tadhi tulwa moshiponga sho taku tsikilwa nokugandjwa omavi pomahala ga nika oshiponga, omanga aagandji yomayakulo taya popi kutya onkalo ndjoka otayi dhigupalitha iilonga yawo molwaashoka ooyene yomahala otaye ya indike okuya meni lyomahala gawo.

Omunambelewa omwiindjinia gwoRA, Silas Temba, okwa popi kutya RA kali shi ehangano lyokukalekapo oompango onkene onkalo oye ya dhigupalela.

Okwa popi kutya kutya ompango otayi utha kutya inaku pitikwa okutunga etungo tali kalele oshinano shoometa 100 popepi nondjila yaayehe nenge oometa 30 mondjila yomamanya, na okwa zimine kutya oya ndopa okuya moshipala onkalo ndjoka petameko.

Okwa popi kutya sho taya pula aantu mboka ya kuthe po omatungo gawo otaya popi kutya oya longitha iimaliwa oyindji nehangano lyawo nali ya fute. Ta gwedha po woo kutya aantu yamwe otaya tungile owina omatungo gawo popepi noondjila, opo ya vule okufutwa kuRA uuna a hala okutamununa mo oondjila. Okwa kunkilile kutya ehangano lyawo itali ka futa aantu.

ILENI NANDJATO

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Omukiintu ta tamanekela edhipago lyomona a holoka mompangu

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

≫ Next: Africa’s agri challenges

≪ Previous: Aanooli onkene taya tungu omatungo gawo pomahala ga nika oshiponga

Omukiintu ta tamanekela edhipago lyomona a holoka mompangu

Ompangulilo yaMangestrata gwaNdangwa oya li yuudha noonkondo mOmaandaha pethimbo mpoka omukiintu omunamimvo 31 a holoka mompangu, ta tamanekelwa oshipotha shedhipago lyokamonamati koomvula 10.

Kristofina Ngesheya, ota tamanekelwa edhipago oshowo eyonagulo lyomudhimba nonkambadhala okuya moshipala iilonga yuuyuki.

Ota tamanekelwa edhipago lyomona, Erickson Malulu, ngoka a tete omuligu na okwe mu tete woo uulumentu. Omudhimba gwaMalulu ogwa adhika popepi nokamba ompe yaakwiita mOndangwa Etine lya piti.

Oshiningwanima shoka osha halutha oyendji moshilongo na osha kondemwa woo. Aakwashigwana mboka ya geya noonkondo mOndangwa oya ningi ehololomadhilaadhilo pondje yompangulilo, naanaskola moskola yOluno Primary School oya wayimine ehololomadhilaadhilo ndyoka.

Aaningi yehololomadhilaadhilo oya pula opo ka ku gandjwe omboloha komutamanekwa. Omukwashigwana gumwe okwa pula kutya ota dhipaga ngiini okanona ke hoka a pulumutha ye mwene na okwe ka tekula uule woomvula omulongo.

Mangestrata Ninja Hochobes okwa tindile Ngesheya omboloha, na okwa undulile oshipotha shoka komasiku 14 gaDesemba nuumvo, opo a vule okuninga eindilo lyomukalelipo gwopaveta.

Ngesheya okwa tulwa miipandeko mEtine konima sho a fala iilyo yuulumentu yokanona ke yi li mokanayilona kongeleka yoUniversal Church of the Kingdom of God mOndangwa.

Ongeleka ya yamukula

Ongeleka ndjoka oya kondema oshiningwanima shoka na oya nyana olopota ndjoka ya pitithwa koNamibian Sun mOmaandaha.

Ongeleka oya popi kutya olopota ndjoka otayi gandja ethano ewinayi lyongeleka.

Oshifokundaneki inashi tumbula edhina lyongeleka molopota ndjoka ya pitithwa mOmaandaha.

Ongeleka oya popi kutya oya nongele owala kombinga yoshiningwanima shoka, mEtine, sho Ngesheya a yi kongeleka nokupopya komusita kutya okwa dhipaga okamona omolwa ongeyo.

“Elelo lyongeleka pamwe niilyo yawo ohayi uvithwa nayi kiiningwanima yuuhwapindi oshowo omamonitho giihuna. Moshiningwanima shika otashi pandulwa kutya omukiintu okwa mono kutya okwa pumbwa ekwatho na okwa yi kongeleka yemwene a ka popye nomusita,” omukanda gwongeleka gwa holola.

“Shito iikumungu ohayi ungaungiwa nayo paumwene nongele opena oshimbuluma sha longwa nenge okanona keli moshiponga ongeleka ohayi kutha oshinakugwanithwa opo yi gamene okanona hoka.

Omalundilo taga ningwa kwaamboka taya popi kutya ongeleka oyuupagani na otayi longo omaulodhi kage li mondjila. Elelo lyongeleka otali tindi nomuthindo omapopyo goludhi ndoka.”

KENYA KAMBOWE

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Africa’s agri challenges

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

≫ Next: Holding life and career in the palm of her hand

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Africa’s agri challengesInnovation, financing and production critical Jobs, food security and net production are very important to ensure Africa can feed itself going into the next decades.

Africa is often described as the world’s youngest continent: 220 million Africans are between 15 and 25 and are expected to be around 350 million by 2030. How can the local market absorb these new workers? How can we ensure that the rural world creates wealth and becomes a job provider on its own?

To address these challenges, the agricultural sector, which currently employs 60% of the African workforce and contributes up to 25% of the continent's gross domestic product (GDP), will have to go through a transformation process.

In order to prosper in a sustainable manner and maintain its food sovereignty, Africa crucially has to produce what it consumes whilst reducing its imports of processed products. Indeed, many opportunities in the agricultural sector are still largely underexploited due to limited access to capital: the sector attracts less than 5% of loans from the continent’s financial institutions, while less than 10% of producers have access to credit.

Traditional sources of financing and investment in Africa’s agriculture sector are no longer relevant, and past experience has confirmed the need for alternative and innovative financing methods such as those offered by the private sector as a complement to development aid. These include risk management tools such as index-based climate insurance that helps farmers mitigate climate risks; collateral products such as warehouse receipt programmes that eliminate the need for external collateral; or private partnerships such as equitable assistance programmes for smallholders that connect agriculture and food companies with farmers, thus enabling bank financing of agricultural inputs to improve productivity.

Obviously, the rapid growth of mobile phones throughout Africa is offering even more opportunities for transformative innovations to improve rural development financing. For example, Nigeria and Kenya were the first countries to develop subsidy distribution systems for farmers for the purchase of fertiliser thanks to partnerships with mobile technology companies and network providers.

In conclusion, let us recall that whilst public sector investment is certainly important for agriculture, private sector is ultimately the driving force behind rural development activity and growth. African states must mobilise all their efforts to create a conducive environment for an increased commitment from the local private sector.

Today, Africa remains the only continent to be a net importer of agricultural products, whilst more than half of African people depend on agriculture for all or part of their livelihoods.

Fati N'zi Hassane

*Fati N'zi Hassane is the head of Programmes, Skills and Employment for Youth, NEPAD

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Holding life and career in the palm of her hand

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Holding life and career in the palm of her handUndaunted and driven Desery van Wyk is the manager of digital channels at FNB Namibia. She talks to Business7 about her passion for technology, love for life and her belief to never give up. If your dream does not scare you, it’s not big enough.

B7: Tell us about Desery, the child, teenager and young woman. What shaped you, influenced you and inspired you to study business?

DvW: I grew up on a farm south of Rehoboth, called Schlip. I moved to Rehoboth at the age of 15 where I started my secondary school career at M&K Gertze. I served as class leader for three consecutive years and finished my matric at M&K Gertze where I served as head girl.

I ended my year at M&K Gertze on a high note when I started dating my boyfriend (now husband) Richard Van Wyk. Richard also served with me on the LRC in 1994 and we are happily married for 19 years. He is my best friend, companion, support and pillar. 19 years with the same husband is surely a blessing from above and all Glory to God.

B7: Elaborate on your career at FNB Namibia.

DvW: I a started at FNB at the early age of 20 and since then worked my way up and now lead the digital team as head of digital products at FNB Namibia. Despite the fact that I did not attend a formal university after school, I was determined to study throughout my career. I would like to thank FNB for the scholarship to finish my first degree at the University of Lincoln (UK). I believe my natural ability to lead and dream big inspired me to go for what I want. That is surely something I’ve learned from my parents who laid the perfect foundation to work hard and trust God for what you want. As the saying goes: faith without work is nothing.

At a younger age I always wanted to become an air hostess to travel and see the world. Due to my height, I did not qualify and therefore was unsuccessful to fill the positions as air hostess. However, that did not limit my dream to travel. Looking back after 20 years of working at FNB, I was able to travel to nine different countries all over the world. This is a sign that your circumstances should not limit your dream.

B7: What inspired you to study business?

DvW: The degree as well as the post graduate diploma is my stepping stone towards my MBA degree. I see business administration as a necessity for may leaders in the corporate world. Change is inevitable. Having a formal degree does not guarantee a position, but changes the way you look at things. Therefore, my advice to the generation young and not so is to embrace change and ensure that you upskill yourself on a regular basis.

B7: When did the technology bug bite you? Did you gradually grow fond of it or was it love at first sight?

DvW: I gradually grew into technology since I was appointed as the manager of cellphone banking. I feel comfortable with the latest technology and must admit that I do not always need a handbag with me - as long as I have my phone, lip gloss and my car keys with me, I am sorted. I believe the reason why the department was/is so successful is because of the team behind me and my natural leadership and dedication to make a success of everything.

B7: What are the major challenges and constraints hampering the optimal use of technology and how can it be addressed?

DvW: Education and resistance to change is the biggest constraint when it comes to technology. Not only in banking but everywhere. The best way to overcome this is to understand how to protect yourself and your money when using technology. I am of the opinion that people are resistant to change because of the perception that it is unsafe.

Take a concept of digital banking for instance, as soon as clients use it they will understand that it is all about convenience and more cost effective way to bank. Using technology to take care of daily operations such as paying bills etc. can result in more time which you can spend with family, friends, on education as well as your health. You can go one step further and use technology to streamline processes, manage your calendar, etc.

B7: Turning to online banking: What is the uptake of it in Namibia?

DvW: I would like to touch on eWallet which is also a kind of digital banking. eWallet was initially designed to send money to family or friends who are not close to you. It therefore saves you time and money to get into a car or taxi to deliver the funds or purchase prepaid services. We have noticed that the majority of our eWallet customers do not bank with us. Meaning that they are customers who are so called “unbanked, underbanked or illiterate”. I am of the opinion that we underestimate the intelligence and ability of our people to learn. It all comes back to trust. If my child, family or friend uses or any form of digital services, over time, I will get used to it and use it.

B7: Online banking can be quite intimidating to older generations - how does one convince them to use it?

DvW: The majority of our parents have cellphones and use it to sms or call. If they use a cellphone, they are more than capable to use cellphone banking. It is the same device and the same process as sending an sms. It all comes back to trust. If they get to trust that banking on the phone is actually safer and cheaper than going into a bank, they will use is. In the difficult economic times, digital banking is definitely the answer.

B7: With the media flooding the world with reports of hacking, how you assure clients that their money is safe?

DvW: Banking on a phone is exactly the same as using your ATM card because you need a pin and device in both cases. On a smart phone it is even safer because you first have to unlock the device as well as using the pin before you can start with a transaction. My advice to clients is that they should never click on a link when using the internet, never share their username or passwords, never save a pin or password on the phone and never use an internet cafe to transact.

B7: On a personal note: How do you juggle your career with your life as a wife and a mother?

DvW: I have only one word that makes this possible: prioritise. By doing that, you will ensure that you make time for your God, husband, children, friends, studies, career and family. It is not that easy, but with a good support structure at home, I believe that makes it so much easier.

B7: You have three daughters. Are you strict when it comes to their use of technology?

DvW: The three daughters are the best gift from above. They are in different age groups so I cannot apply the same rules to all at the same time. I am very strict when it comes to family time. I will always encourage them to leave their phones during our dinner times and rather share their experiences of the day. I will always treasure these times because those are the times when you can advise, invest in them and sometimes just listen.

B7: What is your favourite tech gadget?

DvW: My iPhone. As mentioned, I can do without a handbag, but find it difficult to operate without my phone. It helps me to create memories, manage my calendar, draw money, send reminders, connect me to friends and family all over the world, helps me to find direction, tell me about the weather … the list continues.

B7: What is your motto in life?

DvW: There are two. One is and I quote: “If your dream does not scare you, it’s not big enough.” Therefore I always dream BIG. On a more spiritual note that supports the first one: Nothing is impossible with God on your side. I believe that these two mottos have shaped me into the person that I am. If you know where your strength comes from, there is nothing to be afraid off.

B7: Any parting thoughts?

DvW: You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all your problems at once, but don't ever underestimate the importance being you. Keep persevering, keep pushing ahead, and refuse to give up on yourself. Know that with God all things are possible.

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You aren’t South African bru!

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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You aren’t South African bru! Any doubt that the #BlackMonday protests against farm killings were not based on racist ideology vanished when a popular Afrikaans artist was vilified as a ‘traitor’ because he pleaded for a broader focus and cautioned that the white protesters were “playing with fire”.

Or the apartheid flags or slogans such as “my people, my language, my pride”.

Of course, not everyone had malicious intentions and many genuinely believed the protests would help. But what it seems they did more than anything, is sow mistrust, anger, and confusion.

A handful of Namibians clearly identified strongly with #BlackMonday.

At the coast, some marched dressed in black.

At a grocery store, black Namibian staff allegedly dressed in black – willingly or not we don’t know – to support the campaign against farm murders.

One can reasonably assume that many of these grocery store employees face their own daily social struggles right here in Namibia – but obscenely, they became embroiled in a protest that has nothing to do with them and which addresses none of their own painful social problems.

A protest that reflected a dangerous and familiar trilogy of identifying pillars: Boer, Christian, Afrikaans.

An ideology that birthed apartheid South Africa, and generations of misery and trauma for black South Africans and Namibians.

This is not about denying people the right to show compassion for other human beings locally or internationally, or standing up for global human rights.

But, clearly, Namibia is dealing with its own fair share of horrific crime and social issues.

Child rape and domestic violence have reached appalling levels and is ruining thousands of lives.

Mostly black lives.

Very few Namibians, black or white, speak out sufficiently about these issues, so the lack of outcry from white Namibians is not in itself cause for condemnation.

But, they should be conscious of so frequently and so easily identifying with white South Africans, close to three decades after independence.

South Africans don’t give a damn about us. But we should give a damn about us. Read up on rape and murder statistics in your own country, think about the long-term generational harm it is doing to individuals, families, communities and our society as a whole.

Then post: My people, my country, my problem.

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Shot of the day

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Shot of the day

CREEPY: A woman disguised as "Catrina" (the Mexican representation of death) takes part in ‘Catrina’s Parade’ along Reforma Avenue, in Mexico City on 22 October 2017. Mexicans get ready to celebrate the Day of the Dead highlighting the character of La Catrina which was created by cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posada, famous for his drawings of typical local, folkloric scenes, socio-political criticism and for his illustrations of ‘skeletons’ or skulls, including La Catrina. Photo: NAMPA/AFP

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Illegal buildings continue to appear

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Illegal buildings continue to appearSituation in the north described as out of hand Despite meetings and agreements, it would appear as though headmen in the northern regions continue to sell land on road reserves, even though it is deemed illegal.

Several meetings held last year regarding the illegal construction of buildings within reserved areas in the northern regions appear to have had no impact at all as new buildings continue to be constructed.

The situation is out of control and has sparked tensions between the communal land board, traditional authorities, landowners and service providers such as the Roads Authority (RA), Telecom, NamWater, NamPower and Nored.

Authorities are accusing village headmen of illegal communal land sales and of allocating land without prior consultation with the service providers.

New buildings are still being constructed within the road reserve despite a November 2016 agreement signed at a meeting at Opoto location near Ongwediva. It was agreed that no new structures would be allowed within the road reserve, over main water pipes and under overhead power lines. The meeting was attended by members of the Oukwanyama Traditional Authority, the police, communal landowners and service providers such as the RA, Telecom, NamWater, NamPower and Nored were also represented.

The senior headman for Onamutayi district of the Oukwanyama Traditional Authority, Amon Shipanga, confirmed to Namibian Sun this week that new buildings continue to be erected in the road reserve despite the agreement. He added that this was done illegally and without the authority's consent.

“We are aware of the situation and we are also against it. Just last week, when I was travelling to Ondangwa, I saw more new structures set up along the road at Adolfi location. I am yet to find out from the Oikango district headman how this happened. When headmen are allocating land they do not inform us. It is only when things get out of control that they approach us,” Shipanga said.

At the meeting last year, Shipanga had said that communal landowners made it difficult for the traditional authority to control and maintain communal land. He said these landowners are selling land without prior consent and where they want to, without consulting the authorities. Furthermore, he added, they are selling it at high prices and that makes the traditional authority powerless to stop them.

“When landowners come to inform us, they have already accepted money. There are some cases pending where landowners have been summoned for the illegal land sales,” he said.

Most of the buildings in question are business structures and according to the chairperson of Oshana land board Reinhold Iita, only the land board can approve business land allocation. Iita said they had only approved one business allocation between Oshakati and Ondangwa in communal land.

“Traditional authorities have the power to allocate land for houses only, while only the communal land board has the power to give land for businesses, and we have not done that in a very long time -especially between Ondangwa and Oshakati,” Iita said.

Reportedly, lives are being threatened as communal landowners with the assistance of village headmen are allegedly continuing to sell large tracts of land in dangerous areas, while service providers say that land allocation in rural areas is a serious concern because houses and other buildings are denying them access to their facilities.

RA engineering technician Silas Temba said the RA is not a law enforcement agency and the situation is very difficult for them to solve.

“We write letters to these people but when we are going to their buildings there is no one to receive it. We thus cannot notify them they are building illegally. There is nothing or little you can do if people are not accepting these notification letters. As much as we would like to solve it peacefully and avoid demolishing, people are not complying,” Temba said.

He said the Act stipulates that no permanent or temporary structures are allowed to be erected within 100 m from the main road, and 30 m from the gravel road. He also admitted that they failed to prevent this catastrophe from the start.

“Some of these people were approached, but they told us that they used a lot of money to buy the land, so RA must compensate them first. Some are building close to the road purposely, saying that when RA expands the road, they will be compensated. People, the RA will not compensate you and we will demolish your structures,” he warned.

ILENI NANDJATO

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Review of oil sector ordered

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Review of oil sector ordered

President João Lourenço of Angola ordered a 30-day review of the nation's oil industry last month to address the "significant" challenges it faces, his first foray into the key business since he took office in September.

He directed a working group to determine how it can "improve the current conditions of investment in the oil and gas industry," and develop a "framework of cooperation" directly between the executive and oil companies.

The move, announced in a decree on October 13, came as Lourenço appointed Carlos Saturnino, a former head of Sonangol P&P, as secretary of state for oil. The president merged the ministries for oil and mining into one group, led by Diamantino Azevedo.

The working group will be led by the ministry of mining and petroleum resources and will include representatives of the finance ministry, Sonangol, the presidency and one representative from the Angolan divisions of oil majors BP, Chevron, ENI, Exxonmobil, Statoil and Total.

"Lourenço wants to impose his own approach to oil reform and, with the new commission, accelerate measures to improve ongoing tensions with oil majors, which do not appear to have been sufficiently addressed by Sonangol's current management," said HIS analyst Roderick Bruce. – Nampa/Reuters

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Angola's new president takes surprise steps to rein in Dos Santos

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Angola's new president takes surprise steps to rein in Dos SantosRemoves allies, clips daughter's wings Analysts, diplomats and politicians have been surprised by the speed at which President João Lourenço has tried to take on some of the entrenched vested interests that control the country. It’s very early still, but Lourenço is sending a sign that the excesses of the Dos Santos era will not continue. - Marcolino Moco, former prime minister of Angola

Stephen Eisenhammer - Angola’s new President João Lourenço is making swift moves to wrest power from his predecessor Jose Eduardo dos Santos, pushing out some of his key allies and vowing to combat monopolies controlled by a family that has run Angola for four decades.

Dos Santos, 75, handpicked Lourenço, 63, to succeed him when he stepped down in September after 38 years in power, prompting critics to suggest the little-known newcomer would be a puppet of the dominant Dos Santos family.

But analysts, diplomats and politicians have been surprised by the speed at which Lourenço has tried to take on some of the entrenched vested interests that control sub-Saharan Africa’s third largest economy and second biggest oil exporter.

Heavyweights from the previous administration, such as Vice President Manuel Vicente and Minister of State Manuel “Kopelipa” Hélder Vieira Dias Jr, have found themselves out of a job.

Dos Santos still retains significant power as the head of the ruling MPLA party, and key posts such as the finance minister and central bank governor have not yet been touched.

Oil sector

But in the vital oil sector, responsible for 75% of government revenue, Lourenço curbed the control of Dos Santos’ daughter, Isabel, who runs national oil company Sonangol.

In October Lourenço appointed Carlos Saturnino, who was sacked by Isabel dos Santos last year, as Secretary of State for Oil, a technically more senior role than that of his old boss.

“It was unexpected at this early stage,” said Marcolino Moco, a former Angolan prime minister and critic of Jose Eduardo dos Santos.

“It’s very early still, but Lourenço is sending a sign that the excesses of the Dos Santos era will not continue.”

Isabel dos Santos, Africa’s richest woman, denied any tension with Lourenço, telling Reuters last week that their views were in “full alignment”.

Monopolies

In his state of the nation address on October 16, Lourenço vowed to break up monopolies in the economy, directly mentioning the cement industry in which Isabel and her husband have large holdings.

He also abolished government communications department GRECIMA, with which a company co-owned by another Dos Santos daughter, Welwitschia, had lucrative contracts. The company, Semba Comunicação, could not be reached for comment.

“Breaking the monopolies enjoyed by the Dos Santos family would be going for the jugular,” said Ricardo Soares de Oliveira, an author and expert on Angola who teaches at Oxford University.

“But there is a danger of confusing a vendetta against Dos Santos with a true reform agenda,” Oliveira said.

Major reform

Major reform is desperately needed. Although an oil boom has made Angola one of Africa’s richest countries per capita, it is also one of the world’s most unequal, with the vast majority of the population sharing little of its wealth.

Angola’s economy fell into recession last year and unemployment is at least 25%. A lack of foreign currency has forced companies, such as airlines and oil services, to pull back operations. A US dollar fetches three times the official rate on the black market.

Ratings agency Moody’s downgraded Angola’s credit rating in October, saying the economy remained constrained by foreign currency shortages, high inflation, low public spending and a weak banking system.

There are early indications Lourenço may be placing capable technocrats into roles to fix some of these problems.

Ricardo Viegas de Abreu, a banking executive and former deputy governor of the central bank, was appointed last week Presidential Secretary for Economic Affairs.

José Massano, a former central bank governor popular with international investors, could return to his old job, local media reported. A spokesperson for the central bank declined to comment.

For Lourenço’s opponents the jury is still out.

“We’re still in the phase of promises … action hasn’t brought us anything yet,” Adalberto Costa Júnior, parliamentary head of main opposition party Unita, told Reuters. – Nampa/Reuters

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Central bank to get IMF technical support

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

≫ Next: Main opposition to elect new president by year end

≪ Previous: Angola's new president takes surprise steps to rein in Dos Santos

Central bank to get IMF technical support The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will provide technical assistance to the National Bank of Angola (BNA) in the process of adapting the institution "to international standards and good practices," the central bank said.

According to the BNA, the agreement for the support of the IMF comes after negotiations in the framework of the implementation of the Adaptation Plan of the Angolan Financial System to the international standards.

The technical assistance requested by the Angolan central bank to the IMF will be extended for two years aiming at "strengthening" banking supervision, preventing money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, "whose primary objective is the resumption of relations with the corresponding banks."

According to the BNA, the IMF said it will move forward with the technical assistance, "based on the strengthening of the Angolan legal framework" in the National Strategy for the Prevention of Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism. – Nampa/Xinhua

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Main opposition to elect new president by year end

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Main opposition to elect new president by year end

The leadership of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) intends to hold its extraordinary congress to elect the party's new president by the end of the year, though it has not found an ideal date for the event, according to party spokesperson Alcides Sakala.

The party needs to choose a new president after the incumbent Isaias Samakuva decided to step down.

Regarding the candidates, Sakala said that all qualified UNITA members may run for the party's leadership.

"UNITA has many cadres capable of running our historic party," added Sakala, who did not say whether he would join the competition.

The veteran leader of Angola's largest opposition party announced on September 27 that he would step down to allow someone else to keep the new government of President João Lourençoto account.

Among possible successors are Adalberto da Costa, who was the party's leader in parliament under the previous administration; Rafael Massanga Savimbi, son of UNITA's founder; and Lukamba Paulo, a former secretary-general of the party who lost a leadership election against Samakuva in 2003. – Nampa/Xinhua

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Shack fire debate rages

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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≪ Previous: Main opposition to elect new president by year end

Shack fire debate ragesDRC residents want standby firefighters The informal DRC settlement in Swakopmund has been plagued by fires and residents demand permanent firefighters at the station in the area.

Residents of the DRC informal settlement in Swakopmund are demanding that firefighters be stationed permanently in their area.

They made the plea after five shacks there were destroyed by fire on Monday.

Residents have on several occasions complained that the fire brigade always shows up late when fire breaks out in their area.

Speaking to Nampa at the scene, Paulus Cleopas, who helped extinguish the fire said they are tired of the late response.

“They basically just come to fight ashes; by the time they get here we did the best we can to save our things but the shacks and property are totally destroyed,” said Cleopas.

He wanted to know why firefighters cannot be stationed permanently at the fire station in DRC, instead of at the fire brigade in town.

“I do not understand why they have a fire station in DRC if there is nobody; it is always closed,” he said.

Approached for comment, fire chief Adri Goosen said the delay is caused by the distance to the informal settlement and the time such calls come in.

He also said they had a shortage of staff but two new firefighters have been employed and will be deployed to the DRC fire station.

“They will soon be there on standby where it is closer, and I am sure we will be able to save more shacks this way,” Goosen said.

DRC residents cooperate to fight fires.

“I came from far to come and help; this is the spirit we have here because tomorrow these people will help me when my shack is burning,” said Cleopas.

Residents were seen on Monday removing personal items from the burning shacks and those nearby. Others were on top of the shacks with buckets of water, while others used sand to try and extinguish the flames.

Goosen, however, cautioned that people could get hurt if they try to extinguish fires themselves.

No casualties were reported on Monday and the cause of the fire is still to be determined.

NAMPA

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Traditional authority loses eviction bid

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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Traditional authority loses eviction bid An application by the Otjikaoko Traditional Authority for an eviction order against three respondents and an order interdicting them from settling on any communal area under its jurisdiction was dismissed with costs in the High Court in Windhoek.

Judge Boas Usiku last week ordered the traditional authority with its seat in Opuwo, Kunene Region, to pay legal costs of the application.

The specific areas in dispute are Okanandjira and Oupako in the Kunene Region.

The respondents were Tjimaka Tjavara, Otjijatu Herunga and Ruputu Tjisuta, all of whom currently reside in the areas in question.

They are accused of having come from Orotjitombo area and settling at Oupako in November 2014 without authorisation.

Judge Usiku emphasised that it is difficult to determine whether or not the respondents are members of a different traditional community who left their community and settled in the area under the jurisdiction of the Otjikaoko authority.

“This aspect is crucial because part of the prayer sought by the Otjikaoko Traditional Authority is to interdict the individuals from settling on any communal area under the authority of the said traditional authority,” the judge stated.

He further stated it is not indicated why Herunga must be interdicted from settling on any communal area under the authority of the applicant.

Tjavara, Herunga and Tjisuta had argued that they have temporary grazing rights and are authorised to reside at Okanandjira and Oupako. The inspector-general of the Namibian police was also cited as a respondent.

Herunga and Tjavara were authorised to reside in the said area by the chief there and contended that the chief of Otjikaoko, Paulus Tjavara, did not consent to their eviction.

“It is the contention of the respondents that Herunga was born and raised at Ekango and has right to reside at Oupako and Okanandjira. I hasten to add here that it is not clear from the evidence how all these places relate to one another,” Judge Usiku said.

FRED GOEIEMAN

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Company briefs

October 31, 2017, 3:00 pm

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≪ Previous: Traditional authority loses eviction bid

Company briefs

Rest of Africa weighs on Shoprite Q1 sales

Shoprite increased turnover 6.4% in the three months to end September, buoyed by South African sales, but with weaker commodity prices weighing on in its business in the rest of Africa.

Africa's largest grocer grew South African sales 8.1% in the three months to end-September as it kept price increases low amid weak economic growth, the company said.

But sales growth in Angola slowed "significantly" from an increase of 110% the previous year. Shoprite's supermarkets outside South Africa reported a 1.8% drop in turnover mainly due to the impact of lower commodity prices and weaker currencies in Angola, Nigeria and Zambia, the company said. – Nampa/Reuters

Two banks drop McKinsey in fallout from SA scandal

Barclays Africa and Standard Bank said they would stop working with McKinsey, a further blow to the global consultancy as it faces allegations of bribery for work done with friends of South African President Jacob Zuma.

Privately-held McKinsey, the world's largest management consultancy, has denied doing anything illegal but said this month that it was embarrassed by mistakes it made while working with Eskom last year. McKinsey said it regretted working on a R1.6 billion contract at Eskom alongside a company controlled by the Gupta family. – Nampa/Reuters

Glencore raises marketing guidance

Glencore has cut its output forecast for core commodities including zinc, but raised its marketing division's full-year earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to between US$2.6 billion and US$2.8 billion, reflecting higher raw materials prices.

Its previous 2017 marketing, or trading, EBIT guidance was US$2.4 billion to US$2.7 billion, which was already an upward revision from US$2.1 billion to US$2.4 billion at the start of the year.

In its third-quarter production report, Glencore lowered its output guidance for copper, zinc and coal, citing operational difficulties, maintenance and end-of-mine-life declines, but it said full-year earnings would not suffer. – Nampa/Reuters

Scotch whisky flags 'concerning' trends

Makers of Scotch whisky are worried about trends showing falling sales volumes of Britain's biggest food and drink export, although sales were still higher in terms of value in pounds.

Sales of Scotch overseas fell 2% to 528 million bottles in the first half of 2017, although the value rose 3.4% to 1.8 billion pounds (US$2.37 billion), helped by a shift in tastes to more expensive single malts as well as a weak pound, the Scotch Whisky Association industry lobby said.

Scotch whisky accounts for nearly a fifth of Britain's total food and drink exports, by far the leading product in the sector. – Nampa/Reuters

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