Shot of the day

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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NO ENTRY: An opposition supporter reacts under the heavy rain in front of a burning barricade in Mathare district, in Nairobi on October 26, 2017, as a group of demonstrators blocked the road and tried to prevent voters from accessing a polling station during presidential elections. Kenyans trickled into polling stations on October 26 for a repeat election that has polarised the nation, amid sporadic clashes as supporters of opposition leader ignored his call to stay away and tried to block voting. PHOTO: NAMPA/AFP

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Intelligent World Drive heads to China

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Intelligent World Drive heads to ChinaOn the road to autonomous driving Mercedes-Benz went on automated test drive in the Shanghai megalopolis.

Pedestrian crossings on the motorway, separate speed limits for each lane, traffic signs with Chinese characters – traffic in China differs from that in Europe or the USA in many aspects.

That is why China requires foreign motorists to have a Chinese driving licence. Automated and autonomous vehicles also have to prove their fitness for this market in advance.

Mercedes-Benz started the 'Intelligent World Drive' at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September to adapt more highly automated driving functions to national user and traffic practices.

After the start in Germany, the test vehicle based on the new production S-Class Saloon is then put through its paces in test drives in the heavy traffic and exposed to the special national features in the Chinese megalopolis of Shanghai in October.

The test vehicle will face different traffic situations on five continents until January 2018 and will also gauge the limits of current systems in the process. The aim is to gather global insights in real-life traffic for the advancement of the technologies.

Urban traffic is one of the biggest challenges on the road to autonomous driving. Automated driving functions must be able to master highly complex traffic situations, which can differ greatly around the world to boot. The focus of the test drives in Shanghai is on assessing the driving behaviour in extremely heavy traffic with its different participants, as well as on infrastructure peculiarities.

Peculiarities in Chinese traffic

The high density of cars, two-wheelers, three-wheelers and pedestrians and the associated traffic behaviour in Chinese cities pose different requirements on automated driving functions than in Europe or the USA.

In addition, there are road signs with Chinese characters and lane markings, which in China have different or even multiple meanings. For example, short white lines, known around the world as pedestrian crossings, can also be found on motorways. However, they don't denote a pedestrian crossing, but the minimum distance between vehicles.

The sensors must be able to recognise this and interpret it correctly.

Intelligent World Drive – five continents in five months

With the 'Intelligent World Drive', Mercedes-Benz is testing automated driving functions on five continents using a test vehicle based on the S-Class.

Over a period of five months, the saloon will face traffic situations of different complexities to gather valuable experiences on the road to autonomous driving.

The first leg took place in Germany in September. This test drive focused on assessing the specific driving behaviour on motorways and in tailback situations, an important component for the development of future technologies.

The second leg in the Shanghai megalopolis will be followed by test drives in Australia in November and South Africa in December.

The focus in Australia will be in particular on the validation of the latest digital map data of HERE, whereas in South Africa pedestrian detection in many new situations will play a major role.

The final stop of the 'Intelligent World Drive' will be the CES in Las Vegas in January 2018.

The test drive in Greater Los Angeles and afterwards on to Las Vegas will concentrate on evaluating the driving behaviour in heavy American urban traffic and in tailbacks as well as when traffic is overtaking on the right on highways.-MotorPress

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Hansen happy with All Blacks 'composure'

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Hansen happy with All Blacks 'composure' All Blacks win Fly-half Barrett was one of the few New Zealand players at Twickenham.

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen praised the "composure" shown by an experimental All Blacks side after they came from behind to launch their tour of Europe with a 31-22 win over the Barbarians at Twickenham.

The world champions were in danger of defeat after falling 17-5 behind in Saturday's first half against a Barbarians side where 10 of the starting XV were from New Zealand and not a single member of the match day 23 a native European a sign of how things have changed for a 127-year-old invitational team once built on British and Irish players.

But three converted tries in six second-half minutes turned the tide, with captain for the day Beauden Barrett leading the side for the first time in place of rested regular skipper Kieran Read adding the goal-points.

By contrast, the bulk of the team that kicked off on Saturday in a match where a crowd of more than 62,000 witnessed nine tries in total, won't be in action again until the All Blacks play a "French XV" in Lyon on November 14.

"A young side, we had to show some composure. A new skipper (Barrett), he showed a lot," said Hansen.

"There was a lot of good stuff there and some good learning," he added after returning to the scene of New Zealand's 2015 World Cup final win over Australia.

"We'll see how they grow now between now and Lyon, that group."

New Zealand may remain top of the world rankings but they have occasionally looked fallible this year, this with the British and Irish Lions holding the All Blacks to a 1-1 draw in a three-match series.

"They're vulnerable, but they're still travelling well," said Barbarians coach Robbie Deans, himself a former All Blacks fullback. "They're giving teams a sniff. They gave us a fair amount of encouragement in the first half."

But Deans, previously the coach of both the Crusaders and Australia, added: "They're in no hurry to give up their status as the best team in the world.

"They're also building depth. All the players exposed to this create a pool that are hungry."

The Barbarians, who pushed Australia close with former Wallaby boss Alan Jones as their coach before losing 31-28 in Sydney the previous weekend, have seen the future of their showpiece fixtures repeatedly called into question during a professional era of ever more congested schedules and mounting concerns over player welfare.

But Deans, who also guided the Barbarians to a 31-31 draw with South Africa at Wembley last year, was adamant they deserved their place in the modern game.

"It's thriving, it's alive and well," he said.

"The jersey means a lot to them and it's a week that is very special in a player's life.

"This is the way rugby should be... It's a player's game and sometimes coaches forget that," said Deans, who coaches the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan. "The cross-pollination is stimulating."

Deans cited the effect of playing for the Barbarians on Crusaders fly-half Richie Mo'unga, one of their three try-scorers on Saturday.

"Richie Mo'unga was with us last year off the bench. He's a starter now and knocking on the door for the All Blacks.

"It will happen, it's inevitable, and experiences like this accelerate that."

Deans' comments were underlined by Barbarians captain Andy Ellis, now enjoying his third stint with the club.

"I feel like I'm a seven-year-old again running out on Hagley Park (in Christchurch) in the frost and playing rugby because I love playing rugby," said the former New Zealand scrum-half. "I think that's pretty cool."

NAMPA/AFP

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Another successful Jazz Festival

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Another successful Jazz Festival

Local and international artists set the stage alight with mesmerising performances at the Windhoek Jazz Festival over the weekend.

The line-up for this year's show included performances by a host of great local artists. Big Ben's energetic performance confirmed why he is one of the most respected local musicians. During his performance, he encouraged the crowd to love one another and emphasises the importance of education.

“Let's love each other, let's stop the killing and spread more love,” he said. So stellar was his performance, one can say Big Ben can represent Namibia at one of the most prestigious jazz events, the Cape Town Jazz Festival. Suzy Eises, Erna Chimu and Lize Ehlers lived up to their titles of being the country's leading ladies of local Jazz.

The crowd literally went wild when popular artist Ringo Madlingozi stepped onto the stage. Ringo rolled back the years and performed several of his greatest hits, including Sondela, Into Yam and Nkqo Nkqo. During his act, he thanked the crowd for coming out in their numbers and said it's always a pleasure to be in Namibia. Headliners Micasa loved the energy so much they went over their performance time with more than 30 minutes. Singing new and old songs, the band indulged their fans with great dance moves. Grab yourself a copy of Namibian Sun on Friday for the event in detail and more pictures.

June Shimuoshili

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Diabetes could cause crashes

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Diabetes could cause crashesAssociation says up to 50% are unaware Due to the fact that untreated diabetes can cause hallucinations and coma when blood sugar levels drop, the Diabetes Association of Namibia says this could be contributing to the high level of deadly road accidents.

The Diabetic Association of Namibia (DAN) says that up to 50% people are not aware of their diabetic status. The association wants to collaborate with the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund saying that many of accidents recorded on our roads could be due to diabetes and drivers being unaware of the their status.

DAN coordinator, Dr Matthews Mojekwu, told Namibian Sun that some road crashes, especially those which see a driver completely out of his lane or simply having lost control of the vehicle, could be linked to diabetic attacks.

“Hypoglycaemia and coma are the only two of the many myriad of disasters that may afflict a diabetic and as such, they can develop visual hallucinations moments before lapsing into a coma while driving. This can cause a major accident,” explained Mojekwu.

From 12 to 19 November it is Diabetic Week and the DAN would like to step up the fight against diabetes, including tagging diabetic patients with tags that contain their diabetic records to assist medical practitioners.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar, and hyperglycaemia or raised blood sugar is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes.

WHO say that the disease is in two forms - Type 1 diabetes which is characterised by deficient insulin and Type 2 diabetes that results from the body's ineffective use of insulin.

Mojekwu said that during Diabetic Week they are planning to obtain sufficient signatures and data which will assist them to make a request to the MVA Fund to ask parliamentarians to enact a law that will make it mandatory for every driver to be readily tested for their blood sugar.

“It is our belief that because diabetes is so rampant and that as much 50% of diabetics are not aware of their status, many of them are drivers who can lapse into hypoglycaemic coma and visual hallucinations at any time,” he said.

He said that in some cases survivors only have a vague recollection of events following these episodes.

DAN also urges members of the public also to test for diabetes. They are planning to tag all diabetics with alert bracelets that will assist medical practitioners. He said that many people have lost their lives because they were wrongly treated.

“If you are diabetic and you so desire, a DAN medic alert bracelet could be obtained at our offices. This is to ensure that that all diabetic patients throughout the country are identified as such. The bracelets will contain the patient's diabetic information and record that will assist medical practitioners to give the right treatment and medication whenever they are attending to diabetic patients,” he said.

“We are equally motivating our medical students to carry out more research on this phenomenon as someone hypoglycaemia may appear as delusions and to those who have no knowledge, the person appears to be drunk. All this information will assist the MAV Fund's approach and measures in addressing road safety.”

ILENI NANDJATO

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Company news in brief

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Company news in brief

Apple firmly on course for US$1 trillion

Apple Inc's shares rose to a record high on Friday as more analysts set a trillion-dollar valuation on the company, following a blowout fourth quarter and an upbeat forecast that quashed investor concerns around the iPhone X.

The stock rose as much as 3.7% to US$174.26, briefly breaching US$900 billion in market value, amid declines in the broader market. The gains added nearly US$32 billion to the company's market capitalisation.

Apple said on Thursday it expects first quarter revenue of US$84 billion to US$87 billion. – Nampa/Reuters

Lonmin shares lose a quarter of value

Lonmin shares fell around 25% on Friday after the platinum miner delayed its annual financial results because it could not yet give a specific figure for the impact of an ongoing business review.

The London and Johannesburg listed miner announced a review of its business in August to address uncertainties about its ability to continue as a going concern. The review includes the sale of some of its assets, cutting jobs and renegotiating loan agreements.

Despite reporting higher production over the last few months, Lonmin is still battling persistently low platinum prices which have cut into profits. – Nampa/Reuters

SA not considering IMF bailout for now

South Africa is not considering an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout at this stage, a senior Treasury official said on Friday, as the country struggles with weak growth, low tax receipts and rising debt.

“Financial markets can behave in very unpredictable ways so all options are on the table but . . . we are not considering any IMF bailout at this point, it's not necessary,” Michael Sachs, deputy director general at Treasury's budget office told reporters.

He earlier told Parliament that the Treasury had met an IMF delegation that is currently in the country. – Nampa/Reuters

Air France-KLM profit jumps

Air France-KLM said improving price trends helped it report better than expected third quarter profits, joining major European peers in benefiting from strong summer demand.

The Franco-Dutch company reported third quarter operating profit up 38.7% to 1.022 billion euros (US$1.2 billion), against the average analyst expectation of 953 million in a Reuters poll.

Unit revenues - a closely-watched measure of how much income is generates per unit of capacity - increased 4.1% in the quarter and Air France-KLM said it expected an increase in the fourth quarter as well, driven by long-haul bookings.

Lufthansa last week said unit revenues rose 4.5% in the third quarter, outpacing British Airways-parent IAG, which saw a 2.2% rise as it added capacity from Aer Lingus and low cost unit Level to transatlantic routes. – Nampa/Reuters

SocGen increases provisions for legal disputes

French bank Société Générale said on Friday that resolving two legal disputes with US authorities was a matter of the coming weeks and months, as it tacked on 300 million euros (US$350 million) to its litigation reserves.

SocGen also reported a 15% fall in third quarter net income to 932 million euros, that came below analysts' estimates of 1.00 billion euros, according to a Reuters poll.

“Société Générale is currently in discussions with the US authorities over two litigations, LIA (Libya Investment Authority) and IBOR in order to reach an agreement to resolve these matters, and has decided, as a precautionary measure, to increase the provision for disputes,” the bank said in a statement, adding that the overall amount of its litigation provisions reached 2.2 billion euros. – Nampa/Reuters

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Nored appoints contractors to deal with backlog in new connections

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Nored appoints contractors to deal with backlog in new connectionsVandalism, theft big challenges Continued failure to pay their accounts could lead to Nored’s 76 705 prepaid clients’ electricity being disconnected.

RUNDU – The Northern Regional Electricity Distributor (Nored) has appointed 23 contractors for the installation of new connections, its chief executive officer, Fillemon Nakashole, said last week.

Nakashole was speaking at a stakeholder meeting at Rundu, where a number of issues were addressed.

There were complaints about the long waiting period from customers, hence the decision to appoint the contractors throughout its area of operation to accelerate the process.

Another challenge is clients who do not pay their bills on time, he said.

“These are customers who consume electricity but who are just not paying and it makes our operations very difficult,” Nakashole said.

He added that their continued failure to pay could lead to the distributor’s 76 705 prepaid clients’ electricity also being disconnected if Nored does not pay its account with NamPower.

Nakashole encouraged people who cannot pay their accounts, to contact the company.

Other big challenges the electricity distributor faces are vandalism and theft of its infrastructure.

Nakashole said in the Omusati Region someone chopped down an electricity pole, while in the same region electric cables are tampered with, which could lead to electrocution. - Nampa

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Africa Briefs

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Africa Briefs

Kenyan PMI hits record low in October

Private sector activity in Kenya dropped to a record low in October as prolonged political instability exerted a heavy toll on the economy, survey data showed on Friday.

The Markit Stanbic Bank Kenya Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for manufacturing and services slumped to 34.4 from 40.9 in September, its lowest since the series began in January 2014.

Output has contracted for six straight months, according to the PMI, and last month's drop was the sharpest since the series began, as output, new orders and employment contracted.

The economy grew 5% in the first half of the year, falling short of its full year forecast of 5.5%. Political uncertainty was compounded by a severe drought in the first quarter. – Nampa/Reuters

Nigeria moves towards border controls on hard currency

A draft law to ease a US dollar shortage by restricting movement of hard currency in and out of Nigeria passed its second parliamentary reading last week.

It would ban individuals and companies from exporting more than US$50 000 in cash without written approval of the central bank, with contraventions punishable by up to two years in prison.

Anyone importing more than US$10 000 would have to disclose the source of and use for the funds.

The bill, which would have to be passed by the upper house to become law, also seeks to extend the time for issuance of capital importation certificates to 72 hours from 48 hours. – Nampa/Reuters

Sudan's GDP seen lower in 2017

Sudan expects economic growth to slow down to 3.5% this year compared to 4% in 2016, with GDP and inflation targets for 2018 still being discussed by government, finance minister Mohamed Othman Rukabi said.

Last month, Rukabi said Sudan's economy was headed for gradual recovery after the US lifted its 20-year-old economic sanctions, opening the way for critical economic reforms and badly needed investment. – Nampa/Reuters

Six central African countries seal deal on free movement

Six countries in central and western Africa have breathed life into long-running plans to allow visa-free movement of people among their nations.

At a summit in the Chadian capital of N'Djamena, the countries formally declared that the scheme had now been ratified by all members.

The agreement gathers six francophone states - Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Republic of Congo - in a bloc called the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).

The association, set up in 2000, has a potential market of 30 million consumers, many of whom however, live in poverty.

Visa-free access for workers will remove one of the many bureaucratic headaches for transport companies and other providers of cross-border services in the region. – Nampa/AFP

Egypt to keep customs exchange rate at 16 pounds

Egypt will keep its customs exchange rate unchanged at 16 pounds per US dollar for November.

Egypt began setting a monthly fixed customs exchange rate in January, following the flotation of its pound currency last November. It has since set it each month.

The pound has gradually strengthened in recent weeks. – Nampa/Reuters

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Marseille open probe after Evra sending-off

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Marseille open probe after Evra sending-off

Marseille said Friday they had opened an inquiry after defender Patrice Evra was sent off for launching a karate-style kick at a fan ahead of the Europa League match against Vitoria Guimaraes.

Evra, 36, was handed a red-card Thursday when he launched the attack following a heated exchange with a group of Marseille fans on the touchline before the kickoff.

Announcing the probe, Marseille said in a statement: "No matter what happens, a professional player must maintain self-control despite provocations and insults, no matter how unjustified they may be."

Evra was confronted by a group of supporters who had managed to get out of an area reserved for around 500 Marseille fans, who had travelled to Portugal for the game.

Stewards at the ground quickly intervened to break up the trouble, with Evra, who was originally listed as a substitute, ordered to return to the dressing room by the referee.

"Pat has experience, and he must not react, it's obvious," said Marseille coach Rudi Garcia whose side lost the game 1-0 and also had Boubacar Kamara sent off three minutes from time.

"Patrice is a more than just an experienced player. You can't respond, of course, to insults as bad as they are and as incredible as they might be because they come from one of our supporters."

"He must learn to keep his cool. That's all I can say."

Garcia, however, blasted the fan who taunted the 81-times capped Evra at the compact Portuguese stadium.

"He's not a supporter of Marseille, because you can't insult your own players, you have to be behind all of us."

The incident immediately brought back memories of another act of kung-fu kick madness by a French footballer.

In January 1995, Eric Cantona, playing for Manchester United, launched a flying kick at a Crystal Palace supporter at Selhurst Park who had jeered him after he had been sent off.

Cantona's assault led to a nine-month ban handed down by the English Football Association.

According to football statisticians Opta on Thursday: "Patrice Evra is the first player to be sent off before the start of a match in the history of the Europa League".

Europe's second-tier tournament replaced the UEFA Cup for the 2009-2010 season.

Evra, also a former Manchester United star, has received heavy criticism for his performances this season and lost his place in the team to on-loan Aston Villa left-back Jordan Amavi.

NAMPA/AFP

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Mike is a legend

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Mike is a legend The giant of Namibia Paralympics Some people have become the eyes for those that cannot see, legs for those that cannot walk and arms for those that cannot reach.

A man who normally hates to take credit for his good work and would rather be behind the scenes, Michael Hamukwaya, has been the pillar of strength and backbone for Namibia’s Paralympics.

Many athletes that went on to become world champions and Olympic medallist have gone through coach Hamukwaya.

He has devoted his time and career to improving the lives of those who felt helpless and hopeless due to disabilities.

Also the secretary-general of the Namibia Paralympics Committee, Hamukwaya has earned his place as one of the best sport administrators of all time.

Sometimes the people who do the most work behind the scenes are hardly recognised and remain unsung heroes.

About 40 years ago in Zambia, during the liberation struggle, a child was born on 23 December and little did his parents know that he was going to be a star.

Growing up as a refugee in a camp in Kwanza-Sul Angola, his passion and desire was always to help those that needed help.

After spending many years in exile, Hamukwaya went to Cuba and attended school at the Hosea Kutako and Hendrik Witbooi schools.

He fell in love with sports and started participating in various school activities, including helping out a school for special athletes.

The Paralympics gaffer stayed in Cuba for over eight years and only returned to Namibia in 1994.

Hamukwaya however received a rude welcoming because English was a problem for him and so he had to repeat some classes.

As a man who only knew Spanish and his mother tongue Oshiwambo, Hamukwaya repeated grade 11 and 12 so that he could improve his English.

He did this at the DOS (Namib High School) in Swakopmund from 1994 to 1996 and finally learned to speak English.

As a multitalented sportsman, Hamukwaya was not shy to compete in many sport events at the school and was the first black sportsman of the year in the school history.

“After I completed my schooling in 1996, I enrolled with the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) in 1997, where I studied to become an autopathic technician until 1999.

“In the late 1990s I was also selected to play for the national basketball team at senior level, but my career was cut short by a knee injury.”

The injury did not discourage him and he started scouting for athletes with physical disabilities in northern Namibia.

“In 2005, Hamukwaya I selected to become the Paralympics national team coach. I attended a few short courses in athletics in Cairo and at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa.

“My first coaching experience came when he took Namibia’s first Paralympic athlete Reginald Benade to the Beijing Paralympics in 2008.

“Under my guidance, Benade returned home with Namibia’s first-ever medal – a bronze in the shot put event.”

Hamukwaya is also a proud holder of an IAAF Level 2 training certificate and is now a well-established coach and trainer.

The coach was part of the Paralympics team that brought home Namibia’s first-ever gold and silver medals, as Johanna Benson made history at the 2012 London Paralympics.

“My dream has always been to see many athletes with a disability believe that they can do great things if they commit to what they love to do.

“There are so many success stories to be told about Paralympics in Namibia because the guys and girls have broken many barriers,” Hamukwaya said.

Hamukwaya encourages parents with children with disability to contact his office in order to get them to participate in various activities.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

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IAAF to introduce world rankings in 2018

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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IAAF to introduce world rankings in 2018

Athletics is to introduce a world rankings system in 2018 as part of a widespread effort to bring some sense and shape to its currently nebulous calendar, and continue to move away from the sport's scandal-hit past.

The introduction of the rankings in partnership with All Athletics, announced on Friday, is part of a sweeping reform package that was voted in by the IAAF last December to change the way the sport's governing body operates.

The rankings will be a point-based system in which athletes collect points across different levels of meet throughout the season to determine qualification for premier competitions such as the Olympics and World Championships.

It is also hoped that the introduction of the rankings will bring some focus to the Diamond League, where currently leading athletes often do not compete against each other, leaving fans feeling short-changed and often confused.

International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President Seb Coe has made no secret of his frustration with many aspects of the Diamond League's current format and is desperate to reform it.

When it comes to major championships, athletes are currently selected by their national associations, if they achieve a qualification time or mark.

"The IAAF World Rankings will drive and shape the global competition system including entry into the World Championships and Olympic Games," Coe said in a statement.

"For the first time in the sport's history, athletes, media and fans will have a clear understanding of the hierarchy of competitions... allowing them to follow a logical season-long path to the pinnacle of Athletics' top two competitions."

The athletes' position in the rankings will be determined by various performance aspects along with the level of competition they are participating in.

The points system for each event along with other details related to the rankings will be finalised in the first quarter of 2018, meaning the new system can be applied for qualification into the 2019 World Championships and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The sport's governing body will also establish a new department named IAAF Heritage to use athletics' history, drive understanding of the sport and promote it around the world.

"The Rankings will bring much needed clarity to what is today a confusing competition picture even for those from within the sport, while Heritage will be an important tool to help inform, inspire and engage interest through the extraordinarily story of Athletics," IAAF CEO Olivier Gers said.

NAMPA/REUTERS

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Relief for Ohangwena

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Relief for OhangwenaGovernor uses development fund for potable water Onhangwena governor Usko Nghaamwa has opted to equip eight boreholes for rural communities instead of waiting for Rand Water to conclude their work.

The governor of the Ohangwena Region, Usko Nghaamwa, has equipped eight boreholes in his region to supply water to communities that had to travel long distances for potable water. The boreholes were drilled with the drought relief donation from South Africa but were not equipped to be used.

The boreholes were equipped to the tune of N$714 000 which was donated to Nghaamwa's fund by the Sea Flower Fishing Company. The fund works towards capacity development in the region.

Nghaamwa, who handed the boreholes over to the community and the directorate of water at Ombaba in the Oshikunde constituency last week told Namibian Sun that the people in his region were suffering from a lack of potable water and it was time to act.

There are 16 installed but non-functioning boreholes in the region. Eight and four in the Okongo and Oshikunde constituencies each, are now functional.

“Water is life and I cannot wait for a South African company that is taking ages to come and install boreholes while my people are in need of water and there are funds available. I have to use the funds to rescue my people,” Nghaamwa said.

Part of the agreement with South Africa was that a firm from that country would equip the boreholes for use.

The eight boreholes equipped by the governor are among 104 boreholes that the agriculture ministry, in conjunction with the prime minister's office, drilled in 2013. There are 25 in Zambezi, 14 in Kavango East, 17 in Kavango West, 16 in Ohangwena, 21 in Kunene and 11 in Omaheke.

These boreholes form part of the South African government's N$100-million donation to Namibia in 2013. According to the South African High Commission, Rand Water, the largest water utility in South Africa and supplier of water to Gauteng, has been mandated for the N$50 million rehabilitation of these boreholes.

Nghaamwa said that some community members in his region struggle with potable water and many are forced to use donkeys to transport water over long distances. He said that community members who had these boreholes in their areas have complained to his office since 2014 for him to assist them equip the boreholes.

“My office received a N$357 000 donation in both 2016 and 2017 from Sea Flower Fishing Company aimed at assisting the region with development. I had to choose whether I would spend the money on the education sector or water, and I realised that water is the priority in our region,” he said.

He said that Aqua Drilling Company was contracted to do the work and equipped the eight boreholes, which are solar-powered, in Okongo and Ombaba, Okwatiwalunga, Elundalondjamba and Okanhi villages in the Oshikunde constituency.

Ombaba village headman Shituleipo Nghituwasha urged his villagers to take care of the facilities so that they will not go back to the hard life of struggling with water.

“Firstly, I would like to thank those who assisted us during our many years of hardship. Let me also thank the governor's office for considering our community. Fellow community members let us take care of this equipment. This is a blessing for us and our children can now concentrate on their school work after school,” Nghituwasha said.

ILENI NANDJATO

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Tit-for-tat as unionist demands exit package

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Tit-for-tat as unionist demands exit package

A former a unionist who was retrenched in May by the Namibia Wholesale and Retail Workers Union (NWRWU) says he wants his severance package in order to move on.

Joseph Primus, who was employed as a regional organiser stationed in Oshakati was served with a notice of retrenchment on 27 March, with the union saying they can no longer afford him.

Primus, who has been employed by the union for 15 years, expressed his disappointment with the union saying his retrenchment was unfair.

He added that claims of the union not having the money is an insult arguing they own properties that include vehicles and houses in Windhoek which can be sold in order to pay the workers instead of retrenching them.

“This is an unfair labour practice and an unfair retrenchment … what kind of reason is this, telling your employees that you do not have money while you have cars and houses in Windhoek which you can sell and pay the people?” Primus asked.

Primus said that together with other retrenched workers who are also unhappy, they took the matter to the office of the labour commissioner. They have not heard anything to date.

Hence, Primus said, he is willing to accept his severance package and move on, hinting that he wants to start a business and provide for his family.

“Just imagine, since May up to today I have not received my money. Some of us are married and we are breadwinners and we are expected to take care of our families.”

When contacted for comment, NWRWU secretary-general Victor Hamunyela explained that Primus and others were retrenched because the union was not making enough income to sustain all employees.

Hamunyela said those that did not want to accept the decision took the matter to the office of the labour commissioner.

He further said that the retrenched workers were not laid off to go to the streets but plans were made for sister unions to absorb them.

When asked about the severance package claims by Primus which has not been paid since May, Hamunyela explained that the money was there but because a complaint was lodged at the office of the labour commissioner, they were unable to pay them.

Hamunyela further said the delay was caused by Primus making reference to hearing which was scheduled to take place on 23 October but his representative did not show up.

“We are waiting for the new date,” Hamunyela said.

Attempts to get comment from the office of the labour commissioner proved futile.

KENYA KAMBOWE

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IAAF to introduce world rankings in 2018

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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IAAF to introduce world rankings in 2018

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Marseille open probe after Evra sending-off

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Marseille open probe after Evra sending-off

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Third annual focus on PPPs

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Third annual focus on PPPsKey arena for infrastructure and service delivery Local and foreign experts will on Thursday again gather in Windhoek to exchange ideas how Public Private Partnerships can be promoted in Namibia. Through PPPs, we can leverage private sector finances to meet development needs.Saurabh SunejaDirector for Public Private Partnerships, Ministry of Finance

In spite of the small size of its economy, Namibia can also reap major benefits from Public Private Partnerships.

“Reliable and affordable infrastructure is critical for high levels of efficiency in in the economy,” explains Saurabh Suneja, director for public private partnerships at the ministry of finance. “It is also a necessary condition for creating a pro-growth and investment friendly environment.”

According to Suneja the government has a key responsibility to ensure delivery of public services – such as electricity, roads, water supply and other municipal services – at acceptable standards to citizens.

“Traditionally, governments have been directly and exclusively involved in delivering such public services, but the pace at which the government can develop additional infrastructure is limited by the amount of fiscal space. Through PPPs, we can leverage private sector finances to meet development needs in our economy.”

Such investments, says Suneja, can be used in priority areas.

EXAMPLES FROM ELSEWHERE IN AFRICA

The latest edition of Africa Renewal emphasises the contribution PPPs can make towards reaching the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The article “Partnerships at work in Africa” uses the construction of a liquefied natural gas terminal in the port of Tema in Ghana as a prime example of the benefits of PPPs. Due to power rationing electricity is cut every two days for 24 hours. This US$600 million project will add about 220 megawatts to Ghana’s national grid.

Another example used is the Henri Konan Bédié bridge in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. This US$265 million bridge opened in 2014 has done away with over 10 kilometres of traffic congestion and it is used daily by about a hundred thousand vehicles.

Africa Renewal quotes a report by the African Development Bank (AfDB) which states that in many African countries PPPs are still in its initial stages. The AfDB says PPPs are historically scarcer in sub-Saharan Africa than in the rest of the world.

THE WHO’S WHO

The annual PPP conference is co-organised by the ministry of finance, Standard Bank Namibia and PricewaterhouseCoopers Namibia. The aim, explains Suneja, is to create a platform where senior government representatives, private sector investors and other relevant stakeholders can deliberate on fundamental aspects of the successful implementation of PPP projects.

Thursday’s event will include discussions on legislative and policy matters, provide learning models from other regions and insights into projects that are under preparation.

The conference is expected to be opened by Calle Schlettwein, the minister of finance. The panellists are: Thomas Daughton, US ambassador to Namibia, Sir Michael Bear (British Expertise), Andrew Shaw (PwC), Swee Ee Ang (World Bank), Milosz Mogilnicki (US Treasury), Lena Mangondo (IPP Office South Africa), Foibe Namene (Electricity Control Board) and Rentia van Tonder (Standard Bank).

* Saurabh has 14 years of experience in the fields of Public Private Partnerships, regional infrastructure planning, developing and advising on policies and regulations related to infrastructure, contract management and negotiation, feasibility assessment, risk analysis, investment strategy, bid and transaction advisory, and capacity building. He has worked with the private and public sectors in 12 countries in Asia and Africa. He worked with CRISIL Infrastructure Advisory in India for 11 years.

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Epupa baby still missing

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Epupa baby still missing The baby who went missing at Epupa in early May has not yet been found. The baby was six months old when she was taken while sleeping outdoors with her mother.

The police's crime investigation coordinator in Kunene, Deputy Commissioner Rudolf Kanyetu confirmed the baby has not yet been found and appealed for anyone with information on the matter to approach the police.

“We will protect the identity of such a person,” he said.

Two women and a man were arrested in connection with the matter.

Dirk Rinovita, 39, who is the first accused in this case and his two co-accused Ngombe Tjambiru, 27 and Tjiposa Tjikundi, age unknown were denied bail after their appearance in the Opuwo Magistrate's Court on charges of theft, human trafficking and kidnapping.

In an earlier interview, Kanyetu said the two women insisted that Rinovita told them he would steal the baby and hand her over to a certain white man, but Rinovita denies knowing about the baby.

The baby's Angolan mother, 20-year-old Ndjinaveva Kauyekua, who was visiting relatives in the village at the time of the incident, is reported to be receiving psychological treatment at the Opuwo District Hospital as the incident has left her traumatised.

The community of Opuwo staged a demonstration on 26 June before the second appearance of the three accused demanding that the accused be denied bail.

Kanyetu said anyone with information that may lead to the successful tracing of the baby can contact him at (065) 273148 or on his mobile at 081 129 8238.

NAMPA

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DTA bites the dust

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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DTA bites the dust

The DTA will now officially be known as the Popular Democratic Movement (PDM).

The name change was announced during the party's extraordinary congress at the Ramatex Complex in Windhoek at the weekend. PDM leader McHenry Venaani said they have realised as a party that the time for change is now.

He said the current generation had to effect the progressive change in order to enhance the country's democracy. Venaani explained that 'popular' translates into something for the people by the people, while 'democratic' was an affirmation that the party has fought for and is amongst the founders of democracy in the country.

'Movement' means the party and the Namibian people are constantly evolving, alive and not static.

“We must win the future and not just rebrand and adopt a new name, we must change the way we do things, we will change the way people relate to politics and politicians in this country,” he said.

“Whether you are from Lüderitz, Rehoboth, Okahao, Outapi, Swakopmund, Khorixas or Windhoek the PDM has heard your call for genuine alternative government. We have seen the under-development and governance neglect that affects Rundu, Nkurenkuru, Opuwo and Karasburg,” he said.

Venaani said youth inclusion and involvement is at the cornerstone of the party's developmental agenda. Another issue the movement aims to address as a matter of priority is the plight of single mothers.

The party said it will address this through the implementation of financial schemes targeting single mothers earning less than N$2 000 per month and not receiving financial assistance from fathers.

“Women's security is not only a pre-condition for their own wellbeing and socio-economic advancement but more critically is at the epicentre of early childhood development. It is not acceptable for any child to be given a false start in life,” he said.

The Democratic Turnhalle Alliance was formed in November 1977 as a result of the Turnhalle Constitutional Conference held in Windhoek from 1975 to 1977 as a counterbalance and main opposition to the South West Africa People's Organisation (Swapo).

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Healthcare concerns linger

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Healthcare concerns lingerCritical shortages of essential supplies Staffing issues and budget cuts are among the problems besetting the ministry of health.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has confirmed that a 'turf war' between the health minister, Bernard Haufiku, and his permanent secretary Andreas Mwoombola, is threatening to bring service delivery in the ministry to a grinding halt.

The health situation has indeed become dire as both the Katutura and Central hospitals have run out of critical supplies such as bandages, cotton wool and sterile supplies used for operations.

An investigation into the state of affairs at the Katutura hospital showed that the theatre's sterile room was completely empty, save for a few torn sterile gowns, on Friday, the eve of a month-end weekend which usually records the highest number of casualties.

Hospital staff told Namibian Sun that they are forced to use the inners of bed-liners instead of cotton wool while some patients are simply sent home without proper dressing for their wounds.

“Usually when a person comes in with a broken foot or arm we use a protective lining of cotton wool before the cast is put on, but right now we simply put on the cast without the protective lining,” a nurse said.

It is also reported that medical staff at some government clinics are disposing needles and medical equipment in plastic soft drink bottles instead of the standard waste disposal boxes due to a lack of these supplies.

Kuugongelwa-Amadhila last week confirmed to Namibian Sun that Haufiku approached her office to declare his displeasure in working with Mwoombola.

“We are aware that the minister has raised concern about the way things are managed at the ministry. A process has been commissioned to look into those things and the process is still running, because we have to do things according to the law,” she said.

Acting health permanent secretary Petronella Masabane told Namibian Sun upon enquiry regarding the shortage of supplies, that infection control protocols require that all used sharps, which include needles, lancets, scalpels and the like, should be deposited into a container provided for this purpose and the container as a whole is then incinerated afterwards.

“Most of the time, we use commercial containers. However, if any health care professional had used another plastic container, this was probably an innovation, improvising while awaiting the regular containers. The important point being, these sharps should not be left in the open at any time,” she said.

She also pointed out that journalists would have to request permission to cover stories inside hospitals in order to safeguard patient privacy.

“Nevertheless, patients who need emergency surgical procedures over the weekend will be attended to as usual.”

On Friday night, several patients at Katutura hospital, including a robbery victim with a bleeding cut to her lip, did not receive any dressings after being treated.

Responding to the empty theatre sterile store room, Masabane emphasised that the Katutura and Central hospitals have over 20 theatres assigned for different procedures.

“Specialists and doctors have scheduled theatre lists according to which they will use the theatres. Clinical supplies for theatre use are available and in fact were beefed up this week,” Masabane said on Friday afternoon.

On Thursday, finance minister Calle Schlettwein announced during his mid-term budget review that N$100 million will be allocated to the health ministry for pharmaceuticals and personnel expenditure.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Young Africa stun UNAM at home

November 5, 2017, 2:00 pm

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Young Africa stun UNAM at homeSlow pace match The newly promoted premier league team from Gobabis are becoming a bogey team for the league giants.

Gobabis-based Namibia Premier League (NPL) outfit Young Africa, stunned home team UNAM with a 1-0 defeat.

In a game that was played at pedestrian pace, the two teams had nothing to show to a handful of supporters who gathered at the University of Namibia Sport Stadium as the first half ended 0-0.

In the second half, Young Africa came out the more attacking side in the opening five minutes, but UNAM gained momentum and stabilised the game despite failing to take control as home team.

With 15 minutes left in the game, Young Africa found the back of the net after brilliant play on the right wing by Elvis Patire, who came in as a substitute. He managed to cross the ball into the box and it found another substitute, Harold Kandaera’s head for the only goal of the game.

Despite taking the lead, the Clever Boys, as UNAM are known, took two minutes to get themselves a penalty, but Wayne Esterhuisen missed from the spot.

The game ended 1-0 in favour of visitors Young Africa.

Young Africa assistant coach Marcellus Wakudumo said UNAM had a great first half, but his team made changes in the second half to reinforce the team for the much-needed goal. Young Africa’s attention now turns to Citizens on Sunday afternoon.

In another game that was played earlier at the same venue, Black Africa and Citizens shared a point each after their one-all draw.

Other games played on Saturday at the Sport Klub Windhoek (SKW) Stadium saw Tura Magic beat Chief Santos 1-0 to remain second on the log, while Tigers beat Young Chiefs 1-0.

In Rundu, log leader African Stars maintained their lead at the top of the log after defeating the home team Rundu Chiefs 2-1, while in Walvis Bay, Orlando Pirates beat Blue Waters 1-0 and Eleven Arrows lost 2-1 to Otjiwarongo based Life Fighters.

In a match that was played in Otjiwarongo, Mighty Gunners lost 1-0 against Civics.

NAMPA

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