Mulunga a galukile kiilonga

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Mulunga a galukile kiilonga Nonando opwa kala oolopta kutya omukomeho gwehango lyoNational Petroleum Corporation of Namibia, Immanuel Mulunga okwa li a kuthwa manga miilonga nenge a pewa efudho lyowina ngaashi omunashipundi gwoshiputudhilo shoka, Patrick Kauta a li a popi , otashi ulike kutya omulumentu ngoka ta popilwa iipotha yuulingilingi natango oye ta kwatele komeho oshiputudhilo shoka.

Mulunda okwa tameke iilonga mOmaandaha na okwa ulike onkalo yi li nawa pethimbo a ningwa naye oonkundathana koshifokundaneki shoNamibian Sun.

Okwa popi kutya ye inatulwa mefudho lyowina nenge a kuthwe miilonga pakathimbo.

“Shoka tandi vulu okutya ooshoka kutya ngame inandi kuthwa miilonga.

Onda galuka owala okuza kefudho lyandje lyokomumvo naashoka osho owala tandi vulu okupopya pethimbo ndika,” Mulunga a popi.

Sho a popi kombinga yoshikumungu shoka Ominista yIiputudhilo yEpangelo, Leon Jooste okwa popi kutya kasha li sha pumbiwa okutula Mulunga pevi sho Kauta a ningi eindilo opo Mulunga a tulwe mefudho lwowina.

Jooste okwa popi kutya oompangela dhekutho miilonga pakathimbo lyaMulunga ndhoka lyali tadhi pangelwa kelelo lyaNamcor otadhi gandja ethano ewinayi kehangano.

Oompangela okumona omayamukulo okuza kuKauta odha ndopa sho ina yamukula. Kauta natango ina gandja uuyelele kombinga yoshizemo shomakonaakono ngoka ga ningilwa. Omakonaakono ogali ge na okukala ga manithwa mehuliloshiwike lya piti.

MuDesemba Kauta okwa li a popi kutya Mulunga ota ningilwa omakonaakono pamwe nomunambelewa gwoinformation technology executive, Bonifatius Konjore, nomakonaakono ngoka otaga kala ga manithwa momasiku 20 gaJanuari.

Kauta okwa tseyithile oshikundnaeki shoNew Era kutya, oshitopolwa shotango shomakonaakono ngoka osho owala sha manithwa.

Mboka oya tulwa aniwa mefudho lyowina opo ku vule okuningwa omakonaakono ge na sha nokondalaka yongushu yoomiliyona 2.2.

Oshiputudhilo osha ulike ehangano lyoDeloitte olyo li ninge omakonaakono ngoka.

OGONE TLHAGE

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Onkalo yomatala gaMuthiya ya piyagana

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Onkalo yomatala gaMuthiya ya piyaganaElelo tali pangele okutunga omatala omape Omwaalu gwaalandithili momatala gaayehe mOmuthiya ogwa londa pombanda noonkondo nomatala ngoka itaga vulu we okukondololwa kelelo lyondoolopa. Omolwa onkalo yendumbakano lyaalandithili momatala ngoka ga tseyika koyendji, aalandithi yamwe ya thigi po omatala nokulandithila mooha dhopate yo B1.

Elelo lyondoolopa yaMuthiya olya popi kutya omatala ngoka otaga vulu owala okukala naalandithi ye li po 200, ihe omolwa omwaalu gwaalandithi ya londo pombanda nomotala moka ngahiingeyi omu na aalandithi ye li po 500. Omatala ngoka ga simanekwa koyendji monooli yoshilongo, oga totwapo moomvula dho 1990 omanga ondoolopa yaMuthiya inayi tseyithwa yi ninge ondoolopa mo 2007.

Onkalo ndjoka okwa lopotwa kutya oya dhigupalele elelo lyondoolopa ndjoka opo li kondolole omatala.

Gumwe gwomaalandithili momatala moka, Eunike Tangi Nelenge, okwa popi kutya okwa tameke okulandithila momatala mo momvula yo 2011 nomwaalu gwaalandithi ogwa tameke tagu londo pombanda kehe esiku.

“Kamu na elandulathano momatala moka. Aalandithi yamwe oya thigi po omatala nokukala taya landithile haandiya yopate mokukwashilipaleka kutya oya mona ookastoma sho tashi heluka mo miiyenditho. Shoka otashi etithwa konkalo kutya momatala omu na aalandithi oyendji okuyeleka nookastoma,” Nelenge a popi.

Omulandithi gumwe natango, Ester Shipena, okwa popi kutya omatala ngoka ihaga nana we omwaalu omunene gwaalandithi ngaashi nale.

Okwa popi kutya kamu na elanduathano momatala ngoka, naashoka otashi tidhile ookatoma kokule.

“Uupyakadhi muka kawu shi wookastoma ihe otse aalandithi. Otwa shunitha pevi ongushu yomatala getu sho tatu longo katu na elandulathano.

Aalandi oya li haye ya momatala nokulanda iinima yawo na otwali hatu ningi iimaliwa,” Shipena a popi.

Shipena okwa popi kutya nale okwali ha vulu okulanditha nokuninga oshimaliwa shooN$5 000 mesiku ihe ngashiingeyi ongeshefa otayi shongola.

Omunambelewa omukuluntu gwelelo lyondoolopa yaMuthiya, Samuel Mbango, okwa popi kutya elelo otali pangele okutunga omatala omape ngoka taga ka vula okukala naalandithi ayehe mboka taya landithile mpoka. Okwa popi kutya omatala ngoka haga longithwa monena ogali ga gandjwa omagano melongelo kumwe nelelo yoshitopolwa shaShikoto.

“Kamu na elandulathano momatala ngoka. Aalandithi oyendji inaya ishangitha natse opo tu vule okuyoolola kutya oolye ya pitikwa naamboka inaya pitikwa okukala momatala moka.

Omukalo gwawo ngoka taya longitha ngashiingeyi itagu gandja ethano ewanawa kondoolopa naashoka osho twa halela okutunga omatala gamwe omape.”

Elelo lyondoolopa olya indile ekwatho lyeyambidhidho okuza kiiputudhilo yopangeshefa oshowo kuuministeli wiipindi, ihe Mbango okwa popi kutya omulandu ngoka otagu ende kashona, onkene elelo otali tala ishewe komikalo dhilwe dhokumona iiyemo.

Aalandithi oya popi kutya inaya hala okutulululwa molwaashoka pehala mpoka haya landithile monena oli li komeho yookastoma nawa.

ILENI NANDJATO

Record sales, new models for Datsun

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Record sales, new models for Datsun Datsun has passed the milestone of 300 000 cars sold globally since the first Datsun car of the 21st century – the Datsun GO – was sold in India.

“Datsun is celebrating a new milestone – 300 000 customers have chosen Datsun cars since the return of the brand in March 2014,” said Jose Roman, corporate vice president and global head of Datsun. “It's a short period in the history of any car brand, but we have laid a solid foundation for our future growth.”

Since October 2014 – Datsun has sold 18 915 vehicles in Southern Africa and is looking to add additional product to the range later this year. Datsun is also expanding its footprint on the African continent as it expands to Zimbabwe.

Said Roman: “Great brands are not built by companies; they are built by people. People who create the cars, who use them daily and who make the ownership experience a rewarding one. We are thankful to everybody who has joined the Datsun journey so far and are committed to further enriching customers' experience with the brand.”

In less than four years since starting production, Datsun introduced five new models. Today, Datsun is producing cars in three plants, located in India, Russia and Indonesia.

As of January 2018 Datsun is present in 14 markets, including India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa, the first four “seed” markets and the biggest markets for the brand.

The latest upgrade of the global lineup has just occurred in Indonesia, with the introduction of the Datsun CROSS compact crossover.

The Datsun CROSS is inspired by the ever-changing lifestyles of Datsun customers in Indonesia, following a constantly changing world. The very name, CROSS, reflects the model's dual character, crossing the borders of daily life and performing routine tasks with ease, yet ready to take on new adventures.

To celebrate the growing Datsun family, the brand launched the global #Datsunlove Roadtrip campaign late last year, encouraging owners to invite prospective buyers, their friends and family members to try a Datsun on the road and share their #Datsunlove stories on social media.

– Motorpress.co.za

Mugabe supercars in Botswana prang: police

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Mugabe supercars in Botswana prang: police Police said on Tuesday the Rolls-Royce Ghost, a red Porsche and a Range Rover were damaged when the convoy - led by former first lady Grace Mugabe's son - slowed down to avoid cattle crossing the road.

Superintendent Wazha Zambezi said the vehicles were hit by a Toyota Corolla near the village of Artesia, 80km northeast of the capital, in the accident on Friday night.

“We kept the vehicles for few hours at the police station and they were released to the owners on Saturday morning,” he said. “We always keep the vehicles involved in accidents and those three cars were not an exception.”

Grace Mugabe has not been seen in public since her husband Robert Mugabe was ousted from power in November after a military intervention that ended his 37-year reign.

The Chronicle, a state-owned newspaper in Zimbabwe, reported this week that Grace's son Russell Goreraza had been stopped at the border for several hours as he drove into Botswana.

The cars were suspected of being used to smuggle cash and other valuables out of Zimbabwe after Mugabe's fall.

They were released after several hours of searches and when Goreraza produced documents proving that Grace had granted him permission to drive her Rolls-Royce to Botswana and South Africa.

The Chronicle quoted Goreraza as saying he was driving to South Africa to have the cars serviced.

Goreraza is Grace's son from her first marriage.

She also has two sons and a daughter with Robert Mugabe, 93. Grace, who is 41 years younger than her husband, was widely criticised for her extravagance and lavish shopping sprees as the Zimbabwean economy collapsed under Mugabe's authoritarian rule.

– Nampa/AFP

Pug's 3008 SUV gets a diesel-powered engine

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Pug's 3008 SUV gets a diesel-powered engine The award winning Peugeot 3008 SUV range has been extended with the introduction of a diesel-powered engine, to supplement its existing petrol version.

The 3008 Active and Allure models now comprise of two engine variants, the 1.6 THP Auto and the 2.0 litre HDi. The 3008 Active 2.0HDi is paired with a six speed manual gearbox whilst all the other variants boast an Automatic gearbox.

The 2.0 litre HDi 4 cylinder 1997 cc engine is compact, lightweight and fuel efficient due to its reduced weight and size, delivering power output of 110 kW at 4000rpm and 370Nm of torque at 2000 rpm and reaches a top speed of 201km/h. It has a fuel sipping combined consumption of 5.0 litres per kilometre and Co2 emissions of just 136g/km.

The All-New Peugeot 3008 SUV was acclaimed as the overall Car of the Year and the Diesel Car Top 50 in 2017.

On behalf of the judging panel at Diesel Car, Editor Ian Robertson said: “Peugeot has transformed the 3008 into a fully-fledged SUV and created a real winner in the process. Its engines are refined and economical, while its suspension is ideally set up to smooth out British roads. It's a winner in every respect and we are proud to declare it number one in this year's Top 50 awards.”

Peugeot has long been synonymous with diesel engines that set the bar for efficiency and sophistication. The company is a leading manufacturer of low emission vehicles and more than half of its global sales are for vehicles emitting less than 140 g of CO2 per kilometre.

Peugeot has also led the way on many breakthrough technologies including Stop/Start and a new generation of diesel engines.

The diesel particulate filter is the most efficient solution in the automotive industry today. The most recent, the additive particulate filter eliminates 99.9% of the particulates emitted by a diesel engine.

Diesel engines provide a great mix of performance and fuel economy. The Peugeot 3008 SUV has a clear footprint of innovation and sophisticated technology and now, equipped with a 2.0 litre diesel engine the 3008 SUV is set to not only turn heads but deliver impressive performance with exceptional fuel economy too.

– Motorpress.co.za

Shot of the day

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Shot of the day THE PEOPLES' POPE: Pope Francis smiles at the faithful from the Popemobile in Santiago, on 15 January 2018. Pope Francis was visiting Chile from 15 to 18 January, before heading to Peru from 18 to 21 January. Photo: NAMPA/AFP

A sense of entitlement

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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A sense of entitlement Namibians have largely been consistent with their criticism when it comes to the abuse of government property, be it on the side of civil servants or public office bearers like ministers, deputy ministers and other high-ranking officials.

The Anti-Corruption Commission, in particular, has successfully apprehended culprits accused of abusing government cars. It was also the same ACC that championed a clear and comprehensive government policy document, which defined the duties and responsibilities of drivers of government cars.

Most government employees were arrested while driving their children to and from school, going shopping, while some even used the cars to go on drinking sprees, especially on weekends. So we find it extremely insensitive that a deputy minister seemingly finds no fault in using a luxury government car assigned to her to transport bags of cement in.

Three bags of cement for that matter. The act by health deputy minister Juliet Kavetuna might have been legal since she is allowed to use the state car for personal use, but raises ethical questions.

We doubt if she would have done the same with her own private car. Even though she tried to clarify the matter, the deputy minister failed to express humility and instead elected to defend herself against the public outcry. The current financial crisis has seen severe austerity measures imposed on public spending and the abuse and squandering of taxpayers' hard-earned money is definitely a non-starter.

The deputy minister should have admitted and apologised unconditionally for being at fault from a moral point of view instead of being unrepentant and exposing her entitlement mentality. What our country needs is true leadership that can inspire, especially on the political front.

Many of our politicians are suffering from a hugely inflated sense of entitlement and this is the problem. They can afford almost anything with their fat salaries, which is over N$65 000 per month, coupled by huge utility allowances, among others.

This is a pipe dream for an average Namibian worker who faces the daunting task of feeding his or her family.

Company news in brief

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Company news in brief Rio Tinto must face fraud case

The top US securities regulator on Tuesday rejected arguments by Rio Tinto Plc and two former top executives that its civil lawsuit claiming they concealed the plunging value of coal assets owned by the big Anglo-Australian mining company should be dismissed.

The SEC accused Rio Tinto of ignoring the need to write down most of the value of Mozambique coal assets it had bought for US$3.7 billion in April 2011, while it was raising roughly US$5.5 billion from US investors.

Rio Tinto wrote off most of the value in January 2013, and sold the assets in late 2014 for just US$50 million.

The SEC also rejected Rio Tinto's contention that any alleged misstatements and omissions might be immaterial because the writedown was for only 3% of company assets. – Nampa/Reuters

Another exec resigns at Eskom

The acting head of group capital at South Africa's Eskom has resigned, the state-owned power utility said on Tuesday, adding to a growing list of executives leaving the company.

Spokesman Khulu Phasiwe said Prish Govender did not give a reason for his resignation, which is with immediate effect.

Govender's departure comes a day after suspended CFO Anoj Singh tendered his resignation with immediate effect on Monday, amid an investigation into allegations he granted preferential treatment to firms supplying coal to Eskom.

South Africa's parliament is investigating Eskom over allegations executives were involved in unduly awarding contracts to friends of President Jacob Zuma.

The utility's chairman, Zethembe Khoza, also quit on Saturday, hours before the government named a new Eskom board. – Nampa/Reuters

Anglo expects licenses to expand in Brazil

Anglo American PLC said it expects to receive long-awaited licenses on Friday which will pave the way for the mining company to boost its Brazilian iron ore production capacity by about 56%.

Anglo American plans to invest 1 billion reais (US$308.94 million) to expand its iron ore extraction capacity at Minas-Rio mine in Minas Gerais state to 26.5 million tonnes per year from 17 million.

If the licenses are granted, the company will be able to start construction to extend the mining system, including upgrading a tailings dam and opening a pit. The company will still need an operating license from the state environmental agency to begin operations.

JP Morgan: Brick-and-mortar branches pivotal

JPMorgan Chase & Co sees brick-and-mortar banking as essential to expanding into more than a dozen markets over five years, even though customers do 80% of their transactions online or at ATMs.

“75% of our deposit growth comes from customers who use our branches,” Thasunda Duckett, chief executive of Chase consumer banking, said. “Customers still visit branches, on average, four times a quarter.”

JPMorgan will build up to 400 new branches to expand into 15 to 20 markets in several new states.

The building is part of an investment plan that includes US$15 billion of new lending and nearly US$5 billion in spending and is due in part to the reduction in US corporate taxes and a more favourable regulatory environment.

Toys 'R' Us to shut a fifth of US stores

Toys 'R' Us Inc will shut about one-fifth of its stores in the US in the coming months, as the toy store chain tries to emerge from one of the largest ever bankruptcies by a specialty retailer.

The closure of about 180 US stores will begin in early February and continue until mid-April.

The company filed for bankruptcy protection just ahead of the 2017 holiday season in the US and Canada to restructure US$5 billion of long-term debt, casting doubts over the future of its 64 000 employees and nearly 1 600 stores.

As Toys 'R' Us aims to exit bankruptcy in 2018, its efforts to reinvent its stores will shape how other retailers look to experiential shopping to tackle e-commerce. – Nampa/Reuters

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Swakop hawkers bemoan slow business

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Swakop hawkers bemoan slow business Small businesses in Swakopmund are finding it tough to make a profit owing to a lack of clients in January, a month traditionally regarded as financially arduous.

Hawkers and other established sellers interviewed in Mondesa residential area on Monday and Tuesday said business is slow as the clients who usually buy from them have limited disposable income to buy their products after a financially demanding December.

Owner of Langosta Bar, Hilma Ipinge, also attributed the slow business to the economic downturn, saying she did not make as much profit last month as she had in the same month in previous years.

“I used to make around N$5 000 but since last year only N$3 000 a month,” she said. Johannes Kuwa, who sells second-hand clothes said it is worse in January because people have no money after spending it in December.

“Most people work throughout the year to save money and go home or on holiday during December. This will mean they will have nothing or less money when they return to work in January,” he said.

“There is no business at all. We are just sitting here trying to make a living. I return home without selling a single item and if I do sell, it is [just] N$100,” Kuwa added.

Ndapewa Toivo, who is a tailor operating in the area said December was a good month, where she used to make N$3 000 profit in two or three days but explained that her profit declined to less than N$1 000 in January.

Another vendor, Benie Mwatumbulange, who has been selling fruits and sweets for two months, has been operating without making a profit. He further explained that the suppliers, such as retail shops, often go for days without stock, leaving him with nothing to sell.

NAMPA

'Shithole' video seen by millions

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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'Shithole' video seen by millionsNamibian promo goes viral Following the now infamous 'shithole' remarks by Donald Trump, Gondwana Collections has banked in on it. The cheeky video about 'shithole' Namibia that pokes fun at American president Donald Trump has already reached more than 670 million people across the world.

After Trump's derogatory remark on Haiti and African countries, local tourism company Gondwana Collection roped in the local producer and artist EES to make a video clip on the most beautiful 'shithole' country in Africa.

Stunning pictures of animals and scenery show Namibia at its best while a Trump voice imitator is used for the narration.

Gondwana said in a statement that it was gobsmacked by how many people have viewed its video clip on 'shithole' Namibia.

According to Gondwana, this has been one of the most successful destination marketing campaigns for Namibia since independence in 1990.

It said the video has proved to be an effective marketing tool for the country and is a prime example of the power of the internet and social media.

The British company Meltwater, which monitors and analyses Gondwana's online presence, congratulated Gondwana saying: “Amazing to see that the video picked up 1 140 editorial articles.” It was seen by 662 million people in 45 countries and in nine different languages. This, in addition to 13 million users of social media.”

On YouTube the video has received 462 307 views since 12 January.

Manni Goldbeck, the brand and marketing director of the Gondwana Collection expressed the hope that the video will make the global public see the beautiful side of Africa.

“Namibia is politically stable.

“Its cultural diversity, unique fauna and flora and breath-taking landscapes, together with one of the most progressive environmental legislation in the world, make Namibia a top travel destination,” he said.

The video invites US citizens to “come to shithole Namibia, one of the best shithole countries out there.”

It then lists “shithole” features of the country, like its abundant wildlife, natural beauty, conservation areas, and even an outdoor toilet.

However, the narrator does not just poke fun at Trump.

The clip drops a load of trivia for the viewer, including facts on Namibia's conservation efforts, its ancient Namib Desert and the threat of global warming on the country and the world at large.

One section says: “It's really tough out here, but shithole Namibia has over 300 days of sunshine and our lodges are situated in such a way that one has the perfect view over this beautiful shithole.” In total the video uses the slur 16 times.

Trump has denied that he used the word.

The film ends with a brief clip showing Trump's apparent ignorance of African countries, in which he mispronounces Namibia's name as “Nambia.”

Gondwana last year also made a video making fun of Trump for mispronouncing Namibia's name.

Gondwana combines its hospitality business with nature conservation and social commitment in a sustainable manner.

The company today includes four private nature parks and 18 quality accommodation offerings across Namibia's key tourist attractions.

ELLANIE SMIT

No bail for soldier accused of killing girlfriend

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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No bail for soldier accused of killing girlfriend The soldier accused of killing his girlfriend on Sunday was denied bail in the Katutura Magistrate's Court on Tuesday.

Johannes Neuaka, 39, made his first appearance before Magistrate Bernardine Kubersky, who postponed the case to 5 March.

Kubersky informed the accused that the State has objected to bail due to the seriousness of the offence and because investigations are still in the preliminary stage.

The prosecution also expressed fear that Neuaka could interfere with investigations and State witnesses, and that granting bail to Neuaka will not be in the interest of justice and society.

The magistrate also told the accused that he can bring a formal bail application before court in the next few days if he wants to be released from custody.

Neuaka is facing charges of murder; possession of a firearm and ammunition without a licence; and negligent discharge of a firearm in the death of 25-year-old Zya Juliet Shane Rittmann.

Rittmann was shot in the head and died instantly.

The couple has a three-year-old child.

Neuaka is represented by privately instructed defence lawyer Vetu Uanivi, while public prosecutor Victoria Thompson represented the State.

NAMPA

GIPF requests students to submit proof of enrolment

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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GIPF requests students to submit proof of enrolment As part of the death benefit offered by the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF), minor children of deceased members are eligible to receive a monthly pension.

This pension is payable upon submission and processing of the death claim.

The children's pension is a benefit payable to a beneficiary who is a minor and will be paid to his/her legal guardian.

A guardian is a person responsible for making important legal decisions on behalf of a minor; therefore guardians are encouraged to submit proof of enrolment on behalf of the students under their care.

To qualify for the children's pension, a child must be younger than 18 years and unmarried.

If the child is between 18 and 25 years old and studies at a recognised educational institution, the Fund requires students to provide proof of enrolment at the beginning of each academic year. In this regard all qualifying students are urged to submit their proof of enrolment for the 2018 academic year.

When claiming the children's pension benefit, the following documents must be attached to the claim and must be submitted to GIPF: a full birth certificate, identity document of parent/guardian, guardianship letter/certificate, proof of banking details and contact details of the parent or guardian.

Immediately after the lump-sum payment and commencement of monthly pension payouts, all children receiving a pension need to be registered on the biometrics system at any of the GIPF offices countrywide.

After registration, a child is further required to go for verification every four months, failing which the monthly pension will be suspended.

The Fund has reminded all its pensioners to verify their existence.

The verification periods are from 1 November to 28 February, 1 March to 30 June, and 1 July to 31 October.

For more information members and beneficiaries are encouraged to log onto the Fund's website or visit their nearest GIPF office.

Preparations for Nudo congress progressing well

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Preparations for Nudo congress progressing well All logistics are in place for the National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) elective congress in May, the party's secretary-general, Meundju Jahanika, has said.

Responding to questions this week, Jahanika said preparations in terms of the congress budget, logistics and identification of delegates is well on track.

“The tentative dates for the third national congress are 4 to 6 May 2018 and we expect to have more than 300 delegates who are being identified in terms of the party constitution,” he said.

The Nudo SG was quick to note that the party is in a good financial state and united as the congress draws nearer.

“Nudo is more united than ever before and we regard unity of purpose as our first priority,” he said.

“We have financial policies in place which helps us to manage the party funds in a manner that is accepted according to audit requirements.”

He said Nudo's wage bill remain well below 50%, despite there being a demand to recruit and appoint more full-time employees at the party's various branches and constituencies.

Jahanika said the official campaigns for candidates vying for the party's top positions commence on 3 March and will run until 3 May 2018.

As things stand, however, this has not deterred party members from airing their ambitions to take charge of the party across various media platforms.

Late last year, media reports said long-time Nudo members Utjiua Muinjangue and Okakarara Constituency councillor, Vetaruhe Kandorozu have both indicated their ambitions to run as candidates for the position of party president.

Muinjangue recently reaffirmed this, telling Nampa, “I am still standing for the position of president.”

It was further reported that Jahanika will have to battle it out against Nudo councillor in the City of Windhoek, Joseph Kauandenge for the position of SG.

Aminuis Constituency councillor, Peter Kazongominja has been tipped for the position of vice president. Incumbent Nudo president, Asser Mbai, has also gone on the record saying he is open to vacating the position when his term comes to an end in May.

NAMPA

Tourism needs quick fixes

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Tourism needs quick fixesLack of skills one of major challenges While the tourism sector has performed well, a number of tweaks in how we market ourselves, along with upping skills in the sector, would go a long way to making the numbers even better. Although the tourism sector performed well in the third quarter of last year, undeniable challenges exist within the industry that cannot be overlooked.

According to FNB analyst Josephat Nambashu, tourism businesses therefore need to be ready and flexible to adapt to industry changes.

Nambashu said that if any other developments are excluded there remains two areas that can act as 'quick fixes' to the challenges in the industry.

He said that firstly, the international marketing of the country needs to be boosted as a niche tourism destination to the rest of the world. Secondly, alternative streams of revenue are needed as government consolidation erodes the revenue base of several accommodation sites and conference facilities. According to Nambashu, major challenges in the industry include the general economic slowdown, coupled with lack of quality accommodation, and crime.

“While only a few businesses pointed to waning government support for business events bids, a significant number highlighted crime-related incidents and a lack of exhibition facilities as key areas of concern. Many businesses also feel that tourism demand will be dampened by the impact of the government's policies to cut expenditure in the short- to medium-term.”

Lastly, skilled labour remained an impediment to businesses, with 26% of businesses citing this as a key challenge.

In addition to the top issues surveyed, other business challenges named by respondents included consumer confidence, aviation access, utility costs, dilapidated road infrastructure, and the general slowdown in the business levels from the corporate sector and individuals.

The FNB/FENATA Travel Index, released yesterday, indicates that during the third quarter of 2017, it contracted by 5.7% in real terms.

This decrease, however, was an improvement from -20.0% and -16.2% recorded in the previous two quarters as the industry enjoyed its peak season, underpinned by strong increase in tourist numbers and higher seasonal demand.

Nambashu further explained that the increase in tourist numbers was further pronounced in bed occupancy rates during the third quarter. The average bed occupancy rate for the quarter was at an all-time high and 2.7% higher when compared to the corresponding average rate registered during the corresponding period a year earlier.

He said the local currency recovered some lost ground through the third quarter and therefore trips from America and Europe were only 3.4% more expensive compared to the same period in 2016 due to foreign currency translation.

Financially, 66% of the tourist vendors surveyed saw an increase in revenue during the past quarter and an optimistic 47% anticipate increases in the subsequent quarter.

On staff related matters, some 45% say they had kept their staff capacity unchanged over the last quarter and a similar level increased their workforce. However, future employment prospects remained worrisome, with nearly 56% of the respondents expecting no change in their staff capacity over the next three months.

According to Nambashu, price increases are the answer to combat inflation and the ever-increasing operational costs for 74% respondents, but how such increases will affect the ability to compete in the long run is a worry for some.

As operating expenses increase, most businesses recover increased costs by increasing their menu prices. However, many businesses fear that rising prices will make their goods and services uncompetitive on a global scale.

The industry remained optimistic about the quarter ahead with 75% of respondents confident about their business, echoing relatively strong year ending results. Operators and lodge owners are the most optimistic sectors with 74% expecting to build on growth in the last quarter of 2017.



ELLANIE SMIT

US takes local salt

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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US takes local salt Walvis Bay Salt Refiners (WBSR) is in the process of exporting its first shipment of salt to the United States of America.

The loading of 50 000 tonnes of salt earmarked for the US East Coast onto the bulk carrier Condor at berth 3 in the Walvis Bay harbour, started on 18 January. It was completed on Tuesday evening.

The company said that efforts to grow the number of clients for salt supply beyond the traditional African market finally paid off when it secured a contract to supply the commodity after years of intense marketing in both North and South America.

According to WBSR business development director Gregory Swartz, the company was looking to supply approximately 250 000 tonnes of salt to the North and South American markets.

“We produce 3 500 tonnes of salt per day on average and generate an estimated N$1.8 million in revenue per month. The largest quantity of our product is destined for Nigeria where it is used for food preservation in the rural areas.”

Namport will earn an all-inclusive tariff of approximately N$325 544 for the landing and the handling of the 50 000 tonnes of salt and for the provision of port security services.

WBSR's managing director Andre Snyman explained that the company undertook an intensive analysis of the international salt export market and invested in expanding its production capacity recently.

The company completed its salt field expansion programme in 2016 and increased annual production from 700 000 tonnes to about 1 000 000 tonnes. Being the largest salt mine in sub-Saharan Africa, the company enjoys economy-of-scale benefits in its production processes. The company is part of the wider Synchem Group and is ISO 9001 certified.

According to the Salt Institute, there are more than 14 000 known uses of salt.

In its edible form of table salt, it is commonly used as a condiment and food preservative. Salt is the most effective, readily available, and economical highway de-icer in use today and accounts for 8% of all salt production.

It is also used in various applications such as water treatments and chemical plants.



OTIS FINCK

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Namib Poultry unfazed by court ruling

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Namib Poultry unfazed by court ruling As South African poultry producers prepare to mount a legal challenge to revise infant industry protection for the poultry industry in Namibia, Namib Poultry Industries (NPI) says it remains positive that it can secure sufficient market share to enable its operations to continue without any major hiccups.

This is to say, should the South African Poultry Association and five SA-based producers which include Crown Chickens, Supreme Poultry, Rainbow Farms, Astral Foods and Afgri Poultry score a similar victory when the case makes a return to the Windhoek High Court in due course.

The Supreme Court recently set aside a ruling delivered by Judge Shafimana Ueitele which paved the way for infant industry protection for the local poultry industry.

The matter focussed on a six-month delay following the approval of the infant industry protection, before the South African poultry producers took action.

Infant industry protection was first given to local chicken production in 2003 but was granted again in 2012 after NPI completed its production plant at Brakwater just north of Windhoek.

Speaking to Namibian Sun on the development, Namib Poultry Industries was confident it could compete on equal footing with the South African poultry producers.

“In terms of the viability of businesses for NPI, it will be business as usual for the company,” its spokesperson, Ashante Mannetti, said when approached for comment.

A local analyst who preferred to remain anonymous said it made sense that South African poultry producers were looking for other markets for their products.

“I do not really have insight into the pricing structures and therefore prefer not to comment [on the judgement]. However, the South African poultry industry is struggling domestically and is therefore trying to reduce imports into South Africa and expanding exports regionally,” the analyst said when approached for comment.

In 2016, Judge Ueitele dismissed a legal challenge against the import restriction based on a finding that the court application of the association and five poultry producers had not been launched within a reasonable time.

The finding that the legal challenge against the import restriction had been unreasonably delayed could not be faulted, Supreme Court Appeal Judge Dave Smuts stated in his judgement.

However, he also reasoned that Judge Ueitele should have weighed the merits and prospects of success of the legal attack on the import restriction before he decided not to condone the delay that preceded the launch of the legal proceedings in the High Court.

The matter will now return to the High Court.

The import restrictions were announced in a gazette published on 5 April 2003.

Despite having gained infant industry protection in the late 1990s, Namib Poultry Industries reapplied for protection from external competition following the completion of its long-awaited chicken plant in 2012.

OGONE TLHAGE

Nyae Nyae distributes N$2.5 million to members

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Nyae Nyae distributes N$2.5 million to members The Nyae Nyae Conservancy and Community Forest held its annual general meeting in September last year where provision was made to distribute N$1 700 in cash to each adult San member.

According to a statement issued by the conservancy, during November and December last year more than N$2.5 million was distributed to 1 493 individual members in 36 villages around the conservancy.

In addition to this huge cash injection the community will receive further conservancy benefits in the form of contributions to local schools and the traditional authority, as well as payments towards coffins in the event of a member's death. These funds will also further support water infrastructure development and agricultural activities with equipment and seed.

Members were able to spend the money how they saw fit, but many bought food staples as well as essentials like clothing and pots and pans.

The conservancy located in the Otjozondjupa Region was officially established in February 1998. It was the first gazetted conservancy in the country and is the second largest in Namibia. It is also one of the highest earning conservancies in Namibia through its trophy-hunting concession. With this income it employs 25 local people in permanent positions, from rangers to craft and agricultural officers. It is a good example of the way in which conservancies are benefiting impoverished and marginalised rural communities. The vital cash that is earned through the activities directly benefit the community and will ensure a steady increase in access to facilities, education and stimulate empowerment for the community members further.

“We have many challenges, but each year at our AGM we come together to decide how our activities and projects can benefit the community,” said Xoan//'an /Ai/ae, the Nyae Nyae Conservancy chairperson.

STAFF REPORTER

Okalongo settlement is filthy

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Okalongo settlement is filthyResidents, local authority blame each other for mess Rampant rubbish dumping, coupled with erratic refuse removal, has turned the settlement of Okalongo in Omusati into a health hazard. The residents of Okalongo settlement in the Omusati Region are complaining about littering and want the relevant authority to solve the problem.

They blame the settlement's administrative officer, Amandus Kandowa, of not taking responsibility for the cleanliness of the settlement.

When Namibian Sun visited Okalongo this week, rubbish mixed with rainwater lined the main road, just metres from where vendors were doing business.

Local people complained about the smell and the possibility of disease.

“We are tired of Kandowa because if you look at this filthy water and you look at where his office is, there is not quite a long distance. In fact he sees this horrible scene whenever he goes to work but he lets the situation remain like this and yet we must call him our leader,” said an angry community member who preferred to remain anonymous.

There are a number of areas in the settlement where piles of rubbish, mainly broken bottles, can be seen and residents blame Kandowa for the mess.

When contacted for comment, Kandowa admitted that there was a littering problem. He placed some of the blame on community members, especially business people, who dump their rubbish anywhere they want whenever their bins are full.

“We have problems sometimes with these business people but we have talked to them about this matter. We asked them that if they produce a high volume of waste which does not fit in their refuse bins, to apply in writing for refuse cages to be set up for them instead of just dumping waste like that,” Kandowa said.

He also said that the settlement had experienced problems in terms of establishing a dumpsite.

Kandowa also pointed out that they have a contract with a contractor who is paid to ensure that the settlement is clean.

KENYA KAMBOWE

NCCI hosting franchise leadership summit

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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NCCI hosting franchise leadership summitScheduled for March According to the NCCI, franchising contributes about 14% to Namibia’s GDP. ONGWEDIVA – Chairperson of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (NCCI) northern branch, Tomas Iindji, says franchising remains one of the most powerful ways to stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation.

In a telephonic interview with Nampa on Tuesday, Iindji said franchising contributes about 14% to Namibia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and there is scope for the growth of the sector in the country.

He said in order to market franchising, the NCCI will this year host a franchise leadership summit for the first time in northern Namibia.

The summit is to be held in March on a yet to be decided date. The venue is also still to be decided on.

Iindji said the NCCI Northern Franchise Leadership Summit will bring together high profile franchisors, high value multi-unit franchisees and stakeholders of all sectors, including commercial banks and town councils.

“It will also appeal to the corporate sector and mid-sized companies that are considering franchising as an expansion mechanism,” he said.

Iindji expressed hope that the event will attract many stakeholders to help position NCCI members properly to see that businesses and industries in the current operating climate are becoming saturated.

More details with regards to the summit’s logistics and planning will be communicated at a later stage, he said. - Nampa

Africa Briefs

January 24, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Africa Briefs Angola opens up fuel imports

Angolan state oil firm Sonangol has issued its first public tender to buy refined products to widen its import base, market sources who have seen the tender said, in a sign the country is committed to reforming its oil industry.

For years OPEC member Angola has largely relied on commodities trader Trafigura for fuel imports. The trader still supplies gasoil but major competitor Vitol recently edged in to supply the country with gasoline.

One of the sources said the tender would close on Jan. 31 and was looking for 1.2 million tonnes of gasoline, 2.1 million tonne of gasoil and 480,000 tonnes of marine fuel.

"The real market liberalisation is still to come as Sonangol remains the monopoly importer," one of the sources said. – Nampa/Reuters

Lagarde meets Ramaphosa in Davos

IMF chief Christine Lagarde said on Tuesday she had met with South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos and agreed that structural challenges were a burden to economic growth in Africa's largest economy.

Their meeting comes a day after the International Monetary Fund cut South Africa's growth forecast for the next two years, citing political uncertainty.

"We … agreed that bold and timely reforms are needed to create an environment conducive to job creation and less inequality," Lagarde said.

Ramaphosa has signaled a departure in style and governance from Zuma's scandal-plagued administration. The rand has surged since Ramaphosa took the reins of the ANC. – Nampa/Reuters

Nigeria to decide on refinery investors

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation's (NNPC) board will decide on the investors for its three major refineries this month, the state oil company said.

NNPC launched a bidding process in 2016 to find partners to overhaul ailing refineries that produce very little petrol because of decades of mismanagement, leaving OPEC member Nigeria reliant on imported oil products.

The three existing refineries - in the cities of Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna - could add total capacity of 450 000 barrels per day (bpd) if refurbished. The project requires investment of US$2 billion. – Nampa/Reuters

IMF raises Egypt's GDP outlook

The International Monetary Fund has hailed Egypt's progress on economic reforms in its second major review of the country's loan programme, revising up its growth outlook but warning against the risks of not pushing forward with austerity.

The IMF raised its forecast for Egypt's GDP growth for the 2017/18 fiscal year ending in June to 4.8% from 4.5% in a report last year, citing a recovery in consumption and private investment.

Foreign investment in Egypt's equity markets has reached record highs since the country embarked on the reforms, and foreign direct investment has begun picking up. – Nampa/Reuters