Nascam cries for more airplay

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: New Beginnings for COTA graduates

Nascam cries for more airplayBroadcasters must play local music this month Nascam has called for Namibian music to spearhead the independence celebrations for the month of March through all broadcasters and entertainment venues.

According to the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam)'s CEO John Max, the month March marks the permanent symbol of our national Independence Day and as patriotic Namibians, we should create a culture that is proud of their music and talent.

In commemoration of Independence Day, Max is requesting all local broadcasting stations and public entertainment venues to use local music in their establishments. Max says the same spirit carried during the month of December every year should be applied during the month of March and this time with people raising the national flag.

“This must be done in our houses and places of business in order to show a sign of patriotism and celebrate our freedom. Let everyone who enters Namibia know that we are in the month of celebrating our freedom,” he said.

He urged radio stations to allow the public to hear Namibian music throughout the month and let those with beautiful stories talk about independence, and for them to have interviews with local artists to create momentum.

He says the day of independence alone cannot show off talent but rather it should start early.

“The young ones need to be brought up with this tradition otherwise they will not really value 21 March… therefore we should start honouring the whole month with activities leading us to the exact date,” said Max. He also urged artists to use this platform to get their work used and marketed as everyone will be in the spirit of celebrating local.

He says they must go the extra mile to get their work seen instead of waiting for radio stations to pick it up.

“Artists must be go-getters and use this opportunity to get their work on air.

You never know who is listening and what they can do for your career,” said max.

June Shimuoshili

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New Beginnings for COTA graduates

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Awards back for second run

≪ Previous: Nascam cries for more airplay

New Beginnings for COTA graduates

tjil talks about the annual and exciting exhibition by College of the Arts graduates, back for 2018.

New Beginnings is an exhibition of work by graduates of the College of the Arts (COTA) and is now in its ninth term with the National Art Gallery of Namibia. The core purpose of the exhibition is to celebrate another year of learning, thinking and making.

Each year New Beginnings has a different feel, depending on the material and conceptual choices of the final-year students. The students come from all corners of Namibia, often from rural areas where the concerns and hardships of their families are sometimes an inspiration for their work. The works will include that of Mathews Alfeus’ fighting dog sculptures made from reclaimed metals, a metaphor for the disengagement and aggression he finds within his community, while Kambezunda Ngavee was inspired by the traumatic history of his Ovaherero ancestors, and worked these issues into his stone carvings. Davido Indongo went on a personal journey of discovery into his Ondonga culture and interviewed older family members about the use of ‘totems’ in their interactions. Julien Brandt went on a spiritual journey of her own, making art in order to achieve an inner healing. Her paintings are essentially a personal reflection.

In the Visual Art Department, students are also encouraged to learn different craft skills, and Samantha Shaalulange and Hilde Hangula selected textile design as their major subject. Tweyapewa Mbendeka used a soldering iron to work into pieces of perspex to create a light rendition of the heavy memories of war.

The exhibition is currently open to the public and will close on 25 April. The artworks are available for purchase.

Staff Reporter

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Awards back for second run

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: So much more

≪ Previous: New Beginnings for COTA graduates

Awards back for second runLifestyle awards for Namibians 2018 It has been confirmed that the Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards will be back, finer and improved, for their second run following a successful event last year.

The Simply You Magazine (SYM) Lifestyle and Fashion Awards show is all about honouring people who have done remarkable things for the local entertainment industry. Making reference to neighbouring South Africa, the events spokesperson Ndapewoshali Shapwanale said it is time we take example of how they made their celebrities by celebrating them. This year the organisers have added a couple of additional categories, including one that was announced at the media conference, the Wellness and Sports category, and the In Vision Wellness magazine will be on board.

“We want to have an element of supprise so throughout the time leading up to the event date we will be announcing and sharing with the public information including international guests and other categories,” said Shapwanale.

The organisers say last year was a learning curve for them as it was the first time hosting the awards, and they all agreed that there were many things that went wrong, which will be corrected this year. Some challenges include a shortage of sponsorships which they believe was because the product (the awards show) was new and hopefully, this year things will be different.

“With any event, there are challenges, but our goal remains to celebrate our lifestyle industry and that is the important point. With that said, we have decided not to have monetary awards this year for the winners. We look forward to any form of sponsorship to help us appreciate the industry players… this could be from gift cards to photo shoots and anything that one can receive,” she said.

At the press conference, Helena Ngaifiwa who created the awards, emphasised on the importance of artists applying for their category of choice and the fans voting. The awards are vetted by judges who go through each application before the nominees reach the public in such a way that the person can represent Namibia at large.

“There are terms and conditions though. We had personalities who questioned why they had to enter but the truth is we don't know everyone. This gives personalities an equal opportunity to enter,” said Ngaifiwa. The event will be held on 25 August at the National Theatre of Namibia.

JUNE SHIMUOSHILI

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So much more

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Learn right from wrong

≪ Previous: Awards back for second run

So much moreShipi FM goes digital on GOtv Shipi FM, a local community radio station, now has presence on the digital terrestrial television platform, alongside other local radio stations in Namibia.

GOtv subscribers can now enjoy an extended line-up of music, news, business, technology and sports programming by tuning into Shipi FM which is now officially available on channel 313 on the various GOtv packages.

This is indeed a great extension of the GOtv brand as business is centered on great local and international entertainment, sports and lifestyle content for the whole family.

The local radio station is operating in the Oshana and Oshikoto regions with reception as far as Oshivelo and Oshikango.

As one of the new community radio stations in Namibia, Shipi FM hosts a number of diverse programmes consisting of entrepreneurship, news and current affairs, sports, community initiatives as well as entertainment. “In our daily shows they incorporate our local languages namely Oshiwambo and English. Shipi FM aims to build and improve relationships, advance effective communication, inspire, motivate, educate, entertain, inform and advocate for skills development via the medium of the community sound broadcasting service,” said the station manager Renate Shivolo.

While they enrich lives through entertaining audiences, MultiChoice continues to be an aggregator of content.

“We find, develop content and deliver it to viewers through various avenues of technology, allowing us to have a geographical footprint through partnering with local Namibians, while providing access to technical and content infrastructure,” said Roger Gertze, the general manager.

June Shimuoshili

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Learn right from wrong

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: From Botswana to Namibia

≪ Previous: So much more

Learn right from wrong Have you ever thought to yourself that right now you, as a young adult, have responsibilities? Has it ever crossed your mind that what you do has consequences? I have all these questions because I think there is something in the air that is a bit off and is affecting certain individuals… albeit differently.

The people who don't want to listen to instructions think they have made it in life and make others' lives miserable. I am talking about certain entertainers who think just because they have PhDs or experience in the industry, they have nothing new to learn. Unfortunately for them, life is all about learning. To make it worse, technology is evolving each and every day and it is picking up speed. The way something was done yesterday might be outdated the following day. So, if someone, being a journalist, informs you that your work is not up to standard, do you know that they don't hate you or don't want you to succeed? They are simply doing their job and are also helping you to have quality work, so at the end of the day, your work can reach international standards and possibly get airplay all over the world.

So if you are taking your work to a radio station, ensure that it is in the latest format with the right resolution for quality. If you are taking your music video to a TV station, especially NBC, ensure that your work is of high quality in terms of audio and the visuals are in the correct format. If you are submitting your work to a newspaper, make sure that your artwork is in high resolution and your music is in a format so it can be listened to. Alternatively if you are not certain of what you should do, save yourselves time and money and ask for help instead.

To end this off, let us not try to be anything but ourselves. Do what you are expected to do whilst doing you.

June Shimuoshili

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From Botswana to Namibia

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: A Promise fulfilled

≪ Previous: Learn right from wrong

From Botswana to NamibiaNamibia, the fairest country of them all Namibia certainly has a special touch and is very photogenic…

We have scenes from blockbuster movies and series shot and filmed in Namibia because of the scenery. To that list we can safely add two music videos from Shanky Briz all the way from Botswana, not simply because of her destination, but her people too.

There must definitely be something good about Namibia for an artist to from abroad to come and shoot their debut music video in the land of the brave. Botswana artist Shanky Briz, no new name in the entertainment industry as he has gone as far as featuring local celebrities Blossom, Promise and DJ Siya. The artist says he opted for Namibia because it is a beautiful country full of personalities and destinations… just like his music.

“It had to be Namibia. I am shooting two music videos and my song 'Testimony' has a feel of what Namibia the country offers, hence my decision,” said Shanky Briz.

Shanky Briz, who has been coming to Namibia for collaborations and performances since 2016, opted for scenes in Windhoek and he says he may take some shots in the coastal towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. The soft-spoken Afro-pop artist will be in the country until month end where he will complete shooting his music videos.

“I have fans in Namibia so I cannot leave without launching the videos here first before I take them home. I can comfortably say Namibia is my second home. I will be having a concert in Rundu soon,” he said.

June Shimuoshili

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A Promise fulfilled

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Budget hits and misses

≪ Previous: From Botswana to Namibia

A Promise fulfilledEmbracing her culture through her music We know and love her from her songs Dogo Dogo, Tanauka and more recently, Choose Day. Songstress Promise shares with tjil what makes her unique and how she runs her own league.

“I am not your average artist and I don't plan on being one.”

These are the words Promise used when asked to describe herself and career plans.

This is clearly visible as her boundary-breaking work can attest to the statement. Promise, who is not new to the music scene, had taken a year off to focus on herself and she is now ready to deliver nothing but genre-defying music for the rest of the year, and after that.

“I was going through some personal matters that I had to deal with but that is all in the past. It's amazing how one can be off-scene for that long yet fans remain loyal and true by requesting for my work on air and still downloading it.

I am ready to be what my fans need me to be,” she said. This week, she bares it all to tjil… on how she got into the industry, why she dares to be different and what her future holds.

Where it all began…

It all started when she ended up at the Omalaeti Productions studio when the producers saw her talent. In 2013 she was discovered by producer Solani Glo who had her record her first mainstream song featuring PDK on the Are You Single remix and she never looked back. “I started taking it kinda seriously. The funny thing is I fancied myself an entrepreneur or businesswoman, never a musician. Oddly enough I don't see myself as anything than who I am now,” she said.

Her first album was released in 2014 titled Lioness where her hit songs Tanauka and Komangoma are featured.

Her take on culture…

Promise is a one-of-a-kind artist and so is her music. She says it all comes from her upbringing and many will be taken aback by the fact that she grew up in the city. She says she wanted to rope that into her career and that's why she is an Afro-pop artist today who is a worldwide product.

Promise says she considers herself as a Namibian artist and her songs Tanauka in Oshiwambo and Komangoma in Subia are examples of how marketable local music is.

All Promise wants, is to teach her fans the importance of culture and getting out of their comfort zones by being open to other peoples' traditions.

“I am one who respects culture to the core, I was raised that way. I was taught not to forget my heritage. I have realised that the rest of the world wants to see what we as Africans can offer and they want African products.

I wouldn't mind singing in Damara or Rukwankagli because an artist is one who challenges him- or herself and that is me,” she said.

The importance of visuals…

One thing Promise is known for is her great sense of visuals and knowing the critical role they play to her career. She says video bonds artists, as well as connecting a listener or an audience.

In many ways, they are an important medium for contemporary pop culture and technology. Although she was taking some time off, the singer remained committed and dedicated to her work as she recently dropped her new hit Choose Day.

Promise says she likes working with new people, from video directors to actors, makeup artists and stylists, to boost their music and for their talent to be noticed.

“It was important for me to shoot my first single's music video because I needed my fans to know who I was. Many thought I was Oshiwambo-speaking since the song was in Oshiwambo whilst others thought I was Nigerian.

It was simply to say this is Promise who sang Tanauka. Music videos bond artists to their fans and I like taking my time to respect them by making sure the visuals and storylines correspond,” she said.

Sophomore album…

Promise will be releasing her second album this year but before she does that she has exciting projects featuring local and international artists.

She says she will not be missing in action again and ensures her fans that the album will be a wow factor. She says she is not one to release to meet award deadlines but rather take Namibia to the rest of the world.

“People must know that there is a county called Namibia and from that country there is an artist called Promise. If I get myself there, it will be an achievement that we will all proud of.

For now I will be dropping a single with KP Illest and it is dope. It will be dropped with a music video and you will not be ready.

Thank you for being patient with me and for supporting my career,” she said. *All photographs by Eric Mule.

June Shimuoshili

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Budget hits and misses

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Will the real man please stand up?

≪ Previous: A Promise fulfilled

Budget hits and misses There have been quite a number of positives from the 2018/19 national budget presented to parliament on Wednesday by finance minister Calle Schlettwein.

While decrying high levels of corruption, the huge public wage bill and the perpetual bailouts of state-owned enterprises, Schlettwein highlighted that the budget was a funding compact for growth, bringing about jobs, less inequality, less poverty and improved service delivery. The finance minister has particularly been credited for seeking to diversify the economic base through the collection of more revenue from unlikely sources like religious bodies and charity organisations. This was long overdue. Another positive is the fact that government has managed to rein in quite substantially the spending on global and domestic travel with only N$221.8 million allocated in this year's budget compared to the N$634.3 million allocation in the 2015/16 financial year. It has committed to spending a lot of money within the crucial education sector. It is also so refreshing to hear that government has collected a total of N$972.02 million from the recovery of outstanding tax through the tax arrears recovery incentive programme initiated last year. There are, however, misgivings as to whether this budget primarily addresses the concerns of poor Namibians and the thousands of young people sitting at home without jobs. The ridiculous spending on defence, which currently stands at N$6 billion in the new financial year, continues unabated. This big-spending trend is highly skewed given other pressing priorities such as lack of affordable land and housing that the nation is grappling with. The minister was actually at pains to explain why such a huge amount has been allocated to defence once more. Things are simply not adding up. The time has come for government to fully account as far as the defence budget is concerned. There must be a transparent process, which includes making actual spending readily available to the public. The status quo has resulted in more questions than answers and there is a need to have an open and visible process, with reasons for spending clearly outlined. The perpetual excuse of 'national security' is a flimsy veil.

It should not be business as usual.

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Will the real man please stand up?

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Namibian beer now the butt of listeria jokes

≪ Previous: Budget hits and misses

Will the real man please stand up? Oh, how the world has changed since Alexander Graham Bell invented the telephone, the Wright brothers designed and flew the first plane ever, and someone - probably not important enough to mention - invented the analogue wristwatch.

But trivia set, the definition of what constitutes a man is one such thing that has adopted different faces since time immemorial. The 80s, the era in which I was raised, taught us that a man has to be a stature of brute strength, with a hoarse and gravelly voice, and most importantly, a feared fighter among his peers. A feared fighter for he was expected to keep the family pot boiling - by hook or crook.

A tiny squeaky voice, or the inability to boast a fully grown beard were all signs of being too in touch with the feminine side and those ‘unlucky’ enough to possess such traits were considered abnormal. We were always reminded that there was a reason a lion, and not a mouse, became king of the jungle.

This is the same era that demanded a man always care for and protect his family against all odds - even if there appears no way out of the situation. Boys don’t skip ropes, play with dolls or cry. Boys do not belong in the kitchen thus do not clean it or wash dishes. Girls sit on the ground on the left side of the homestead, and boys sit alongside their fathers and uncles on chairs to the right hand side of the homestead - signifying their influence in the family.

Many cultural values teach a woman to always submit to a man, whatever the cost, and she should never question his authority.

Fast forward the setting to beyond 2000, and it becomes an even more of an entangled quadratic equation. Being a man of the 90s, as the phrase is often flaunted, requires that you excel in a wood-chopping contest, be able to interpret Braille and still find time to change the baby’s nappies before dinner.

Today’s man is called upon to understand the jargons of law, be a master at chess and yet have that delicate touch and look when dealing with your partner. Tell her you love her today, tomorrow and forever if you know what’s good for you. Such are the requirements for today’s man. Oh, don’t forget the occasional pair of shoes if you know what’s good for you.

Yes, you are equally responsible for bringing the baby in this world and should therefore contribute equally to his upbringing, we are often reminded by our better halves.

Self-help guides, which have seemingly taken over the logic of the human mind, now ‘confirms’ that the absence of a father figure in a boy’s life is what leads to violent behaviour - like shooting up the entire neighborhood, or knifing his junior high school mates to death before break!

Are you kidding me? Whatever happened to crazy? Can’t a person just be classified as being crazy than attempting the mumbo jumbo about the absence of a father figure?

Never allow your woman to have the last say in the house, traditional male initiation rites remind us. But as a man of “beyond 2000” (no relation to the 90s TV series that painted an enthralling picture of how machines would take over the world after the year 2000, I know better! If you are wise and value your relationship - let her have the last say!

Hollywood instils into the minds of women that a perfect man has to have the face of Brad Pit, the body of Arnold Schwarzenegger and the ‘charms’ of Adam Sandler! My God, try combining these three men by a scientific formula and you will end up with a jumping frog with a hunchback on your door step shouting, “Set me free. Kiss me before midnight. Set me free…!”

So, will the real man - if there exists such a one - please stand up! I, for one, will remain seated for I do not even meet my own ‘selection’ criteria.

Next time you grandmother gives you grief about you being too westernised as a man, and your wife relating how times have changed since Vasco da Gamma’s travellers; tell them the story of how the lion exterminated his subjects that were too opinionated!

Until then…

tjatindi@gmail.com

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Namibian beer now the butt of listeria jokes

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Shooting clubs evicted from Luiperdsvallei

≪ Previous: Will the real man please stand up?

Namibian beer now the butt of listeria jokes While jokes about the products responsible for the outbreak of listeriosis in South Africa have gone viral on social media platforms, yet another Namibian company has fallen victim to social media posts linking it to the health scare.

The outbreak in South Africa has killed at least 180 people.

In the latest incident Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) - a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group - was implicated by social media users.

According to a statement issued by the company, various communications have been doing the rounds warning the public against particular brands supposedly implicated in the scare.

It said various brands have been implicated by fake news and jokes about listeria contamination. Among the brands implicated by these WhatsApp and social media posts are those belonging to NBL.

Some Facebook posts read: “BREAKING NEWS: Another source of listeriosis has been traced in NAMIBIA BREWER. We are advised not to consume alcoholic beverages (especially TAFEL) until further notice (sic).”

Another post read: “Listeriosis disease why you didn't hit Namibia brewery? Next time do so please!!!”

Another Facebook user posted: “*BREAKING* *NEWS*: Another source of listeriosis has been traced to Namibia brewery plant in Windhoek. We are advised not to consume alcoholic beverages from this plant until further notice (sic).”

The O&L Group refuted the allegations that NBL brands are implicated in the outbreak.

“We are aware of the current so-called 'joke' doing the rounds where it is claimed that NBL and its brands have been affected by the current listeria outbreak. This is a malicious rumour, and void of any truth,” said O&L spokesperson Patricia Hoeksema.

Hoeksema added that NBL prides itself in upholding the highest, world-class quality standards throughout all its production processes.

With ISO 9001 certification (quality management system), HACCP certification (international food safety management system), and its very own stringent in-house policies, procedures and specifications, the public can rest assured that all NBL brands are safe for consumption, she said.

The company added that NBL had won numerous international awards for its high-quality beers and was recognised as one of Namibia's leading manufacturers and exporters, having penetrated some of the toughest markets in the world.

Earlier this week Meatco also warned social media users not to tarnish its image by linking its products to the outbreak in South Africa after an image of its Eloolo canned beef product was circulated along with articles on the outbreak.

The source of the outbreak was traced to processed meat products from Enterprise Foods and Rainbow Chicken in South Africa. These products are imported by Namibia.

The products identified as a source of the disease are polony, viennas, russians, frankfurters and other sausages and cold meats.

Jokes about these products, especially Enterprise polony, have gone viral on social media.

ELLANIE SMIT

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Shooting clubs evicted from Luiperdsvallei

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Ya Nangoloh, Shaduva settle

≪ Previous: Namibian beer now the butt of listeria jokes

Shooting clubs evicted from LuiperdsvalleiNo training, trials for Olympic hopefuls The future of shooting sports in Namibia hangs in the balance as the shooting ranges at the army base outside Windhoek are now out of bounds for civilians.

Shooting clubs had to remove all their equipment from shooting ranges at the Luiperdsvallei army base outside Windhoek last Friday.

After more than a year of back-and-forth discussions the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) summarily ordered the clubs out.

There were last-minute attempts by club members to retrieve immovable assets such as floodlights and podiums worth millions, but army officials refused to let those be removed.

The standoff started on 16 August 2016 when the Shooting Union of Namibia (SUN) was informed by the NDF that shooting practice was suspended with immediate effect until further notice. An eviction notice came on 6 February 2017 when SUN was informed that its members using the Luiperdsvallei gallery range and pistol range would have to remove their equipment. No reasons were given and in September 2016 SUN president Jürgen Hoffmann wrote a letter to the then minister of sport, youth and national service, Jerry Ekandjo, and the Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) to complain.

Hoffmann wrote that the union had been informed a day earlier that the denial of access would be a temporary measure that presumably tied in with a rumour reported in a local newspaper that former SWATF and Koevoet soldiers intended to attack the Suiderhof and Luiperdsvallei army bases.

Explanations offered later were that there were issues with the locking of the gates to the shooting range, or alleged changes to the locks without informing the NDF.

Despite requests by SUN for further clarification the clubs were never allowed back at Luiperdsvallei.

Hoffmann said in his letter to Ekandjo that consequently all national shooting trials had to be cancelled, and he sought further clarity on the reasons for the ban.

The Luiperdsvallei facilities were used by six clubs and four associations affiliated to SUN for practice, national competitions, national trials, as well as international competitions.

Two of these clubs represent clay-target and pistol shooting, which are Olympic codes.

Background

Prior to independence the clubs had entered into an agreement with the then ministry of defence for the development of the facilities at the army base, provided that the clubs used their own funds. The pistol range was co-developed with certain agreements in place.

The parties had agreed that the facilities would be open to both the military and civilians.

According to SUN there were mainly tacit agreements in place when the NDF took over. Based on these tacit agreements, access cards were issued to the Luiperdsvallei clubs under the Namibia Rifle Association (previously called the Service Rifle Association), Namibia Pistol Association and the Clay Target Association of Namibia.

This, SUN said, was done without a formal accompanying agreement issued by the NDF.

Agreements in place

SUN said the only official agreements in place were a formal approval granted by the defence ministry in 2008 to establish an Olympic clay-target range at Luiperdsvallei according to international standards, as well as a Part One Order issued in 2012 that gave SUN members access to the Uitsig shooting range.

The development of the clay-target range was approved by the defence ministry and the Namibian Sports Commission (NSC).

No other formal contracts were issued by the NDF.

Other developments

After independence Namibia was admitted to the Olympic movement and the Commonwealth Games Federation. Because of this the clay-target and pistol shooting clubs upgraded their facilities at a cost of N$1 million, which SUN said assured that Namibian athletes could participate – and win – at various African and world championships and six Olympic qualifications between 1996 and 2016.

One of the star shooters was Gaby Ahrens, who took part in the Olympic trap events in 2008, 2012, and 2016. She won one Commonwealth bronze and two gold medals in Africa.

The future unsure

By March last year the SUN, alongside the NSC, the NNOC pleaded with the defence ministry to review its previous intention to evict the shooting clubs from Luiperdsvallei.

They emphasised that there were no other shooting ranges complying with international standards.

They proposed that the NDF, NSC, NNOC and SUN be joint custodians of the shooting sports to preserve and grow the sports.

Their pleas fell on deaf ears, however.

Asked what this would mean for shooting sports in Namibia and how far Namibia's adherence to the Olympic Charter would be safeguarded if the clubs were left without Olympic-standard facilities, NSC chief administrator Simataa Mwiya responded that the clubs already had a new venue.

The new venue, which was registered by the NSC on 23 February, is the Neuweiller Clay Target Shooting Range, which is on privately owned land about 30 kilometres outside Windhoek.

SUN, however, stated that this venue is only for clay-target shooting, is not of Olympic standard and is only a provisional measure to keep certain codes going. No other code is accommodated at the new venue and there is no Olympic trap range left in the country.

What it means for the sport is that no Olympic qualification events can be held in Namibia any longer.

The defence ministry did not respond to an enquiry about this matter.

CATHERINE SASMAN

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Ya Nangoloh, Shaduva settle

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Theft suspect on the run

≪ Previous: Shooting clubs evicted from Luiperdsvallei

Ya Nangoloh, Shaduva settleOthers still in defamation firing line Human rights activist Phil ya Nangoloh says he will continue to pursue legal action against others accused him of criminality.

NamRights executive director Phil ya Nangoloh has reached an out-of-court settlement with one of five former employees who had publicly levelled a slew of unsavoury allegations against him in 2013.

The settlement agreement was reached on Tuesday after Festus Shaduva unconditionally apologised for the harm caused to Ya Nangoloh's “fame, dignity, reputation and career as a consequence”.

Shaduva published or caused the publication of several news articles, letters, press releases and text messages in which he alleged that Ya Nangoloh, in his capacity as head of NamRights, had committed and was guilty of certain criminal acts such as corruption, embezzlement of donor money, theft and bribery, as well as sex-for-favours. Ya Nangoloh sued Shaduva along with his former colleagues David Jeremia, Johanna Elago, Denys Nandjigwa, Festus Nuunyango and former board chairperson Tangeni Nuukuawo. Also sued were Namibian Sun and its former editor, Toivo Ndjebela, for having published the news articles.

Namibian Sun in February 2013 wrote about the former employees, who attempted to depose Ya Nangoloh from his position at NamRights, amid claims they were not paid regularly since 2006 and allegations that Ya Nangoloh had pocketed donor money and had also used funds money to develop properties.

The former workers also urged donors and others to see to it that Ya Nangoloh is prosecuted for his “soon-to-be-known crimes”.

On 27 February 2103 it was reported that the former employees, then calling themselves the NamRights Revolutionary Committee, had called on the board to hold a special meeting to discuss the alleged abuse of power, attempts to sell regional offices and allegations that money was given to former DTA politician Phillemon Moongo. Ya Nangoloh has strenuously denied all the allegations.

On 1 March 2013 it was reported that Nuukuawo had resigned as NamRights board chairperson before the board convened to address the allegations against Ya Nangoloh.

Ya Nangoloh is quoted as having said that the articles published in Namibian Sun were meant to destroy NamRights and to tarnish his reputation.

After the settlement agreement was reached with Shaduva, Ya Nangoloh said that he will continue his legal action against the other defendants in the matter.

He said NamRights had lost funding as a result of the allegations.

A day after the first article was published in early February 2013 the German embassy had cancelled a N$800 000 sponsorship meant for a civic education programme, Ya Nangoloh alleged.

Lawyer Isle Achenbach acted on behalf of Ya Nangoloh. The five former NamRights employees were represented by Norman Tjombe.

Catherine Sasman

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Theft suspect on the run

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Kameeta denies fishing links

≪ Previous: Ya Nangoloh, Shaduva settle

Theft suspect on the run

The Erongo police have requested for help from the public to identify an unknown suspect who stole cash from the Atlantic Hotel in Walvis Bay in Tuesday.

According to the Erongo crime investigations coordinator Erastus Iikuyu, the suspect was captured by the closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the hotel's premises that morning.

“He removed a handbag containing documents and N$100 notes from the reception at Atlantic Hotel, Walvis Bay without the owner's consent. The suspect only removed the cash and left the bag in the hotel and disappeared.”

“The public is hereby requested to assist in identifying the suspect in the picture,” he said.

The public is requested to contact Iikuyu or detective warrant officer Nghiteeka at 081 268 9687 if they have any information that can assist the police.

Adolf Kaure

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Kameeta denies fishing links

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Kameeta denies fishing links

The poverty eradication minister, Bishop Zephania Kameeta, has refuted media reports which indicated that he is a director in the Merlus Development which is owned by the fishing firm, Merlus Group.

Last week, a local daily ran an article 'Fishmonger lawmakers” which stated that data shows that at least 24 of the 104 Members of Parliament either own, or are directors of fishing companies.

Kameeta was listed as one of these.

In a statement, he rejected these claims saying he is simply the chairperson of the Merlus Development which is a charity trust fund.

The minister emphasised that he was approached by the Merlus Group to be a member of the board of trustees when he was still a Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia (ELCRIN) in 2007.

He added that as a chairperson, he receives a sitting allowance.

“As the minister of poverty eradication and social welfare I will therefore like to state that I do not have any connections with Merlus Fishing or any business dealings, as being perpetuated by the article, and nor do I have any shares in the company,” said Kameeta.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Aquifer tests underway

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Aquifer tests underway

Tests will be carried out on the Windhoek aquifer system for the next two months to allow technicians and the municipality to investigate all water-supply options.

The tests, which started on 28 February, “will enable the City water technical teams to have better information at hand for planning purposes as well as ensure sustained water supply to all residents”.

During the testing period the aquifer will be subjected to increased water pumping, the municipality explained.

City officials recently said that such testing could only be conducted during the rainy season, so it could not be delayed.

The results will enable the City to plan ahead and be prepared for “any unforeseen eventualities”.

Continuous monitoring of water quality will take place to ensure the water remains safe for human consumption.

The City recently warned residents to reduce water consumption, which had continued to rise in recent months despite ongoing worries about water availability.

Officials cautioned that water consumption had peaked again since January this year.

Although strict water restrictions were relaxed last year, the City warned the dam inflow during this rainy season was disappointingly low.

It warned consumers that unless water consumption dropped, it would be forced to reinstate the strict water-saving measures to ensure that the city does not run dry. NamWater dam level records published yesterday showed that the Swakoppoort Dam is currently at 38.3% capacity, compared to 31.7% last year this time.

The Von Bach Dam is 52.2% full, lower than the 55.7% of the same time last year.

The Omatako Dam is currently at 0.9% capacity, and transfers from Omatako to Von Bach started on 9 February.

The Omatako stood at 59.9% this time last season.

The daily flood bulletin issued yesterday indicated that the Zambezi River levels at Katima Mulilo continued to rise. The latest level was 5.61 metres.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Mixed reactions to pension increase

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Mixed reactions to pension increase

The decision by the government to increase old-age pensions by N$50 has been met with mixed reactions.

Finance minister Calle Schlettwein on Wednesday announced the increase when he tabled the 2018/19 national budget in the National Assembly.

The N$50 increase will result in those who are 60 years or older receiving a monthly grant of N$1 250.

An Oshakati pensioner, Paulina Hamunyela, welcomed the increase, but was quick to point out that it was not enough to sustain the four grandchildren in her care.

The 74-year-old said three of the four grandchildren are orphans and are at boarding schools. The other grandchild is enrolled at a vocational training school in Gobabis.

“It is good that government increased the pension grant but to me it is not something I would celebrate,” she said.

“This is not because I am ungrateful but I strongly believe in the word of God, which has given me the strength all these years to work hard and not be accustomed to handouts,” Hamunyela said.

Hamunyela said despite the government having introduced free education, parents and guardians still need to play a role in terms of buying school uniforms and study materials, which don't come cheap.

“If you look at my situation, I have grandchildren in boarding schools and every time they come for out-weekend I have to pay for their transport as well as give them pocket money when they return to the hostel because they do not eat that day.

“That is why I am not sitting at home waiting for the pension grant, I am here doing business,” said Hamunyela.

The pensioner tries to complement her monthly pension by selling religious books and health products.

Thomas Johannes from Okahao said he couldn't believe that his pension would go up N$50. He didn't expect this, given the state of the economy.

“I cannot believe this because all along we have been hearing on the radio and reading in the newspapers that the government is broke. If this is really the case that government increased our pension grant, I am happy,” Johannes said.

He urged fellow pensioners to use their monthly grants to look after themselves and ensure that the money is put to good use.

“I have heard of pensioners drinking their money away, which is not good. Save your money if you don't need it, you never know what challenge you will face in the future.”

KENYA KAMBOWE

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MPs finally grill NSFAF

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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MPs finally grill NSFAFQuestions over N$1.7 billion unaccounted for The management of the institution claims that inherited records during the transformation in 2014 were the cause of the problem.

The Namibia Students Financial Assistance Fund (NSFAF) says a sloppily managed transfer from the ministry of education in 2013 was responsible for the unaccounted for N$1.8 billion disbursed to students between 2007 and 2013.

NSFAF CEO Hilya Nghiwete acknowledged the record management at the time was a “challenge”, saying there will be a time to approach the government on how to deal with beneficiaries that cannot be traced since 1997.

Nghiwete added a 2016 reconciliation revealed that out of the more than N$1.7 billion, NSFAF should be able to trace about N$1.5 billion which had been disbursed to universities.

She said NSFAF was now at a third stage to engage the universities to confirm that the money had been transferred.

NSFAF appeared before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Accounts yesterday after it had failed to turn up for a hearing before the standing committee on 27 November last year.

Those who were to respond to questions had to do it under oath. These included members of the new board, chairperson Jerome Mutumba and vice chairperson Christina Swart-Opperman.

The chairperson of the parliamentary committee, Mike Kavekotora, said last year's hearing could not take place due to the “sudden refusal” by NSFAF.

Wanting a full explanation for the no-show, Kavekotora said the standing committee received a letter the day before – on 26 November – in which NSFAF said it would not attend the hearing, adding it was a “sign of disrespect” and blatant disregard for the statutory obligations of the standing committee.

Nghiwete countered by saying NSFAF recognised the oversight role of the standing committee, but added her organisation had considered the questions from the standing committee but after a meeting with Auditor-General Junius Kandjeke was of the view the disbursed N$1.7 billion was “indeed used for the purpose it was meant for”.

Background

NSFAF was asked to appear before the standing committee to account for its “legacy accounts” for the financial periods of 2008/09 to 2012/13. It stated the accounts were prepared on a cash accounting basis with the assumption that all possible legacy debtors were fully impaired – or written off - for various reasons.

Among these reasons provided were that there was some confusion among beneficiaries whether the amounts disbursed were loans or grants.

NSFAF said it was also not clear whether former beneficiaries who had since taken up posts in government were eligible to pay back the money, and some contracts had been signed with minors.

It acknowledged that a number of loans were not repaid while the tracing of debtors was expensive and difficult.

Other reasons for non-repayment of loans included issues with prescription loans, “low repayment morale”, debtors who cannot repay the loans and interest on the loans being disputed.

NSFAF has commissioned a joint venture between Namibian company Tribesman and South African-based New Integrated Credit Solutions (NICS) to recover money not repaid yet. It stated files had been captured which created a book value of about N$453 million to be recovered.

Auditor-general's observations

When NSFAF was transformed into an independent body when it was removed from the former ministry of education in 2013, it had N$115 million in its bank account, which the auditor-general's office said was treated as revenue.

Kandjeke observed in October last year the N$1.7 billion written off was therefore “improper”, saying this amount could indeed run to more than N$2 billion if the interest is factored in.

NSFAF also did not record the written-off amount anywhere in its financial statement of 2014.

The AG also noted NSFAF had at the time not indicated any reasons why the money could not be accounted for.

Moreover, the financial statements of 2010 to 2013 were not audited and no assurance was given to the money disbursed from the government.

Member of the standing committee Nico Smit observed during yesterday's hearing that the transition of NSFAF from the education ministry was chaotic and questioned whether a return of NSFAF to the current Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation would be a viable move.

He said NSFAF was “abandoned” by the former education ministry and was now again being abandoned while the Namibian taxpayers have “to pay through their necks”.

The standing committee also took issue with the fact that NSFAF had contracted PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to prepare its 2014 financial statements and do the audit. AG Kandjeke also disagreed with NSFAF chief financial officer Blessing Nyandoro that this was a normal accounting practice.

CATHERINE SASMAN

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Africa Briefs

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Africa Briefs

Ramaphosa assures Moody's on land reform

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa told ratings agency Moody's on Wednesday that a drive to expropriate land without compensation would be done in a way that would not harm the economy or food security.

Ramaphosa also told Moody's that failure to create jobs was the biggest threat to the South African economy, the presidency said in a statement. South Africa has a jobless rate of over 25 percent and remains scarred by glaring income and ownership disparities that run mostly along racial lines, fuelling social unrest.

"President Ramaphosa reaffirmed that accelerated land reform will unfold within a clear legal framework and without negatively affecting economic growth, agricultural production and food security," the presidency said.

Moody's will announce its latest outlook on South Africa on March 23. It is now the only major ratings agency that has kept South Africa's credit rating at investment grade. S&P and Fitch cut their ratings to sub-investment grade last year, after then-president Jacob Zuma fired Pravin Gordhan as finance minister.

Kenya asks IMF for a 6-month extension

Kenya has asked the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to extend its US$1.5 billion standby credit facility that is expiring this month for a further six months, the IMF said on Wednesday.

The IMF said last month that Kenya had lost access to the funds meant to cushion it against unforeseen external shocks last June because of a failure to complete a review of the programme.

In a statement issued at the end of a mission to Nairobi, the IMF said the new request for an extension will be put to the board before the facility expires on March 13.

The Washington-based IMF said the government had committed to reduce the fiscal deficit and substantially modify interest controls, imposed on banks in 2016, which have been partly blamed for choking private sector credit growth. – Nampa/Reuters

Kabila to sign new mining code soon

Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila will soon sign into law a new mining code, the government and the country's mining companies said on Wednesday. The code has been vigorously opposed by the miners.

The announcement followed a nearly six-hour meeting between Kabila and mining executives in Kinshasa about the new code, which will raise taxes and remove a stability clause in the current law protecting miners from changes to the fiscal and customs regime for 10 years.

"The president of the republic assured the miners ... that their concerns will be taken into account through a constructive dialogue with the government after the promulgation of the new mining law," a joint statement said.

Glencore, Randgold and China Molybdenum all operate mines in Congo, Africa's top copper and cobalt producer, and have said the changes in the code adopted by parliament in January would scare off new investment and violate existing agreements. – Nampa/Reuters

Nigeria passes anti-money laundering law

Nigeria's parliament passed legislation on Wednesday meant to help authorities tackle money laundering and funding for terrorism by allowing its financial intelligence unit to operate free of state control.

The move is aimed at removing bureaucracy impeding investigations of financial crime and was taken under international pressure on Nigeria to crack down on endemic corruption afflicting the economy and law enforcement.

President Muhammadu Buhari would need to sign the legislation for it to come into force, but is expected to do so.

The new law makes the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit an independent body able to share information with counterparts abroad. Until now, the agency has operated under Nigeria's state Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Nigeria suffers from rampant graft and is fighting Boko Haram militants in the northeast, who have killed more than 20 000 people since 2009 and displaced two million others in an insurgency aimed at creating an Islamic state. – Nampa/Reuters

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Kalimbeza rice project in Zambezi flooded

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Kalimbeza rice project in Zambezi floodedHarvest done manually The region fears this year's harvest will be smaller than those of the previous two years. Once it is submerged, the colour of the rice will change from white to black and it will not be fit for consumption. - Lawrence Sampofu, Governor: Zambezi Region

The Kalimbeza Rice Project in the Zambezi Region is under water after recent heavy rains, forcing the project to resort to manual harvesting.

Farm manager Dion Simataa said the mechanical harvesters cannot be used in water and mud, hence their decision to hire casual workers to harvest the rice.

Zambezi Governor Lawrence Sampofu said 40 casual workers have been hired to harvest the rice.

They are paid N$60 per day, which will ultimately be more expensive than using a harvester, but it is the only way to harvest the rice before it spoils, he said.

“Once it is submerged, the colour of the rice will change from white to black and it will not be fit for consumption,” Sampofu explained.

Simataa said the casual workers have so far covered 22 hectares out of the 47 hectares that can be accessed.

The water levels on the rest of the farm are still above one metre, which is too high for manual harvesting.

After harvesting, the rice will be dried and thrashed before being sorted, which is also done manually because of a challenge with the sorting machine.

Simataa said he is concerned that the harvest will be smaller than in the previous two years because of the flooding.

He however said they can still depend on the long grain variety of rice known as Supa, which can withstand floods and which was transplanted in December and January.

“The higher the level of the floods, the higher it grows,” he explained.

The only challenge is that it will only be ready for harvesting in June, when the flood waters might still not have subsided. The fear is that the rice will fall into the water and spoil.

Kalimbeza is situated about 22 kilometres east of Katima Mulilo. - Nampa

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Ex-naval officer shoots family pet

March 8, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Ex-naval officer shoots family petThreatens SPCA after being released on bail Several police officers had to subdue an allegedly intoxicated Walvis Bay man who had shot one of his dogs in front of his wife and children.

A retired Walvis Bay naval officer was released on N$4 000 bail on Wednesday after he shot and wounded the family dog while allegedly under the influence of alcohol.

The shooting happened in the town's Meersig suburb at 10:00 on Tuesday, in the presence of his wife and children.

Phillemon Eino Natangwe (60) was charged with one count of negligently discharging a firearm, handling a weapon under the influence of liquor, and discharging a firearm in a public space. He faces a further count of animal cruelty under the Animal Protection Act. The incident took place at Concord Street in Meersig, Extension 2. Namibian Sun was informed that previous complaints of animal cruelty had been lodged against the owners of the property. The shooting was allegedly preceded by an argument between Natangwe and his wife.

Natangwe was released on bail by the Walvis Bay Magistrate's Court on Wednesday. Witnesses, and photographs, indicate that several police officers were needed to restrain Natangwe at the time of his arrest.

Police also confiscated the 9mm pistol Natangwe used to shoot his family's Labrador. It is alleged that by the time police arrived at the house, Natangwe's wife, and several children present at the house, plus the surviving dogs, had fled the scene in a vehicle. Along with the injured Labrador, the family also own a Maltese poodle and her two puppies.

All the dogs were confiscated and placed in the care of the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). Animal welfare officers said the dogs all showed signs of neglect. The Labrador was taken to a local veterinarian for emergency medical care. Namibian Sun was informed that Natangwe defended his behaviour, telling SPCA staff that the Labrador had acted aggressively towards him.

More threats

The Walvis Bay SPCA has taken steps to obtain a restraining order against Natangwe.

Namibian Sun was informed that shortly after being released on bail on Wednesday, Natangwe arrived at the SPCA premises, demanding that his dogs be returned to him.

According to the charges faced by Natangwe, the SPCA has a legal obligation to keep the animals safe until the court case is finalised.

They refused his request on this basis. When his request was denied, Natangwe allegedly threatened the staff and told them he would be back soon.

One of the Maltese puppies was treated for an old, festering bite wound, while both received emergency deworming and other medical care after they were confiscated.

The case has been postponed to 12 April for further investigation.

Residents who contacted Namibian Sun claimed that several neighbours had expressed concern about their safety in Meersig.

“Many here are terrified. What if he gets drunk again and lashes out again with a weapon? This incident has shocked the Walvis Bay community to the core,” a resident, who declined to be named, said.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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