“SA cities cannot be allowed to fail”

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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“SA cities cannot be allowed to fail” Cities in South Africa are faced with many financial challenges which may be the reason some cities are on the “brink of collapse”, finance minister Nhlanhla Nene said on Monday.

Speaking at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) forum, he said South Africa's cities cannot be allowed to fail. He encouraged delegates, mostly municipal managers, to build strong foundations to ensure that cities do not fail.

His remarks, combined with international factors, sent the rand down to R12.15/US dollar, before the unit recovered somewhat to trade down 0.53% at R12.09/ US dollar at 17:03.

"Cities are key to how we build a prosperous South Africa.

"South Africa is close to 70% urbanised and still growing, the assessment of the contribution shows that 80% of our GDP comes from our cities,” Nene said.

Administration problems between local and national government also have to be addressed. Nene said the country needs more accountable leaders in municipalities that can ensure successful management of cities.

Nene also warned that political challenges can affect the rate of success of SA cities.

Nene also mentioned that economic development is key when addressing the triple challenges that can be found in the National Development Plan (NDP), namely poverty, inequality and unemployment.

“Achieving success in these areas requires that our cities are well governed,” he said.

-Fin24

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Angolan fraud scheme aimed to take US$1.5b

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Angolan fraud scheme aimed to take US$1.5b“The truth of the serious facts that have occurred”. The alleged Angolan fraud scheme aimed to take US$1.5 billion to a firm which presented a plan to the government to secure US$35 billion of international financing for Angola, and purporting to have the support of a syndicate of international banks. "The firm had proposed that the government pay out US$1.5 billion of its own money to help set up the deal." Angola's finance ministry

People involved in an alleged scheme to defraud Angola’s government laid out plans to secure as much as US$1.5 billion, the finance ministry said on Monday, three times the amount previously mentioned by authorities.

State prosecutors announced in March they were investigating a US$500 million transfer made last year out of an account belonging to the central bank to an account in Britain.

Prosecutors have presented initial charges relating to the case against the former governor of the central bank, Valter Filipe da Silva, and José Filomeno dos Santos, the son of the former Angolan president.

Reuters was not immediately able to contact da Silva or dos Santos who has said he is cooperating with authorities.

On Monday, Angola’s finance ministry released a statement setting out what it called “the truth of the serious facts that have occurred”.

It said that a firm, purporting to have the support of a syndicate of international banks, presented a plan to the government to secure US$35 billion of international financing for Angola.

The finance ministry statement said the firm had proposed that the government pay out US$1.5 billion of its own money to help set up the deal.

A total of US$500 million of that amount was transferred to an account in London, the ministry said, but that was flagged as suspicious by British authorities and frozen.

That US$500 million has now been returned to Angola’s central bank, the ministry added.

The former central bank governor and the former president’s son are the most high-profile figures to be named in corruption investigations since President Joao Lourenco took over in September promising to combat endemic graft.

Under Angolan law the initial charges, or formal accusations, against both men must then be upheld via a formal charge document. Prosecutors said this process would be completed within 90 days.

The US$500 million transfer happened last year towards the end of the 38-year presidency of José Eduardo dos Santos, shortly before the elections that replaced him, the ministry said.

-Nampa/Reuters

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Dundee emissions cause concern

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Dundee emissions cause concernCompany says it invested N$4bn in environmental improvements While residents complain of irritations which they ascribe to recent plumes of gas from the mining plant, the mine says there is no evidence to show the emission levels present a health risk.

Angry posts on social media over the last two weeks have complained about thick plumes of smoke being emitted from the Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb (DPMT) smelter day and night, which have caused a number of health problems.

Residents preferring anonymity complained of tight and burning chests and difficulty breathing, burning eyes and runny noses, yellow phlegm coughed up, and their gardens “burnt like winter freeze”, presumably as a result of the emissions.

“We are slowly being killed. We are sick and tired of this,” said one resident.

Some residents claimed the emissions are more intense as the mine is allegedly pushing up its production, and said the mine has acknowledged that it is currently experiencing problems with the acid plant.

The mine did not comment on the alleged “problems with the acid plant” and neither would it say whether more emissions have been experienced over the last couple of weeks. “Namibians are not benefiting from it at all, except for having jobs. The money is being made elsewhere,” one resident said.

Dundee said the emissions residents complain about are “random and generally experienced due to operational upset conditions, including power trips and during the start-up of the plant”.

It said ambient levels of sulphur dioxide in Tsumeb “on occasion cause some individuals to complain of irritation and voice their concern”.

“When complaints are received or elevated levels are detected at the air quality stations, immediate actions are taken to mitigate emissions, including reducing plant feed rates,” Dundee spokesperson Alina Garises said. She said air quality monitoring stations are placed at various locations in and around Tsumeb. These include those at the stadium and the mine's information centre, for the continuous monitoring of concentrations of airborne fine particular matter (PM10) and sulphur dioxide in the community, as well as to sample airborne particular matter for further analysis on a weekly basis.

Garises said the mine is “committed to comply with environmental legislation and regulations and is committed to transform the Tsumeb smelter into a world-class facility”.

The Canadian company took over the mine from Weatherly International in 2010 and said it has since then started a major investment in environmental improvements at a cost of about N$4 billion, including equipment to reduce emissions and to improve environmental monitoring.

It said it installed large industrial filters, or bag houses, to remove fine particles from the smelter gasses in 2011. In 2016, it said, it commissioned a sulphuric acid plant to remove more than 90% of the sulphuric dioxide from the gases released into atmosphere and to convert it into sulphuric acid.

For this, it has invested over N$2.3 billion, the mine said.

In addition, it said, it has developed an environmental management plan to further reduce emissions to air and water through accepted international practices and to improve the reliability of environmental performance.

Garises said the company is in the process of completing a comprehensive environmental social impact assessment which includes extensive specialist studies.

“To date, these studies have shown the ongoing operation of DPMT has not had a measurable negative impact on soil contamination in the region nor is there evidence that shows that current emission levels present a health risk to the community,” Garises said.

In a press statement on its website in January of this year Dundee reported it produced 219 300 tons last year as compared to the 200 000 tons produced during previous three years.

By April 2017 an in-house environmental impact assessment report stated that Dundee is proposing to upgrade and optimise its operations to increase the copper concentrate throughput capacity from 240 000 tons per year to 370 000 tons.

CATHERINE SASMAN

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Totem

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Totem Quote of the day

"The firm had proposed that the government pay out US$1.5 billion of its own money to help set up the deal." - Angola's finance ministry.

Budget

5 new projects to improve livestock production

There are five new projects within the ministry of agriculture’s improving livestock production programme. Only one of these projects was allocated part(N$30.1 million) of its estimated budget funds in 2018/2019.

-National Development Budget

57 000

Is the number of households with one or more orphaned member below 18 years in rural areas.

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Hit-and-run trial set for August

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Hit-and-run trial set for August

The trial of the man accused of killing Junias Smith (23) with a red BMW in August 2016, and then fleeing the scene of the deadly crash, has been postponed to late August 2018.

Lesley Simwanza, who was 26 at the time of the incident, appeared before Windhoek Magistrate Justine Asino on Tuesday for his scheduled plea and trial.

However, the case could not proceed because Simwanza's former lawyer, Chris Mayumbelo, had been replaced on short notice.

The court was informed by new defence counsel Trevor Brockerhoff that Mayumbelo had retired and Brockerhoff was only informed about the case this week, not allowing him enough time to prepare.

Magistrate Asino postponed the case for plea and trial to 29, 30 and 31 August.

Four State witnesses who had travelled to attend yesterday's court proceedings were instructed to return on the new dates.

Public prosecutor Selma Nekwaya said the State would make full disclosure to the new defence lawyer today.

Simwanza was granted N$10 000 bail in October 2016.

He was arrested around four days after fleeing the scene of the crash on Windhoek's Nelson Mandela Avenue.

At his bail application, police officers said Simwanza was sourcing car parts to fix his battered red BMW when the police tracked him down and arrested him.

Despite a public outcry and a petition signed by members of the public, friends and family, opposing bail, Magistrate Alweendo Sebby Venatius at the time said that the court was not convinced Simwanza posed a flight risk.

Venatius did add that the court had to take into account the public interest in the case, and the petition had been taken into account.

He further noted that Simwanza had not stopped to ascertain Smith's injuries after running him over. He left the scene and failed to report the incident.

“He might have saved a life,” the magistrate said.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Murder and mayhem

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Murder and mayhemNamibia's violent deaths more than double global rate In 2016 Namibia was among 23 countries that recorded extremely high violent deaths, averaging 364 murders per year.

The violent death rate in Namibia is one of the highest in the world and in proportion to that of high-intensity conflict zones.

At a rate of 24 violent deaths per 100 000, this is more than double the global rate.

Of these, five are women, the remainder are men.

A recent report 'Global Violent Deaths' providing the latest available data, however, says the figures may be severely underestimated as many countries still do not produce timely and relevant data on violent deaths, which is essential for measuring progress using both national and global indicators.

At least 560 000 people around the world died violently in 2016. This translates to a global rate of eight violent deaths per 100 000 people.

Namibia more than doubles that.

Globally, most violent deaths occurred outside of war zones. About 18% (99 000) were war deaths; 68% (385 000) were intentional murders. An estimated 10% of all violent killings are classified as unintentional murders and another 3% as killings due to legal interventions.

In 2016 Namibia was among 23 countries that exhibited extremely high violent deaths, meaning a minimum of 20 violent deaths per 100 000.

The highest numbers of violent deaths were recorded in Brazil, India, Syria, Nigeria and Venezuela, while Namibia ranked 22nd with a rate of 24 violent deaths per 100 000.

Syria, in comparison, had a violent death rate of more than 175 per 100 000, however the report notes that Syria as well as eight other countries were at war.

“In the Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Lesotho, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, and Venezuela, crime claimed as many victims as some high-intensity conflicts.

The Namibian police chief, Inspector-General Sebastian Ndeitunga, told Namibian Sun that the rating is debatable although there is concern in Namibia over violent crime.

He said he did not agree that Namibia should be ranked as one of the countries with the highest violent death rates, although he added that it was not known what formula was used to come to this conclusion.

Ndeitunga admitted that there were serious concerns that needed to be addressed such as domestic violence, where he said not only firearms were used to kill but also other weapons such as machetes.

He said alcohol and drug abuse also led to violent crimes.

“We have a wave of violent crimes that is affecting the city, but this is not cause for alarm. It means that more needs to be done.”

Ndeitunga also referred to housebreakings in which people are violently assaulted and said the police “are not scared to use the same force”.

“They are coming for our houses. They are killing our brothers and families and living on the loot that they stole. They should expect the same force.”

He added that the report should be seen as a wake-up call to redouble efforts and added that more resources should be allocated for the police to do their job properly.

The report adds that some of the listed countries are plagued by high levels of violence related to economic and political crises, fragility and widespread impunity for crimes. Rising inequality, poverty, unemployment (especially among youth), and exclusion, may also play a role.

Guns rule

Countries with the highest rates of lethal violence typically had a higher proportion of firearm-related killings and Namibia was no exception. In 2016 data indicated that in Namibia at least three deaths per 100 000 were committed with firearms. Namibia was also among the countries with the highest death rate by use of firearm globally, ranking 14th. El Savador with 75 deaths per 100 000 committed by firearms ranked the highest.

The report adds that while arms may not always be used in gender-based violence, they are correlated with an increase in gender inequality and a generalised culture of violence, against women in particular.

Private gun ownership in Namibia has more than doubled from 2004 to 2017, with handguns dominating new licence applications and self-defence cited as the number-one reason to own a firearm.

A recent briefing paper on gun ownership and gun crime by the Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) shows that the number of registered firearms has increased from around 97 000 to more than 200 000 since 2004; up from five guns per 100 000 citizens to nine guns per 100 citizens now.

On average, 6 653 gun licences are issued annually.

But the increase in firearm licences issued has not been associated with an increase in gun-related crimes, IPPR found.

The study indicated that murders by firearm rose from 3.4% of all murders between 1995 and 2001, to 14.05% between 2009 and 2017.

More than 3 200 murders were reported in the nine years under review, with an average of 364 murders per year.

The number of shooting deaths remained fairly constant, ranging between 35 and 69 per year, in comparison to murders committed with another weapon, which have steadily increased in recent years.

There was a decrease in attempted murders by firearm, and a steady decrease in robbery cases involving guns.

ELLANIE SMIT

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Divorce opens Land Tribunal

April 10, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Divorce opens Land Tribunal

The long-awaited Land Tribunal has started its operations with an unusual case in which a divorced couple are fighting over a resettlement farm they were granted while married in community of property.

The matter that served before the tribunal yesterday is unprecedented and is not covered in law.

Mara Uazenga, represented by Reya Karuaihe, has appealed the decision of the lands ministry to terminate her right as co-lessee of Farming Unit A in the Omaheke Region.

Karuaihe told the tribunal that relations between his client and her ex-husband soured and she was now denied access to the common borehole.

“These people applied for land while they were married in community of property and the wife was left to farm alone for four years. Then the husband returned… and now she is denied water from a borehole that they secured while still married,” he told the court.

Karuaihe told the court that as a result his client was now forced to drive her cattle to a neighbouring farm for water.

Former parliament member and fulltime commercial farmer Clara Bohitile is one of the tribunal members, along with Windhoek lawyer Elize Angula, who is the chairperson, and her deputy is Clive Kavendjii. Orben Sibeya, also a lawyer, and fulltime commercial farmer Ryno van der Merwe are also members.

The members were appointed by former lands minister Alfeus !Naruseb in 2015 and serve a three-year term.

Happy Ntelamo, counsel for Mara's former husband Zebalth Uazenga, told the tribunal that the “parties are fighting”.

According to Ntelamo they are living on separate parts of the farm “and do not get along”.

The case was postponed to 30 May for the next hearing.

The other cases on the roll were all postponed to later dates in May, June and August.

Tribunal

Angula yesterday said the time had come for the tribunal to be in operation and it could no longer be delayed by lack of resources and funding.

According to her members are paid a mere N$960 as sitting allowance and added that they had submitted a budget to the ministry but were committed to push on with the little they had at their disposal.

“We have cases dating back from 2014. Land has become a very important aspect and there were a lot of complaints from the public. The High Court is inundated with review cases,” she said.

Good timing

According to Angula, the tribunal will hear resettlement appeals, the issue of waivers and compensation in the case of disputes, and the like. In essence, discussions would centre around all the aspects in the buying and selling, and transfer of farmland to the previously disadvantaged.

She added that it would ideally be a body that must hold the lands ministry accountable and the ball was set rolling “at the right time”.

This comes at a time when the country finds itself in the eye of an unprecedented land storm fuelled by what many believe is the unfair resettlement of people.

Just last month Vicky Erenstein Ya Toivo, the widow of the late struggle stalwart Herman Andimba Toivo ya Toivo, found herself at the receiving end of criticism after she was resettled in the Omaheke Region while her husband had already received a resettlement farm.

Her attempt to explain that the first farm was not ideal for the family as it had no proper fencing or infrastructure and was too far from Windhoek, added fuel to the fire as many felt she was not previously disadvantaged and hence had no right to be resettled.

Last year the Landless People's Movement demanded that the ministry of lands release the list of resettlement beneficiaries, charging that a lot of corrupt allocations had been made in the last few years.

The minister denied the request.

Yesterday's hearings highlighted the challenge people face in securing these records, as most appellants indicated they could not get hold of the documents.

Angula told the court that the tribunal would certainly engage the ministry to request records.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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Shikongo steps on the track today

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Shikongo steps on the track today

Namibian T11 sprinter Ananias Shikongo will take to the tracks today at the 2018 Commonwealth Games taking place in Queensland, Australia.

The Para-athlete who was Namibia's flag bearer at the Games is pinned to secure a medal at the prestigious event.

Shikongo will be running in heat two of round one against Ndodomzi Ntutu of South Africa, Jason Brown of Jamaica and Muhamad Afig Ali Hanafiah of Malaysia.

The South African athlete Ntutu is the fastest in the heat with a seasonal best on 11:01, with both Brown and Shikongo having a seasonal best of 11: 13.

The Namibia Olympic medallist will be led by his guide Even Tjiviju. Other Namibian athletes to look forward to today include Rodger Haitengi, who will compete in the men's triple jump qualifying round, against nine other athletes from various countries.

Elite cyclist Michelle Vorster who will take part in the Cross-Country race also faces tough competition from 12 cyclists who are all hungry for top spot.

Cyclist Tristan De Lange will also compete in the men's Cross- Country competition against 20 great sports men who are eager to finish first.

Olympic silver medallist Jonas Junias is also not to be counted out as he steps in the boxing ring on Friday against Luke McCormack of England in the men's 64kg semi-final boxing.

This could most probably be the 24-year old Namibian's toughest fight in the competition after he snowboarded his way through his first fight against Rashied Williams of Bahamas.

Junias went on to fight and knock out Valentin Kondakov of Samoa in the second round to secure a place in the quarterfinal against Sri Lankan Dinidu Ponawela Vidanalage Don who he outfoxed to reach the semis.

Team Namibia is expected to deliver more in the Games as they take part in boxing, Para-sport, triathlon, cycling, gymnastics, athletics and bowls.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

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FIFA probes NFA stand-off

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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FIFA probes NFA stand-offRukoro, Mbidi shenanigans under spotlight David Fani has been delegated by FIFA probe the ongoing shenanigans at NFA Football House.

FIFA has dispatched its regional development officer for Southern Africa, David Fani, to probe the unfolding battle between Namibia Football Association (NFA) president Frans Mbidi and secretary-general Barry Rukoro.

In a letter send to FIFA by Mbidi, he had informed the global footballing body that Rukoro is no longer the president.

FIFA had confirmed receipt of the letter and told the NFA president to inform them when a new SG is appointed.

It is however understood that the NFA executive committee also wrote a letter to FIFA, informing it that they do not feel Rukoro must go in the manner the president wants him to.

This resulted in FIFA sending Fani to Namibia, who started investigating the matter yesterday.

Fani will be meeting Mbidi, Rukoro and the NFA executive discuss the confusion.

Rukoro insists he wants a peaceful end to the current saga and peaceful departure, for the sake of Namibian football.

His contract came to an end at the end of March and he has faced off with dozens of critics during his reign at Football House.

There is, however, also many who have praised Rukoro for the work he has done at the association.

“Sometimes when you have to go, it is important to leave the place you have worked for so long in good hands.

“I want to go in a manner that I know will not affect football in this country,” Rukoro said.

The NFA SG also confirmed that a proper audit on the books of the NFA was done.

He said the auditors were happy with the way the NFA handles its finances.

Rukoro also warned anyone who wants to fill his position to wait until the matter has been resolved.

The problems began when Mbidi decided not to renew Rukoro's contract after it expired.

The NFA executive committee acted using article (35) (i) of the NFA constitution, which says it “shall appoint or dismiss the general secretary” to counter Mbidi's decision not to renew Rukoro's contract.

It now appears that Rukoro will vacate his post once he is satisfied with the way the matter is handled.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

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NFA, Nafpu smoke peace pipe

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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NFA, Nafpu smoke peace pipe

Relations between the Namibia Football Association (NFA) and Namibia Football Players Union (Nafpu) have warmed up following turbulent years that saw squabbles reaching unprecedented levels.

This was confirmed by NFA secretary-general Barry Rukoro at a media conference in Windhoek on Tuesday, when it was announced that Brave Gladiators defender and vice-captain, Stacey Naris had been appointed to the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) African Division Board.

“The history between the two institutions and the history between the two secretary-generals is well known. But when those two institutions are well-served, our egos do not matter,” Rukoro said.

The NFA and Nafpu have been at each other's throats for the past three years, with the two organisations going to the extent of taking each other to the Labour Court on issues of players' rights.

Rukoro said the previous relations put the development of the game at risk, saying they needed to adapt to avoid being left behind.

He added that in the last couple of months, the two institutions mutually started moving towards each other, as witnessed by the decreased levels of aggression.

“The discussion of issues is now done with an open mind with no preconceptions and this makes us believe that from now on we will improve this relationship to benefit the game, and in particular, the players,” he said. Nafpu SG Olsen Kahiriri echoed Rukoro's assessment, saying the union has always wanted to sit at the same table as the NFA and the Namibia Premier League.

“We are now engaging experts who will help us sign a memorandum of understanding that will see us work in harmony. This memorandum should be in line with the one signed by the International Federation of Football Associations and the International Federation of Professional Footballers,” he said.

The NFA officially recognised Nafpu in 2012 as the exclusive bargaining agent for footballers under the association's jurisdiction and in 2014 the union was granted membership status on the NFA executive committee.

But in 2016, Nafpu resigned as a member of the NFA to become an independent union.

The football association then refused to recognise Nafpu, saying by resigning as an NFA member, the union had forfeited its bargaining powers.

NAMPA

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Cyclists face hills challenge

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Cyclists face hills challenge

Nedbank Namibia, the Namibian Cycling Foundation (NCF) and the Rock and Rut Mountain Bike Club are hosting the Nedbank Rock and Rut XC1 (C1) and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Junior Series XCO on Saturday in Windhoek.

Cycling is not only a healthy pastime, but it also allows for people to experience the beauty of the outdoors. The Nedbank Rock and Rut Race course, a 4.2km single track route, has challenging climbs which will provide the local and international riders with breathtaking views of the capital city, while putting their fitness to the test.

The race is one of the many cycling events Nedbank is involved with. The bank first hosted a competitive cycling event in 1986, which has since grown into the most popular and biggest cycling race in Namibia, the Nedbank Cycle Challenge.

For the past three decades, Nedbank has played an integral role in developing cycling in Namibia and providing opportunities for Namibians to compete on an international stage.

The Nedbank Rock and Rut Race is sanctioned by UCI, which means the race is of international standard and participants must adhere to the UCI's rules and regulations.

Riders with UCI licenses can earn points that are used to rank cyclists globally.

UCI points and prize money will be awarded to the top finishers in the elite and junior men and women categories, with the first-placed riders in the elite men and women categories taking home N$3 586.79 (€240) and 60 points each.

The first-placed riders in the junior men and women categories (ages 17-18) will take home N$777.14 (€52) and 90 points each.

The other top nine riders in each category will also take home prize money and points.

The junior and elite races will begin at 10:30 on Saturday. Other levels of cyclists will have the chance to participate beforehand from 7:00 to 10:30.

Younger riders, ranging from under-10 to 16 years, will also be able to exhibit their skills on the track on Friday from 14:00 to 15:30.

Riders can enter online at www.rockanrut.org until 17:00 on 11 April for N$150. Registration and late entries (fee of N$250 to be paid in cash) will be taking place at the race venue today from (12:00 to 15:00) and Friday (9:00 to 15:00).

Visit the Rock and Rut website for more information and to check out the race's technical guide.

SPORT REPORTER

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Mzaidume hunts for talent

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Mzaidume hunts for talent

South African-born British player Siphe Mzaidume has his sights set on improving cricket in Namibia and uncovering cricketing diamonds that can be further polished.

The identification of cricket talent is Mzaidume's mission and he will be touring Namibia for the next two months.

“I would like to contribute to assist Namibian players who are looking for opportunities to play cricket overseas. I've played several seasons in England and Australia and noticed that I've never met any Namibian players.

“This is why I would like to see first-hand what the career prospects for young players in Namibia look like,” said the 28-year-old fast bowler.

According to Mzaidume, he has secured numerous handy contacts with clubs in his eight seasons in England, as well as four in Australia during the offseason, which may be of interest to young Namibians.

Mzaidume has played for clubs such as Homers in Melbourne and more recently for East Oxford in England. He also played club cricket in Ireland and Scotland.

“I feel it's important to plough back and create the next generation of opportunities like I had,” says Mzaidume.

He has also started a talent identification project in Zambia and Botswana. Although the cricket leagues in these neighbouring countries are of a much poorer quality, he still thinks there are individuals who can have a cricketing future, with proper coaching.

“The league in Namibia is definitely stronger and better organised and I believe there are more players whose development is advanced enough to make it in the overseas leagues,” he said.

“From my own experience, exposure to an overseas league is very conducive to the development of a cricketer, and also to personal development because you have to learn to adapt to foreign cultures and communities.”

Interested players of any age and their parents can contact Mzaidume on 081 285 8826.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

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Report slams Zim tobacco

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Report slams Zim tobaccoChild labour rampant in industry Malpractice in Zimbabwe's tobacco growing industry is rampant, an international human rights organisation has reported after an investigation.

In a report launched in the Zimbabwean capital, Harare, on Thursday, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said cases of child labour, worker exploitation and low pay are rife on the farms around the southern African country.

Farm workers, the report noted, face serious health risk, particularly the younger labourers.

The report, 'A Bitter Harvest: Child Labour and Human Rights Abuses on Tobacco Farms in Zimbabwe', documents how children work in hazardous conditions, performing tasks that threaten their health and safety or interfere with their education.

“Zimbabwe's government needs to take urgent steps to protect tobacco workers,” Margaret Wurth, children's rights researcher at HRiW and co-author of the report, said.

“Companies sourcing tobacco from Zimbabwe should ensure that they are not buying a crop produced by child workers sacrificing their health and education.”

The report said child workers are exposed to nicotine and toxic pesticides, and many suffer symptoms consistent with nicotine poisoning from handling tobacco leaves. Adults working on tobacco farms in Zimbabwe also face serious health risks and labour abuses.

'Family' business

At one of the biggest auction floors in on the outskirts of Harare, Al Jazeera witnessed how teenage boys and girls were accompanying their parents, having to sleep at the floor premises after travelling overnight to sell their tobacco.

Because they cannot afford to outsource labour, many rural families depend on the produce of tobacco, including underage children, who are forced to miss school or drop out altogether.

Child labour and other human rights abuses on tobacco farms in Zimbabwe are likely to tarnish the US$900 million tobacco industry's contributions to the country's economic growth and improved livelihoods.

HRW conducted research in the four provinces responsible for nearly all of Zimbabwe's tobacco production. The report is based on interviews with 125 small-scale tobacco farmers and hired workers, including children or former child workers, in late 2016 and early 2017.

It also analysed laws and policies and reviewed other sources, including public health studies and government reports.

They discovered that the government and companies have generally not provided workers with enough information, training, and equipment to protect themselves from nicotine poisoning and pesticide exposure.

It found similar conditions on tobacco farms in research in other countries, including the United States. But where governments have enacted strong laws against child labour, and provided extensive information on how to provide protection, such as in Brazil, there has been some progress in keeping children out of the fields and protecting workers.

Some of the world's largest multinational tobacco purchase tobacco grown in Zimbabwe, either directly or at auction, including British American Tobacco, Japan Tobacco Group, and Imperial Brands.

Under human rights norms, companies buying tobacco from Zimbabwe have a responsibility to ensure that their business operations do not contribute to child labour and other human rights abuses.

“Tobacco companies should explicitly prohibit direct contact by children with tobacco in any form, conduct regular and rigorous human rights monitoring in the supply chain, and report transparently on their findings,” HRW said.

One of the most serious health risks in tobacco farming is acute nicotine poisoning, or Green Tobacco Sickness, caused by absorbing nicotine through the skin from tobacco plants.

The 14 child workers interviewed, and most of the adults, said they had experienced at least one symptom consistent with acute nicotine poisoning; nausea, vomiting, headaches, or dizziness while handling tobacco.

Zimbabwe is the world's sixth-largest tobacco producer. The crop earns the country hundreds of millions in foreign currencies.

'Deeply disturbed'

Dewa Mavhinga, a Zimbabwean citizen who is HRW's southern Africa director, told Al Jazeera on Thursday that his organisation has met with the country's justice minister to present the plight of the workers.

“He expressed deep concern,” Mavhinga said. “It's something government says it will definitely look into.”

Government officials were not able to comment, saying they needed to look at the report first.

But Isheanesu Moyo, a spokesman for the Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board in Zimbabwe, said the regulatory board was “deeply disturbed” about the revelations contained in the report, although he questioned the gravity of the malpractice.

“We are concerned of course,” Moyo told Al Jazeera. “We are deeply disturbed with the reports of rampant abuses on the farms, and child labour. The only issue we have with the report is that of 125 000 tobacco growers in the country, only 125 cases were studied, so it (HRW report) might not be a national reflection of what really is transpiring across the country.

“But all the same, the issues raised a very pertinent. No child should be subjected to child labour or any abuse of any kind. We will definitely give it an ear and try to see to it that no such cases happen in our tobacco fields.”

AL JAZEERA

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Iimbuluma moNamibia ya londa pombanda

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Omanga yiimuna mOkangoho tayi ka pewa oshigwana

≪ Previous: Report slams Zim tobacco

Iimbuluma moNamibia ya londa pombandaOmaso 364 oge li oshizemo shiimbuluma kehe omvula moNamibia Omwaalu gwomaso taga etithwa kiimbuluma moNamibia ogwa londa pombanda noonkondo, ga mbalipala momvula yo 2016, noshilongo oshi li momusholondondo gwiilongo 23 muuyuni mboka yi na omaso geli pombanda taga etithwa kiimbuluma.

Ondjele yomadhipago ngoka otayi yelekwa nomaso 24 momaso 100 000 nomwaalu ngoka ogu li pombanda noonkondo.

Momwaalu ngoka, yatano akiintu omanga mboka ya hupako aalumentu. Uuyelee mboka owa pititwa molopota tayi ithanwa 'Global Violent Deaths' ihe olopota otashi vulika yikale kayi na omauyelele agehe ga gwana po, sho iilongo oyindji ihayi gandja pethimbo omiyalu, nomiyalu dhimwe ihadhi kala mondjila. Aantu ya thika po 560 000 muuyuni oya hulitha onga oshizemo shiimbuluma momvula yo 2016.

Namibia omwaalu gwe ogwa londo pombanda lyiikando iyali.

Omaso ngoka unene otaga lopota miilongo mbyoka kayi na iita.

Oopresenda 18 (99 000) omaso ngoka oga etithwa kiita; 68 (385 000) omadhipago kage shi goshiningilawina, oopresenda 10 oga tothwamo natango kutya inaga ningwa owina, omanga oopresenda 3 omadhipago ga etithithwa keidhopomo lyiikwaveta. Momvula yo 2016 Namibia okwa ningi oshilongo shi li momusholondondo gwiilongo 23 mbyoka yi na omadhipago geli pombanda noonkondo. Omwaalu guli pombanda ogwa lopotwa woo miilonga ngashi Brazil, India, Syria, Nigeria naVenezuela, omanga Namibia a tulwa ponomola onti 22, e na omaso 24 gomomaso 100 000.

Syria, oku na omaso ge li 175 momaso 100 000, ihe olopota oya holola kutya Syria okuli momusholondondo gwiilongo ihetatu mbyoka yi na iita. Miilongo ngaashi Bahamas, Belize, Brazil, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guyana, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Lesotho, Namibia, Trinidad and Tobago, South Africa, oshowo Venezuela, iimbuluma oya faalela na otayi tsikile okufaalela oomwenyo odhindji.

Omukomeho gwopolisi yaNamibia

Sebastian Ndeitunga, okwa lombwele oNamibian Sun kutya omiyalu ndhoka otadhi patanekwa, ihe okwa koleke nokuholola omaiyuvo ge gonayi kombinga ye yo pombanda lyiimbuluma moshilongo. Okwa popi kutya ita tsu kumwe nomiyalu ndhoka kutya Namibia oku li momusholondondo gwiilongo mbyoka yin a omaso ogendji ngaaka taga etithwa kiimbuluma, ihe okwa popi kutya ke shi kutya okwa longithwa ondjila yini po mokuyalula omiyalu ndhoka.

Nonando ongaaka Ndeitunga okwa zimine kutya ope na omaiyuvo gaashoka tashi vulu okuningwa omolwa omiyonena dhomomagumbo, moka a popi kutya oondjembo hadho owala tadhi longithwa mokulonga omiyonena ndhoka, ihe niilwitho woo yimwe.

Okwa popi kutya elongitho nayi lyiikolitha oshowo iingangamithi, oyimwe yomiinima tayi hwahwameke omiyonena.

Okwa tsikile kutya olopota ndjoka nayi kale ependulo kuNamibia opo ku vule okukondjitha iimbuluma, ta gwedha po kutya oshikondo shopolisi osha pumbwa oonzo opo shi vule okugwanitha po iilonga yasho.

Olopota oya tsikile kutya iikolokosha miilongo yimwe otayi thiminikwa konkalo yopapolotika, onkalo yopaliko, oluhepo, okwaahena iilonga unene mokati kaanyasha, oyimwe yomiinima tayi hwahwameke iikolokosha, palopota ndjoka.

Natango iilongo mbyoka yi na omaso geli pombanda taga etithwa kiimbuluma, omaso ngoka oga etithwa woo koondjembo, na Namibia ina patelwa pondje.

Momiyalu dhomo 2016 odha holola kutya omaso gatatu gomomaso 100 000 moNamibia oga etithwa koondjembo. Namibia okuli ponomola onti 14 momusholondodo gwiilongo mbyoka yi na omaso ogendji taga etithwa koondjembo. El Savador oku na omaso 75 momaso 100 000 ga etithwa koondjembo.

Olopota oya tsikile kutya oondjembo ihadhi longithwa owala miimbuluma yomomagumbo, ihe omwaalu gwomaso taga etitha koondjembo, otagu londo pombanda. Uumwene woondjembo moNamibia, owa londo pombanda mo 2004 sigo 2017, neipopilo kutya aantu otaya ningi omaindilo goondjembo mokwiigameao, olyo unene tali dhana onkandangala mokuninga omaindilo.

Uuyelele kombinga yuumwene woondjembo moNamibia, wa gandjwa koInstitute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) owa holola kutya omwaalu gwoondjembo dha shangithwa ogwa londa pombanda okuza poondjembo 97 000 okuya po 200 000 okuza momvula yo 2016.

Konyala omikanda dhokukala noondjembo dhi li 6 653 ohadhi gandjwa moshilongo kehe omvula.

Omaso ga etithwa koondjembo oga londa okuya poopresenda 3.4 pokati ko 1995 sigo 2001, okuya poopresenda 14.05 pokati ko 2009 sigo 2017..

Omaso 3 200 ga etithwa koondjembo oga lopotwa muule woomvula 9 dha piti.

ELLANIE SMIT

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Omanga yiimuna mOkangoho tayi ka pewa oshigwana

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Mutorwa a hala omaliko gepangelo ga yalulwe

≪ Previous: Iimbuluma moNamibia ya londa pombanda

Omanga yiimuna mOkangoho tayi ka pewa oshigwana Etungo lyomanga yiimuna mOkangoho, ndjoka yi li oshiyetwapo shehangano lyaMeatco Foundation oshowo UNIL (Norwegian Group), otali ka gandjwa kaakwashigwana omwedhi nguka.

Pahapu dhaMeacto, oshigunda shoka oshi li pokumanithwa na otashi ka gandjwa mbala momake gaakwashigwana opo shi tameke okulongithwa.

Okangoho Multipurpose Cooperative, ndjoka yi na iilyo ya thika po 250 otayi ka longitha omanga ndjoka yopamuthika gwopashinanena momudhingoloko gwaKakarara.

Omunashipundi gwOkangoho Multipurpose Cooperative, Job Katjitae, okwa popi kutya omanga ndjoka itayi ka longithwa owala onga ehala lyomangeshefelo giimuna ihe otayi ka longithwa woo onga endiki lyomayakulo guundjolowele wiimuna.

Meatco Foundation pamwe noUNIL otaya ka gandja omanga ndjoka momake gaanafaalama naakwashigwana mesiku lyoshituthi shoPermit Day muApilili.

Aanafaalama otaya ka tegelelwa ya fale iimuna yawo momalanditho esiku ndyoka na otaya ka pewa iimaliwa yawo esiku olyo tuundyoka, uuna ya landitha oongombe dhawo.

Ongundu ndjoka yaanangeshefa ye li 250 ohaya ningi omalanditho giimuna kehe omwedhi omutiyali nomalanditho ngoka ohaga ningwa iikando ihamano komvula.

Omauliko ngoka ohaga nana oongombe dhi li pokati ko 80 no 200, na oye na omukumo kutya omwaalu ngoka otagu kay a sigo opoondombe o 300, omolwaoshigunda shoka oshipe.

Omudhiginini gwiiniwe mongundu ndjoka, Abiud Katuutja, ina vula okuholeka enyanyu lye, omolwa omanga ndjoka.

Okwa popi kutya iilonga otayi pula nawa komeho ngaashi sha longekidhwa.

Omanga ndjoka otayi ka yambulapo onkalo yopaliko mokati kaakwashigwana mboka, unene pomathimbo gomalanditho giimuna, nonkalo ndjoka itayi kala owala muuwanawa kaalandithi yiimuna, ihe naanangeshefa yamwe mboka haya ka landitha iilandithomwa yawo pethimbo lyomalanditho ngoka.

Okangoho otaka adhika oshinano shookilometa 46 monooli uninginino waKakarara, pomatsakanena goondjila ndhoka dhuuka kOtjituuo, Coblenz oshowo Okamatapati.

OMUTOOLINKUNDANA GWOMENI

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Mutorwa a hala omaliko gepangelo ga yalulwe

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Iilonga yopethimbo lyuukoloni nayi sithwe ohoni

≪ Previous: Omanga yiimuna mOkangoho tayi ka pewa oshigwana

Mutorwa a hala omaliko gepangelo ga yalulweMutorwa okwa pula ngaaka pethimbo a ningi oshigongi naakomeho yiiputudhiloya yooloka, mbyoka yi li kohi yuuministeli we. Ominista ompe yoshikondo shIilonga nOmalweendo, John Mutorwa okwa popi kutya okwa hala okupewa omusholondondo gwomaliko gepangelo ngoka gu li pethimbo .

Pahapu dhe, kape na shoka tashi ulike monena kutya epangelo oli na omaliko gethike peni, na okwa hala okukala a pyakudhukwa okugandja uuyelele mboka komutse gwoshilongo uuna e wu pulwa.

“Kandi shi shi ngele epangelo oli na tuu ontseyo kombinga yomaliko ngoka li na……Kandi shi ngele omusholondondo ngoka ogu li pethimbo.”

Ominista okwa popi woo kombinga yonkalo moka mu na omaliko gamwe gepangelo, unene omagumbo, pethimbo a popi kombinga yomusholondondo ngoka gwomaliko gepangelo.

“Ope na oolopota odhindji kutya omagumbo gepangelo oge li momake gopaumwene.

Onda tegelela olopota ndjoka tayi ka pandje omayamukulo kombinga yiinima mbika,” Mutorwa a popi.

Amushanga mUuministeli wIilonga, Willem Goeiemann okwa popi kutya uuministeli otawu ka kwashilipaleka kutya owiipyakidhila nokutalulula omauyelele ngoka wa gongele okuza kiitopolwa, kombinga yeshangitho lyomaliko gepangelo.

Okomitiye yomagumbo muuministeli oya pewa oshinakugwanithwa opo yi gandje olopota momasiku 30 gaApilili nuumvo. Olopota ndjoka tayi gandjwa oyomwaalu gwomagumbo gepangelo.

Olopota ndjoka tayi ka ningwa otayi ka kakwatelamo omwaalu gwomaliko, ongushu yomaliko ngoka nokutya omaliko ngoka otaga adhika peni.

Mutorwa okwa popi woo kombinga yelongitho nayi lyomaliko gepangelo, uulunga womaliko oshowo uukombunga nuulingilingi, nelongitho pambambo lyoombelewa.

Okwa popi kutya omagumbo gamwe po gepangelo inaga gandjwa pauyuuki kaaniilonga, omanga omagumbo gamwe geli moonkalo dha nayipala noonkondo.

OGONE TLHAGE

OLOPOTA YAGWEDHWAPO KONAMPA

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Iilonga yopethimbo lyuukoloni nayi sithwe ohoni

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: A nation of violence

≪ Previous: Mutorwa a hala omaliko gepangelo ga yalulwe

Iilonga yopethimbo lyuukoloni nayi sithwe ohoniNandi-Ndaitwah okwa pula opo elelo lyaNdangwa li ninge ombelewa yomakutilo miilonga nale mondoolopa ndjoka, ongulu yoompungulilo dhondjokonona Minista Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah okwa pula ondoolopa yaNdangwa opo yi kwashilipaleke kutya omahokolola gomulandu gwokuzala okaholo nale, oga hokolola.

Ominista yOmakwatathano goPaigwana oya popi ngaaka, pethimbo lyuulalelo wowina mboka wa ningwa mehuliloshiwike moNdangwa, wa nuninwa okugongela iimaliwa yomalongekidho gomauliko giipindi mondoolopa.

Okwa popi kutya omahokololo goombelewa nale yoConsolidated Diamond Mines (CDM) pumbwa okuhokololwa opo epupi ndyoka eshona li uveko nokusimanekwa emanguluko lyoshilongo. Onkalo yopauntu itayi idhidhimikilwa ndjoka ya etitha woo egandjo lyiilonga pakondalaka kaakwashigwana unene yomuhoko gwAawambo oshoo Aakavango, ndjoka ya etitha woo aantu ya ninge aapika nonando aaniilonga andola, oya pumbwa okutseyithilwa oshigwana, pahapu dhaNandi-Ndaitwah.

Pethimbo lyuukoloni, aaniilonga mboka oyali haya pewa ekumbatha, ohema oshowo ookotse, niizalomwa mbyoka okwa li kwa tegelelwa yi kale monkalo yokuzaliwa uule wokondalaka ndjoka omuntu ta pewa.

Muule wokoondalaka ndjoka, omuniilonga ina pitikwa okuya kegumbo kofamili ye sigo uuna okondalaka ye ya puko. Aaniilonga oyali ha yali owala shoka omugandji gwawo gwiilonga a hala ya lye nokupewa woo omageelo kehe ngoka omugandji gwiilonga a hala okugandja, nonando otaga yi pondje uuthemba nuuntu womuntu.

Endiki lyOkaholo, ngaashi lyakala lya tseyika pethimbo ndyoka, olya li eliko noshitopolwa shondoolopa yaRange, sigo osho lya gandjwa momake gelelo lyondoolopa yaNdangwa mo 2015, konima sho oondoolopa ndhoka dha yi metsokumwe.

Nandi-Ndaitwah okwa popi kutya ondoolopa yaNdangwa oyi na ondjokonona, naasho a li ta koko ondoolopa ndjoka a tseya oya li Ondangwa.

CDM okwa tameke okukuta miilonga aaniilonga okuzilila pendiki ndyoka momvula yo 1929.

Minista okwa popi kutya sho ya kala momukunda gwawo Onamutai, ngoka kagu li kokule nOndangwa, oya kala owala ye na ontseyo kombinga yehala lyomalandithilo Ondjondjo mOndangwa. Okwa popi kutya Ondangwa oya kala elila lyokupitila okuya muumbugantu woshilongo, unene pethimbo ndyoka sho endiki lyokuzalela okaholo lya kala tali longithwa pethimbo ndyoka. Okwa tsu omuthindo opo endiki ndyoka li yaambulepo lyo li ningwe oongulu yoompungulilo.

Elelo lyondoolopa yaRange olya kuthako ekondololo lyendiki lyOkaholo oshowo omaliko galwe gaNamdeb, sho ondoolopa ndjoka ya ningi ondoolopa yaayehe mo 2012.

Ondoolopa yaRange oshowo Ondangwa oya yi metsokumwe mo 2013, noondoolopa ndhoka odha tsu kumwe opo endiki lyOkaholo li gandjwe momake gelelo lyondoolopa yaNdangwa opo ku nkondopekwe etsokumwe lyawo. Omunambelewa Omukuluntu gwondoolopa yaNdangwa Ismael Namgongo, okwa popi kutya eindilo lyaminista olya ningwa pethimbo ewananwa, mpoka omutengeneko lyiimaliwa gwondoolopa gwo2017/18 tagu thiki pehulilo, nelundululilo lyendiki ndyoka mongulumpungulilo otali ka kwatelwa momomutengenko ngoka tagu landula.

Okwa popi kutya otaya ka hiya mboka ya li ya longitha endiki ndyoka mokukonga iilonga yawo opo ya gandje omahokololo gawo, na otaya kaya ya woo mekwatathano noMuseum Association of Namibia oshowo oNational Archives of Namibia ye ya yambidhidhe nomathano.

Pethimbo endiki ndyoka lya pewa elelo lyaNdangwa, muAguste gwo 2015, aaniilonga nale yaCDM oya li ya kala poshituti shoka. Lazarus (Kappies) Kapolo omuniilonga nale gwaCDM/Namdeb okwa popi kutya aluhe otaya kala nondjokonona kombinga yendiki ndyoka, nonando kasha li oshipu.

“Okuhogololwa opo wu ka longe momina otashi kala aluhe etumba nuutsa kutse molwaashoka owu na okukala wu na oonkondo nuukolele opo wu vule okukalonga monkalo ndjoka. Ngele wa sindana okumona iilonga nena ohashi kala etumba. Ngele wa piti omakonaakono ngoka haga ningwa, oho zalekwa okaholo nokegumbo oho kala wa tseyika nedhina 'Omulange', shoka hashi yambulapo woo onkalo yopomudhingoloko,” Kapolo a li a popi.

ILENI NANDJATO

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A nation of violence

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Shot of the day

≪ Previous: Iilonga yopethimbo lyuukoloni nayi sithwe ohoni

A nation of violence In a nation awash with killings, and its 24 violent deaths per 100 000 more than double the global rate, Namibia is increasingly becoming less safe for law-abiding citizens and the most vulnerable.

A recent report 'Global Violent Deaths' says that in 2016 Namibia was among 23 countries that exhibited extremely high violent deaths, meaning a minimum of 20 violent deaths per 100 000. The highest numbers of violent deaths were recorded in Brazil, India, Syria, Nigeria and Venezuela, while Namibia ranked 22nd. War-torn Syria, in comparison, had a violent death rate of more than 175 per 100 000. Police inspector-general Sebastian Ndeitunga has admitted there are serious concerns that need to be addressed such as domestic violence, where he said not only firearms were used to kill but also other weapons such as machetes. He said alcohol and drug abuse also led to violent crimes. This brings us to the latest horrific murder to rock the nation - a case in which a son has been arrested for allegedly hacking his 66-year-old mother to death with a machete in the Omusati Region over the weekend. This was after she, according to media reports, reprimanded him for hitting his girlfriend. Far from being an exception to the rule, as evidenced by weekly police crime reports, violent crime has become a favoured pastime in Namibia. Another worrying trend is that private gun ownership has more than doubled from 2004 to 2017, with handguns dominating new licence applications and self-defence cited as the number-one reason to own a firearm. A recent briefing paper by the IPPR shows that the number of registered firearms have increased from around 97 000 to more than 200 000 since 2004; up from five guns per 100 000 citizens to nine guns per 100 citizens now.

On average, 6 653 gun licences are issued annually. Aside from the most common layman analysis that Namibians may be becoming more trigger-happy, this also indicates a growing scepticism about the ability of the police to keep citizens safe, as well as increasing fears around violent crime.

This calls for urgent and effective action, before the violent minority tears our social fabric even further.

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Shot of the day

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Rabies cases are down

≪ Previous: A nation of violence

Shot of the day

BAPTISM: A Moldovian Christian Orthodox pilgrim submerges in the waters of the Jordan River on 3 April 2018 at the Qasr al- Yahud baptismal site near the West Bank city of Jericho as a part of the Easter pilgrimage to the holy Land. According to the gospels Jesus Christ was baptised in the waters of the Jordan River by John the Baptist. Photo: NAMPA/ AFP

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Rabies cases are down

April 11, 2018, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Okangoho crush pen is ready

≪ Previous: Shot of the day

Rabies cases are downMass outreach and vaccinations work Agriculture minister Alpheus !Naruseb said that Namibia has a firm grip on rabies at the moment but urged Namibians to vaccinate their animals and be vigilant.

Rabies kills up to 26 people and 300 animals annually in the country but recent efforts to eliminate the disease have shown promising results with a decline in rabies cases reported.

The World Organisation for Animal Health's (OIE) sub-regional seminar on rabies for SADC this week held a meeting in Windhoek.

Speaking at the seminar agriculture minister Alpheus !Naruseb said globally, rabies kills more than 60 000 people annually of which the majority are from Asia and Africa.

In Namibia rabies remains one of the most common animal diseases causing the deaths of between 6 to 26 people and over 300 animals per year, according to !Naruseb.

“Once symptoms of rabies occur in either humans or animals, death is certain.”

However !Naruseb said the disease is 100% preventable through prompt medical care.

“It is therefore imperative to put more efforts towards preventative measures in the fight against this deadly disease.”

He said it is well-known that the most common cause of rabies in humans results from dogs that are infected by the disease and it is therefore prudent to ensure that rabies control in dogs are intensified.

State veterinarians offer rabies vaccinations for free.

Through financial and technical support from the German government and its cooperating partners, Namibia implemented the project 'Elimination of dog-mediated human rabies', which commenced in March 2016 in the northern communal areas. The project focussed on the mass vaccination of pets against rabies, intensified rabies education in the communities and schools and stakeholder consultations, as well as intensified rabies surveillance.

It also assessed the community's knowledge, attitudes and practices on rabies.

According to !Naruseb the project has seen a major improvement in vaccination coverage of pets, while rabies cases have also significantly declined.

During the vaccination campaign in Namibia 110 352 dogs and cats were vaccinated during the first 12 months representing a 45% increase from the baseline vaccination figures of 60 255 dogs and cats of which cats make up only 9%.

This achievement immediately attributes the success to the reduction of rabies among animals in the NCA.

From 2016 the cases decreased from 176, of which 96 were dogs, to 129 rabies cases recorded last year in animals, of which 56 were dogs. There was also a reduction from 14 cases of rabies in people reported in 2016 to eight in 2017.

According to !Naruseb the efforts to eliminate rabies have taught Namibia important lessons which include that the dog population in regions has been greatly underestimated over the years.

“People need their dogs for various reasons, hunting, guarding and most importunely for their peace of mind.”

He added that dog meat is also an important source of dietary protein in some northern regions.

“One must tirelessly and relentlessly go after each dog to deliver the vaccine to the dog and ensure that it is in fact delivered. There are no shortcuts. Rabies is the enemy, not the dog or the black-backed jackal, and therefore there is no need to kill a single dog in the name of controlling this disease.”

!Naruseb added that with the guidance of OIE, Namibia has been able to achieve commendable disease statuses for a number of diseases.

He said currently Namibia enjoys foot-and-mouth disease freedom without vaccination south of the veterinary cordon fence, Lung sickness (CBPP) freedom south of the red line as well as Peste des petits ruminants (known as PPR or sheep and goat plague) freedom south of the VCF.

Namibia also has a negligible risk status for “mad cow disease” (BSE) while the country has endorsed a foot-and-mouth disease control programme as well as one for lung sickness.

According to !Naruseb the above-mentioned disease statuses has enabled Namibia to acquire lucrative markets for animals and animal products in places like the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, USA, Russia, China, Hong Kong and South Africa, to mention but a few.

Dr Andreanatus Maseke, the chief veterinary officer in the agricultural ministry delivered !Naruseb's speech on his behalf.

ELLANIE SMIT

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