Microlenders boom in third quarter

May 22, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Microlenders boom in third quarter Jo-Maré Duddy – The total loan book of registered microlenders swelled by nearly 33% to more than N$5 billion in the third quarter of 2017, the biggest increase recorded in this quarter since 2014.

Of the about N$5.08 billion consumers owed to microlenders registered with the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (Namfisa), nearly N$4.98 billion or 98% was term lenders’ debt. Payday lenders’ debt totalled N$104 million, according to the latest data available on Namfisa’s website.

A total of 306 144 consumers flocked to microlenders in the third quarter of last year, 48 920 or 19% than the same quarter in 2016. Of these, 244 661 were term lenders, which increased by nearly 21% compared to corresponding period in 2016. Payday lenders rose by about 13% to 61 483.

The average term lender borrowed N$22 176 at a time, N$1 924 or 9.5% more than the third quarter of 2016. Payday lenders needed N$1 581 per loan on average, up N$122 or 8.4%.

Data on Namfisa’s website shows that micolenders’ total loan book in the third quarter has grown by 150% since 2012. The average term loan grew by around N$10 000 or 91%, while the average payday loan rose by nearly N$600 or 60%.

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RCC, Chinese deal declared invalid

May 23, 2018, 5:22 am

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RCC, Chinese deal declared invalid Government has declared an agreement between the Roads Contractor Company (RCC) and Chinese firm Jiangsu Nantong Sanjian invalid and unenforceable by law. The RCC recently arranged off-balance sheet financing from Jiangsu to the tune of N$580 million, which would have seen the Chinese company raking in over N$2 billion in contracts for an initial loan outlay of N$580 million. Works minister John Mutorwa said shortly ago that the contractual relationship between RCC and the Chinese should immediately cease, following advice from the attorney-general.
STAFF REPORTER

Welwitschias in enemy territory

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Welwitschias in enemy territoryDesperate for SuperSport Rugby Challenge win The odds are against the Windhoek Draught Welwitschias on Saturday when they take on the Hino Valke, who will be playing in front of their home supporters. The Windhoek Draught Welwitschias are still on a quest to chalk up their first victory in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge this season and face the daunting task of taking on the Hino Valke in South Africa at 15:00 on Saturday.

The Namibian team has been on the receiving end of defeats since the competition started. Namibia lost their opening game 7-39 to the same team they are playing on Saturday in the return leg of the competition. The team also suffered a 73-20 defeat to the Vodacom Blue Bulls in their second match of this year's campaign.

Their third match, which took place at home, was no different as the side went down 54-12 to the Pumas.

The team currently sits at the bottom of their pool with only one point registered to their name. The Pumas lead the table with 19 points, followed by the Blue Bulls who are on 15 points. The Golden Lions are lingering in third with 12 points, while the Valke are just one place above Welwitschias, with five points. Namibia's hopes of reaching the next stage are probably over and they will have to settle for Currie Cup participation after the SuperSport Rugby Challenge group stages is over. The team can however still push to finish above the Valke if they give it their all in the last remaining games.

The team will need to focus and play to their strengths if they want to win a match in their remaining games.

“We are going to work harder in order to register our first win of the season. It has not been easy at the moment because the other teams are always working harder, but our aim is to win a game in this tournament,” Windhoek Draught Welwitschias coach Lyn Jones said.

Tropical Heat take campaign on the road

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Tropical Heat take campaign on the road Tropical Heat Football Club (FC) will travel to Otjiwarongo and Otavi for their round three and four matches in the North West First Division.

The Grootfontein-based team will confront African Lions on Saturday at the Mokati Stadium in Otjiwarongo before travelling to Outjo to battle it out against Touch & Go FC at the Otavi Stadium on Sunday. Tropical Heat coach Olavi Shiningayamwe said his team is ready to kickstart their league campaign. “We have been preparing well for the games and the morale in the team is great. I will not divulge much what our game plan is for the weekend games, as we want to surprise our opponents,” he said.He said the pressure will be on Touch & Go and they will thus confront them “full-force”. “Touch & Go lost their opening two games and would want to win to get out of the relegation zone. We will use their desperation of attacking us from the onset and will hit them hard,” he said. Shiningayamwe pointed out his team will take each game as it comes and aim for maximum points in each match they play. “Our aim is to collect as much points as possible, as there are only ten matches to be played per pool to try and win it. Psychologically the boys are ready for the season as we have been working on that aspect,” he said.

In other round three and four matches, pool A will see log leaders Golden Bees coming against Eleven Warriors on Saturday in Outjo's Etoshapoort Stadium at 15:00, while Military School Soccer Club (SC) will lock horns with Ongwediva City at the Nau-Aib Stadium in Okahandja at 15:00. Pool B will see African Lions versus KK Palace at Mokati Stadium at 15:00 and pointless Touch & Go in a battle with Tropical Heat at 15:00. On Sunday, pool A will start with Military School SC up against Eleven Warriors at the Nau-Aib Stadium at 10:00, while Golden Bees and Ongwediva City will conclude the weekend games at 15:00 inside the Etoshapoort Stadium. On Sunday in pool B, Touch & Go will battle KK Palace at 10:00 inside the Otavi Stadium, while African Lions will confront Tropical Heat at Mokati Stadium at 10:00.

Namibia on song in Africa Cup

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Namibia on song in Africa Cup7-0 victory in title defence opener The Dome is playing host to some exciting hockey, with teams, among them the Namibian senior national team, already making their mark in the Africa Cup. Sport Reporter

This year’s Inline Hockey Africa Cup kicked off in style on Tuesday night, when Erongo governor Cleophas Mutjavikua opened the internationally recognised tournament inside The Dome Swakopmund with a symbolic drop of the puck in front of a capacity crowd.

Chief administrator of the Namibian Sports Commission (NSC), Freddy Mwiya then handed over national colours to both the junior and men’s national teams ahead of their participation at this year’s world champs in Italy.

There was also no shortage of exciting inline hockey action, as the first game of the night between the Dare Devils and the Rhinos saw some incredible talent on display.

Dare Devils eventually came out on top by securing a 9-5 victory.

Their star player, German national and former ice hockey sensation Björn Bombis rose to the occasion to score three goals and also assisted his teammates to score four more, they secured their first win.

Namibia’s senior men then made light work of the Peregrine Falcons, cruising to a 7-0 win.

The home team dominated all aspects of the game and it was clear to everyone watching that they have been training very hard and are looking to repeat their Africa Cup win of last year. Veteran Marcel Baas was Namibia’s most prolific scorer with three goals and one assist.

The final game of the night was between the Dome Dragons and Moose Knuckles - two of the early tournament favourites.

Moose Knuckles scored early to draw first blood, but couldn’t capitalise on their early advantage. The Dragons controlled the tempo of the game and cruised to an 8-1 victory, as they spread out and run amok.

Canadian international Dave Hammond provided four assists and one goal on the night.

The tournament will continue all week with the playoffs scheduled for Saturday. All games are also broadcasted live on the TeeVee app.

We are better than Liverpool - Ronaldo

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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We are better than Liverpool - Ronaldo Cristiano Ronaldo made no secret of his ambition to win a fifth Champions League title when he spoke to the press this week during Real Madrid's open day ahead of the final against Liverpool,who he described as inferior to his club.

Ronaldo has already won one Champions League with Manchester United and three with Real Madrid, and a win on Saturday would mean his club wins the tournament for the third consecutive year after beating Atletico Madrid in 2016 and Juventus in 2017.

“It would be an historic moment. We are excited as a team. You can see it around the training ground,” said Ronaldo, adding that after a recent ankle injury he was “confident and feeling fit”.

“If I win a fifth (Champions League) it would be amazing.”

Real Madrid had a poor domestic season, losing in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey to Leganes and ending the league season 17 points behind FC Barcelona, but Ronaldo explained Europe has a different appeal for his club.

“The Champions League is a special competition. I love playing in Europe. We have been through some fantastic moments, these are always amazing games. PSG, Juventus... you have to play against the best teams,” he said.

He denied his side had lacked motivation after winning for the past two years. “You can't relax at this club, particularly in this competition,” he said, adding the competition has “been synonymous with Real Madrid”.

“We sense it as players and the fans do as well,” continued Ronaldo

The Portuguese international said he would have preferred to face his former club, Manchester United, rather than Liverpool, but was quick to accept that Liverpool “deserves to be in the final. They remind me of Madrid three or four years ago.”

“Their three front players (Salah, Firminho and Mane) are very quick... they are powerful in attack and I respect them. But Madrid are better,” he added.

Ebola toll climbs

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Ebola toll climbs The death toll from Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has risen to 27, the health ministry said on Tuesday, after a fatality was recorded in a city on the front line of the outbreak.

The death, which involved a person confirmed by lab tests as having the viral disease, occurred in Wangata, a district of Mbandaka, the ministry said in a press release.

So far, there have been 51 cases since the outbreak was declared on May 8, it said. Of these, 28 cases have been confirmed, 21 are probable and two are suspected.

One of the world's most notorious diseases, Ebola is a virus-caused haemorrhagic fever that in extreme cases leads to fatal bleeding from internal organs, the mouth, eyes or ears.

The outbreak began in rural northwestern DRC in a remote location called Bikoro, about 150km away.

Last Thursday, a first case was reported in Mbandaka, an event that triggered international concern.

The city of around 1.2 million people, lies on the Congo River, where it is a transport hub to Brazzaville and Kinshasa downstream and to Bangui, upstream.

The health authorities on Monday began administering a prototype vaccine to a small number of health workers in Mbandaka, as part of the campaign to contain and roll back the disease.

The immunisation team will follow suit on Saturday in Bikoro, vaccinating more than 600 people in all for the first phase of the operation.

The outbreak is the ninth in the DRC since the disease was first identified in 1976. It was named after a Congolese river where the first cases were recorded. The last outbreak was in 2017, and was rapidly curtailed with four deaths.

NAMPA/AFP

Trump ducks and dives

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Trump ducks and divesNo real stance on meeting with Kim Jong-un American President Donald Trump has not committed to the planned 12 June meeting with the North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. US President Donald Trump has done little to quell the uncertainty surrounding a hallmark meeting with North Korea's leader planned for next month, as he held key talks with his South Korean counterpart at the White House.

Trump is scheduled to meet Kim Jong-un in Singapore on 12 June, but in recent weeks concerns have mounted over whether the summit will take place amid disagreements over denuclearisation in the Korean peninsula.

“If it doesn't happen, maybe it will happen later,” Trump said of the meeting, addressing reporters alongside Moon Jae-in. “It may not work out for 12 June.”

But Trump, who earlier this month withdrew the US from a multinational nuclear deal with Iran, muddied waters even further.

Saying that despite Kim being “serious” about denuclearisation, there was a “substantial chance” the Singapore summit would not take place at all, unless “certain conditions” were met by North Korea.

Trump has called for a full denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula and a complete dismantling of North Korea's nuclear weapons programme. North Korea has threatened to pull out of the meeting if Washington continues to demand it gives up its nuclear arsenal unilaterally. Kim Kye-gwan, North Korea's first vice minister of foreign affairs, said in a statement last week that Pyongyang would “no longer be interested” in dialogue if the US “is trying to drive us into a corner”. For his part, Moon said the “fate and future” of the peninsula is hinged on the potentially historic planned meeting.

Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett, reporting from Washington, DC, said that there were a lot of doubts about whether or not the summit would go ahead or be delayed and even cancelled. Describing Trump's meeting with Moon as “high-stakes” diplomacy, she added: “There is a sense this is a salvage effort salvage effort to try and make sure the June 12 meeting does go ahead.”

NEWS24

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UK pensioner guilty of child rape in Kenya

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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UK pensioner guilty of child rape in Kenya A 72-year-old British man was convicted on Tuesday of raping two children in Kenya after a trial in Britain in which one of his victims gave evidence from Africa via video-link, prosecutors said.

Keith Morris befriended several families living in a Kenyan village over a period of around 20 years and gave them money and gifts, as well as paying for medical treatment and children's education.

During his visits to the village, Morris would take groups of children out of the village for day trips and often invited them to stay in hotel rooms. On these trips, he would buy the children sweets and make-up and take them out for meals, Britain's Crown Prosecution Service said in a statement.

He was found guilty at Leeds Crown Court in northern England of sexually assaulting and raping two of the girls on several occasions in 2016 and 2017. After concerns were raised by a hotel guest, an investigation was launched by Britain's National Crime Agency and the Kenyan Police Child Protection Unit. Morris was arrested in Britain in February 2017. “Under the guise of supporting Kenyan families, Keith Morris used his position of trust to abuse two young girls in his case,” Kate Hurst, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said in the statement. “Both victims had the courage to describe what happened to them, including one victim giving evidence via video link from Kenya,” she said. Morris was convicted of four counts of rape, three counts of assault by penetration, four counts of sexual assault and two counts of perverting the course of justice after trying to persuade the victims to withdraw their complaints against him.

NAMPA/AFP

Ooskola dhokomikunda tadhi pewa olusheno lwoonte dhetango

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Ooskola dhokomikunda tadhi pewa olusheno lwoonte dhetango Ooskola mbali dhomoshitopolwa shaHangwena ngashiingeyi otadhi ka vula okulongitha ookompiuta oshowo omashina gokuindjipaleka oombaapila nokukala nomalamba moongulu dhawo dhoskola sha landula sho ooskola ndhoka tadhi pewa olusheno lwoonte dhetango.

Ehangano lyaGerman ta li longele kumwe naNamibia olya tula miilonga opoloyeka ndjoka tayi ka gandja olusheno kooskola mbali dhomoshitopolwa shaHangwena, okuya moshiwike twa taalela.

Ooskola dha tumbulwa kutya Omuuni oshowo Ondjabayonghalu combined school otadhi ka kala dhi na olusheno konima sho dha kala uule woomvula kadhi na eyakulo ndyoka.

Hanns Seidel Foundation oya pungula oshimaliwa sha thika pooN$500 000 mokulanda iilongitho itatu yolusheno lyonte dhetango mbyoka yi na oonkondo dhookilowatt ndatu.

Oshimaliwa shooN$80 000 osha longithwa mokufuta ehangano ndyoka tali tula mo olusheno ndyoka mooskola. Opoloyeka ndjoka oyi li oshitopolwa shoPromoting Renewable Energies in Namibia (Pren) project, ndjoka ya tulwa miilonga omvula ya piti. Ooskola ndhoka otadhi ka vula okulongitha ookompiuta, omashina gokuindjipaleka oombaapila oshowo okukala dhi na omalamba golusheno moonguludhoskola.

Pahapu dhomukwatakanithi gwoPren project, Rodney Seibeb oya tula miilonga opoloyeka ndjoka yuule woomvula ndatu, na oya nuninwa okugandja olusheno lwoonte dhetango kooskola dhi li hamano okuya mo 2019.

Seibeb okwa popi ngaaka pethimbo lyomutumba gwa nuninwa okugandja omauyelele, ngoka gwa ningwa naakuthimbinga ya yooloka moshitopolwa shaHangwena kuyele oshiwike shika.

Okwa popi kutya ngele ayihe oya ningwa ngashi sha longekidhwa, nena ooskola ndhoka mbali otadhi ka kala dha pewa olusheno mOmaandaha twa taalela. Seibeb okwa popi kutya ngele iilongitho mboka oya kwatwa nawa, nena otayi vulu okulonga uule woomvula 30.Sho a pulwa kutya oya longitha omulandu guni po gwehogololo opo ya tothwemo ooskola ndhoka mbali, okwa yamukula kutya oya ningi omapekaapeko ngoka ga tothamo ooskola ndhoka dhi li kokule nomalusheno. Okwa tsikile kutya shoka osha ningwa melongelokumwe naakuthimbinga ya yooloka moshitopolwa. Okwa popi kutya kakele kokugandja olusheno kooskola ndhoka, otaya ka talela po woo ooskola dhili ne noongulu dhawo dhopakathimbo, na otaya ka ninga woo iigongiilonga kombinga yiikwamalusheno yawo.

Omupeha omukomeho gwomayambulepo moshitopolwa shaHangwena, Etuhole Haimbili okwa pandula noonkondo opoloyeka ndjoka ta popi kutya oshitopolwa shawo osha pumbwa aakuthimbinga mboka ya pyakudhukwa okutsakanena epangelo ondjilakati. Okwa pandula oompangela noonkambadhala dhoka tadhi ningwa koHanns Seidel Foundation oshowo sho ya tothwamo ooskola mbali moshitopolwa, ndhoka tadhi yambidhidhwa kopoloyeka ndjoka mokupewa olusheno lyoonte dhetango. Seibeb okwa pula aakuthimbinga mboka ya hala okuyambidhidha ooskola ndhoka nookompiuta nenge omashina gokuindjipaleka oombaapila, opo ye shi ninge mbala.

Aakwashigwana taya ka wapaleka omudhingoloko gwAdolfi

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Aakwashigwana taya ka wapaleka omudhingoloko gwAdolfiEtoto ndyoka oli li oshiponga oshinene kuundjolowele waantu niimuna Konima yewapaleko lyopashigwana ndyoka tali ningwa ngula, aakwashigwana yomomudhingoloko gwaAdolfi mondjila onene yaNdangwa-Ongwediva moshitopolwa shaShana otaya kunkililwa ya hulithe po oku ekela iiyagaya metoto lyiiyagaya ndyoka lya ningwa pomudhingoloko ngoka shaaheli pamulandu. Moonkundathana ndhoka a ningwa naye koshifokundaneki shoNamibian Sun, oshilyo shelelo lyomudhingoloko ngoka, Gerhard Kafita osha popi kutya yo pamwe nelelo lyoshitopolwa shaShana, otaya ka wapaleka omudhingoloko gwAdolfi mwa kwatelwa etoto ndyoka, na itaku ka pitikwa we aantu ya tule iiyekelwahi yawo metoto ndyoka, uuna lya wapalekwa.

Osha li sha lopotwa kutya omudhingoloko ngoka ogwuli mompumbwe onene yomayakulo gamuni ngaashi omahala goku ekelahi iiyekelwahi. Onkalo ndjoka oya thimike aakwashigwana opo ya totepo ehala moka haya ekele iiyagaya yawo nehala ndyoka oli li owala polweela nopopepi nomatondokelo gomeya moshana shEtosha neinekelo kutya iiyagaya mbyoka otayi kungululwapo komeya pethimbo lyomuloka.

“Sho tatu yamukula kehiyo lyomupresidende Hage Geingob, opo ku ningwe esiku lyewapaleko lyopashigwana, aakalimo yomuAdolfi otaya tameke okuwapaleka mEtitano. Elalakano lyetu okuwapaleka etoto ndyoka lya totwapo kaakwashigwana. Etoto ndyoka oli li uupyakadhi unene momudhingoloko, na olya nika oshiponga kuundjolowele waantu niimuna momudhingoloko oshowo omukunda dhopushiinda,” Kafita a popi.

Okwa popi kutya iiyekelwahi yometoto moka ohayi kala tayi tuka momudhingoloko nomikunda dhopopepi, omanga aanona haya yi ketoto hoka ya kadhane niimuna ohayi ka lya ketoto ndyoka.

Kafita okwa popi kutya aanangeshefa yonyama mboka haya tomene momudhingoloko ngoka na ohaya longekidhile onyama yawo ndjoka hayi landwa koshigwana polweela ohaya ka ekela woo iipa yoongombe ndhoka haya tomo ketoto ndyoka.

Okwa tsikile kutya elelo lyoshitopolwa otali ka yambidhidha noshiyenditho oshowo iinima yokuwapaleka nokonima ngele kwa wapelekwa, etoto ndyoka itali ka pitikwa we okulongithwa.

“Okuza mOlyomakaya kape na omuntu taka pitikwa opo a ekele iiyagaya pehala mpoka, elelo lyoshitopolwa oshowo elelo lyopamuthigululwakalo, otaya longele kumwe mokukonga ehala epe ndyoka tali vulu okukala tali ekelwa iiyagaya.” Elelo lyUukwanyama, moka tamu adhika ehala ndyoka olya kambadhala okukonga ehala lyokweekela iiyagaya momudhingoloko moka, ihe lya nyengwa omolwa ompumbwe yehala.

Kansela gwoshikandjohogololo Ondangwa Rural, Kaushiweni Abraham, okwa popi kutya ayehe elelo lyoshitopolwa oshowo ndyoka lyopamuthigululwakalo oya ndopa sho ya kala taya thiminikwa koshigwana opo shi pewe etoto lyo ku ekela iiyagaya, na okwa tokola okukwatela mo ombelewa yangoloneya.

Okwa popi kutya sha landula sho ombelewa yangoloneya ya tseyithilwa, okwa monika ehala epe momukunda Ekolyanaambo na olya pumbwa owala okulongekidhwa nokonima yewapaleko oshigwana otashi a tseyithilwa kutya otaku ka ningwa ngiini.

Okwa popi woo kutya oye na inekelo kutya elelo lyoshitopolwa otali ke ya pa omaloli opo ga longithwe mokukutha po iiyagaya mbyoka.

Auntie Nangy

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Auntie Nangy I don’t want a baby

Dear Auntie Nangy

I am 23 year-old girl. I’m worried about myself… I finished my period on 24 April and I slept with my boyfriend on 2 May. We used condom but the condom burst. I am scared of getting pregnant. What must I do?

First of all you get yourself to the nearest pharmacy and you buy yourself a pregnancy test. If you don’t have the funds to buy a test, go to a clinic or hospital and get tested. From all of this I gather that you are not ready for a child because you are still young. Why don’t you abstain from sex until you are ready for what it bears? Talk to your partner about it. If you cannot stay away from sex perhaps you and your partner can go for family planning consultations. There are options including contraceptive pills that could help you. Also please be aware that there is more than a child that can come out of a condom burst. A child should not be your only worry; you can also contract STDs. Be careful next time.

Bleeding out of order

Dear Auntie Nangy

I am a 17-year-old girl and I have a problem with my period… they are not coming at the same time in each month. What must I do?

Menstrual flow changes due to what your body is feeling and going through. For instance, stress can cause your flow to be irregular. Certain contraceptives also mess up the flow and delay your period. If you are really concerned you must seek medical help immediately. It’s always better to be safe than to delay medical attention as it could be something that needs to be treated.

Unwanted attention

Dear Auntie Nangy

I am 17 and older men are attracted to me. What can I do for me not to fall in their traps?

You sound like a really smart young lady who knows how to make good decisions. First of all, ignore the hell out of them. If they continue pestering you then you tell an elder to tell them off. You are at a peak in your life where you need to be focused because one wrong move and you could be thrown off the wagon. This is the time for you to focus on school to pass your exams so you can get to varsity. Don’t let those men distract you or get to you.

To believe or not

Dear Auntie Nangy

I’m a 21-year-old lady in love with a 22-year-old guy. We have been in a relationship for five years and now, he tells me he loves me so much he will marry me. What do I do?

I think this is the sweetest thing ever. It is very rare to find young love like that of you and your partner these days. What you must do is live in the moment and take every day as it comes. Don’t consume your thoughts of being a wife already; you still have a lot to get through like varsity and getting a job. Once you have done that then you can think of getting married. Stay with your partner and see how far it goes.

Not trusted with her virginity

Dear Auntie Nangy

I am 16 and I have a girlfriend. We have dated for four months now but she told me she doesn’t trust anyone with her virginity… please help me?

You child, why are you even thinking of losing your virginity at 16? Where are your toy cars and your natural science books? First of all, you have only dated her for four months and that is still early for you to be sexually active. Secondly it is her right to say yes or no. If you force her you could be liable for rape so be careful with how you want to do this. She also has the right to choose with whom she can trust her virginity and if it’s not you then it is okay, it’s not the end of the world. Stick to your books for now, someone who trusts you will eventually come around.

Blesser keeping up with the times

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Blesser keeping up with the timesThe perks and hardships of being a product influencer in Namibia A local influencer speaks out on her efforts in trying to keep up with the rest of the world by promoting products online. A lot of people believe that in order for one to sell a product online all you need is a pretty face and great numbers. However, according to Blesser Malkah there is so much more that comes into play. Malkah is a social media influencer who has been in the game for two years thus far. She says being an influencer does not come cheap and her end goal is always to leave her clients satisfied with how she marketed their product and for that client to have new clients.

Asked on what she thinks of the current state on efforts being put into making Namibia a digitally active country, the influencer says she remains hopeful. Malkah says the fact that many local businesses are not aware that we are in an era where they can benefit from influencers is a problem. She urges business owners to be in contact with markers like her as business transacted on the internet is at higher levels than those that are done offline on a daily basis.

“Everyone is pulling and working together, that is the government, personalities and the public at large. These are definitely the beginning stages so there's a beautiful future ahead for us if we remain consistent. So yes, it's time to do business with people like me,” she said.

Malkah has successfully promoted over six products on her social media platforms under the business name Blesser Malkah TV. The products have ranged from local products including Forever Living products to a hotel in New Delhi, India, and hair products from Nigeria. The entrepreneur measures her success based on her goals, she told tjil.

“If I have a goal to reach 10 000 Namibian youth… in other words, all I am concerned about is getting my message to 10 000 Namibian youth not the Nigerian youth. It's not easy but the end results are worthwhile,” she said.

The go-getter says what makes a great social media promoter is one who is willing to learn all the time, pays attention to finer details and can be a great teacher. She says a lot of people have the misconception that it is all about their followers but it is in fact what you can do with your followers. Malkah has a team of people that help make her business a success. Her number-one tactic is being real with herself when she is promoting and to her audience too.

“Over the years, I have put together my experience and by the grace of God I travel often therefore I am exposed to options. I still study and travel. So I teach and do reviews and mentor people on areas that I am very exposed in. These are the things that make me a great influencer,” she said.

Malkah is currently busy selecting businesses to promote on her social media platforms and urges companies to reach out on her YouTube/Facebook/Instagram - @blessermalkahtv.

June Shimuoshili

The search is on for Namibia's best Kapana

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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The search is on for Namibia's best Kapana Keeping the home fires burning For the fourth year in a row, Nedbank Namibia will host the Kapana Cook-off in search of Namibia's best kapana varieties. To mark the launch of this celebrated competition, Nedbank, together with partners Bakpro, Meatma and Pick n Pay, hosted 12 media houses recently in Windhoek.

The media houses entered teams of two, competing to make their own salsa and prepare kapana, subsequent to a cooking demonstration held by experienced kapana vendors. The judging was done by the Namibia Chefs Association who placed emphasis on hygiene, presentation and taste. Journalists were challenged to put their best foot forward in the kitchen, in the hope of scooping first place at the cook-off.

“The competition was a fun-filled event and our Namibian journalists made use of the opportunity to reveal their skill set that goes beyond that of the newsroom. The results and attention to detail by the teams certainly gave some 'master chef' contestants a run for their money,” said Nelson Simasiku from Nedbank.

Since its inception, the competition entries have increased every year, from a start of ten entries during in 2015 to close to 500 entries recorded in 2017. The increases in entries attest to the fact that the Kapana Cook-off is a ticket to success. According Elsa Carstens, the manager of events at Nedbank, the Kapana Cook-off is one of the vehicles utilised to reach out to the small players in the market, who are ultimately already running a small business, who aspire to expand and formalise their operations.

“The winner is awarded with an opportunity to formalise their trade with a fully-fledged kapana container shop as well as a Nedbank bank account with N$15 000. Additionally, Nedbank provides access to skills building through an SME mentorship programme,” she said.

The entry level category winners in second place will receive a Nedbank bank account with a balance of N$10 000 deposited and the third place winner will receive a Nedbank bank account with a cash balance of N$5 000. The winner in the professional chef's category will receive a Nedbank bank account with a cash balance of N$10 000. This year's competition is distinctly different from the previous three years, with the fact that preliminary rounds will be held for the entry-level vendor category as well as the professional chef's category. In addition, the eastern region of Namibia has been included to this year's cook off to add to the existing northern, coastal and central regions.

STAFF REPORTER

20 local performers to jet off to LA

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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20 local performers to jet off to LA Melissa Muller has bagged two medals at the championships of performing arts. She talks to tjil about her win.

Melissa Muller is a great example of how important it is not to give up on your dreams. The 27-year-old said taking part in the South African and Namibian Championships of Performing Arts was something she wanted to do but had put it off so many times. The first-year COTA student who raps, sings and acts has been in the industry since 2011.

“I signed up during the late registration and I didn't want to think of making it or not. The day I had to perform for the judges I was sick and I almost missed my last performance but I luckily made it,” she said. Melissa won both gold medals in the categories rap and acting she entered for.

The South African and Namibian Championships of Performing Arts is a platform for artists to showcase their talent ranging from dance, instrumental, vocal, acting just to mention a few. The South African initiative is celebrating its 21st years in the business and the organisers decided to branch out to Namibia. Their mission is to have the youth excel in the performing arts industry to compete on an international level with peers from around the world.

Muller says the state of arts in Namibia is growing and she is grateful of such opportunities for the youth, like the championships.

She also says the industry lacks authenticity and entertainers must walk their way around this to make their mark as Namibians.

“We need to be authentic but also have meaning. Art is losing its feel compared to the past. We are becoming boisterous but we are taking pride in the wrong things like being 'savage'.

It's not about fame and money, it should be about character,” she said.

June Shimuoshili

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For the love of art

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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For the love of art I really love it when there are initiatives for the youth to flaunt their skills and talents that are made available. I would honestly love to believe that there is a lot of talented youth in our country that just need a platform. A lot of people, and mostly the elders, believe that one can't have a successful career in the arts.

It's just unfortunate that we still have elders who want to choose our career paths for us and those who believe that one can never be an artist and make a living off of it. We really need to get serious and be able to convince our elders that it's possible. This means we have to get serious by making quality work instead of doing it for likes, and/or fame. There are so many great local artists who are full-time artists and they are flourishing. There are also those who have been in the industry for way too long and have close to nothing to show for it. These are the people you don't follow at all.

Lastly, believe in your art, look for opportunities such as the Championship of Performing Arts, opportunities like DStv which had opportunities for designers recently and the National Art Gallery of Namibia, which is open for anyone to exhibit their arts. These are just a few that I can mention now, but you can email me for more platforms that can help one flourish. The world is your oyster. Don't let anyone tell you how to live in it unless you are messing up and they are there to help you. There is a very distinct difference between someone who is willing to help you and someone who is mocking you. A very important point is that not everyone is out to get you or put you down. Be smart about that.



June Shimuoshili



june@namibiansun.com

All things Chelsi

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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All things ChelsiNot your ordinary model Meet one of the most charismatic girls in the modelling business as she chills, with tjil. With a great melanin-popping body and face that defies the laws of nature and that is almost supernaturally photogenic, it's no surprise that Chelsi Shikongo is one of the most influential models in Namibia, working internationally.

With phenomenal work ethics, humble personality and the ability to speak out, new-age model Chelsi is surely killing it. She grew up in Walvis Bay and has been based in Cape Town, South Africa. She recalls modelling being a childhood passion and today she has been in the industry since 2010. Chelsi is signed with Boss Models Cape Town and has so far worked with Spree and Truworths. Here, the full-time model answers 14 questions with tjil.



Tjil (T): What brings you by?

Chelsi (C): I'm back because I got homesick and also my agency only sends me to direct bookings. I've been here since end of February. It's really great to be home.

T: What are you keeping yourself busy with during your stay?

C: Visiting my family and friends as much as I can. I also took part in the Temptations fashion show which was nerve-wracking but I loved every bit of it. My latest gig is with Deangelo for his collection that is coming up.

T: Is modelling an easy job or more demanding than people realise?

C: It is very demanding. One thing you must be able to do as a model is to sell a product. If you can't, you lose out on clients and opportunities.

T: What's one of the most interesting shoots that you've done?

C: My most recent and interesting shoot is an editorial I did for Lucy Magazine. We shot in Cape Town… it was a great team and I had an amazing time.

T: Do you ever get shy in front of the camera?

C: I do not really get shy, mostly nervous, and it takes me some time to get into character. After that we are good to go.

T: What is your beauty routine; do you have a skincare routine and do you change it between seasons?

C: I've been using Neutrogena since 2014 and they have the best products so far for my face. My genes play a big role when it comes to my skin though. I'm currently scouting for new skincare products for my body but Vaseline works great for me.

T: How do you stay in shape?

C: My genes are the one! Hahaha. They really play a big role because I basically eat anything because of my high metabolism.

I still check my figure; I don't do strict diets, I do workout mostly cardio, crunches and leg lunges to keep my lower body in shape, and also just to be fit.





T: What accomplishment are you most proud of?





C: Being able to see myself grow and elevate, and especially to inspire people with something that I really love to do.

The amount of pride I have when I see myself on TV is out of this world.

T: Has your perception of the modelling industry changed over time?

C: Definitely! The fact is everything is totally different than it seems on TV… they put way more effort and time for those few seconds to sell that product. You always need to give your all in this industry; you are in the service business and it's never about you, it's always about the client. So you need to learn to take criticism from professionals. Also, if you're not working it doesn't mean you don't have potential or there's something wrong with your look - it's just that you don't have what the clients want for that time product or season. Patience is the key though I still struggle to practice it.

T: Which three Instagram accounts should we be following?

C: Chelsi_Shikongo of course hahaha! Chumchum_bikinis, it's a business with a friend and we sell bikinis. Our next collection will be out by end of August. Lastly, The Fairy Godfather. It's a great one for food of thought.

T: What are your three favourite places in Namibia?

C: Langstrand, Oshikango in the villages and the N/a'an ku sê sanctuary.

T: How would you describe your personal style, where do you pull your inspiration from?

C: My style is a 'sexy, confident, hippie and street style' kind of vibe. I draw my inspiration from a lot of stylists on the Gram and Pinterest. I really like Karen Wazen and Sherlina Nym.

T: If you weren't modelling what would you see yourself doing?

C: Being a full-time film student.

T: Give us five facts about you people may not know.

C: I'm way taller in person, I may come off intimidating but I'm a people's person, I love to cook, I'm obsessed with dogs and I love to write; I'm working on a short film called Strong Women Don't Have It Easy.

June Shimuoshili

Driven: Hyundai's refreshed i20

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Driven: Hyundai's refreshed i20Can it take on the Polo, Yaris? An Active model has been added to the Hyundai i20 range. “The value-for-money proposition it offers compares strongly, and at times even betters what its rivals can conjure.” - Charlen Raymond, motoring journalist CHARLEN RAYMOND

Since 2009, the Hyundai i20 has been a popular sight on South African roads. The car, one of the Korean automaker’s stalwart products, has become a favourite among local car buyers and has managed to attract 88 000 buyers.

For 2018, Hyundai has refreshed its i20 line-up, which also sees the addition of a new Active derivative.

Heading the i20’s charge in Southern Africa, the Active stands slightly higher in its boots than its siblings and does it indeed look the part to see to the needs of those with an active lifestyle.

Changes in brief

The revised i20 range, including the new Active variant that replaces the outgoing 1.4 Sport, has a new face. The large grille is bent inwards towards the bottom, and the fog lights have been incorporated into the front panels.

The two grille strips running below atop and below the bigger grille remain, but their presence is just a tad less prominent. The headlights have also been redesigned and on the Active these house LED units that turn with the direction of the steering wheel at night.

At the rear the number plate has been moved to right under the badge and the rear light design is also slightly bigger. The latch to open the boot by hand is also under the badge.

The rear bumper also sees a redesign and a black insert now houses the reverse lights, as well as rear fog lights. Hyundai retained the brake light atop the spoiler.

The seats of the Motion and Fluid models are covered in cloth, but the Active’s interior offers either blue or red inserts. Electric windows are standard across the range, except for the three more affordable models that only feature this for the front windows.

The multimedia screen features touchscreen technology but to have satellite navigation (with SD card) fitted is a N$2 500 optional extra. The range also does not come with cruise control as standard.

1.4 Active

Hyundai opted to remove the top-of-the-range 1.4 Sport manual from the equation and replaced it with the 1.4 Active. The Active’s design tweaks are immediately apparent.

Opposed to the standard models’ front grille that has a bending effect, the Active’s grille reaches outward and features horizontal running bars. The front bumper houses big, round fog lights, as well as a big, plastic diffuser for a more rugged look.

Along the side there are black side skirts and roof rails makes carrying extra luggage a bit easier.

Keen-eyed observers would have noticed that the Active’s design strongly mimics that of the outgoing range and one does wonder why Hyundai has not implemented the same design ethos of the new range on the new model.

Perhaps the outgoing design allowed for better implementation of the “active” look. And though it’s not a train smash, the new leader of the pack should have led the charge from a design perspective too.

Kudos to Hyundai, though: the Active does not look out of place among its siblings.

Gravel and tar

Across the entire range, Hyundai fitted the cars with McPherson struts for the front suspension and a torsion beam axle at the rear. This aided the cars with good road-holding characteristics and gave it a compliant ride quality over various surfaces.

First up was the Active. Powered by a 1.4-litre engine (74 kW/133 Nm), the car had to first deal with the notorious Franschhoek Pass, and thereafter a good gravel strip that lasted for roughly 40 km.

On the gravel the Active had no problem relaying its power to the road and the front-wheel-drive system did well to keep power in check. The six-speed manual gearbox felt smooth and the cogs engage without hassle or strain.

Sliding about was virtually non-existent (thanks in part to the rain that hardened the ground) and respectable speeds could be achieved. Hyundai said it improved the i20’s road holding and it shows; despite the Active’s 170 mm ground clearance.

Sound insulation is also very good but the roof rails do create a bit of wind noise at speed.

The other model available for sampling was the 1.2 Fluid, fitted with a 1.2-litre engine (61 kW/115 Nm) and five-speed manual gearbox. Obviously not as sprightly as the Active, the car’s on-road dynamics reminded very strongly of that of the Hyundai Grandi10.

Nippy reactions and light steering feel all contributed to a relaxed experience from behind the wheel. Out on the N2 the car maintained its momentum without hassle - of course, it didn’t carry a load - and did well to scale the Franschhoek Pass on the return leg of the launch.

During spirited driving the car exhibited strong tendencies of under-steer, but driven with modulated gusto and steering input around bends proved to be the driving style of choice.

Summary

The revised Hyundai i20 range will remain a strong pillar in the carmaker’s local line-up. The value-for-money proposition it offers compares strongly, and at times even betters what its rivals can conjure.

Against its regular rivals, like the Volkswagen Polo and Toyota Yaris, the i20 is well positioned.

The Active will probably be the more popular model in the range, but those keeping their budgets in check will not be left discouraged by choosing one of the other models. There is a case to be made for the revised Hyundai i20 and it certainly makes a very strong one. - Wheels24

Of our zig-zagging govt

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Of our zig-zagging govt Government's pronouncement that it is unable to implement the Rent Control Ordinance of 1977, as well as the Estate Agents Act of 1976, as a way to contain the soaring rent prices in the country smacks of hypocrisy. A local pressure group has, rightly so, turned up the heat in its quest to have the issue of high rental costs addressed. However, industrialisation minister Tjekero Tweya argued last week government was unable to implement the rent ordinance since it was impractical to do so in its current form, saying the authorities were looking at addressing the issue through a yet to be tabled rent bill. This has not been well-received by the Affirmative Repositioning movement, which has criticised government for using archaic laws such as the Squatters Proclamation 21 of 1985 to demolish properties illegally erected by landless and poor Namibians. The AR is determined to force government to implement the Rent Control Ordinance of 1977, as well as the Estate Agents Act of 1976, which will result in the creation of rent control boards, as was the case before independence. These old-era rent control boards were deemed very effective, as they were consumer-driven and there was a willingness to actually listen to concerns raised by tenants. Sadly the current regime is zig-zagging on the issue and has seemingly adopted a non-caring attitude towards vulnerable Namibians, who are forced to spend a huge chunk of their salaries on paying rent in an already tough economic climate, where we have also seen young people struggling to get jobs. Our heartless leaders know too well that Namibians are priced out of the property market, due to runaway prices, and not even a married couple with a joint bond are able to get a decent place to call home. As highlighted in a recent study by the Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR), government is clearly struggling to implement economic justice programmes even though they appear good on paper. Surely they can't be content with the status quo and watch with folded arms as fellow Namibians are tormented by merciless property owners.

Why did the chicken cross the road?

May 23, 2018, 4:00 pm

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Why did the chicken cross the road? Greetings, oh fellow earthlings. Many of us are probably aware of the classic tale-cum-riddle 'Why did the chicken cross the road?' Well, for those who are not familiar with the tale, ask your neighbour's five-year-old kid.

It usually starts with the asking of the question 'Why the chicken did cross the road?' and this can be answered in almost any fashion based on the topic at hand. Seeing that most our leaders take things literally, I have always wondered how they would reply to this riddle.

To put our curiosities to rest, below is a list of possible answers that can be obtained for this riddle from the following esteemed institutions and individuals. Eish, truth is indeed stranger than fiction.



Bank of Namibia:

“We believe that the chicken assumed that it will grow in stature and value by crossing the road. When you take the number of times a chicken crosses the road, in any part of the country, minus the number of times it actually remains in its cage, it goes without saying that its trips across the road are highly likely to reach economic maturity by 2030.



Domestic Workers Union:

“How can a person let the chicken cross the road instead of at least giving it to the domestic worker to eat? Our members deserve more for their hard work. This just shows how much disregard employers have for our members.”



Prime Minister's Office:

“Well, we are proud to note that because of government's efforts in fighting poverty and bringing development to marginalised communities, chickens are nowadays crossing roads. If it were not for the tireless efforts of the government of the day, a chicken would have never even imagined crossing the road. Mind you, that road that it crossed was once known as J.G. Strydom Avenue!”



Trade Unionist:

“Our chickens are tired. If they don't cross the road to greener pastures, they will starve. Give them pay hikes and they might just stay in their cages. By the way, when did the chicken cross the road?”



Swapo Party Youth League:

“This cannot be allowed to continue. For how long should chickens cross the road? The politics of yesteryear do not apply to the youth. Let the chicken remain home and send the chicks out and guide them across the road. The future belongs to them.”



Council of Churches in Namibia:

“This is an indication that we are living in the last days. Can you imagine a chicken crossing the road? Isn't it enough that we had a talking donkey already? One talking animal is about all we can handle at the moment.”



NamPol Chief:

“This is a warning to all chickens attempting to cross the road; please cease with this practice immediately. The police will not be held responsible for our actions. We will not hesitate to open fire when safety is compromised. In fact, once we are done with you, we will bury you – whether you survive or not.”



City of Windhoek

“We cannot allow chickens to cross the road at any given place. We are building a new crossing lane to the cost of N$4.5 million to allow for the safe crossing of chickens. All chickens will soon be moved to that area. Those still using un-demarcated area to cross the road will be evicted.”

When I put the question to some of my friends from various ethnic groups, I was even more baffled by the responses.



Tjeripo Tjikondomboro:

“Mbuae, me I don't care about the shicken. Why you don't ask me about the cow – we are facing drought and if we do not get enough water for our cattle we will face calamity and because….”



Tangeni Shilongo:

“That one she is a marathon chicken, you won't catch her! I always tell Meekulu to chop its neck closer to the body – now look, it has run away and crossed the road.”



Derrick Dausab:

Ekse, why the siken did not fly. Aram tog, now they are going to catch him and cook him to sell at Soprite.



Fernando Kloppers:

Watse dom vraag is daai (What kind of stupid question is that…) F$%%^K jou man. Die blerrie chicken was probably tired of stupid questions like this. Well done, bra chicken. You rock!



Need I say more?



Until then…



Tjatindi@gmail.com