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Informal tax raises ire

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Informal tax raises ireInformal tax raises ireTarget Chinese, not informal traders - PDM The Chinese traders are the ones who should be paying taxes and not the informal sector, says the official opposition's youth league. The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) youth wing has called on government to rather focus on tax-dodging businesses, including forcing the Chinese to pay tax, instead of going after the informal sector.

It also has warned the country's informal sector has not developed to the economic and technical levels required to adequately and fairly tax it, without significantly collapsing the market and creating massive employment.

PDM Youth League spokesperson Maximalliant Katjimune was responding yesterday to moves by Inland Revenue to introduce a so-called presumptive tax targeting the informal sector.

He called the development misguided.

“What the minister of finance and the Inland Revenue Directorate must focus on is taxing big businesses that have been evading the government's tax books for years. The government must also step up efforts to properly tax Chinese businesses who are operating in the country,” Katjimune said.

He said the introduction of a presumptive tax regime would hurt the informal sector and the economy as a whole.

Inland Revenue commissioner Justus Mwafonge this week said the introduction of a presumptive tax regime was not a new development, as individuals who earn more than N$50 000 per annum are in any case required to pay taxes. “This is nothing new. Informal traders have always been taxed. It will all depend on how the business is registered. This is nothing new,” Mwafonge said.

He was responding to questions about a pamphlet published and distributed by the finance ministry, which warns explicitly that hair salons, whether operated in a city centre, town, informal market, incubator centre or at home, are subject to tax.

The same applies to taxi and bus transport businesses, as well as hawkers, whether they sell their products door to door, at an open market, on the side of the road, under a tree, in a neighbourhood or from the boot of a car.

“Plumbing services, if you have people who call you to fix their broken taps and pipes for a fee, record such income and pay tax. Kapana sellers, if you roast meat and sell it, you are required to pay tax on such income,” the pamphlet reads further.

According to Mwafonge the pamphlet campaign was also the ministry's way of informing taxpayers, while educating them on their tax responsibilities.

“We are just trying to simplify things,” he said.

He said there is also a slim possibility that the ministry of finance would introduce presumptive taxes soon. According to him, a lot of work still needs to be done before it is implemented.

“Presumptive tax is still a work in progress,” Mwafonge said.

Government first mooted the idea of a presumptive tax regime when then finance minister and current Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila tabled the 2014/15 national budget.

The incumbent, Calle Schlettwein, has maintained the introduction of presumptive tax regime would be an attempt to broaden the tax net. According to him, the measure is also not punitive.

OGONE TLHAGE

What is the purpose of livestock in Namibia?

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What is the purpose of livestock in Namibia? What is the purpose of livestock in Namibia? It is established fact, indeed dogma, that Namibian livestock are used to produce meat, as well as some milk, skins, eggs, draught power and manure. The animals are farmed for production. They or their products are harvested regularly and sold to earn revenue. This is generally thought to be the true function of all livestock. Government, its agencies and foreign development organisations often repeat this assumption.

But this is not true for most Namibian cattle and goats, and probably not for most pigs and chickens. As a rule, these animals are neither sold nor slaughtered regularly, and do not provide their owners with steady revenue or income.

They are not used for production. Instead, they are kept as investments (akin to savings, security or capital) by most livestock owners across northern Namibia, and in other communal areas. This also holds for many resettlement and freehold farms operated by weekend farmers, both from former and current times. And it seems to be the case throughout most of Africa.

Ownership

Livestock ownership is thus divided into “farming” and “keeping”. “Farming” generates income and “keeping” produces capital.

Divisions between the two may blur, for example when market opportunities encourage “keepers” to sell, or when “farmers” gain other incomes and then become “keepers”. Most, but by no means all commercial farms are used for farming, while keeping predominates in communal areas. There are some notable exceptions, for instance in the substantial marketing of goats in former Namaland and cattle in former Hereroland.

Saving vs investment

There are subtle, but important differences between livestock savings and investments. For poorer residents in communal areas, livestock are mostly savings which are drawn when needs arise for additional income. The needs are often unexpected and pressing. Small amounts are “withdrawn” by selling one or two chickens, while bigger amounts are obtained by selling two goats or one cow, for example.

By contrast, wealthy livestock owners from Windhoek, Walvis Bay, Rundu, Oranjemund, Oshakati and other towns keep livestock largely as investments. Their main purpose is to provide longer-term capital security for themselves and their children. However, animals are also “withdrawn” when needs arise for extra money, which includes giving animals or cash for weddings or other special occasions. The needs of wealthier livestock owners can generally be predicted more easily and they are less critical than those of poorer livestock owners.

Balance

The balance between “farming” and “keeping” livestock may be changing, but it is not always clear in which direction.

On the one hand, younger livestock owners in communal areas increasingly produce and sell animals, as is expected from farmers generally. On the flipside, increasing numbers of cattle (and often goats) are kept as capital on communal land by wealthy urban residents.

The latter makes for great investments because the land, grazing and water are all free, and labour costs are low. Today, more livestock on communal land are without any doubt owned by non-residents than by those who actually live in communal areas.

This has extreme implications, both environmental and social. Many areas are now over-stocked, and the small herds that belong to resident families barely manage to compete for the forage and water that remains for their use. These are communal families who lack substantial incomes and for whom livestock savings are vital “piggy banks” to be accessed in times of real need.

‘Red Line’

Claims that livestock in northern Namibia would be farmed if the veterinary cordon fence was removed ignore the very purpose of most livestock. This was made clear in comments on the cordon fence by Urias Ndilula, a senior councillor of the Oukwanyama traditional authority. He was quoted in Namibian Sun of 3 July 2018 as saying that what northern communal areas farmers need most is grazing, not meat exports.

Getting rid of the “Red Line” would have several benefits, buts more might be achieved if investment options for wealthy urban livestock keepers were increased in other fields.

Finally, there is a real need to ask: What should Namibian land be used for? As safety nets for the poor, as productive land for agriculture and tourism, or as investments for rich people?

Sensible answers supported are needed to these questions. And then their implementation needs to be bolstered by serious political will.

Paving the way

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Paving the wayPaving the wayEsterhuyse is passionate and ambitious Gerrit Esterhuyse embodies the true essence of partnership. Elizabeth Joseph





Being young at heart certainly helps when you want to build an empire, one excel sheet at a time.

Gerrit Esterhuyse started his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in 2005.

He gained extensive experience as a trainee accountant and an audit manager for a vast array of clients operating in various industries including financial services, healthcare, construction, retail, pharmaceuticals, fishing and oil and gas.

His exposure includes being the audit manager of various groups, of which several included listed clients, requiring inter-office reporting as in the case of multinational clients, or in terms of other US GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) requirements.

Esterhuyse became a partner on 1 July 2013 at the Walvis Bay office and is responsible for PwC’s mining portfolio, as well as some other blue chip clients in the construction industry. He is a qualified chartered accountant and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Namibia (ICAN), the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), the Public Auditors and Accountants Board (PAAB) of Namibia and the Namibian Institute of Professional Accountants (NIPA).

Esterhuyse is a partner within the assurance service line at PwC’s Walvis Bay office. He has extensive experience in various industries. He also has a sound technical background in accounting and auditing.

“I have developed into a professional chartered accountant thanks to the exposure I have received at PwC that I am very thankful for. I do not believe I would have developed to this level was it not for PwC and its people. It is a very challenging and very rewarding environment to work in,” he says.

His short-term goals include contributing to the development of people working for PwC to unlock their potential and influence.

He describes a typical day at the office as follows: “Probably half of the day is spent in meetings influencing decisions and contributing to decisions being taken. The remainder is spent with staff and clients on executing assignments.”

It is sometimes a bumpy ride, but he makes sure he is always protected by the safety belt of ambition.

Gerrit Esterhuyse fact box

· His nickname is G8, because his favourite number is 8.

· His wife’s name is Riana

· He is very family and friend-orientated

· He is a sports lover.

· He is a dreamer, who has several dreams he wants to realise.

· His favourite colour is yellow.

· He wanted to become a professional rugby player when he was younger.

· He enjoys reading and his current reading material is ‘Legacy’ by James Kerr.

· He is passionate about unlocking the potential of people.

Finance to appoint revenue head by August

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Finance to appoint revenue head by AugustFinance to appoint revenue head by AugustNamibian preferred The establishment of the country’s new revenue agency has reached the next level, with the position of the CEO being advertised. The incumbent is required to have a comprehensive knowledge of Namibia’s tax system and familiarity with the tax laws, SACU and SADC appliance tax treaties, as well as regional and international protocols to be administered by the NAMRA. - Ministry of Finance NDAMA NAKASHOLE - The ministry of finance has kicked off the search for the commissioner of its new Namibia Revenue Agency (NAMRA).

The ministry’s senior technical economic advisor who is also chairing the NAMRA task team, Penda Ithindi, told Market Watch yesterday that the appointment will be done by August.

The person, who will also serve as the CEO of the agency, will provide leadership, management and supervision of day-to-day operations of the NAMRA, ensure administration and enforcement of revenue laws, as well as the effective operation of the NAMRA regional offices.

According to the advert this week, the commissioner-cum-CEO will also be responsible for developing and implementing the strategic plan, business plan and scorecard for the agency, in consultation with the minister and the board of directors.

The revenue chief will report to the minister and the board of directors, will also oversee the collection of taxes, customs and excise duties, ensure compliance and implement an enforcement strategy, as determined by the ministry.

The development and implementation of efficient and effective control measures in terms of the trans-border movement of goods and trade facilitation is also one of the roles that the chief will play at the agency.

Other duties have to do with working within polices and budgets, while modernisation, overseeing audits, research, transparency, communication and fostering partnerships.

COMPETENCE

Namibian citizens are preferred for the position, and according to the ministry, the person should have no criminal record.

“The incumbent is required to have a comprehensive knowledge of Namibia’s tax system and familiarity with the tax laws, SACU and SADC appliance tax treaties, as well as regional and international protocols to be administered by the NAMRA.”

Planning skills, the ability to manage a large organisation, good communication skills as well as the ability to provide the organisation with a vision through effective leadership, are some of the other qualities sought for in the tax chief.

CAPITAL

This week’s search for NAMRA boss comes a month after the ministry advertised for expression of interest to serve on the agency’s board.

These are part of the processes that will eventually lead to the establishment of NAMRA, according to the ministry. The ministry is set to have NAMRA operational by 1 March 2019.

In his budget speech in March this year, finance minister Calle Schlettwein said that of his ministry’s 12.1 billion allocation over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), a total of N$319.9 million is earmarked for the transitional arrangements for the establishment of NAMRA over the MTEF. This is in addition to the allocations made for the departments of Inland Revenue and Customs and Excise.

Price monster puts pedal to the metal

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Price monster puts pedal to the metalPrice monster puts pedal to the metal The hike of 60c/l in the fuel price in June resulted in a spike in annual overall transport inflation and pushed up Namibia’s annual overall inflation rate from 3.8% to 4% last month. Annual overall transport inflation came in at 7.2%, up from 5.6% in May. May 2017 is the closest to the latest rate, when transport inflation reached 7.1%. Operation of personal transport equipment, the sub-category of transport which includes the fuel price, rose from 6.2% to 8.9%. Commenting on the new data released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) yesterday, Klaus Schade from the Economic Association of Namibia (EAN) said this sub-category accounts for 63% of the transport category and therefore has a strong impact on the transport inflation rate. “Furthermore, it influences the overall inflation rate, since the operation of vehicles contributes almost 9% to the overall inflation rate,” Schade said. Photo Nampa/Reuters

Cash flow management key for SME-owners

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Cash flow management key for SME-ownersCash flow management key for SME-owners Mbo Luvindao – branch manager: specialist finance division: emerging small and medium enterprises

There is no greater joy than owning your own business. It allows you to work according to your own rules since you are probably doing something that you love. Thus, you are creating, investing and building something that is so much more than a job or a monthly salary.

However, being a small business owner does come with a whole heap of challenges and risks. One of the major challenges is managing your cash flow. This means managing your incoming and outgoing cash.

Whatever product or service you sell in your business, you expect payment from your customers at some point. If you manufacture goods, you need to buy the raw material and machinery while leaving enough to pay rent, staff salaries and your own. The list of expenses goes on.

As a business owner, you need to find ways to mitigate the risk of your customers not paying. If you own a shop, the payment terms may be as simple as handing over the goods as soon as the customer hands over the cash or swipes for payment. However, with services and other types of Small and Medium Enterprise’s (SMEs), there are more complex payment terms.

Payment terms vary, from payment upon receipt of goods to payment within 30, 60, 90 or 120 days. The larger the organisation, the longer they usually wait to pay you. This can cause severe cash flow constraint for SMEs. If clients do not pay within the allotted time, the entrepreneur will not have money to pay her/his; suppliers, rent, salaries and other business expenses. This may have far-reaching consequences for the entrepreneur and their business.

Often the SME will have to take out new loans at less favourable rates due to their credit ratings or in a worst case scenario may lead to bankruptcy.

For this reason, SME-owners need their clients and customers to pay their invoices within the payment terms as this allows the business to be self-sustainable in the long run.

What can small businesses do to better manage their cash flows?

1. Monitor your business cash flow regularly and forecast monthly cash inflows (either from sales or services rendered) and cash outflows (salaries, rent, etc.). This allows you to reasonably predict future cash flow challenges.

2. Budget. Come up with a spending plan for your larger expenses;

- How much you expect to spend?

- When?

- Justification

3. Enforce payment disciplines by:

- Asking for a deposit or partial payment on your products or services. So even if your customers delay in paying you, your cash flow is not completely depleted.

- Take steps to shorten the period your debtors have to pay you such as by offering a small discount.

- Communicate clearly your late payment terms and be more effective in collecting outstanding revenue

- Negotiate for better payment days with your creditors (If possible)

Knowing and monitoring you business’ cash flow position will also enable you to make decision such as when is a good time to approach the Bank Windhoek for assistance. Sometime this is the only option available; so it is best to advise that small businesses should get to know their banker and ensure that their financial records are always in order.

Plots thickens in N$800K FNB theft

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Plots thickens in N$800K FNB theftPlots thickens in N$800K FNB theft The 29-year-old man, who is accused of stealing N$800 000 in cash from an FNB branch in Oshakati, resigned immediately after he was placed on suspension over the missing money.

This was revealed in the Oshakati Magistrate's Court by George Shivute during his formal bail application before Magistrate Walter Mikiti.

Shivute, who was employed as an ATM custodian, was served with a suspension letter on 22 June, following the disappearance of the cash, and he subsequently resigned from the bank.

He was arrested four days later on 26 June and is currently in police custody.

Shivute is facing a count of theft and a charge of attempting to defeat the course of justice, after N$800 000, which was a portion of the N$1 060 000 he was entrusted to load onto an ATM on 24 April, disappeared.

He is also accused of tampering with the CCTV camera and alarm system that monitors the ATM into which the cash was to have been loaded.

During cross-examination by state prosecutor Mpule Siyomunji, Shivute claimed he has no knowledge of why he was arrested.

He informed the court his highest education qualification is a grade 12 certificate and he has no property on his name.

He is the father of an 8-month-old baby.

Shivute also informed the court he does not remember the events of 24 April and that he will remain silent on the allegations until his trial.

He also denied signing an acknowledgement of debt, which was provided in court, in which he indicated he agreed to be indebted to the bank for an amount of N$800 000.

He further denied the accusation that he had informed the bank he used the money to buy two cars.

The state is opposing bail on the grounds that it has a strong case against the accused.

The state also fears he may abscond, that he may interfere with ongoing investigations and that granting him bail will not be in the public interest or in the interest of the administration of justice.

The police investigator in the matter, Hamunyela Haitange, testified he agrees with the prosecutor.

During cross-examination by the defence lawyer Marcia Amupolo, Haitange alleged attempts had already been made by the mother of the accused to interfere with police investigations.

He testified that Shivute's mother and brother came to the police station on 2 July and accused the investigator of being involved in the disappearance of the bank's money.

Haitange said if bail is granted to the accused, who was employed at FNB for 11 years, he is very likely to interfere with investigations directly or indirectly, because of his knowledge and the loyalty he has built up with colleagues over the years.

Haitange said 12 more ATMs still need to be investigated and it is therefore not the best time to grant the accused bail.

Submissions were completed yesterday and judgement is expected today.

KENYA KAMBOWE

Prayers instead of meds

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Prayers instead of medsPrayers instead of medsState patients at death's door after listening to 'pastors' Some Pentecostal pastors are being accused of telling state patients they should abandon their lifesaving medication and rather depend on prayers. Health ministry permanent secretary Petronella Masabane has lifted the veil on how so-called church leaders are discouraging patients from taking their lifesaving medication.

She also confirmed the ministry has banned loud and noisy church services and prayer sessions at state health facilities, saying they are disruptive and infringe on the rights of others.

“I say so-called, because a true church leader will not be so irresponsible as to put people's lives at risk. It is not only happening at the Windhoek Central Hospital, but everywhere. It is also not only at hospitals, but even at church gatherings,” she said.

This was one of the main issues to emerge during visits by the parliamentary standing committee on gender equality, led by Swapo MP Ida Hoffmann, to several state hospitals and clinics in the Khomas Region.

According to Hoffmann, doctors at the Windhoek Central Hospital reached out to the parliamentarians to intervene, as a number of critically ill patients are refusing to take their medication, on the advice of local Pentecostal pastors.

“The main issue that stood out at the central hospital in particular is the churches that flock to the hospitals. The doctors told us that they try their best with their patients, but the pastors tell them that they are praying for them, so there is no need for them to take medication. And as a result these people's health deteriorate and some of them eventually die,” said Hoffmann.

According to her, other issues putting a strain on healthcare is the dire shortage of nurses and doctors at public health facilities.

Hoffmann also expressed concern over the state of some clinics, which have exceeded their lifespan and have poor infrastructure.

“At some places there are really very ugly cracks and it is worrisome because you never know when something can fall apart. Many of the clinics and hospitals are also very old buildings,” she said.

The standing committee is currently compiling their observations and will table a report in the National Assembly during its next session.

“We will even extend an invitation to health minister Bernard Haufiku to sit down with the gender committee, so we can discuss these issues,” said Hoffmann.

Ombudsman John Walters said it is sad that some people can still be so naive to believe these irresponsible pastors.

He urged the health ministry to reinforce security at state facilities, in order to make sure that scrupulous church leaders are not allowed into hospitals.

“It is unbelievable. I want to tell those people that God only helps those people who help themselves by taking their medication. I cannot believe that people can still be influenced like this, in this modern age,” he said.

The committee that was split into two groups visited the Otjomuise clinic, the Robert Mugabe clinic, the Windhoek central and Katutura state hospitals, the Maxuilili clinic, the Katutura clinic, as well as the Groot-Aub and Dordabis clinics.

As recently as last year, Haufiku strongly condemned self-proclaimed prophets and traditional doctors, who claim to have the power to cure diseases such as HIV/Aids.

Haufiku told community members in the Oshana Region that people with illnesses should seek help from medical facilities and not from “prophets”.

“Why don't we think for ourselves, as someone will be making money from you by telling you lies. Many people have died of HIV, not because of the virus but because they were told lies by a prophet that came from wherever into Namibia to make money, telling people that he or she can heal you with prayers and that you should stop taking your medication,” Haufiku said at the time.











He was speaking at the inauguration of the Eloolo clinic.

“We are being crooked and lied to by these people and we are still believing in them… we have to stop this nonsense,” he said.

The minister also made reference to advertisements for “magic bullet” remedies purported to cure a variety of ailments.

Haufiku said he would engage with the information ministry and the Health Professions Councils of Namibia to stop of any form of medical advertisement in the mainstream media.



JEMIMA BEUKES

Former Prime Minister Gurirab passes away

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Former Prime Minister Gurirab passes awayFormer Prime Minister Gurirab passes away Former Prime Minister and Swapo veteran Dr Theo-Ben Gurirab has passed on today in a Windhoek hospital, a family source has confirmed. He was 80. He served as the second Prime Minister between 28 August 2002 to 20 March 2005. Previously he was Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1990 to 2002, and during that time he was President of the United Nations General Assembly from 1999 to 2000. He was Speaker of the National Assembly from 2005 to 2015. Gurirab retired from active politics in 2015. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

40 years of bakkie

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40 years of bakkie40 years of bakkieIsuzu Motors South Africa A pioneer in many ways, the Isuzu bakkie was the first in South Africa to feature rack and pinion steering and independent front suspension. Today, six generations later, our modern manufacturing processes and constant upskilling of labour, have made Isuzu bakkies one of South Africa’s favourites. - Johan Vermeulen, Isuzu Motors South Africa Executive: Manufacturing and Supply Chain What do former Springbok Rugby Captain John Smit, the first test tube baby, the Walkman and the movie Grease have in common? They were all introduced to the world in the same year that the first Isuzu bakkie went into local production in South Africa.

1978 was a significant year for one of the firm favourites on South African roads – whether its hauling sheep in the Karoo, or zipping between the Gauteng skyscrapers, the Isuzu bakkie has been synonymous with the South African way of life for four decades.

The first Isuzu bakkie, carrying the Isuzu badge, was built at the Kempston Road plant in Port Elizabeth 40 years ago. Today, boasting three body styles and an extensive model line-up, Isuzu bakkies continue to be a leading contender in the market place – tried and tested to be a true legend to live the Isuzu Motors South Africa company strapline ‘With you, for the long run’.

The first bakkie was launched at an original selling price of a whopping R3 485 for a 1.6-litre petrol engine bakkie and R4 295 for a 2.0-litre diesel engine bakkie.

Evolution

Johan Vermeulen, Isuzu Motors South Africa executive: manufacturing and supply chain, said the bakkie has evolved over the years to remain one of South Africa’s firm favourites.

“Over the years Isuzu vehicle assembly experienced many changes. We started production at the Kempston Road plant where we produced five generations and moved to the more modern Struandale plant when we started to build the sixth generation.”

“With the introduction of modern technology, automation and lean manufacturing processes into automotive manufacturing, we were able to continuously improve efficiencies and quality of our products. Today, six generations later, our modern manufacturing processes and constant upskilling of labour, have made Isuzu bakkies one of South Africa’s favourites,” Vermeulen said.

A pioneer in many ways, the Isuzu bakkie was the first in South Africa to feature rack and pinion steering and independent front suspension. In the 1990s Isuzu was also the first to introduce double cabs into the South African market.

Other than its innovative nature, the Isuzu bakkie has many accolades in its proverbial trophy cabinet, including 15 local endurance records.

In 2010 the Isuzu bakkie set 15 overall speed and distance records over 72 hours at the Gerotek - with a KB 300 D-TEQ bakkie completing 12 243.385 km at an average speed of 170,047 km/h. A KB 250 D-TEQ also achieved a new class record distance of 11 495.567 km.

The sixth-generation Isuzu bakkie, which was launched in 2013, is a continuation of the long Isuzu tradition of building great bakkies in South Africa, with over 600 000 Isuzu bakkies built locally to date. - QuickPic

Nestor rides out the storm

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Nestor rides out the stormNestor rides out the storm ]



Namibia's top boxing promoter and the owner of the MTC Nestor 'Sunshine' Tobias Boxing and Fitness Academy, Nestor Tobias, insists his boxing stable is fine and that he is pushing ahead towards more glory days.

The academy has faced several setbacks, with some of prominent boxers leaving the long-time promoter to join other stables.

The likes of Paulus Ambunda, Julius Indongo and Sakaria Lucas parted ways with the academy during a period of less than six months.

There has also been a reduction in boxing bonanzas staged by the academy, compared to previous years.

Tobias, however, believes nothing has changed, as boxing promotion is still alive and well.

“We are doing fine and I believe that nothing has changed compared to the previous years. Yes, the dates of staging events might have changed a bit, but we still remain relevant and active.

“Many of our boxers have been fighting outside the country and that could possibly be one of the reasons people think we are a bit quiet,” Tobias said.

The stable currently does not have anyone holding a world title, but Tobias said he is content with the boxers he has.

He believes the current crop includes potential world champions.

“Yes, we do not have a world champion in our stable now, but we do have guys that can earn us that before the end of the year.

“This stable will always produce good boxers, given the hard work and the quality we put in over time.”

Indongo, Ambunda and Paulus Moses all became world champions fighting for Tobias.

He has also produced several African champions, including the likes of Walter Kautondokwa, Immanuel Naidjala, Jeremiah Nakathila, Sakaria Lukas and many more.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

Valencia move didn't come easy

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Valencia move didn't come easyValencia move didn't come easyColeman attributes success to hard work Namibia's female goal poacher Zenatha Coleman recently signed with Spanish Primera División side Valencia for two seasons. Valencia, Spain's third-largest city and the cradle of blossoming women footballers, will see local striker, 24-year-old Zenatha Coleman, making history as the only Namibian player in its ranks.

Coleman has moved from Spain's Zaragoza CCF, who were relegated last season, to Valencia, which ended fifth.

Even though her former club was relegated, the versatile player came close to almost singlehandedly saving her side after scoring seven goals in 15 games.

“The move to one of the best leagues in Europe would not have happened if not for the hard work of my agent. I come from a small country no one knew anything about. In the space of six months, I was scoring goals and God made it possible for this to happen,” Coleman said.

She joined Zaragoza after inspiring Lithuanian giants Gintra Universitetas to a domestic double and the Champions League round of 16 last year. Before signing with by Gintra she played for top local side Tura Magic in 2016.

She becomes the third player to be signed by Valencia this season, following the arrival of Monica Flores and Jucinara Soares.

Coleman attributed her success to the fact that she works really hard on the field.

“People confuse my hard work with talent,” she said.

The striker encouraged the establishment of an active local league, in order for Namibian women footballers to get the chance to be scouted and play abroad.

“The national team should be able to compete in international friendlies as well, but for that to happen, women's football needs help.”

The Spanish club, which the Namibian will now call home, was founded in 2009 and struggled prior to the appointment of Cristian Toro as manager in 2012.

Under his leadership and with an increased investment into the club, Valencia has progressed from a 13th-place finish in the 2012/13 season to a third-place finish in the 2016/17 season.

There are three reasons for the city's success on the nascent Spanish women's football scene - infrastructure, social culture and geography.

Both Valencia and rival club Levante have superb setups, with strong state-of-the-art training facilities and legitimate marketing efforts, which bolster their on- and off-pitch performances.

This will be Coleman's training ground, as she gears to break records.

-Additional reporting by womenssoccerzone.com

LIMBA MUPETAMI

Nored a gandja olusheno kOshihau

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Nored a gandja olusheno kOshihauNored a gandja olusheno kOshihau Oshihau, ongaashi omikunda odhindji ndhoka dha kala kadhi na olusheno konima nkene oshilongo sha manguluka momvula yo 1990.

Ehangano lyokuyandjakaneka olusheno monooli yoshilongo lyoNored, okupitila moprograma yalyo yomayambidhidho goshigwana olya gandja olusheno komukunda Oshihau moshitopolwa shaMusati, ehuliloshiwike lya piti.

Omukunda Oshihau moshikandjohogololo shaNesi ogwa kala kagu na olusheno konima nkene oshilongo sha manguluka. Ookastoma dha thika pe 150 momukunda ngoka otadhi vulu ngashiingeyi okumona olusheno nokutyapula omauwanawa ngoka haga endele pamwe nolusheno.

Pahapu dhOmunambelewa Omukuluntu gwaNored, Fillemon Nakashole, oprograma yawo yomayambidhhdidho goshigwana ndjoka hayi ithanwa corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme otayi kwashilipaleke egandjo lyolusheno kaakwashigwana yomomikunda noondoolopa.

Nakashole okwa popi kutya opoloyeka ndjoka oya tulwa miilonga nelongitho lyoshimaliwa shooN$303 000, okuza kuNored.

Omunambelewa ngoka okwa popi kutya oya tula miilonga oopoloyeka dholudhi ndoka miitopolwa oyindji moka haya longele onga omukalo gwokuyambulapo oshigwana, oku pitila moprograma yawo ndjoka.

Okwa tsikile kutya egandjo lyolusheno momukunda ngoka otali ka etelela omayambulepo ogendji. Okwa popi kutya monena aantu owala 16 ya pewa olusheno na okwa pula aakalimo yalwe momudhingoloko ngoka opo ya ninge omaindilo yo ya vule okupewa olusheno momagumbo gawo.

Nakashole okwa indile woo aakwashigwana kashi kambadhale okuninga omakwatathano golusheno ngoka kaageli paveta molwaashoka oga nika oshiponga noonkondo na otaga tula moshiponga oomwenyo.

Sho a holola enyanyu lye, omukalimo gumwe gwomomukunda ngoka, Teopolina Shiyuka okwa pandula noonkondo Nored sho a tokola okugandja olusheno komudhingoloko gwawo.

“Aanona yandje ngashiingeyi otaya vulu okulesha omambo gawo uusiku molwaashoka ope na olusheno,” Shiyuka a popi.

Okwa popi kutya monakuziwa oya li ya gongele iimaliwa nokuya kombelewa yakansela opo andola ya vule okupewa olusheno ihe oya li ya mono eyamukulo kutya iimaliwa mbyoka inayi gwanaa.

Okwa popi kutya okwa hala okupandula Nored, na okwa hala a tsikile nokugandja ousheno komikunda ndhoka kadhi na olusheno.

KENYA KAMBOWE

Ependafule lya ka lala

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Ependafule lya ka lalaEpendafule lya ka lalaNakusa a tumbalekwa onga ependa esindani mekondjelomanguluko lyaNamibia Pethimbo a kala omunadiplomate gwongundu yoSwapo kIigwana yaHangana pokati komvula yo 1972 sigo 1986, okwa li omukundathani omuwanawa nomukuthimbinga miikumungu yopashigwana pamuthika gwopauyuni. Omuprima minista nale na okuli omunapolitika omukuluntu mongundu yoSwapo, Dr Theo-Ben Gurirab, okwa hokololwa koyendji kutya okwa li ependa mopolotika yaNamibia, sha landula sho a hulitha mOlyomakaya.

Omunamimvo 80 ngoka a li nale omupopi mEgumbo lyoPashigwana okwa valwa momasiku 23 gaJanuari momvula yo1938, moUsakos na okwa gandja onkalamwenyo ye kekondjelomanguluko lyaNamibia.

Omupresidende Hage Geingob, mboka pamwe naGurirab oshowo nakusa Hidipo Hamutenya yatungu po oSwapo trio ngaashi ya tseyika, okwa koleke eso lyaGurirab mOlyomakaya.

Okwe mu hokolola onga kuume, komrade nomukondjelimanguluko gwaNamibia.

Okwa popi kutya iilonga yaGurirab tayi shambula mongundu yoSwapo oshowo moshigwana shaNamibia otayi kala aluhe nokutumbalekwa.

Tuliameni Kalomoh, omunadiplomate gwaNamibia ngoka a longa woo onga omugandjimayele gwowina kombinga yiikumungu yopondje yoshilongo gwaGeingob, omuprima minista, Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila oshowo kominista Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah okwa popi kutya Namibia okwa kanitha kuume kashili.

“Oshinima shotango shoka twa kanitha onga oshilongo, okuume ketu. Otatu lili ihe otwa pandula sho twa li twe mu pewa onga omuleli gwetu pethimbo lyekondjelomanguluko lyoshilongo shetu oshowo konima sho oshilongo sha manguluka. Out uvitile ofamili ye olukeno omolwa eso lye,” Kalomoh a popi.

Okwa popi kutya oshilongo osha pumbwa aantu mboka ye na uukwatya ngaashi mboka waGurirab.

Okwa tsikile kutya, Gurirab, onga omuleli oku na oshitalenti nuunongo wuuvalelwamo.

“Eyambidhidho lye omanga taku ningwa oonkundathana shokutula miilonga okatokolitho 435 olya li lyongushu. Omudhilaadhili omuwanawa na osha etitha uuveko mbala oompangela dhoWestern Contact Group, onkene omaadhilongo ge itaga si po ihe otaga tsikile nokueta po iiyimati iiwanawa mokati komapupi gaanyasha aanadiplomate yaNamibia. Uuthiga we otawu tsikile,” Kalomoh a tumbula.

Oshilyo shelelo lyoSwapo, Tobie Aupindi, okwa popi kutya onkalamwenyo yaGurirab, aluhe oya kala kombinga yeitulemo nokugandja.

Okwa popi kutya onkalamwenyo ye oshowo iilonga ye nayi kale edhimbulutho kwaashoka sha pumbwa okuningwa meyambulepo lyaNamibia.

Gurirab okwa manitha eilongo lye lyodiploma muulongiskola moAugustineum Training College mOkahandja momvula yo 1960.

Olweendo lye mopolotika olwa tameke momvula yo 1962, sho a yi ontuku okuza mevi lye okuya moTanzania.

Okwa kala muupongekwa uule woomvula 27.

Konima sho a pewa epapa lyuukumwe kIigwana yaHangana momvula yo 1963, okwa ka tsikila eilongo lye moUnited States nomomvula yo 1964 okwa ulikwa a ninge gumwe gwomaakalelipo yoSwapo moUnited Nations oshowo moAmerika, omanga tiilongo.

Okwiilongo moshiputudhilo shoTemple University moPennsylvania, moka a mono onzapo yoBachelor of Arts degree in political science momvula yo 1969 oshowo oMaster of Arts degree in international relations momvula yo 1971.

Gurirab, okwa longa onga omukalelipo gwoSwapo kIigwana yaHangana uule woomvula 14 nokonima okwa ningwa omunongononi gwonkalo ta kalelele.

Okwa longa onga amushanga gwiikwapondje pokati komvula yo 1986 sigo 1990, nopethimbo ndyoka okwa dhana onkandangala onene moonkundathana dhombili yaNamibia.

Gurirab okwa kala woo oshitopolwa shoonkundathana ndhoka dha e ta po okatokolitho konomola 435 momvula yo 1978, hoka ka etitha etsokumwe lyemanguluko lyaNamibia.

Okwa li gumwe gwomaaleli yoSwapo mboka ya galukile moshilongo momvula yo 1989,opo ya longekidhe omahogololo gotango moshilongo. Okwa li woo gumwe gwomAakwaSwapo mboka ya shaina etsokumwe lyombili ndyoka lya shainwa muMaalitsa gwo 1989 pokati kepangelo lyaSouth Afrika oshowo Swapo.

Okwa hogololwa momvula 1989 onga gumwe gwomiilyo yOmutumba gwoPashigwana gwaNamibia na okwa li oshitopolwa shaatoti yekotampango lyaNamibia.

Okwa ulikwa onga ominista yotango yiikwapondje yaNamibia a manguluka komupresidende gwotango gwaNamibia, Sam Nujoma.

Gurirab natango okwa kwatele komeho oonkundathana dhuule woomvula ndatu opo ondoolopa yaMbaye yi galulilwe kuNamibia, shoka sha ethitha opo ondoolopa ndjoka yi ninge oshitopolwa shaNamibia momvula yo 1994.

Gurirab oku na epapa lyoDean of African Foreign Ministers. Muule woomvula 35 moshikondo shiikwapondje, nakusa okwa tseyika na okwa longo pamwe nomapupi gatatu gaaleli muuyuni, oshowo oohamushanga yatano mIigwana yaHangana.

Okwa hogololwa muSepetemb gwomvula yo 1999 onga omupresidende omuti 68 gwoUN General Assembly.

Gurirab okwa thiga ko omukulukadhi gwe Joan oshowo oyanamati yaali Dantagob naHanganee.

FRED GOEIEMAN

Tailor-made cycling pack for Land Rover Discovery

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Tailor-made cycling pack for Land Rover DiscoveryTailor-made cycling pack for Land Rover DiscoveryGear in one convenient bundle Land Rover caters to a wide variety of lifestyles and sporting interests with a large catalogue of accessories. Land Rover South Africa has introduced the first of many planned Gear Packages with a convenient Cycling Pack for the new Discovery.

Land Rover caters to a wide variety of lifestyles and sporting interests with a large catalogue of accessories, officially known as Gear. Now Discovery customers who enjoy adventuring on two wheels, as well as four, have an option to equip their vehicle with a range of cycling-oriented accessories hand-picked from the Gear range.

The new Cycling Pack includes a choice of either a Roof Mounted Bike Carrier for two bicycles (together with the required Roof Rails) or a Tow Bar Mounted Bike Carrier for two. The Package also adds a Rubber Mat set for the first and second seating rows, and a waterproof Loadspace Liner Tray to protect the cargo area floor from the mud and grime picked up during a long day out on trails.

The Pack also enhances the exterior of a Discovery with a set of front and Rear Mudflaps, and a choice of black or silver Wheel Centre Caps. A requisite of any sporting activity, a First Aid Kit is also included in the deal.

The cost of all these Gear items would add up to a maximum R28 791 if bought individually but bundled together the Cycling Pack is priced at R22 500. The Package is available to existing new Discovery owners, or can be built into the finance agreements of one bought from the showroom floor of any Land Rover retailer in South Africa.

Benefits

One of the benefits of Land Rover Gear is that all items are factory approved and covered under standard vehicle warranty periods.

The new Discovery is still the most versatile premium SUV with seating for seven, up to 2 500 litres of luggage capacity and class-leading all-terrain capability.

All three seating rows are available with heated seats (heated and cooled in the first two rows) while massage seats are available for the driver and front passenger – a particularly comforting feature after those long distance rides.

The SUV provides up to 2 500 litres of load capacity, or up to 1 231 litres with the second row in place. A dual-purpose Powered Inner Tailgate provides a practical load restraint when raised, but when lowered the 285mm overhanging section doubles as a useful bench ideal for changing muddy cycling shoes or performing mild bicycle maintenance or repairs while under the shelter provided by a one-piece tailgate.

Extra

Additional storage facilities include a deep cubby hidden in the central console capable of holding a pair of two-litre drinks bottles, a second central armrest binnacle large enough for five iPads, and a concealed small-item stowage nook behind the flip-down Climate Control panel.

With ground clearance rated at 283mm and a maximum wading depth of 900mm, the Discovery can take mountain bikers to the start of even the most remote trails. When tackling particularly challenging terrain, All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) can be programmed to autonomously maintain a suitable crawl speed chosen by the driver. The clever technology allows the driver to concentrate solely on steering the vehicle as they negotiate obstacles, without the distraction of operating the throttle or brake pedals, and can also be used from a standstill to help when pulling away on slippery surfaces.

Land Rover’s multi-mode Terrain Response 2 system also optimises a range of settings, from throttle sensitivity to gearchange characteristics, to suit the driving conditions at the turn of a rotary controller – and can even select the optimum setting automatically if drivers are unsure of the best choice. - MotorPress

Building the next generation

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Building the next generationBuilding the next generationOne Lego at a time Legos have always been fun, but try building your future with them. Elizabeth Joseph

Young Engineers hosted a Bricks Challenge, which allowed children from all over Namibia to experience the world of engineering through building with Legos. The event took place this past Saturday.

“Using stories and simple demonstrations to spark imagination and critical thinking, the Bricks Challenge is Young Engineers’ most popular enrichment programme,” said Young Engineers director Willem Hanghuwo.

Young Engineers is an international edutainment organisation active in over 26 countries since 2008. Young Engineers Namibia was established and launched in 2017.

“In Namibia, there is a great gap in terms of technology and scientific principles, and how things work in reality, most especially between primary education and through to high school,” Hanghuwo said.

The Bricks Challenge enrichment programme introduces elementary pupils to the basic laws of physics and the necessary mathematic equations that coincide with those scientific calculations.

Some of the Young Engineers’ programmes include Big Builders, the Bricks Challenge, Galileo Techic and Robo Bricks.

They utilise Saturdays, to allow those children with tight school schedules to participate.

Currently they’ve working with under 100 children, who are either once-off or enrolled students.

“We urge parents and school management to come forward and enhance/complement the education of our children, while they are young and energetic,” Hanghuwo said.

The initiative not only encourages independent thinking but also gets rid of some limitations forced upon learners in classrooms. It helps them to learn both theoretical and practical concepts.

This then helps them cope better when they are faced with more complex science and engineering curricula.

Exposing the future generations to a more practical side of any career is always to their advantage. This is a multi-challenging activity that will definitely allow children to also learn more about their abilities to construct and build figures.

The initiative will not be stopping anytime soon, so be sure to get your children involved.

Company news in brief

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Company news in briefCompany news in brief Workers resume at MTN Nigeria

Workers resumed at MTN Nigeria on Friday after the country’s labour union picketed the South African telecoms company over the rights of workers to join unions, the company said.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the umbrella labour union in Africa’s most populous nation, shut down MTN operations in Nigeria since Monday over claims that the telecoms firm had refused workers from becoming union members.

MTN Nigeria staff confirmed that they were allowed to enter offices for the first time on Friday since this week.

-Nampa/Reuters

Telecom Egypt, Liquid Telecom sign MOU

Telecom Egypt has signed a memorandum of understanding with Liquid Telecom to enable the pan-African group to complete Africa’s terrestrial fibre network stretching across the Liquid Telecom, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless Global, has been building a fibre network across southern Africa covering Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It also has a presence in Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda.

“Liquid Telecom will link its network from Sudan into Telecom Egypt’s network via a new cross-border interconnection – bringing together a 60 000 km network that runs from Cape Town, through all the Southern, Central and Eastern African countries, and has now reached the border between Sudan and Egypt,” the two companies said in a statement.

African continent, the companies said on Saturday.

-Nampa/Reuters

Steinhoff seeks to limit Pepkor share plan damage

Steinhoff Africa Retail will be advised by the end of next month how much it may need to pay to settle a controversial management-incentive plan devised by a company formerly owned by South African billionaire Christo Wiese.

The operator of clothing chains including Pep and Ackermans disappointed investors in May when it booked R500 million in charges related to the arrangement, a hangover from when the company was still part of scandal-hit retailer Steinhoff International Holdings.

The plan was put together in 2011 by Wiese’s pan-African Pepkor Holdings, which was bought by Steinhoff in 2015 and now makes up the bulk of Steinhoff Africa.

-Fin24

Police arrest ex-CEO of Kenya Power company

Kenyan authorities said on Saturday they had arrested a former chief executive officer of the state-run distributor Kenya Power on suspicion of economic crimes and wanted to charge the current chief executive.

Kenya has been hit by a new spate of scandals involving bogus tenders and suppliers with the alleged theft of hundreds of millions of shillings by state officials from several government bodies.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said on Twitter their detectives had arrested Ben Chumo, former Kenya Power chief executive officer, Beatrice Meso, its general manager for corporate affairs and company cecretary, and Peter Mwicigi, its general manager regional co-ordination.

When sought for comment, Chumo asked to be called back later. Meso and Mwicigi were not immediately available to comment.

-Nampa/Reuters

Embraer sees demand for 10 550 smaller jets

Brazil’s Embraer sees demand for 10 550 new aircraft with a capacity of up to 150 seats in the next 20 years, worth around US$600 billion, the planemaker said on Sunday.

In a statement from the Farnborough Airshow, Embraer said the fleet of aircraft of that size in service is expected to increase to 16 000 units over the period, compared to 9 000 currently in operation. Market growth will be responsible for 65% of that demand, while 35% will be to replace old aircraft, Embraer said.

-Nampa/Reuters

Maternity shelter stalled

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Maternity shelter stalledMaternity shelter stalledTown needs over N$400 00 to complete project The Okahao town council is hoping to raise close to N$450 000 to complete the much-awaited project. A lack of funds has stalled the construction of a maternity shelter in Okahao in the Omusati Region, which has left expectant mothers out in the cold.

Last year, the town council commenced with the construction of the maternity shelter for expectant mothers, however, all these activities have been placed on hold until council secures funds to complete the project.

This is according to the council's local economic development officer, Victoria Haihambo, who added that council needs about N$437 000 to complete the project.

Haihambo said thus far, council had spent N$230 000 on the project.

The shelter, once completed, will consist of five bedrooms, a kitchen, and an office for the caretaker, and ablution facilities.

“Council is still in the process of sourcing funds to complete the project,” Haihambo said upon enquiry by Namibian Sun.

Thus far, the earthworks, concrete formwork and reinforcement, masonry, as well as the installation of the metalwork such as windows and door frames have been completed.

The plastering of the walls, steel works and roofing, plumbing and drainage, painting, electrical wiring, tiling, ceiling, glazing woodwork finishes such as built-in cupboards, and the fencing off of the premises still need to be done.

As part of sourcing funds for the project, Haihambo said that on 31 March, council had a mayoral dinner which was attended by the founding president, Sam Nujoma, where N$96 000 in donations was raised.

Currently expectant mothers are accommodated in a corrugated iron shelters, a few metres away from the incomplete building.

One of the expectant mothers, who spoke on condition of anonymity, shared the difficult circumstances they have to live in, saying that one shack accommodates up to 16 women.

Apart from the lack of space, there is not enough mattresses in the three shacks, forcing some to sleep on cardboard boxes.

When asked about the halted construction, the woman said she wished it was completed already.

“Even though we, who are currently here, are not going to be the first to sleep in that building, I would not want those expectant mothers coming after us to experience what we are going through. Those responsible for the new building must please get it done,” she said.

At the current ad hoc shelter, the women pay a N$20 fee for a stay of three weeks and are provided with a water tap and pit latrine.

When contacted for comment, caretaker of the shelter, Hendrina Iileka said she desperately wants the new building to be completed.

Iileka said the current shelter was established in 2007.

She indicated that the safety of the expectant mothers is a challenge at the moment because the shelter is not fenced off and the police do react on time if their services are needed.



KENYA KAMBOWE

FNB theft suspect gets N$60 000 bail

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FNB theft suspect gets N$60 000 bailFNB theft suspect gets N$60 000 bail The 29-year-old man who was arrested for allegedly stealing N$800 000 cash from First National Bank (FNB) was on Friday granted bail of N$60 000 in the Oshakati Magistrate's Court.

George Shivute was granted bail by Magistrate Walter Mikiti on the conditions that he does not interfere with the ongoing police investigations, he does not enter FNB, or come in close proximity to its premises.

Shivute is also expected to report himself every Monday between 08:00 and 17:00 to the investigating officer in the matter, which was remanded to 10 September.

The state had opposed bail on the grounds that it has a strong case against the accused.

The state also feared he may abscond, that he may interfere with ongoing investigations and that granting him bail will not be in the public interest or in the interest of the administration of justice.

Shivute was employed as an ATM custodian at FNB and was entrusted with the responsibility of loading cash into ATM machines at Oshakati, Ongwediva and Oshikuku.

He is facing an count of theft and a charge of attempting to defeat the course of justice after N$800 000, which was a portion of the N$1 060 000 he was entrusted to load into an ATM on 24 April, disappeared.

Shivute was then served with a suspension letter on 22 June, following the disappearance of the cash, and he subsequently resigned from the bank.

He is also accused of tampering with the CCTV camera and alarm system that monitors the ATM into which the cash was to have been loaded. He was arrested four days later on 26 June.

During cross-examination by state prosecutor Mpule Siyomunji, Shivute claimed he has no knowledge of why he was arrested.

He informed the court his highest education qualification is a grade 12 certificate and he has no property on his name. He is the father of an eight-month-old baby.

Shivute also informed the court he does not remember the events of 24 April and that he will remain silent on the allegations until his trial.

Shivute is represented by Marcia Amupolo.



KENYA KAMBOWE

Joviita: The match analyst forges ahead

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Joviita: The match analyst forges aheadJoviita: The match analyst forges aheadGiving her take on the Fifa World Cup Joviita Kandjumbwa is a rare breed in the male-dominated domain of sportscasting. Tunohole Mungoba



Joviita Kandjumbwa was chosen by NBC as one of the match analysts during the just-ended Russia World Cup.

She is also a radio sports presenter at Radio Energy and the 23-year-old has hosted the Skorpion Zinc Cup and other sports events, on and off television.

“I was born in a small village called Etilyasa in the Omusati Region, but grew up in Windhoek. I spent most of my early and school years commuting between the village and Windhoek,” she tells The Zone.

Kandjumbwa describes herself as someone who loves people.

“I am very passionate about sports. If I am not doing anything sport-related, I would be at home reading or spending time with family,” she says.

According to Kandjumbwa, she has always known she was going to work in broadcasting and on radio.

“I am also really more comfortable behind the microphone than in front of the camera and because my aim is to inform, engage and entertain, radio was the best platform.”

As a match analyst, Kandjumbwa watched the World Cup games in full and was also involved in previewing and commenting on the highlights.

To do this, she had to read as much as possible and make notes, watch match previews on other channels to get a clear understanding of the game and also had to double-check everything.

“One cannot afford to get the facts wrong, as this is where creditability lies,” she says.

Kandjumbwa's love for sport was sparked at the age of 19, when she started to develop an interest in sport as a career.

“That is when I seriously considered being a sportscaster. It all began when I was watching the 2014 World Cup and saw Carol Tshabalala, a South African sports broadcaster, producer and voice-over artist at SuperSport in Brazil presenting on the games. For the first time I was seeing a black female sportscaster and I honestly never knew that it could be a career option. I knew then and there that that was what I wanted to be - a sportscaster - and ever since then I have never looked back,” she says.

Just like any other woman in a male-dominated industry, Kandjumbwa experienced a lot challenges.

“People did not really believe in me. I guess it was hard to believe that a woman could genuinely want to do sports. Secondly, I wanted to be in broadcasting and there were not a lot of platforms available.

“But as time went on and I kept proving myself time and again, and being persistent - I can never take no for an answer - more people began to take me seriously and give me opportunities,” she adds.

Kandjumbwa said men were really helpful, and were always willing to correct and teach. “It took time and a lot of hard work to prove that I am equally good, if not better than some men.”

In a few years' time, Kandjumbwa hopes to be one of the best sportscasters in Namibia and do the next World Cup in Qatar 2022.

“I would like to work in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) as well as at SuperSport, which is regarded the biggest (sports) broadcaster in Africa. I also intend to work with youth development programmes in terms of sports, as I am passionate about youth development. It is of outmost importance to nurture young talent, as well as help uplift sport in Namibia, as sport has the power to change lives and economies, but it is not properly utilised in our country.”

Kandjumbwa advises young people to first get a qualification related to the field, as “it makes things easier”.

“I can never stress the importance of education enough. It takes a lot of hard work and persistence. It is not going to come easy, as you have to do your research and build relationships in this small industry. It is of outmost important to form relationships and don't be afraid to ask for help.”



Fast facts about Joviita:

1. She is currently reading: 'Quiet leadership: Winning hearts, minds and matches' by Carlo Ancelotti.

2. Her all-time favourite song is: 'Islands in the stream' by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton.

3. Her favourite holiday destination is: Swakopmund.

4. She looks up to her grandmother, Hannah Shaanika, as she has always been a pillar of strength in everything she does. “She has taught me the value of hard work, to never accepting anything you have not worked for, to be grateful, humble and content with what I have; and her strength, courage and character are what inspire me, and her wisdom is unmatched.”

5. Her favourite scripture she lives by is: “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11.
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