Multiple factors blamed for Walvis sewage crisis

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Hope rekindled for jobless graduate

≪ Previous: Broke Namibia at the end of the road - Smit

$

0

0

Multiple factors blamed for Walvis sewage crisis The Walvis Bay municipality says abuse of the sewage system by some residents, and old sewer infrastructure, are the main culprits behind the town's more than two-year-old problem of blockages.

However, residents say that the municipality has had sufficient time to implement solutions and criticised the slow response to the problem, which poses major health risks and regular overflowing toilets.

“What exactly has council been doing for the past two years?” a resident demanded.

Moreover, residents pointed out that the lagoon area, which has been a hot-spot for overflowing sewers, has seen major developments which have not been taken into consideration by the town officials, with similar developments in the Kuisebmond area where problems also persist.

“We have plenty of schools, accommodation establishments and restaurants in the area. Obviously the originally constructed sewer system is not capable of handling this additional load. Council should have taken this into consideration when approving this.”

In a statement to Namibian Sun last week, the municipality said “a number of studies to date have analysed the various solutions which council may adopt to address the sewer problem.”

One issue is the flat slopes where sewer lines in the lagoon area were constructed which result in a low sewage flow that causes “constant obstructions”.

A resident said “two years down the line and this is the first we paying customers hear of this”, adding that over the past two years residents have been told different versions by the municipality.

Residents again noted that the slow response to the problem means a solution is likely two years or more down the line, if ever.

The municipality in their statement also pointed out that “while sewer infrastructure requires constant updating and maintenance, many of the sewer problems stem from abuse of the system due to improper disposal of household items and other foreign debris.”

The municipality said sewer blockages and overflow can “usually be avoided by being aware of what causes blockages and avoiding these”.

Residents should avoid disposing of fats, oils and grease down drains and “human and pet hair are also major blockage factors in the lagoon area.”

Further, the disposal of food waste and coffee grinds “are high risk factors” for blockages.

The municipality admitted that the continuous problems with overflowing and blocked drains present major health risks but teams are consistently on the ground to clear reported incidents.

Council is also assessing how to implement an effective programme for flushing main sewer lines, the municipality said.

Moreover, an upgrade for the sewer main lines in Rikumbi Kandanga Road and 6th Street have commenced and it is anticipated that the upgrade will help address and improve the sewer problem in the lagoon area.

Barriers to implement solutions are numerous, including funding.

“The development required for the lagoon area is of higher complexity and larger scale thus the project has been divided into phases.”

The municipality said a specialist consultant's services are being procured to implement the envisioned sewer lifting station.

Currently the municipality has implemented schedules for planned routes in every suburb to keep a close eye on possible blockages and more frequent inspections of potential problem areas are conducted.

The municipality says they strive to provide timely repairs or replacements of network components that have suffered deterioration and to clean sewer main lines where evidence of impeded flow is detected or suspected on a regular basis, as a preventative measure.

JANA-MARI SMITH

---

Hope rekindled for jobless graduate

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Food safety questionable

≪ Previous: Multiple factors blamed for Walvis sewage crisis

$

0

0

Hope rekindled for jobless graduate Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) software engineering graduate Jackson Natangwe Nanghala (25), whose desperate eight-month search for a job made headlines last week, has landed a temporary internship and was also asked to submit his CV to two companies, as well as the Office of the President.

Namibian Sun recently reported on Nanghala's plight. He said despite applying for dozens of jobs, he had not received even one interview.

In desperation, he was ready to take a job as a newspaper street seller “to make ends meet”.

He said he was determined to make an honest living, but was disappointed that his years of hard work to obtain a degree had led to so few job prospects.

Sharing his story with Namibian Sun has led to multiple people contacting him, and Nanghala has landed a temporary internship to help install Wi-Fi systems in Windhoek with a business headed by Werner Shilongo.

He was also asked to submit his CV to MMI Holdings, Binary City and the Office of the President.

Binary City's Royna Berger told Namibian Sun he immediately decided to reach out when he heard about Nanghala's plight.

Berger told Namibian Sun he first learned about Nanghala on Twitter, where the story was shared, and immediately made contact.

“I asked him to review our website to see if there's any interest in what we do. He indicated he is interested in a software developer position.”

Nanghala was asked to send his CV, which Berger passed on to the Binary City software development team.

“They are currently reviewing a number of CVs,” Berger said, adding he is hopeful Nanghala will at least land an interview.

“My heart really bleeds for our population, especially the young, who are struggling so horribly to get work. It's just not fair,” Berger said.

Nanghala's mood has received a significant bump since he shared his story, and he says many people have reached out to him.

He is also pleased that the high unemployment rate issue is again in the limelight.

“I am very excited,” he said.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Food safety questionable

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Elitism is a dangerous enemy

≪ Previous: Hope rekindled for jobless graduate

$

0

0

Food safety questionable No reporting relationship There are many loopholes in the food safety systems in Namibia a report has found. The health ministry, through it public and environmental health services division (PEHSD), does not adequately plan, conduct, monitor and evaluate food inspections, in order to ensure food safety in the country.

This was among the findings of a performance audit on the management and administration of food safety in Namibia in health ministry for the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years.

The audit found there were no reporting relationships between the health ministry and local authorities, and that stakeholder meetings were attended poorly.

The report also found that the PEHSD does not adequately plan for the supervision of environmental health practitioners, in order to ensure that inspections are conducted in accordance with environmental health legislation.

It has also established that the Food Safety Council has not been established, as per the requirements of the food safety policy.

The audit was motivated by problems identified during a pre-study, which highlighted there were inadequate environmental health inspections and coordination among food safety stakeholders, no health officials at some ports of entry and inadequate enforcement of food safety legislation.

The report also found that the non-attainment of biosafety and quality food testing during the financial years under review were because of a lack of accredited food laboratories in the country, inadequate funding, staff turnover and poor coordination between the ministry and its stakeholders.

There was also low compliance in terms of port health services, due to a lack of infrastructure at points of entry and a lack of port health officials.

The common reasons for the issuance of condemnation certificates included the expiry dates of products having lapsed, dented food cans dented, fresh food becoming rotten, animal carcasses being condemned and ‘best before’ dates having lapsed.

The report included a picture of damaged jam sachets that were condemned by health inspectors just before being served to patients at the Katutura referral hospital, as well as a batch of condemned viennas.

According to the report, food is stored on unhygienic, dusty floors at the Katutura state hospital.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Elitism is a dangerous enemy

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Prinsloo, Pitt laid to rest amid silent protest

≪ Previous: Food safety questionable

$

0

0

Elitism is a dangerous enemy In his opinion piece in the Mail and Guardian titled ‘Elitism remains the enemy of democracy’, Richard Pithouse speaks of South Africa being for millions of people what Frantz Fanon called “a non-viable society”.

This is also true in Namibia, where systemic unemployment makes it impossible or extremely difficult for young people to find a viable path to a better future.

Pithouse rightly laments that people try to cope using anything from cheap drugs to self-help books and get-rich-quick schemes, crime and investing in dangerous forms of masculinity, or turning to religion to find, in Karl Marx’s words, “the heart of a heartless world”.

“For some people, patience and the support of family are eventually rewarded with some sort of work. For others, the spirals of panic attacks and depression get tighter and tighter until they go down and can’t come up again,” Pithouse wrote.

It is also true that it is extremely rare for the majority, especially young people, to accept radical social exclusion as a permanent feature of their lives and their society. And yes, usually something must give.

In the Namibian context it is also true that the outcome of liberation was essentially the introduction of another layer into the existing elitism paradigm.

This layer of elite were the leaders and economic networks of the so-called liberators, who have shamelessly enriched themselves using state resources.

This is not to say that a social security network was not actively implemented by the state, yet this approach has obvious benefits in terms of securing voters, who see government and not necessarily taxpayers as the purveyors of social grants.

We agree with Pithouse when he says there is also an urgent imperative to find ways to deepen democracy, to extend its authority over the economic realm, and to find practical and effective ways to ensure that access to collective decision-making, land and wealth is radically expanded. For Namibia it is a matter of extreme urgency.

Prinsloo, Pitt laid to rest amid silent protest

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Schools owe City N$32m

≪ Previous: Elitism is a dangerous enemy

$

0

0

Prinsloo, Pitt laid to rest amid silent protest Swakopmund community members held a silent march against gender-based violence (GBV) in the town on Friday, a day before Ivan Pitt, who committed suicide following a police manhunt, was laid to rest at Tamariskia cemetery on Saturday.

Pitt (29) had been wanted for questioning in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, 39-year-old Lindie Prinsloo, who was buried on the same day in Outjo.

The march was initiated by Tasneem Ochs and was aimed at creating awareness about the effects of GBV.

“This march is not just necessarily about the recent murder of Lindie Prinsloo, but also for every other GBV victim and those trapped in abusive relationships,” Ochs said.

She said she plans to mobilise those other towns in the region to march against GBV at least once a month.

Pitt's mother, Bridget, said she hoped the whole of Namibia had learned something from the tragedy that had played out in Swakopmund recently.

“Our community should unite. We must stop pointing fingers, we must respect and consider the feelings of others. No one was present and really knows what happened that led to this tragedy. We must, however, do whatever we can to prevent something similar from happening again. Ivan is and will forever be my son. He would have turned 30 on 2 December,” she said.





Pitt was reported missing after Prinsloo's body was discovered with her throat slit at No 15 Harder Street in Vineta.

His body was found two days later.

Bridget said police officers had apologised for not conducting a thorough search of the house where Prinsloo's body was discovered on 3 November and where Pitt's body was later found.

During a short ceremony at the Pitt home, church elder Kilo Stoffel consoled the family and encouraged them to take refuge in Christ, who he said was capable of calming the storm that was raging.

The immediate family wore blue T-shirts with Pitt's image printed on the front.

They escorted the hearse on foot to the Tamariskia graveyard. Once at the graveyard, Bridget and her husband were allowed to briefly bid their son a final farewell.

Family and friends carried the coffin to the grave. It was then lowered into its final resting place.

Those who attended the funeral returned to the house where the ceremony started and then departed to the St Stefanus Catholic Church for the funeral service. Frederika Pitt, the niece of the deceased, delivered the obituary.

“Family and friends should remember him the way he was. He was hardworking and always ready to assist a person in need.”

OTIS FINCK

Schools owe City N$32m

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Kahimise turns to court

≪ Previous: Prinsloo, Pitt laid to rest amid silent protest

$

0

0

Schools owe City N$32mEducation ministry promises N$15m payment to avoid service cuts Although there is no confirmation as yet that a payment was in fact made, the education ministry has struck a deal with the City to settle N$15 million in water and electricity arrears owed by Windhoek schools. The education ministry, which owes more than N$32.5 million in unpaid water and power bills to the City of Windhoek, has agreed to pay N$15 million to avoid service cuts at schools.

The payment was expected to be finalised on Friday, although the City did not confirm receipt late on Friday. City spokesperson Harold Akwenye last week confirmed that N$32 523 562.29 is owed by the education ministry in unpaid utility bills and that the last payment, of around N$8.9 million, was paid in March this year.

“It only covered half of what was in arrears, in as much as smaller payments have been paid, but barely covers their monthly account which is plus/minus N$7 million.”

Akwenye told Namibian Sun said none of the schools had been disconnected “as the education ministry intervened”.

Nevertheless, unless a payment was received to significantly lower the amount in arrears, Akwenye said the City “is targeting to disconnect all Windhoek schools within 30 days and more for outstanding balances, but the disconnection is scheduled over a period of a week”.





Last week Namibian Sun reported that so far three schools, Windhoek High School, Academia Secondary School and Concordia College have been served with suspension notices, but that no schools have so far experienced power and water cuts.

Records provided by the City of Windhoek, show that Academia Secondary School has an outstanding debt, stretching back more than four months, of more than N$1.2 million.

The records indicate that Windhoek High School's utility bill stands at more than N$1.6 million, and that the Concordia account is in arrears by more than N$2 million.

Although the City did not confirm if any other schools have been served with disconnection notices, the records indicate that Augustineum Secondary School owes N$2.8 million in unpaid water bills.

The records show the Eros Primary School is in arrears by over N$1.1 million, A. Shipena Secondary School by over N$1 million and Jan Mohr Secondary School by more than N$1.3 million. Most schools are 120 days or more in arrears, the records provided by the City show.

Only a few schools are up to date with payments, including Auas Primary School, Khomasdal Primary and David Bezuidenhout Secondary School, among a few others.

Last week Khomas regional education director Gerard Norman Vries confirmed that a “substantial amount” was owed to the City.

He however, stressed the threat to disconnect the schools was badly timed and could impact examinations. “It must be noted further that the insinuation of disconnection of water and electricity supplies to public schools are actioned at an inopportune time, when learners in public schools in Khomas Region are busy with grade 9 national semi-external examinations and grade 8 and 11 Khomas regional examinations. The grade 7 Khomas regional examinations are due to commence on Monday, 12 November.”

Vries further explained the payment schedule to the City of Windhoek “is impacted by the release of payment tranches from ministry of finance via the education, arts and culture ministry to the Khomas regional council, based upon availability of funds.”

He underlined that the directorate of education, arts and culture at the Khomas regional council “typically actions payments to its creditors within three to five days from the date of receipt of payment tranches from the finance ministry, via the education, arts and culture ministry”.

Vries confirmed that in order to halt the water and power cuts, a tranche payment was received from the finance ministry via the education ministry to the Khomas regional council education directorate “to defray some of the accumulated arrears” and that electronic transfers were being processed to be concluded by Friday last week.

On Friday, neither the ministry nor City of Windhoek could yet confirm whether a payment had been received. Several attempts to request comment from the finance ministry on the issue of unpaid utility bills at Windhoek schools were unsuccessful.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Kahimise turns to court

November 11, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Uushona new presidency PS

≪ Previous: Schools owe City N$32m

$

0

0

Kahimise turns to court Suspended City of Windhoek CEO Robert Kahimise and others are arguing that ulterior motives linked to the suspension of City Police chief Abraham Kanime, and the upcoming office bearer elections, are major factors in the efforts to boot him from his post.

Supporting affidavits filed at the High Court on Friday, alongside Kahimise’s documents, to have his second 5 November suspension overturned, accused some Windhoek councillors of pushing for the second suspension despite warnings from a legal and other officers that it could backfire.

Kahimise’s lawyer Patrick Kauta on Friday filed the papers asking court to overturn Kahimise’s second suspension that was implemented on Monday last week, on the grounds that his suspension was without valid reasons, non-procedural and unlawful. The matter is to be heard on Monday next week.

Kahimise is also arguing that he was again not given sufficient time to defend his suspension nor given detailed reasons for that suspension.

“The right to be given reasons and ra easonable opportunity to make representation are an indispensable part of a fair and reasonable administrative action,” he states.

He says that as a result of the tumult at the City and his two suspensions, his image and reputation have taken a hard hit and this has resulted in him becoming “a laughing stock on social and in printed media.”

Elections and Kanime

In his founding affidavit, Kahimise states that he wishes to highlight the “Kanime suspension” as it is relevant in his view to prove “malice and ulterior motives” of the third and eleventh respondents for pushing to suspend him.

The court papers indicate that these respondents are council and management committee member Moses Shiikwa, and Windhoek councillor Hileni Ulumbu respectively.

His affidavit further states that a majority of councillors and management committee members “were influenced by ulterior motives. These motives relate to them to at all costs reinstate Chief Kanime”.

He further claims that these councillors quashed a forensic report issued by PriceWaterhouseCoopers on Kanime “thereby prejudicing his on-going disciplinary hearing”.

The first respondent is the City of Windhoek, deputy mayor Teckla Uwanga the second, plus seven other councillors and management committee members, as well as the minister of urban and rural development Peya Mushelenga as the 12th and the labour commissioner as the 13th respondent.

Kahimise’s affidavits states that another “ulterior motive” of the council and management committee members is to dirty the reputations of mayor Muesee Kazapua and management committee chairperson Mathew Amadhila who both approved his study aid.

“Their aim is no doubt to stand for elections for the position of mayor and as management committee members. This self-serving and selfish conduct contravenes their code of conduct.”

Green light, red light

Kazapua in a brief supporting affidavit states that in his view the 5 November special council meeting at which Kahimise’s second suspension was approved “was improperly and unlawfully convened” and as a result all decisions taken there are invalid.

In her supporting affidavit, City of Windhoek councillor Brunhilde Cornelius highlights that at a special council meeting held on Monday, 5 November, where the second suspension was approved, a legal advisor and industrial relations officers informed all council members present that Kahimise was “in law, entitled to reasons and reasonable time and opportunity to adequately prepare” a presentation to halt his suspension.

Further, that council was advised that a suspension that does not comply with Clause 22 of the conditions of service “would be invalid and unlawful”.

Despite these warnings, Cornelius claims, after she and councillor Joseph Kauandenge had recused themselves from the meeting, the council recommended he be suspended.

Cornelius in her affidavit states that Fransina Kahunga, a councillor and the seventh respondent in the case, at the conclusion of the meeting and despite advice to the contrary, “moved a motion that Kahimise must be suspended regardless of such action being unlawful and invalid. She further asserted that whatever legal consequences would arise must follow thereafter.”

Kauandenge had already recused himself from the meeting earlier, after he became “agitated and angry” when some councillors are said to have accused Kahimise of being arrogant for instructing a legal practitioner to assist him instead of representing himself “like Kanime before council”.

The affidavit further claims that Ulumbu at the meeting “proposed to suspend Kahimise because Chief Kanime was likewise suspended”.

Kahimise is arguing that he be granted an urgent hearing on the basis that he was suspended without pay and is the sole breadwinner in his family and that without his salary he would in “all likelihood default and be declared insolvent”.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Uushona new presidency PS

November 12, 2018, 9:59 am

≫ Next: Low-key calls out Desert Storm

≪ Previous: Kahimise turns to court

$

0

0

Uushona new presidency PS
The presidency has announced the appointment of former Otjozondjupa regional governor Grace Uushona as the new permanent secretary at State House. Uushona, who will return from her diplomatic posting in Angola, will take over from outgoing PS Samuel /Goagoseb effective 1 December. Goagoseb, according to impeccable sources, is expected to head Namibia’s foreign mission in Cuba. “President (Hage) Geingob wishes Ambassador Grace Uushona success in the execution of her new responsibilities,” the presidency said in a statement.
STAFF REPORTER

---

Low-key calls out Desert Storm

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Gome out, Hotto in doubt

≪ Previous: Uushona new presidency PS

$

0

0

Low-key calls out Desert Storm Jeremiah 'Low-Key' Nakathila has challenged Sakaria 'Desert Storm' Lukas to fight him.

The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) Africa super featherweight champion feels its time he proves to Namibia he is one of the best, by facing Lukas.

“I have asked the AC Boxing Show to give me a fight against Sakaria Lukas. This will be a great fight because people want to see it, given that we are both doing well in our careers.

“I can assure you now that Desert Storm will not see the championship round if he decides to face me,” Nakathila said.

Ranked number three in his division, Nakathila knocked out Malawian challenger Wilson Masamba in the fourth round in August, after a powerful combination of punches proved too much for his opponent during his most recent fight.

Nakathila has a professional record of 17 fights, 16 wins and one loss. He won 12 of his bouts via knockout.

Nakathila is prepared to risk his reputation against Lukas, who parted ways with his former promoter Nestor Tobias to sign a deal with Al Siesta Boxing Promotions, managed by promoter and matchmaker Al Siesta.

Lukas has been described as one of Africa's best featherweight boxers, after defending his WBO Africa featherweight title more than thrice.

The Namibian currently has a record of 21 wins after 21 fights, with 14 knockouts.

Negotiations for the fight have not started, but Nakathila hopes that Lukas will not “chicken out”.

“Desert Storm's camp has not responded to me yet, but I hope that they will do so soon. The thing is people have been comparing the two of us, in terms of who they think is better. I want to stop these comparisons by finally facing off against Lukas in the ring,” he added.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

Gome out, Hotto in doubt

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: City paint Manchester blue

≪ Previous: Low-key calls out Desert Storm

$

0

0

Gome out, Hotto in doubtCrunch Afcon qualifier against Guinea-Bissau approaches Injury and other concerns have hit the Brave Warriors camp ahead of a crunch Afcon qualifier against Guinea-Bissau on Saturday. As the much-anticipated 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) Group K qualifier clash between Brave Warriors and Guinea Bissau nears, Namibia is facing a bit of an injury crises.

It has been revealed that Cape Umoya United's Wangu Gome will miss out on the action, while Bidvest Wits midfielder Deon Hotto is also in doubt for the match.

Gome has a persistent knee injury, which has been difficult to treat, according to Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti.

“Wangu will not be available for this game, due to a persistent knee injury that has troubled him for almost a year,” said Mannetti.

Gome's injury also kept him out of action this past weekend for his South African first division side.

“He will go through a medical scan this week to determine (more information about) his injury and to also give more information to his club and to us as well.

“One would want Gome in the team, but we have to look to other players, as there is competition and depth in the squad. Whoever takes his spot will really do us proud,” Mannetti added.

The technical team will also assess Hotto's fitness levels.

“Hotto also picked up a hamstring injury, but it is not so bad. We will assess him this week at training and make a decision during the week,” said Mannetti.

Hotto was due to arrive in the country yesterday afternoon.

The midfielder is very instrumental for the home side, as he came off the bench last month in Mozambique to score the winner in a 2-1 victory.

He also came off the bench when Namibia beat the same opposition 1-0 at the Sam Nujoma Stadium recently.

Hotto was replaced halfway through the game when his side played Bloemfontein Celtic on Saturday in Johannesburg, South Africa. His side suffered a 2-1 defeat.

Speedy wingback Riaan Hanamub has been hit by a personal matter, as his father passed away yesterday morning.

The team offered him time off and will access his mental state as the match nears this coming Saturday.

Tickets for the clash cost N$50 and are available at Computicket outlets and Football House.

The home side, together with Guinea-Bissau, are currently on top of Group K on seven points, with Zambia and Mozambique following on four points.

The group winner and the runner-up will qualify for the 32nd edition of the Total African Cup of Nations to be hosted by Cameroon from 15 June to 13 July next year.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

City paint Manchester blue

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Irish in need of 'fine-tuning'

≪ Previous: Gome out, Hotto in doubt

$

0

0

City paint Manchester blueUnited stumble to fourth league defeat A fourth league loss of the season left Manchester United 12 points adrift of their local rivals, just 12 games into the new campaign. Manchester United can forget about trying to challenge Manchester City, until they can compete for a place in the Premier League top four, Jose Mourinho confessed, as his side were outclassed in a 3-1 derby defeat by the English champions on Sunday.

Of even more concern for Mourinho's job prospects, the Red Devils are now also seven points adrift of the top four, putting Champions League qualification for next season at risk.

Indeed, eighth-placed United are now as close to Cardiff in the relegation zone as they are to City.

“We knew that there is a difference in potential (with City),” said Mourinho, whose side finished second in the Premier League last season, albeit a record 19 points behind City's 100-point tally.

“Since the beginning of the season, we knew that our second position last season was a fantastic achievement for us, and this season we are going to fight for the top four,” he said.

Yet Mourinho's tune was very different on his last visit to the Etihad, when United spoiled City's chance to seal the title in the derby by coming from 0-2 down to win 3-2.

“The point is can we improve enough to catch them next season?” Mourinho said that day in April, but has only overseen a collapse in United's ambitions since.

Despite spending more than City in the summer transfer window, the Portuguese coach has routinely trotted out the excuse that he was not backed enough in the market to mount a title challenge.

Mourinho's latest justification was that City had an easier week to prepare, having thrashed Southampton and Shakhtar Donetsk 6-1 and 6-0 respectively at home, while United fought to the end to secure 2-1 wins at Bournemouth and Juventus.

“I told the players already that it is one thing to win two matches at home six to zero, be fresh and relaxed physically and mentally.

“Another thing is two matches away, where the second one is against Juventus, where you fight like animals, and not just a physical effort but a mental effort. The pressure before and during the game (was immense). And I think some of the boys felt it,” Mourinho added.

However, United made things difficult for themselves with what Mourinho himself described as a “chaotic” first-half display at Bournemouth and needing a famous win in Turin, after failing to beat both the Italian champions and Valencia at home in the Champions League.

United also lost Paul Pogba's presence in the derby, after he played through the pain barrier against his old club in midweek and was not fit to feature at the Etihad.

Mourinho bemoaned the Frenchman's absence meant Marouane Fellaini had to play the 90 minutes and was not fresh for an aerial bombardment off the bench when Anthony Martial's penalty reduced United's deficit to 1-2 after goals early in both halves from David Silva and Sergio Aguero put City in command.

Instead, Martial's spot-kick remained United's only shot on target, while City sealed the game in a manner that emphasised the gulf in class between the sides.

Ilkay Gundogan provided the final flourish to a 44-pass move five minutes from time.

It was champagne football that showed why City are champions and United struggling to make the Champions League.

NAMPA/AFP

Irish in need of 'fine-tuning'

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Olye e na oshinakugwanithwa shokutonatela omagumbo ga tungwa kohi yopoloyeka yomass housing?

≪ Previous: City paint Manchester blue

$

0

0

Irish in need of 'fine-tuning' Joe Schmidt compared Six Nations Grand Slam champions Ireland to a car that requires a tune-up ahead of a mouth-watering clash with world champions New Zealand.

The 53-year-old coach from New Zealand has transformed his adopted country's fortunes since assuming the reins in 2013, landing three Six Nations titles and this year's Grand Slam.

But Saturday's clash of the champions of their respective hemispheres could be one-sided if the Irish repeat some of the errors in Saturday's hard-fought 28-17 win over Argentina.

“I think it demonstrates that we need to get the car tuned,” Schmidt said. “We're going to need the cohesion that a smooth-running vehicle has.

“What we can't do is have untidy elements of the game because they (the All Blacks) love to play off those.

“They lap it up when things become unstructured. We have to tidy up a number of elements of play,” he said.

Schmidt, who prior to taking the Ireland job guided Irish province Leinster to successive European Cups, said the players needed to blast out of the blocks this Saturday.

Much is at stake, albeit a year away from the World Cup, in a match between the top two teams in the sport.

“Maybe it's the expectation we have of ourselves or that you guys have of us now that we come out and hit the ground running every time,” said Schmidt. “It's tougher to do than that.”

However, Schmidt, who has a huge call to make whether to bring in world class scrumhalf Conor Murray without any game time under his belt, is trying to play down the importance of the match.

“The biggest game of my career? I couldn't even tell you. It could be Chicago (when Ireland beat New Zealand for the first time in 2016), it could be Twickenham (the Grand Slam match), there have been so many.

“One incredibly big game was in the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal against Argentina and it didn't go well,” he said.

Former school teacher Schmidt, who has proved masterful in rebuilding the side since the 2015 World Cup, while uncovering young talent like James Ryan and Garry Ringrose, is due to announce his decision by the end of this month whether he leaves after his current contract ends at the 2019 World Cup.

“I can't tell you what it is because I've got lots on my plate right now,” he said. “There's 14 days left of footy.”

NAMPA/AFP

Olye e na oshinakugwanithwa shokutonatela omagumbo ga tungwa kohi yopoloyeka yomass housing?

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Hamuntu ta hulitha koMalaria – Haufiku

≪ Previous: Irish in need of 'fine-tuning'

$

0

0

Olye e na oshinakugwanithwa shokutonatela omagumbo ga tungwa kohi yopoloyeka yomass housing?Inaku gwandjwa omayamukulo Inashi yelamo natango kutya olye e na oshinakugwanithwa shokutonatela omagumbo gaantu mboka haya mono iiyemo yi li pevi ngoka ga tungwa kepangelo kohi yopoloyeka tayi ithanwa mass housing momudhingoloko gwaKaisosi moRundu. KENYA KAMBOWE

Omagumbo geli po 34 momudhingoloko ngoka oga li ga yonagulwa koshikungulu oshinene muDesemba gwomvula yo 2017, ihe sigo onena omagumbo mboka inaya tungululwa nenge ga wapalekwe omolwa eyonagulo ndyoka.



Omagumbo ngoka oga yonagulwa momasiku 18 gomwedhi gwa tumbulwa sho iipeleki yago yuumbwa ko kombepo, nokuthiga aakwashigwana kaaye na omalukalwa.

Pethimbo ndyoka kape na ngoka e ya polweela ta popi kutya oye ta ka longulula omagumbo ngoka, molwaashoka inashi yela natango ngele eyonagulo ndyoka olya etitha koshikungulu shili nenge omagumbo oga tungwa inaga kola nenge kwa longithwa iitungithi yombiliha.

Oshifokundnaeki shoNamibian osha nongele kutya aanamagumbo yamwe oya tokola okulonga omagumbo gawo yene niiyemo yawo yene.



Sho ya ningilwa omapulo, omunambelewa omupopiliko gwoNational Housing Enterprise (NHE), Mutonga Matali okwa popi kutya molwaashoka opoloyeka ndjoka oya kuthwa ko kuyo nokutulwa mekondololo lyUuministeli wOmayambulepo gIitopolwa nOondoolopa, ita vulu okutya sha.

Ehangano lyoGreen Circle Investment, ndyoka lya tungu omagumbo ge li po 318 moKaisosi kongushu yoomiliyona 89 olya ukitha omapulo agehe koNHE.

Ndeuli Hamutumwa gwoGreen Circle okwa popi kutya ita vulu okupopya sha kombinga yoshikumungu shoka, na omapulo naga ukithwe koNHE molwaashoka oyo ya li ye ya pe iilonga na oya shaina okondalaka yemano lyiilonga.





Sho oNamibian Sun ya ningi ekwatathano namushanga guuministeli mboka, Nghidinua Daniel okwa popi kutya otashi ka kala oshiwanawa ngele kwa ningwa ekwatathano nomukomeho gwoshikondo shomagumbo, oompangela nomayakulo gopautekinika, Big-Don Kondunda opo a vule okugandja omayamukulo komapulo ngoka.

Kondunda okwa pula opo a tuminwe omapulo ngoka mEtiyali lyoshiwike sha piti, ihe lwanima konima yominute dhontumba, Daniel okwa li a popi konzonkundaneki yoNampa kutya otaya ka konaakona onkalo ndjoka.

“Otatu ka ungaunga nomutungi ngele osha monika mo kutya eyonagulo ndyoka oli li oshizemo shelongitho lyiitungithi inayi kola.”



Kondunda okwa yamukula owala kutya okwa mona omapulo ngoka, naashoka a ningilwa ishewe omapulo mEtine ina yamukula. Metitano okwa dhengelwa ongodhi na okwa ukitha oshifokundaneki shoNamibian Sun komunambelewa omukuluntu muuministeli mboka, Evans Maswahu.

Sho a ningilwa omapulo, Maswahu okwa popi kutya eyamukulo olya pwa ihe okwa tegelela owala epitikilo okuza kuDaniel.

Opoloyeka yoMass Housing oyi li oshiyetwa po shomuleli nale Hifikepunye Pohamba shoka sha tulwa miilonga momvula yo 2013, na oya nuninwa okutunga omagumbo geli po 185 000 okuya momvula yo 2030.

Nonando ongaaka, momvula yo 2015, okabinete oka ningi etokolo opo opoloyeka ndjoka yi kuthwe mo momake goNHE nokutulwa mekondololo lyUuministeli wEyambulepo lyIitopolwa nOondoolopa, omolwa omapopyo guulingilingi tawu dhana onkandangala mopoloyeka ndjoka, naatungi mboka taya tula oondando pombanda noonkondo.

Omupresidende Hage Geingob okwa lopotwa a pula ku ningwe ekonaakono lyelongitho lyiimaliwa mopoloyeka ndjoka.

Hamuntu ta hulitha koMalaria – Haufiku

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Kunene finances in shambles

≪ Previous: Olye e na oshinakugwanithwa shokutonatela omagumbo ga tungwa kohi yopoloyeka yomass housing?

$

0

0

Hamuntu ta hulitha koMalaria – Haufiku KENYA KAMBOWE

Ominista yUundjolowele nOnkalonawa, Bernhard Haufiku okwa popi kutya hamuntu ta hulitha onga oshizemo shomukithi gwoMalaria, ngoka hagu vulu okuyandwa na ohagu pangwa woo.

Haufiku okwa popi kutya kehe omvula nomvula ohaku lopotwa omiyalu tadhi limbilike dhiipotha yomukithi ngoka oshowo omiyalu dhaamboka ya hulitha komukithi ngoka, nonando ongaaka minista okwa holola omaiyuvo ge kutya kape na andola omuntu e na oku sa komukithi ngoka.

Haufiku okwa popi kutya nonando iipotha yomaso omolwa Malaria oya gu pevi sigo oopresenda 90, oopresenda 10 dhoka dha hupako, kape na ngoka e na okuhulitha omolwa omukithi ngoka.

Minista okwa popi kutya okwa hala opo omukuthi ngoka gu hulithwe po sigo opoopresenda 0, na kehe gumwe okwa pumbwa okukala e li megameno okuza komukithi ngoka.

Haufiku okwa popi ngaaka mEtitano momukunda Kayengona moshitopolwa shaKavango East pethimbo kwa dhimbulukiwa oSouthern Africa Development Community (SADC) Malaria Awareness Day.

Oshituthi shoka osha dhimbulukiwa kohi yoshipalanyolo ‘SADC Unite to End Malaria’

Haufiku natango okwa pula kutya otashi ende ngiini mbela sho omukithi gwoMalaria gwa li gwa lopotwa iipotha yi li 3 000 momvula yo 2012, ngashiingeyi kwa lopotwa iipotha yi li po 66 000.

“Otwa ningi epuko peni na oshike tatu ningi kashi li mondjila molwaashoka ope na eyooloko enene pokati ko 3 000 no 66 000.”

Iitopolwa yaKavango oyimwe yomiitopolwa yi li moshiponga oshinene shomukithi ngoka, sho mwa lopota kutya omo mu na oomwe odhindji ndhoka hadhi humbata omukithi ngoka, okwa pula aakuthimbinga ayehe ya kondje molugodhi ndyoka lwokukondjitha oMalaria.

Moonkambadhala tadhi ningwa opo ku hulithwe po Malaria, minista okwa holola okuuva nayi kwe omolwa aakwashigwana yamwe po mboka inaya hala okulongela kumwe naanambelelwa mboka haya ende nomagumbo taya pombele opombela yoIndoor residual spraying (IRS).

Haufiku okwa popi kutya ope na aantu yamwe mboka yiitala miifundja mbyoka hayi popiwa kutya opombela ndjoka yoIRS, otayi ya ningitha opo kaya mone we uunona.

Okwa tsu omukumo opo AaNamibia ayehe ya pitike omagumbo gawo nomidhigoloko dhawo dhi pombelwe noIRS yo taya longitha woo oonete opo yiigamene kaya like koomwe.

Kunene finances in shambles

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Namibia imports 96% of its fruit

≪ Previous: Hamuntu ta hulitha koMalaria – Haufiku

$

0

0

Kunene finances in shambles The Kunene regional council has received an adverse audit opinion from the Office of the Auditor-General for the 2016/17 financial year.

The opinion was contained in the AG's audit report tabled in the National Assembly by finance minister Calle Schlettwein recently.

The report said over N$54.5 million was misrepresented, misstated and did not accurately reflect the council's financial performance and health for the year under review.

“The financial statements do not present fairly the cash flows, receipts and payments for the 2016/17 financial year in accordance with the relevant accounting framework or legislation,” AG Junias Kandjeke said in the report.

According to him, supporting documents on grants, donations and expenditure, comprising of payables in the debit balance, unrecorded liabilities, the non-clearance of a suspense account and unconfirmed opening balance of stock, were not provided for the purpose of the audit.

The AG found there were no supporting documents for general expenditure amounting to over N$2 million.

Furthermore, the AG's office was unable to confirm the existence of opening stock of over N$6 million, due to the unavailability of supporting documents such as the Build Together programme's stock report.

The report also observed a difference of over N$1.1 million between the general ledger and the VIP payroll report, along with a difference amounting to over N$22 million between the cash book and the general ledger.

In addition, it was noted that an amount of N$1 million was not accrued for accounts payable and that a suspense account balance of N$13 million was not cleared.

To remedy the situation, Kandjeke recommended that the regional council ensure stock-taking for the Build Together programme, provide supporting documents for auditing purposes and adhere to accrual basis accounting by entering transactions when they occur.

NAMPA

---

Namibia imports 96% of its fruit

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: No one should die of Malaria – Haufiku

≪ Previous: Kunene finances in shambles

$

0

0

Namibia imports 96% of its fruitLocal production must be increased Table grapes do very well in Namibia and account for 80% of exports. Namibia imported 96% of its total fruit demand in 2017/18, and a strategy is needed to boost local fruit production.

This was said by agriculture permanent secretary Percy Misika at a workshop on the Namibian Agronomic Board's (NAB) strategic plan for the next five years.

Providing further statistics on horticulture production, Misika said Namibia produced 25 599 tonnes of fruit and vegetables, imported 52 853 tonnes.

Table grapes accounted for 80% of horticulture exports, with the remaining 20% consisting of dates, tomatoes and onions.

With regard to other crops, Namibia produced 60% of the white maize consumed locally during 2017/18.

A total of 76 660 tonnes of maize were produced locally while 50 483 tonnes were imported.

About 40% of the country's pearl millet (mahangu) consumption was produced locally, with 2 344 tonnes produced locally and 5 813 tonnes imported.

Of the 111 107 tonnes of wheat consumed locally, only 4% was produced in Namibia. A mere 6 863 tonnes were produced locally while 104 244 tonnes were imported.

“As a country we aspire to see agronomy and horticulture development driven by both scientific and market research so that in our journey we tackle challenges with solutions that improve the way we do things in order to reach our targets easily,” Misika said.

“Therefore, we are planning to see how we can improve the situation we are finding ourselves in as a net importer so that we can be self-sufficient. This will be achieved by engaging in production, processing, storage and marketing in a sustainable manner to ensure food security.”

He said the NAB is mandated to promote the agronomic industry and facilitate production, processing, storage and marketing of controlled products. According to him a guiding framework is required to facilitate the board's functions.

Misika said the strategic plan should be a dynamic blueprint for enhancing the performance of the NAB and driving the growth of the agronomic and horticulture sectors.

“The future is uncertain if no direction is outlined for any given organisation, the absence [of a framework]should be a matter of great concern to the board of directors as well as its stakeholders. However, we should note that we will always be faced with change, and we need to manage change rather than react to it.”

Misika said change is always easier to manage when there are clear directions outlined in a framework.

Misika said proposals should be made that would improve the proposed plan rather than to criticise without proposing any substitute.

“While we deliberate, we should keep in mind that we are responsible for the entire country, where no one should be left out, and in return ensure food security and improve the lives of our communities around the country.”

ELLANIE SMIT

No one should die of Malaria – Haufiku

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Downward spiral continues

≪ Previous: Namibia imports 96% of its fruit

$

0

0

No one should die of Malaria – Haufiku Health minister Bernhard Haufiku says nobody should die of malaria, which is a preventable and curable disease.

Haufiku says shocking statistics of malaria cases and deaths are reported every year, which are entirely preventable.

He believes that even if malaria deaths were reduced by 90 percent, it would still be too high.

“We know very well that behind every statistic that we are giving here, there are human lives that are getting lost. We should actually aim for a zero percent statistic and then we know everyone is safe. We cannot say that the 10 percent is acceptable. Who of us wants to be among the 10 percent dying from malaria? No one.

“No one should die of malaria and that is the bottom line. The statistics of 90 percent reduction is for us health professionals to appease ourselves and the reality is that everyone should be safe from malaria.”

Haufiku was speaking at Kayengona village in the Kavango East Region, where the official commemoration of SADC Malaria Awareness Day was held on Friday.

The theme of the event was 'SADC Unite to End Malaria'.

Haufiku expressed concern about the fact that reported malaria cases have increased from 3 000 in 2012 to 66 000 at the latest count.

“Where did we go wrong and what are we not doing right, because from 3 000 to 66 000, that is a big difference,” he remarked.

Haufiku said the two water-rich Kavango regions are the epicentres of the malaria epidemic in Namibia because that's where the malaria-carrying mosquitoes breed.

The minister urged all stakeholders to play their part in the fight against malaria.

He said the illness should not just be contained but eradicated with the cooperation of health professionals and the public.

“Our attitude towards fighting malaria should be vicious and that is the only way we will succeed,” Haufiku said.

He expressed disappointment with people who do not want to cooperate with health workers who move from house to house doing indoor residual spraying (IRS) against mosquitoes.

Haufiku said some people believe the myth that IRS can make them infertile, which is a blatant lie.

“I would like to encourage all Namibians to allow our people to do the IRS as well as make use of mosquito nets in order to be protected against malaria. It is the only right thing to do,” Haufiku said.

KENYA KAMBOWE

Downward spiral continues

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: 'Positive parenting' needed

≪ Previous: No one should die of Malaria – Haufiku

$

0

0

Downward spiral continuesLivestock production at serious risk Stakeholders and authorities are concerned over the continuous decline in livestock production. The livestock industry is continuing on its downward spiral, with local and South African price differences for sheep putting it at risk of collapse, while the cattle industry has experienced a decrease in production.

According to the Meat Board of Namibia there was an overall decrease in the total production of cattle between January and September this year.

It says a decrease in the availability of marketable cattle resulted in higher beef prices, as abattoirs tried to attract more slaughter animals.

Due to lower throughput, an export abattoir (Brukarros Meat Processors) closed during the third quarter of this year.

“This downward spiral was averted when a new export abattoir, Beefcor, was approved by the Meat Board during the same period.”

Also, smaller amounts of cattle continue to be slaughtered by Meatco's mobile slaughter units in the Northern Communal Areas, where 74 farmers marketed a combined total of 1 200 cattle thus far.

According to the Meat Board there was a 6.48% decrease in the total production of cattle during January to September 2018, compared to the same period last year. Production decreased from 384 544 in 2017 to 359 248 this year.

“The decline in total marketing was driven by decreased activity across all market segments,” the Meat Board said.

From the total cattle marketed, 66.59% were live exports, while 17.36% were taken up by local abattoirs and export abattoirs enjoyed a 16.05% market share.

A total of 21 498 cattle were declared to the Meat Board by registered local abattoirs.

Based on the hide purchases, however, it is estimated that 40 851 cattle were slaughtered at local abattoirs.

Meanwhile, the Meat Board says that sheep marketing is confronted by various challenges that put the sector in jeopardy, in terms of employment creation, retention and its contribution to the country's economy.

“Given the government's efforts to industrialise and promote value addition, the large price differences hamper its progress. Limited throughput at export abattoirs continues to hamper the profitability and therefore the competitiveness of the available export abattoirs.”

According to the Meat Board, export abattoirs will need to become more competitive in order to attract quality and a consistent supply of sheep.

“Despite all the other contributing factors, price remains the main determinant of marketing, both for the producers and abattoirs. The deteriorating grazing conditions in some of the sheep-producing regions, support the use of the too lean and too small drought marketing arrangement.”

The Meat Board said the long-term sheep marketing trend shows a gradual reduction. Despite a slight growth in live exports and butchers, the overall number of sheep marketed during the period under review declined compared to the same period in 2017.

With the reduction in sheep stock, marketing numbers are expected to follow a downward trend in the long-term, given the erratic climate conditions associated with Namibia and the current sheep marketing arrangements that are in place.

There was a 1.21% decrease observed in the sheep marketed this year compared to the same period in 2017. A total of 595 411 head of sheep were marketed in 2017, compared to the 588 213 in 2018.

During the period January to September this year, 373 356 head of sheep were exported live, accounting for 63% of the market share. The sheep slaughtered at export abattoirs accounted for 27% (157 339), while those slaughtered at the local abattoirs accounted for 10% (57 518).

Namibia was N$3.53/kg cheaper than the Northern Cape price observed at the close of the quarter in September.

The Meat Board said this gap discourages throughput at Namibian abattoirs. However, due to the 1:1 slaughter-to-export ratio, local abattoirs can receive some throughput.

“High overhead costs and the price for offal and sheep skin are some of the factors that are cited to affect the price that is offered to Namibian producers by export abattoirs. Producers are discouraged to market their sheep at export abattoirs due to the increased price gap.”

ELLANIE SMIT

'Positive parenting' needed

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: GBV cases are rife

≪ Previous: Downward spiral continues

$

0

0

'Positive parenting' needed The spirit of the new Education Bill focuses on inclusivity and access, while also strengthening accountability for the sake of quality, says basic education minister Katrina Hanse-Himarwa.

She added that while existing policies enforce parental obligations in ensuring children access quality education, the ministry will now also work closely with other stakeholders to develop programmes that focus on “positive parenting”.

“The ministry will work closely to deconstruct the barriers to the fulfilment of parental obligations, such as increasing the safety of learners on their way to and from school and safety in hostels etc.,” she said.

The minister was responding to comments to the bill in the National Assembly last week. Hanse-Himarwa said the new law seeks to guarantee a strong foundation through early childhood development and pre-primary to secondary education for all Namibian children.

She said it encompasses a holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of the country's schoolgoing population, and will support learners with disabilities and promote the meaningful integration of sport, arts and culture, as well as information and communication technology (ICT).

The ministry is currently implementing the National Safe Schools Framework, which guides teachers, learners, parents and the community at large to ensure that schools, other educational facilities and their surroundings are child-friendly, physically safe and protected from outside influences.

Hanse-Himarwa added it is the collective responsibility of parents, communities and even parliamentarians to ensure access to education, including for children who are found roaming the streets.

The new bill states that no child may be denied admission to school because they have no birth certificate.

The minister is also obliged to ensure that basic necessities such as shelter, water, food, light, ventilation, sanitary facilities and access to emergency medical care are provided for in all schools.

Anyone who discriminates against a learner on the grounds of race, ethnic origin, colour, sex, religion, creed and social and economic status will be fined up to a maximum of N$20 000 or two years in prison.

The minister said the new law will give the ministry the power to intervene when a school is underperforming.

“The first aim is to provide internal and external support to the school, in an attempt to improve performance.”

The bill also makes it compulsory for any child with specialised educational needs, who is older than three years, to be in a special needs school if the permanent secretary decides this is in the best interest of the child. In cases where a child is older than six and has not been admitted to any school, he or she must be admitted to a grade appropriate with their ability and age.



JEMIMA BEUKES

GBV cases are rife

November 12, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Valombola docket bungle explained

≪ Previous: 'Positive parenting' needed

$

0

0

GBV cases are rife Some 2 000 cases related to domestic violence and alcohol abuse were reported to the Namibian police countrywide between June and October 2018.

This was announced by the patron of the #BreakFree Anti-Violence campaign, retired major-general of the police, James Tjivikua at the campaign's second violence walk and breakfast meeting in Windhoek over the weekend.

He said these cases include 21 of assault, 989 common assault, two attempted rape, 459 assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 11 crimen injuria, 113 of malicious damage to property, 398 rape and six statutory rape cases.

“Violence in Namibia, including gender-based violence, is rife and impacts all of us,” Tjivikua said.

Children and women remain at high risk of violent crimes in their homes.

Tjivikua also commended the #BreakFree movement for receiving the 2018 World without Aids Award hosted by the German Aids Foundation and German Opera House in Berlin, Germany recently.

The success of the campaign has been recognised in the international arena through First Lady Monica Geingos, who focuses on initiatives to engage young people on HIV and other challenges they face.

NAMPA