Chinese firm buys Rössing

November 25, 2018, 11:14 pm

≪ Previous: Brave Warriors retain Geingob Cup

Chinese firm buys Rössing Rio Tinto has entered into a binding agreement with China National Uranium Corporation Limited (CNUC) for the sale of its entire 68.62% stake in Rössing Uranium Limited (Rössing), owners of the Rössing mine in Namibia, for up to US$106.5 million. The total consideration comprises an initial cash payment of US$6.5 million, payable at completion, and a contingent payment of up to US$100 million following completion. The contingent payment is linked to uranium spot prices and Rössing’s net income during the next seven calendar years. In addition, Rio Tinto will receive a cash payment if CNUC sells the Zelda 20 Mineral Deposit during a restricted period following completion. The total consideration is subject to a maximum cap of US$106.5 million. The transaction represents the culmination of an extensive assessment of strategic options considered by Rio Tinto in relation to Rössing. Rio Tinto chief executive J-S Jacques said “The sale of our interest in Rössing once again demonstrates our commitment to strengthening our portfolio and focussing on our core assets, which deliver sector leading returns in the short, medium and long term. “Rio Tinto has a long history in Namibia and I would like to thank the many people across Rio Tinto and the communities in which we operate who have contributed to the success of Rössing. I wish them continued success under new ownership. Rio Tinto will work closely with CNUC to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing sustainable operation at Rössing.” The transaction is subject to certain conditions precedent, including merger approval from the Namibian Competition Commission. Subject to these conditions being met, the transaction is expected to complete in the first half of 2019.
STAFF REPORTER

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Chinese firm buys Rössing

November 25, 2018, 11:14 pm

≫ Next: Chinese firm buys Rössing

≪ Previous: Chinese firm buys Rössing

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Chinese firm buys Rössing

November 25, 2018, 11:14 pm

≫ Next: Chinese firm buys Rössing

≪ Previous: Chinese firm buys Rössing

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Chinese firm buys Rössing

November 25, 2018, 11:14 pm

≫ Next: Shikusho leads scoring chart

≪ Previous: Chinese firm buys Rössing

Chinese firm buys Rössing

Rio Tinto has entered into a binding agreement with China National Uranium Corporation Limited (CNUC) for the sale of its entire 68.62% stake in Rössing Uranium Limited (Rössing), owners of the Rössing mine in Namibia, for up to US$106.5 million. The total consideration comprises an initial cash payment of US$6.5 million, payable at completion, and a contingent payment of up to US$100 million following completion. The contingent payment is linked to uranium spot prices and Rössing’s net income during the next seven calendar years. In addition, Rio Tinto will receive a cash payment if CNUC sells the Zelda 20 Mineral Deposit during a restricted period following completion. The total consideration is subject to a maximum cap of US$106.5 million. The transaction represents the culmination of an extensive assessment of strategic options considered by Rio Tinto in relation to Rössing. Rio Tinto chief executive J-S Jacques said “The sale of our interest in Rössing once again demonstrates our commitment to strengthening our portfolio and focussing on our core assets, which deliver sector leading returns in the short, medium and long term. “Rio Tinto has a long history in Namibia and I would like to thank the many people across Rio Tinto and the communities in which we operate who have contributed to the success of Rössing. I wish them continued success under new ownership. Rio Tinto will work closely with CNUC to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing sustainable operation at Rössing.” The transaction is subject to certain conditions precedent, including merger approval from the Namibian Competition Commission. Subject to these conditions being met, the transaction is expected to complete in the first half of 2019.
STAFF REPORTER

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Shikusho leads scoring chart

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Heat wave concerns for 2020 Olympics

≪ Previous: Chinese firm buys Rössing

Shikusho leads scoring chartRace for the top in full mode Tura Magic's striker Anna Shikusho is on a runaway path with goals in the 2018/19 NFA Skorpion Zinc Women Super League.

The Windhoek-born and raised goal poacher Anna Shikusho is leading the goal scoring chart with 17 goals as the first leg of the matches ended on Saturday.

The first round of the league started on 6 October and since then, the 23-year-old top goal scorer has used every opportunity to find the net, which has created a gap which will prove too hard to close if her form continues in the second leg.

Ignacia Haoses from Namib Daughters, as well as Lina Katuta from rival club Khomas NamPol, are trailing behind with eight and seven goals respectively.

“I have not reached my targeted goals yet. So in every match I play, I try to score as many goals as possible.”

Shikusho said she draws inspiration from many players and if given the chance would love to play for Barcelona FC.

Gure Shama, Magic's head coach described the player as one who has a lot of passion and drive coupled with ambition and hunger to succeed. “Often it is said that you have it or not, and Shikusho's fire comes to life on the football pitch.

“She is mentally tough and presents us with that 'either way will work' attitude. And that makes her a great asset to the team.

He also said that she has a coachable character. “As a player you need to be able to accept the feedback from coaches and teachers who are there to help you improve.

“Finally, she is self-motivated. She always wants to better herself by continuously learning and beating previous targets and this has been one of her secrets to success thus far,” Shama explained.

The top goal scorers club with 25 points is followed by Khomas NamPol who is breathing heavily down their necks with 23 points and in third is V-Power Angels with 22 points.

In fourth position is Galz & Goals with 16 points and Daughters is occupying the fifth slot with 13 points.

Ten teams namely: Right Way, Galz & Girls Football Academy, Nust Babes, Namib Daughters, Khomas NamPol, Omaheke Queens, Tura Magic, V-Power Angels, Unam Bokkies and Gals & Goals are competing in the league.

Final results of the weekend:

Nust Babes 0-2 Khomas NamPol

Right Way 4-0 Omaheke Queens

Galz & Goals 4-1 Namib Daughters

Tura Magic 8-0 Omaheke Queens

Unam Bokkies 0-4 Khomas NamPol

Right Way 0-2 V-Power Angels

LIMBA MUPETAMI

CAPTION

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Heat wave concerns for 2020 Olympics

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Aubameyang nets winner

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Heat wave concerns for 2020 Olympics

NAMPA/AFP

Olympics chief Thomas Bach on Sunday expressed his concern over potential extreme heat conditions during the Tokyo 2020 Games, suggesting plans to further bring forward the marathon starting time.

Bach and John Coates, vice-president of International Olympic Committee (IOC), met Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike ahead of an IOC committee meeting later this week in the capital.

Bach told Koike that heat waves are a "concern for us", if temperatures shoot up again in 2020 following record temperatures this summer.

Experts have warned that extreme heat could affect several sporting events at the Olympic Games, particularly after Tokyo sweltered through a record heat wave this year.

The IOC and Tokyo 2020 organisers have acknowledged the concerns and already brought forward the marathon start time by 30 minutes to 07:00, with competitive walking starting even earlier.

But Coates suggested the IOC may further move the start time to 06:00 or even 05:30.

Heatstroke kills hundreds of people each year across Japan, and this year record temperatures caused a spike in fatalities and hospital visits.

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Aubameyang nets winner

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Ekuthomiilonga lyaKlein lyuuvitha nayi Jooste

≪ Previous: Heat wave concerns for 2020 Olympics

Aubameyang nets winner Arsenal extend unbeaten run to 17 matches Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted his eighth league goal of the season to sink Bournemouth.

NAMPA/AFP

Striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang extended Arsenal's unbeaten run to 17 matches, with a goal that sealed a 2-1 win at Bournemouth on Sunday.

Unai Emery's side took the lead through a bizarre Jefferson Lerma own goal before Josh King equalised on the stroke of halftime at the Dean Court football stadium.

Aubameyang netted his eighth league goal of the season midway through the second half to lift the fifth-placed Gunners within a point of the top four in the battle to qualify for next season's Champions League.

The north Londoners have been revitalised since Emery replaced Arsene Wenger in the close-season, and this was another test passed by the Spaniard.

After three successive home draws against Liverpool, Sporting Lisbon and Wolves, it was essential that Arsenal got back to winning ways.

Emery left German playmaker Mesut Ozil on the bench and was without French striker Alexandre Lacazette, due to a groin injury.

But Arsenal was still strong enough to consign Bournemouth to a third successive defeat, as Emery's decision to switch to a back three for the first time paid dividends.

Bournemouth thought they were ahead early on, but David Brooks was flagged offside as he slotted home King's through ball.

Arsenal went close at the other end, when Lucas Torreira rattled the foot of the post with a fierce shot. Alex Iwobi lashed the rebound high and wide.

Arsenal took the lead in the 30th minute when Lerma accidently volleyed Sead Kolasinac's cross past Bournemouth goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, as he stretched in a failed attempt to clear.

Iwobi drew a smart stop out of Begovic, as the visitors looked to double their advantage before the break, but instead their run of not leading at halftime this season continued.

Cardiff are the only other top-flight side yet to hold a halftime lead in the league this season and King's smart finish with the last meaningful kick of the opening 45 minutes ensured Bournemouth went in level.

When Aubameyang spurned a good chance after Henrikh Mkhitaryan had rolled in his teammate, Arsenal fans began to call for the introduction of Ozil.

But the supporters who made the trip to the south coast were celebrating the lead in the 67th minute.

Aubameyang made amends for his earlier miss, sliding in to score from six yards, after another Kolasinac cross.

Ryan Fraser shot straight into the arms of Bernd Leno, as Bournemouth chased a second equaliser.

Lerma almost atoned for his own goal, but struck a post with his low drive, before Leno had to be alert to push the ball behind after it looped towards goal off the foot of Sokratis.

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Ekuthomiilonga lyaKlein lyuuvitha nayi Jooste

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Swapo ota kwatelwa komeho komambo

≪ Previous: Aubameyang nets winner

Ekuthomiilonga lyaKlein lyuuvitha nayi Jooste

YANNA SMITH

Sha landula oolopota komapandja gomakwatathano gopamalungula, kombinga yekutho miilonga lyOmunambelewa Omukuluntu gwehangano lyaTelecom, Theo Klein, Ominista yiiputudhilo yEpangelo, Leon Jooste okwa holola okuuva nayi kwe omolwa omalelo giiputudhilo ngoka itaga gwanitha po omalombwelo nomilandu dhi na sha nomakutho miilonga gaanambelewa aakuluntu.

Oolopota odha holola mEtitano kutya omukuluntuwiliki gwoTelecom okwa kuthwa miilonga sha landula omakonaakono ge na sha notendela yiikengelela yongushu yoomiliyona 12.

Oshifokundaneki shoThe Namibian oshowo NBC oyehe oya lopota kutya ngoka ta longo pehala lyomunashipundi moshiputudhilo shoka Irene Simeon-Kurtz okwa koleke ekutho miilonga lyaKlein momukanda ngoka gwa shangwa momasiku 23 gaNovemba nuumvo, ta popi kutya elombwelo lya zi kepangelo.

Okwa popi kutya ekutho miilonga ndyoka olya landula omakonaakono gomeni ngoka ga ningwa kuTelecom okutameka muKotomba, nomutumba gwelelo ngoka gwa ningwa momasiku 23 gaNovemba ogwa tokola okukutha miilonga Klein.

Nonando ongaaka Oiva Angula, ngoka e li omunambelewa omukuluntu gwomakwatathano nomauyelele goshigwana moTelecom nenge Minista Leon Jooste, inaya vula okupopya sha kekutho miionga lyaKlein.

Angula okwa popi kutya ka li kiilonga onkene ita vulu okutya sha. Jooste sho a pulwa opo a koleke ekutho miilonga lyaKlein, okwa yamukula kutya: “ aniwa eeno.”

Minista okwa popi kutya ina ningilwa oonkundathana dha dha sha kombinga yekutho miilonga ndyoka, na okwa haluka okuuva owala onkundana ndjoka okupitila miikundaneki, nonando omulandu otagu utha opo omalelo gomahangano ga ninge tango ekwatathano naminista omanga inau kuthwa miilonga omunambelewa omukuluntu nenge oshilyo shelelo lyopombanda.

Okwa popi kutya otaka longitha ompito yokuninga omalunduluko opo ku kale haku geelwa paumwene oonakuninga omatokolo ngele tashi ya komahangano gepangelo taga futithwa paveta omolwa omapuko goludhi ndoka.

Ekutho miilonga lyaKlein otali gandja aniwa ompito ku ningwe omakonaakono kutya osha ende ngiini ehangano ndyoka li fute oomiliyona 12 motendela yiikengelela.

YANNA SMITH

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Swapo ota kwatelwa komeho komambo

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: First homegrown Peugeot rolls off assembly line

≪ Previous: Ekuthomiilonga lyaKlein lyuuvitha nayi Jooste

Swapo ota kwatelwa komeho komambo Omunashipundi gwelelo lyoSwapo, a pewa oshinakugwanithwa shoshitopolwa shaKavango East, okwa popi kutya moSwapo kamu na ngoka omunene e vule ongundu yoSwapo, nomatokolo agehe naga ningwe kwiikolelelwa kekotampango lyongundu nomambo gomilandu.

Ø Iilyo yoSwapo nayi leshe nokuuvako omilandu dhongundu

KENYA KAMBOWE

James Sankwasa okwa popi kutya iilyo yongundu yoSwapo oyi na omukalo gwokupopya kutya otayi ningi omatokolo yiikwatelela kekotampango lyongundu ihe oya ndopa okugandja iiholelwa yoontopolwa mekotampango, na okwa pula iilyo yi leshe ekotampango lyongundu opo ya vule okuninga omatokolo ge li mondjila.

Sankwasa okwa popi ngaaka mEtitano lyoshiwike sha piti, pethimbo kwa patululwa omutumba gwoSwapo Kavango East Regional Executive Meeting (REC), mondoolopa yaRundu, omutumba ngoka gwa ningwa sha landula sho iilyo yelelelo lyondoolopa yaRundu ya tokola okukala inayi kutha ombinga momutumba gwegwanithilo miilonga.

“Onga aaleli aahogololwa naaniionga yepangelo otu na oshinakugwnaithwa shokulesha nokuuvako nokutula woo miilonga ekotampango. Embo ndika oli li onga ombiimbeli yetu nembo lyetu lyomaimbilo. Olya pumbwa okukwatela komeho omadhilongo getu, iilonga yetu oshowo omatokolo ngoka tatu ningi meyambulepo lyaNamibia, onga ongundu tayi pangele. Olundji onduuvu aantu taya popi kutya “kwiikwatelelwa kekotampango” ihe itaya vulu okugandja ontopolwa yekotampango ndjoka taya popi, molwaashoka ihatu lesha ekotampango nenge ohatu li lesha ihe katu uvite shoka tali ti. Natu li lesheni tuuveko,” Sankwasa a popi.

Sankwasa okwa popi kutya ope na oompango nomilandu ndhoka dha pumbwa okulandulwa uuna taku hogololwa aanambelewa naakalelipo moondondo dhepangelo dha yooloka, mwakwatelwa woo omulandu gwomautho oshowo omaihumbato kwa tegelelwa giihumbatwe kiilyo yongundu yoSwapo.

Iilyo yelelo lyondoolopa yaRundu oya li ya tegelelwa yi ninge omahogoolo gokomvula oshowo oshituthi sheganithilo miilonga mEtitatu ihe ookansela yamwe po oya tindi okukutha ombinga yahala kukalekwe elombwelo ndyoka lya gandjwa kuamushanga gwongundu yoSwapo, Sophia Shaningwa.

Shaningwa okwa gandja elombwelo kutya omulandu ngoka guli po go nagu kale miilonga ihe ookansela oya hala omalunduluko na opo owala taya ka kutha ombinga moshituthi sheganithilo miilonga.

Ookansela oya hala woo okuva ngele mayola gwondoolopa Verna Sinimbo ota landula omusamane gwe Gabriel Sinimbo koIndia hoka uulikwa kOmupresidende Hage Geingob onga omukalelipo gwoshilongo.

Sho a ningilwa omapulo oshiwike sha piti Sinimbo okwa lombwele oNamibian Sun, kutya ndyoka etokolo lyopaumwene na ke na ongunga opo andola a yelithe nokugandja omayamukulo kelelo lyondoolopa kombinga yetokolo lye ndyoka. Okwa popi woo kutya itaka tseyitha etokolo lye miikundaneki.

Nonando ongaaka, sha landula oshinyolwa shoNamibian Sun, Sinimbo okwa li a popiwa monzokundaneki yoNampa ta popi kutya ita landula omusamane gwe koIndia na ota kala pompito ye yiilonga onga mayola gwaRundu.

Pethimbo lyomutumba ngoka, Sankwasa okwa lombwele aakuthimbinga yongundu yoSwapo nkene uuvite nayi omolwa onkalo moka mu na ondoolopa yaRundu. Okwa ulike omathano ngoka a thaneke ngoka taga ulike nkene ondoolopa ndjoka yanyata noonkondo.

Okwa popi kutya mboka ye li mombelelwa itaya longo iilonga yawo ihe pehala otaya iyambapaleke na itaya longo muuwananwa woshigwana shoka she ya hogolola.

Sho a ningilwa omapulo, omukwatakanithi gwoSwapo moKavango East, Otillie Shinduvi okwa popi kutya nonando okwa ningwa omutumba gwoREC, oonkundathana kombinga yoshikumungu shoka onkene tadhi tsikile.

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First homegrown Peugeot rolls off assembly line

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Landmark communal land rights victory

≪ Previous: Swapo ota kwatelwa komeho komambo

First homegrown Peugeot rolls off assembly lineCapacity to assemble up to 5 000 Opels and Peugeots A joint venture between Groupe PSA and Auas Motors has borne its first fruits. Groupe PSA Executive VP Middle East and Africa, Jean-Christophe Quemard - “This investment in Namibia is part of the long-term strategy of Groupe PSA to increase its sales in Africa and the Middle East, consistent with our target to sell one million vehicles in 2025.”

STAFF REPORTER

The first locally assembled Peugeot 3008 rolled off the production line at a vehicle assembly plant in Walvis Bay last week.

This long-awaited development was widely welcomed, especially after the commencement of operations at the assembly plant was delayed due to complications with customs and excise, which prompted trade and industrialisation minister Tjekero Tweya to intervene.

The assembly plant is a joint venture by Groupe PSA and Namibia’s Auas Motors, which is a subsidiary of Nictus Holdings. PSA purchased General Motors in 2017. Auas Motors represents the General Motors brand in Namibia.

The 3008 is great

The 3008 is a second-generation SUV which has been internationally lauded since its release and was named the 2017 European Car of the Year.

The vehicle is the fifth Peugeot to win Car of the Year and the first SUV honoured in the history of the European COTY prize.

The Peugeot 3008 offers a unique blend of style, comfort and road handling. The spectacular Peugeot i-Cockpit® is state of the art and gives new meaning to being in the driver’s seat.

It offers a more intuitive and intense driving experience, with a compact steering wheel, 12.3” head-up display and central capacitive touchscreen console with ergonomic piano keys to top it all off. The new Peugeot 3008 also offers a number of driving aids and other high-tech equipment, as well as seamless connectivity.

The Walvis Bay assembly plant will focus on the assembly of Opel’s Grandland X and the Peugeot 3008 from semi-knockdown (SKD) kits, which are significantly cheaper to import than the finished vehicle.

Groupe PSA’s global growth plan

The group’s initial target volume at Walvis Bay, set up in partnership with the Namibia Development Corporation (NDC), is 5 000 vehicles a year by 2020, starting with the Grandland X and Peugeot 3008.

Other vehicles will follow, based on customer demand in the SACU countries of Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Swaziland.

This agreement is part of the Group’s strategic growth plan, which aims to satisfy customer expectations in all the regions in which the Group operates.

It materialises Groupe PSA’s ambition to develop internationally by directly producing within Middle East and Africa 70% of the vehicles sold in the region.

This project is also the illustration that Opel brand has a real potential in the region. The manufacturing of Opel models locally has been decided and implemented in a record time frame, less than four months after the announcement of the strategic plan on 9 November 2017.

"This investment in Namibia is part of the long-term strategy of Groupe PSA to increase its sales in Africa and the Middle East, consistent with our target to sell one million vehicles in 2025.

“This new capacity will serve regional markets with products in line with our Opel and Peugeot customer expectation,” said Groupe PSA’s executive vice-president for the Middle East and Africa Region, Jean-Christophe Quemard.

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Landmark communal land rights victory

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Company news in brief

≪ Previous: First homegrown Peugeot rolls off assembly line

Landmark communal land rights victory Same rights as freehold apply

A Zambezi woman has won a landmark Supreme Court appeal on the issue of communal land and her right to legal ownership and compensation under customary laws.

In his judgement, Supreme Court Deputy Chief Justice Petrus Damaseb pointed out the broad implications of his ruling when he addressed the fact that the government of Namibia, the third respondent cited alongside the Katima Mulilo town council and six others, “chose not to participate in the litigation although this case raises an important constitutional issue.”

He said their decision not to participate “is a matter for regret because the issues raised in the case have far wider ramifications than the litigants before court.”

Willem Odendaal of the Legal Assistance Centre, who represented appellant Agnes Kashela, said the judgement overruled a High Court ruling by giving people who live under customary law land rights the same rights as people living under common law.

Odendaal argued the case from a constitutional point of view, in that the constitution should apply equally to all in Namibia, whether a person lives on communal or commercial land, with regard to “just compensation as provided for in Article 16 in the Namibian constitution”.

Kashela approached the Supreme Court after the High Court ruled against her in a dispute that arose when the Katima Mulilo town council rented and later offered to sell portions of the communal land without compensation.

She argued she had rightfully inherited the land under customary laws.

Her father was allocated a portion of communal land by the Mafwe Traditional Authority in 1985.

After independence, all communal land in Namibia became the property of the state and in 1995 portions of the communal land was transferred to the Katima Mulilo town council.

At the time, Kashela's father was still alive and continued to live on the land until his death in 2001.

Kashela accused the town council of unlawfully taking portions of her land and unlawfully renting those to a business and four individuals.

She said the council had thus been “unlawfully enriched” at her expense.

In her second claim, she argued that the town council had unlawfully expropriated her land without just compensation at market value.

She asked the High Court to award her the rent received by the council, which amounted to N$720 000 over three years, plus the amount for which the land was offered for sale, totalling N$2.415 Million, as reasonable and just compensation.

Overruled

Damaseb set aside the High Court's ruling that Kashela was not entitled to be compensated for land which had been legally transferred as town land to the town council.

The land in question had ceased to be communal land, the High Court ruled, and Kashela had no claim to any communal land tenure rights.

Damaseb's judgment noted that the council's High Court plea was “silent on the allegations made in support of Kashela's second claim, which is predicated on the right to compensation”.

He further noted that the council had admitted that it had offered compensation to Kashela, but she had wanted more than their offer.

Further, that it was the council's policy to “compensate persons similarly situation as Ms Kashela”.

Damaseb noted that this should have “put the matter to bed and a judgment given in favour of Ms Kashela”.

He said Kashela had acquired a right of exclusive use and occupation of the land in dispute after her father's death under customary laws, and had thus acquired a right of exclusive use and occupation of the land even after its proclamation as town land.

He said this right is enforceable by the courts of law which must, in the case of a breach, tailor a remedy to meet the circumstances of the facts.

He ruled that the state had inherited, as successor-in-title to communal lands, “social obligations” and had to use land “for the public good”.

Damaseb added that the state had an obligation to “respect the interest held by affected communities in communal land, for most of whom it was, and remains, the only means of livelihood and survival”.

Damaseb set aside the High Court ruling and ordered that the parties meet within ten days of his order to generate a joint case management report on the future conduct of the case on the remaining issues, including fair compensation.

He did not rule on just compensation, which he said was a matter for the High Court, based on his judgement. The costs of the appeal were awarded to Kashela.

The matter was remitted to the High Court for Damaseb to designate a judge to preside over and finalise the matter, especially on compensation.

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Company news in brief

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Their 'extinction not an option'

≪ Previous: Landmark communal land rights victory

Company news in brief

SA's KPMG reports ex-partner to police

KPMG South Africa has reported a former partner to the police over his alleged role in a corruption scandal in which almost R2 billion was stolen from VBS bank, two KPMG employees familiar with the matter said.

The KPMG employees said the accounting firm had sent an internal email to staff on Friday that said its board had "assessed information on VBS and support criminal action being taken" against the partner, Sipho Malaba.

KPMG audited VBS Mutual Bank's financial results before it was placed under curatorship in March, a step that permits the central bank to appoint an administrator or curator to run a bank.

Malaba is one of two former partners of KPMG South Africa who resigned in April after facing disciplinary charges over their failure to disclose financial interests in connection with VBS, KPMG said at the time.

Reuters has been unable to reach Malaba for comment. He did not respond to personal messages sent to his LinkedIn profile. – Nampa/Reuters

Kenya Power gets tough on late bill payers

Kenya Power Co said on Friday it will be much tougher on chasing unpaid bills after its provisions for bad debts surged in the financial year through June, sending its full-year profit down 60%.

Kenya's main power distributor said it increased its bad debt provisions seven-fold to 6.08 billion shillings (US$59 million) in the financial year that ended June 30 after it adopted a new accounting standard.

Its performance was also hurt by rising costs linked to its growing transmission and distribution network, and higher financing costs that offset modest electricity sales.

The state-controlled company will now make provisions for debts due for longer than 30 days, down from its previous practice of providing for debt that is due for longer than 58 days, said acting CEO Jared Othieno.

The company has more than 6.8 million customers connected to its grid, and says it gets about 60% of its revenue from industrial consumers in Nairobi and the neighbouring town of Thika. – Nampa/Reuters

France's JCDecaux signals Nigerian ambition

French outdoor advertising company JCDecaux plans to provide real-time traffic information in Lagos and install solar-powered bus shelters and automatic public toilets as it targets one of Africa's largest economies.

JCDecaux said it had entered Nigeria in partnership with private Lagos-based investment and advisory firm Grace Lake, targeting a highly fragmented outdoor advertising market estimated to be worth 115 million euro (US$130 million).

Nigeria's most populous city, Lagos, is notorious for its gridlock. JCDecaux said it aims to provide real-time traffic information to commuters at strategic points across the city. - Nampa/Reuters

Bank of Kigali's gets 108% subscription rate

Rwanda's Bank of Kigali said on Friday its 60 billion francs (US$67.50 million) rights issue was 108% subscribed.

The lender, which is Rwanda's biggest by assets, offered one new share for every three held, issuing a total of 222.22 million shares, which will be listed domestically and on the Nairobi bourse. - Nampa/Reuters

Airtel Africa appoints banks for IPO

Airtel Africa, a unit of Indian telecom operator Bharti Airtel Ltd, said yesterday it had appointed eight banks for an intended initial public offering (IPO) on an international stock exchange.

The company has appointed JP Morgan, Citigroup Inc, BofA Merrill Lynch, Absa Group Limited, Barclays Bank PLC, BNP Paribas, Goldman Sachs International and Standard Bank Group Ltd. - Nampa/Reuters

Citigroup, JPMorgan to pay millions in settlement

Citigroup Inc and JPMorgan Chase & Co will pay US$182.5 million to settle US investor litigation claiming they violated antitrust law by conspiring with other banks to rig a key European interest rate benchmark.

A preliminary settlement addressing the banks' alleged manipulation of the European Interbank Offered Rate, or Euribor, was filed on Wednesday night with the US District Court in Manhattan, and requires a judge's approval.

Five banks have reached US$491.5 million of settlements in the case, including earlier settlements of US$170 million by Deutsche Bank AG, US$94 million by Barclays Plc and US$45 million by HSBC Holdings Plc.

Euribor is the euro-denominated equivalent of Libor, a benchmark for setting rates on hundreds of trillions of dollars of credit cards, student loans, mortgages and other debt. – Nampa/Reuters

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Their 'extinction not an option'

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Their 'extinction not an option'

The environment ministry is working on a solution that will reverse the steady decline of the wild horse population in the south of Namibia.

In a statement to the media yesterday afternoon, the environment ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the ministry is as concerned over the population of wild horses as members of the public.

“We concur with concerns that unless an urgent intervention is made, at the current rate of predation on the foals, the wild horse population will show no growth and could decline to an unsustainable population.” Muyunda said that there are currently 80 horses at Garub in the Namib-Naukluft Park, comprising 47 stallions and 33 mares. Since 2013, the horses have endured harsh conditions suffering both drought and predation by a clan of spotted hyaenas which moved into the area. “According to Dr Telane Greyling, who has studied the horses over the last 20 years, the hyaenas in 2013 alone, killed 100 animals of which half were foals. No foal has survived and the youngest horse in the population was born in 2012,” Muyunda said. The ministry, Muyunda said, is devising a solution that “will reverse this disturbing trend and ensure a healthy and sustainable population”. While good rains have fallen and this will bring relief, it will not have any impact on the hyaena population that will benefit the horses.

According to Muyunda, the ministry has found that relocating the horses is not viable but added, that they are “considering relocating the hyaenas in an attempt to safeguard the horses. However, this needs to be considered carefully not to disturb the natural ecosystem since the hyaenas are in their natural habitat. The ministry has in the past tried to intervene by feeding the hyaenas in an attempt to reduce predation.”

Muyunda said the ministry assures the public that they will respond swiftly to the ailing condition of the horses.

“We are aware of the tourism, environmental and economic value of these horses and their extinction is not an option.”

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No one is bigger than Swapo

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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No one is bigger than SwapoSankwasa says rules paramount James Sankwasa, assigned to the Kavango East Region, has told party members the

Chairperson of the Swapo leaders assigned to the Kavango East Region, James Sankwasa, says no one is bigger than the party and that all decisions should be made in accordance with the Swapo constitution and the relevant rules and procedures.

Sankwasa said party members have the tendency of saying they are taking decisions in accordance of the party's constitution, but fail to quote the relevant section or article.

He therefore called on party members to read, in order to make uniform decisions.

Sankwasa made the remarks on Friday in Rundu during the official opening of a Swapo Kavango East regional executive meeting, which was necessitated after a group of Swapo councillors boycotted last week's Rundu town council office-bearers election.

“As elected leaders at various levels of the party leadership and public service governance, we owe it to ourselves to read, understand and practice the provisions of the (Swapo) constitution. This book has served as our political bible and hymnbook. It must guide our thinking, activities and decisions, as we undertake the unification and development of Namibia, as a ruling party,” Sankwasa said.

“Many a time I have heard people say, 'according to the constitution', but they cannot even quote the relevant section or article from the constitution. This is because we do not read the constitution or we read it without understanding. Let us read to understand.”

Sankwasa said there are existing rules and procedures for election of party office-bearers and representatives at legislative and government levels, including a disciplinary code of conduct aimed at guiding acceptable conduct for party members.

“Each Swapo wing has a constitution that guides the activities of the wing. However, all these constitutions of the various wings are in conformity with the mother body constitution. I believe that if we all adhere to the noble principles provided in these documents, we shall surely create unity of purpose, common understanding and not unnecessary ill-feelings towards one another as party members,” Sankwasa said.

The Rundu town council office-bearers were expected to be elected last Wednesday. However, some councillors boycotted the event on the grounds that they want a directive from Swapo secretary-general Sophia Shaningwa set aside.

Shaningwa had directed that status quo of the existing structure should remain. However, the councillors have indicated that they want changes. The councillors also boycotted last week's elections on the basis that they want clarity on whether mayor Verna Sinimbo will be following her husband to India.

Trade permanent secretary Gabriel Sinimbo was recently appointed by President Hage Geingob to serve as ambassador to the Asian country.

When contacted last week, his wife said she does not owe any councillor an explanation.

However, following Namibian Sun's article she was quoted by Nampa as saying she will not accompany her husband to India, and that she will remain committed to her position as mayor of Rundu. When contacted for comment yesterday, Swapo Party Kavango East regional coordinator Otillie Shinduvi said consultations are still ongoing.

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Epupa stolen baby still missing

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Epupa stolen baby still missing

A year and six months have gone by without inroads being made by police to find the six-month-old baby stolen from her mother in early May 2017 at Epupa village in the Kunene Region.

Police crime investigations coordinator in Kunene, Deputy Commissioner Rudolf Kanyetu told Nampa the baby has not yet been found and that the search by police is still on.

“We are still urging members of the public who may have information that can assist the police to find the baby to come forward,” he said.

The baby reportedly went missing while sleeping next to her Angolan mother, 20-year-old Ndjinaveva Kauyekua, who was visiting relatives in the village at the time of the incident.

The mother allegedly discovered the baby was missing when she woke up to breastfeed her. They were sleeping outdoors.

Three people, Dirk Rinovita, 39; Ngombe Tjambiru, 27; and Tjiposa Tjikundi, age unknown, have since been arrested in connection with the missing baby. They were denied bail after their appearance in the Opuwo Magistrate's Court in May last year on charges of theft, kidnapping and human trafficking.

The community of Opuwo staged a demonstration on 26 June last year before the second appearance of the accused persons demanding that they be denied bail.

State p?rosecutor Obert Masendeke on Monday told Nampa that the accused are expected to appear in court on Friday for a bail application.

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Laying the foundation

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Laying the foundationLatest careers guide launched The ministry, alongside important stakeholders, made an effort to provide the most updated information on careers in the labour market.

our, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation launched the latest edition of the Careers in Namibia guide on the 22 November.

This event was officiated by minister Erkki Nghimtina, deputy minister Tommy Nambahu and Employment Equity Commissioner Vilbard Usiku.

The Careers in Namibia Guide is a reference book for learners and students who want to learn about the diverse careers available in the country. The first career guide was published in 1969, and it is updated every three years, with a view to keep pace with dynamics of the labour market.

“This consistently requires new and quite often advanced skills to remain competitive in the global economy,” said Nambahu.

The books will be distributed in schools and in libraries to serve as a go-to for learners before they head to universities.

“All of the featured careers and their respective requirements in the book are relevant and very informative. The ministry, alongside important stakeholders, made an effort to provide the most updated information on careers in the labour market, making it relevant to the situation in Namibia,” Nambahu said.

Delphia Jimmy, a life skills teacher at Ella Du Plessis High school, said although choosing a career is spoken about from the time a child starts their schooling, high school is more crucial in this regard.

“This is the time in a child’s life where they need guidance on which career path to choose and also to expose them to the different kinds of careers we have in Namibia. This is why this book plays a very vital role, especially in our schools.” she said.

Caption 1: The fifth edition of the Careers in Namibia guide.

Caption 2: Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation, Erkki Nghimtina, at the launch of the new guide.

Caption 3: Deputy minister of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation, Tommy Nambahu.

Caption 4: A scene from the Careers in Namibia guide launch.

Caption 5: Some of the guests at the launch.

PHOTOS ELIZABETH JOSEPH

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RLabs students graduate

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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RLabs students graduate Reconstructed Living Labs (RLabs) Namibia, under the Namibia Business Innovation Institute (NBII), hosted their seventh annual graduation ceremony on 22 November at the NBII in Windhoek.

Justicia Shipena

This year a total of 70 youth, students and employed individuals graduated and have been trained in several courses, including managing online presence/social media, project management, social innovation and entrepreneurship, photography and photo editing and events management.

RLabs focuses on youth and creates an environment for community-driven innovation by offering various training courses.

Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, Pramanathan Govender, in a speech read on behalf of Nust vice-chancellor Tjama Tjivikua, said the university encourages innovation and engagement as part of its mandate and vision to become a world-class university.

Govender said RLabs originated in South Africa in 2008 and today it operates in 22 countries globally.

He said under the NBII, RLabs Namibia has evolved in established training programmes with no cost to unemployed youth.

“The programme strives to provide a platform to influence innovation and technology, in order to address the challenges facing many distressed communities across Namibia. Our goal is to create an environment where individuals are empowered to make a difference in the lives of others,” he said.

Govender added that youth are the resources for socio-economic and technological development.

“Young people are the forefront of change and innovation and you all have the spirit to make things happen,” he said.

Sports ministry permanent secretary Emma Katema-Gaomas said according to the Namibia Labour Force Survey 2016, the country’s youth unemployment rate is 43.4%.

Katema-Gaomas said youth unemployment is being attributed to many factors, among them the lack of skills and qualifications to find employment.

That is why fostering youth employability and empowerment is not just a moral imperative, but an economic necessity, as emphasised by government in its national development plans (NDPs).

“Many unqualified youth are being excluded from economic life, as they do not meet the current job market requirements, and since obtaining their academic qualifications is not a possibility for many of them, they have no opportunities to create employment for themselves and others,” she said.

Katema-Gaomas added that new partnerships and innovative initiatives are needed to target disregarded youth without formal education. By empowering young people and ensuring their participation at all levels, this will help them shape a better and more equitable future for everyone.

She also urged the students not to take these opportunities for granted, and to take matters into their own hands by venturing into self-employment opportunities.

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Letshego sponsors youth games

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Letshego sponsors youth games The Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) last week received a generous sponsorship from Letshego Bank Namibia for next year’s youth games.

of the Namibia National Youth Games (NNYG) is set to take place in December nest year. Letshego donated N$135 000 towards the 2019 edition.

Speaking to The Zone on Tuesday, NSC chief administrator Freddy Mwiya expressed his gratitude towards Letshego.

Mwiya said they will need about N$3 million to ensure that the championships run successfully next year.

“This year the cost of the games was N$1.7 million, although we could not cover all the needs,” he said.

Mwiya added next year will see a total of 13 sport codes completing, as they have added three new ones - rugby, hockey and karate.

He therefore urged more corporates to come on board.

“With their help we will be able to improve on the standard and make it of international quality,” he said.

Commenting on why the games will take place in December, Mwiya said: “This year’s games took place in May and we only had four months of preparations, which was not enough.”

He said they wanted to secure a reliable venue (the University of Namibia), and in December the students are on holiday, which meant all the athletes can be accommodated.

This year was a challenge as the athletes were accommodated at different venues, Mwiya added.

Letshego marketing manager Jacques Bock said the company strives to support youth upliftment.

“Our primary focus is to assist in providing sport development at grassroots level to create opportunities for athletes at all levels, and make sport accessible to all Namibians interested in participating,” he said.

Bock said with the current economic headwinds, government is cutting back on the financial support granted to several national initiatives.

For more developed economies worldwide sport remains a vital contributor towards economic growth, by promoting national development and healthy lifestyles, Bock said.

He said athletics is also currently seen as a financial burden, rather than an opportunity to create employment opportunities that will contribute to the economic growth of the country.

“The sporting fraternity has taken a hit; our government alone will not be able to meet the needs of our youth. Therefore, we call on the private sector to join the race and support such initiatives,” said Bock.

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Roads, bars claim more lives

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Roads, bars claim more lives Four men were arrested at the weekend after two AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition were found in their car at a roadblock near Otjiwarongo.

According to the latest crime bulletin, the suspects were driving in a Toyota Yaris which was stopped and searched.

The police found the weapons and ammunition hidden under the car seats and arrested all four occupants on charges of illegal possession of automatic weapons and ammunition.

Police at the coast are investigating the death of a Spanish sailor, Gonzalez Perez Jesus (46), who died in what is believed to be a freak accident on Sunday morning.

Jesus, who was the owner and captain of the fishing vessel Nuevo Rumbo Algeciras anchored off the coast of Namibia, was apparently speaking to his wife on the phone when he fell from the upper deck, cracking his skull upon landing about four metres below.

Rehoboth resident Willem Petrus Eichab (35) died on the spot after being stabbed in the chest on Friday night. Police are still hunting for the suspect.

On the same night, Nambinga Benhard, who was at a bar with his girlfriend, was stabbed by a man who immediately fled and is still at large.

A case of culpable homicide is being investigated after a pedestrian was run over by a Volkswagen Golf on the main road between Oshakati and Omungwelume on Sunday.

A 37-year-old Namibian man was arrested on Saturday afternoon at a service station in Karibib and charged with reckless and or negligent driving, drunken driving and refusal to take a sobriety test.

Police say the man, who was driving a Toyota bakkie and appeared to be intoxicated, crashed into a Scania truck.

A 30-year-old passenger sustained injuries while the driver was unharmed.

The suspect was scheduled to appear before the local magistrate's court yesterday.

The police have also charged a man who crashed into a pedestrian while he was allegedly fleeing from two would-be robbers near a Khorixas bar early Saturday morning.

The suspect was charged with reckless or negligent driving.

The pedestrian, a 39-year-old man, suffered a broken leg and was admitted to hospital in a stable condition.

Five suicides were reported to the police over the weekend, including that of a 13-year-old boy in Katutura.

JANA-MARI SMITH

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Geingob names 14 new ambassadors

November 26, 2018, 2:00 pm

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Geingob names 14 new ambassadors

After months of speculation, President Hage Geingob yesterday appointed 14 new envoys.

Oshana governor Clemens Kashuupulwa, former presidency spokesperson Albertus Aochamub and Swapo veteran Asser Kapere were all confirmed as new ambassadors and high commissioners.

Kashuupulwa is the ambassador-designate to Russia, while Kapere, who is a former National Council chairperson, is Namibia's new high commissioner to Botswana, replacing Mbapeua Muvangua.

Aochamub, as was widely expected, is Namibia's new representative in France, while current trade and industrialisation ministry permanent secretary Gabriel Sinimbo is heading to India.

Veteran diplomat Patrick Nandago will be leaving his home affairs accounting officer position to head Namibia's mission in Angola.

Another former permanent secretary who has landed an ambassadorial role is Samuel /Goagoseb, who will replace Jerobeam Shaanika in Cuba.

The new ambassador to Zambia is Haindongo Siyave, while Simeon Uulenga will represent Namibia in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Nada Kruger will be heading to Austria, while Penda Naanda will assume the role of permanent representative to the United Nations.

Long-serving diplomat Linda Scott will leave the UN to take over from Steve Katjiuanjo as Namibia's representative in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

George Liswaniso, who served as Namibia's high commissioner to the UK until 2013, will now head to Sweden.

Ministry of international relations senior official Morven Luswenyo is Namibia's new ambassador to Japan, while National Council secretary Emilia Mkusa will take up duty as Namibia's permanent representative to the African Union (AU).

Commenting on the shake-up, one of Namibia's top diplomats, Tuliameni Kalomoh, praised Geingob's appointments, saying they were good although there had been a call for the appointment of younger people.

“Youthfulness is not the only consideration for senior posts. Yes, some of them are over 50 some are even over 60, but we must look at the energy, the capacity and wisdom that they bring to the position,” Kalomoh said.

Geingob yesterday urged the representatives to know their country like the back of their hands and not to stutter when asked about it.

He also urged them to find new niche markets for organic products and to market Namibia as a top tourism destination.

“I expect Namibia to find more trading partners. Improve our global rankings. Know your country's statistics. If you are asked what your country's GDP is, do not say 'I think...'. You must know it like you know your own name,” said Geingob.

JEMIMA BEUKES

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