The jobs bomb has exploded

January 16, 2019, 2:00 pm

It is no longer unusual to read about the high levels of unemployment in this country.

We see most young people unemployed, idle and leading miserable lives in our communities. A huge proportion of young Namibians can simply not find employment or earn a living, given the current economic conditions and the lack of a substantive plan to create sustainable jobs. On top of that thousands of young people are joining the job market every day, after dropping out of school; not forgetting that our challenged education system can only absorb a few. The joblessness crisis is prevalent in all 121 constituencies and 14 regions of our republic. It is also safe to say that it is no longer a ticking bomb waiting to explode; it has already exploded. The desperate thirst for employment was highlighted on Tuesday when hundreds of young Namibian jobseekers flocked to TransNamib Ondangwa to apply for 40 posts that had been announced over the radio. There were scenes of pandemonium as the jobless laid siege to the front gate - a clear sign of desperation among the country's 43.4% unemployed young people. Although government can only complement the efforts of the private sector to create jobs by growing the economy, and provide a conducive environment for this to happen, we are perturbed by the fact that there is no single announcement of an employment stimulation package by the powers that be. It is further disconcerting that the billions in loans that are being touted by government will not in any way address the overwhelming desperation of the majority of Namibians who are without a means of earning a living. Government should hang its head in shame, including over the fact that we are not stimulating investor confidence in order to attract funds that will lead to mass job-creation. It is further disturbing that there seems to be no sense of panic when it comes to the unfolding crisis around jobs, as well as the ongoing retrenchments that have hit a multitude of sectors.

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Ex-cop sorry for murder

January 16, 2019, 2:00 pm

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Ex-cop sorry for murderAwaseb apologises for killing teen in love triangle saga An ex-cop has apologised for causing “a lot of pain to people's hearts”, as a result of his actions.

A former senior police officer, who was found guilty of killing a teenager and wounding a woman at Gobabis three years ago, has apologised to the victims' families.

Oscar Awaseb (50) made the tearful apology in the High Court when he gave evidence in mitigation of sentence yesterday, after being found guilty of murdering 18-year-old Odilo Motonane and wounding Mildred Haoses.

He is appearing before Judge Dinah Usiku inside the court building located at the Windhoek Correctional Facility.

“I have caused a lot of pain to people's hearts as a result of my wrongful actions. I made terrible decisions in respect of the circumstances that led to the death of the deceased person.

“It was not my intention to cause the death of the deceased. I am really sorry for causing the death of the deceased person,” Awaseb said while asking for forgiveness.

He said he regretted his actions and also appealed to the court not to impose a long prison sentence that would destroy his chances of rehabilitation.

Awaseb has also made a monetary contribution of about N$45 000 to Motonane's family members for the loss of his life and as assistance for the erection of a tombstone on his grave.

The former cop was convicted in September last year of murder, attempted murder, the negligent discharge of a firearm in a public place and malicious damage to property in respect of the circumstances that led to the death of Motonane on 22 March 2016.

On the same day, Awaseb also shot and wounded his girlfriend, the 22-year-old Haoses.

Awaseb and Haoses had been in a relationship since 2015 and at that stage Haoses was apparently already involved in a relationship with Motonane.

She, however, ended her relationship with Awaseb in March 2016.

Awaseb then showed up at Haoses' shack in the early morning hours of 22 March and reportedly found her in bed with the teenager.

He first shot Motonane and then Haoses three times in the hip and thigh, before she managed to flee from the shack.

He then shot and wounded himself in the shoulder.

State advocate Cliff Lutibezi is the prosecutor, while Mese Tjituri appears for Awaseb.

The trial continues today.

NAMPA

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Tame price monster smirks

January 16, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Human-wildlife incidents rise to 8 000

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Tame price monster smirksLower average inflation in 2018 On face value, the price monster might have been more lenient last year than in 2017, but a closer look at the figures show the consumer was hurt where it matters a lot.

Jo-Maré Duddy

Although Namibians enjoyed significant inflation relief last year in the two heavyweights in the consumer basket compared to 2017, they had to endure bigger price pressure in the remaining two.

December's overall inflation figure of 5.1% released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) on Tuesday means an average overall annual inflation rate of 4.3% in 2018, down from 6.2% the previous year and the lowest since 2015.

Average annual inflation for the two heaviest items in the consumer basket – housing, water and electricity, as well as food and non-alcoholic beverages – came in significantly lower than in 2017. Together, the average consumer spends nearly 45% of disposable income on these goods and services.

The average annual rates for transport, as well as alcohol and tobacco, however showed sizeable increases compared to 2017. Nearly 27% of disposable income is used for these products and services.

Food

Average annual food inflation, excluding non-alcoholic beverages, for 2018 was 3.3%, two percentage points down from 2017. It started off at 1.7% and increased gradually until it spiked to 4.9% in November. In December annual food inflation jumped to 5.4%.

Sub-categories which spent time in deflationary territory last year include bread and cereals, fish, milk, cheese and eggs, as well as sugar and sugary foods and mineral waters, soft drinks and juices.

For the year, fish inflation dropped the most – from an average of 15.4% in 2017 to 2.8%.

Annual inflation for staple foods such as bread and cereals, however, edged up from 0.5% in 2017 to 1.6%. Fruit and vegetables also didn't escape the price monster's claws. Average annual fruit inflation was 9.5% compared to 5.2% in 2017, while vegetables recorded a rate of 5.7% compared to 1.3%.

Housing

The huge drop of 5.7 percentage points in the average annual inflation rate for housing, water and electricity was on account of big relief in the figure for rent. With properties becoming more affordable to rent last year, the average annual inflation rate for this sub-category came in at 2.6%. In 2017, it was 9.8%.

The other sub-categories experienced relief too. The rate for electricity, gas and other fuels was 7.5% compared to 7.7% in 2017. Average annual inflation for municipal services for 2018 was 6.5%, down from 10.4% in 2017. The rate for regular maintenance and repairs of property came in at 3.1% compared to 6.5% in 2017.

Transport

Massive hikes in the fuel price and taxi fares last year drove average overall annual transport inflation up from 5.1% in 2017 to 8.9% in 2018.

The inflation rate for operation of personal transport equipment – which includes the fuel price – started off 2018 at 5.2%, moved into double-digit territory last July and peaked at 15.5% in October. By December it had slacked down to 10.5%, following decreases in the fuel price. The overall rate for 2018 was 10.1% compared to 6.5% the previous year.

An increase in taxi fares last August lead to the rate for public transport services spiking to 18% the following month. Inflation for this sub-category started 2018 at 1.5% and ended December at 18.2%. The average rate for 2018 was 7.2% compared to -0.2% in 2017.

Alcohol, tobacco

Drowning your economic sorrows came at a price last year. The average annual inflation rate for alcoholic drinks was 5.7%, up from 4.8% in 2017. Bacchus inflation started at 4.4% last January and brewed to end December at 6.1%.

Inflation for tobacco burned at a lower flame. The average rate for 2018 was 2.99%, down from 3.9% the previous year.

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Human-wildlife incidents rise to 8 000

January 16, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Chicken fight back in court

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Human-wildlife incidents rise to 8 000

A total of 8 067 human-wildlife conflict incidents were recorded in Namibia's conservancies during 2017.

These were recorded in 71 of the country's 83 conservancies and there are indications that the figure might be and underestimation of the situation on the ground.

Human-wildlife conflict has more than doubled since 2004, when a total of 2 936 incidents were recorded in only 31 conservancies.

In 2016 the figure stood at 6 331 incidents in 69 conservancies.

This information is contained in the 2017 State of Community Conservation in Namibia report.

According to the report the general increase in human-wildlife conflict is mostly due to the increase in the area covered by conservancies.

“However, livestock attacks increased considerably during 2017.”

In 2017 there were on average of 106 general attacks and 0.2 on people, per conservancy.

There were an average of 91.1 livestock attacks and 13.1 incidents of crop damage, per conservancy, in 2017.

In 2014, when 82 conservancies held audits, there were 7 774 incidents reported. This was the only year that more than 80 conservancies reported human-wildlife conflict incidents.

However, the highest number of incidents were reported were 9 228 in 2013, when 79 conservancies held audits.

The report indicated that in the Zambezi Region, animals that caused the most conflict in 2017 were elephants, with 380 incidents recorded, while 200 conflict incidents were caused by crocodiles and 180 by hyenas.

In the Erongo and Kunene Regions about 700 conflict incidents were recorded involving hyenas, 590 involving cheetah and 400 involving elephants.

The report said there were about 160 conflict incidents involving lions in the Kunene and Erongo regions, with 8% of these lions being killed.

“This demonstrates that lions are not so much killed for the damage they cause but because of the danger or perceived threat these species pose to farmers themselves.”

The report said incidents have increased due to the increase in wildlife populations and the shifting movement patterns of humans and wildlife, in response to drought.

“However, the average number of incidents per conservancy remains generally stable. Crop protection from raiders, especially elephants, remains a major problem in the northeast.”

ELLANIE SMIT

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Chicken fight back in court

January 16, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Fight to the death

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Chicken fight back in courtNamibia's industry protection deemed 'unfair' The South African poultry industry wants Namibia to lift restrictions on imports of frozen chicken.

An application by the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) to have restrictions on poultry imports into Namibia set aside returned to the Windhoek High Court yesterday.

SAPA, along with South African chicken producers Astral Foods Ltd, Supreme Poultry, Crown Chickens, Sovereign Foods, Afgri Poultry and Rainbow Farms, have brought the application against Namibia's trade minister.

The government, Namib Poultry Industries and the Meat Board are cited as the second, third and fourth respondents.

The matter is now back in the Windhoek High Court following a ruling by the Supreme Court that High Court Judge Shafimana Ueitele's dismissal of the application on 8 July 2016, without hearing the merits of the case, was wrong.

Ueitele had ruled that there had been an unreasonable delay in the launching of review proceedings. Then trade minister Calle Schlettwein had, in April 2013, limited imports of frozen chicken portion to 1 500 tonnes a month. The applicants launched their application for review on 17 April 2014, a year later.

The applicants then appealed to the Supreme Court.

In the January 2018 Supreme Court ruling, Judge Dave Smuts, along with acting judges Theo Frank and Yvonne Mokgoro, said Ueitele's finding that there had been unreasonable delay was correct.

But they added that he should have considered the merits of the case before deciding whether or not to condone the delay.

The Supreme Court made specific mention of the public interest in the case but would not entertain the merits of the matter. The judges ruled that they condoned the delay and directed that the matter return to the High Court to be heard.

Double standards

Interestingly, SAPA, as published in the South African Government Gazette on 30 November last year, has applied to the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) to increase the general rate of customs duty on bone-in chicken portions from 37% to 82%, and that of boneless chicken portions from 12% to 82%.

SAPA is effectively seeking a substantial hike in import tariffs to protect the South African poultry industry, while at the same time asking Namibian courts to set aside Namibia's 'procedurally unfair' import limitations. It alleges that the Namibian government has violated the Protocol to the SADC Agreement and also the SACU Agreement.

The entire Namibian poultry industry is equivalent to 2% of South Africa's poultry production.

Speaking to Business Live this week, South African Food and Allied Workers Union general secretary Katishi Masemola appealed to that government to grant the new tariff.

“Let South Africans produce the food that our people eat … SA chicken producers should be expanding and creating jobs, not the opposite. This is the biggest sector of the agricultural industry and tens of thousands of workers depend on chicken production for their livelihood, particularly in rural areas where unemployment is an epidemic,” he said.

Even Fairplay South Africa, an organisation that fights against predatory trade practices and dumping, supported the application.

Francois Baird, the founder of the organisation, told Business Live: “We have watched in dismay as a highly competitive local industry has been reduced to an existential crisis by years of steadily increasing imports of chicken portions dumped below the cost of production.

“Higher tariffs will help protect the industry and the thousands of jobs which are at risk because of these opportunistic imports that have been steadily rising to the point where imports now claim between a quarter and a third of the SA market.”

Business Live reports that the Brazilian Association of Animal Protein warned of dire consequences for SA consumers and the economy, should the application for higher import tariffs be granted.

It said the argument that SA, as a “globally efficient producer of chicken” faces profit challenges and job losses due to imports of frozen chicken “does not sustain itself”.

It stated that bird flu outbreaks since 2017 are the main reason why the poultry industry in South Africa is facing challenges.

In court yesterday before Judge Harold Geier, the parties discussed the structure of the matter. At the heart of the issue heard was whether an interlocutory application brought by the defendants to file another, supplementary affidavit would be heard separately or concurrently with the main application.

YANNA SMITH

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Fight to the death

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: African humbled to play Tigers

≪ Previous: Chicken fight back in court

Fight to the deathLast chance saloon for Stars African Stars are desperate to snatch a win against Raja Casablanca in Morocco on Sunday, so they can advance to the group stages of the massively lucrative 2018/19 CAF Confederations Cup.

African Stars, who left the country on Wednesday, face a do-or-die tussle against Raja Casablanca in Morocco on Sunday in the second leg of their CAF Confederations Cup preliminary.

Stars, who were initially vying for a place in the CAF Champions League narrowly bent the knee to Soweto Giants Orlando Pirates over two legs, and were placed in the Confederations Cup preliminary round, where they were forced to do battle with Raja Casablanca, who are the defending champions.

The two teams played to a 1-1 draw at the Sam Nujoma Stadium last Saturday during their first-leg clash, and Stars at least now have a taste of how the Moroccans play.

The display by the Namibian team, who are the current premier league and Debmarine Namibia Cup holders, has convinced fans that they have a chance of beating Raja Casablanca them on their own turf, while raising the Namibian flag high.

The teams who progress into the group phase of the Confederations Cup are guaranteed at least US$275 000 each, which would be a massive boost for Stars plans to turn fully professional.

Jackie Gertze from the Namibia Football Association (NFA) Women's Desk sent the team a message on social media.

“All the best to African Stars,” she wrote.

Another supporter Hälbigh Villa wrote: “Good luck boys, keep the Namibian flag high.”

Another fan, Johny Tokaa Halinge, also urged the team to make the nation proud. Ebson Tjipetekera wrote: “We are behind you, all the best in Northern Africa.”

Rau Keimuine-Mbaisa predicted on social media that Stars will beat their opponents 3-1.

Giving the media an update on his team's readiness on Tuesday, Bobby Samaria said as coach he would like to win every game and this is the message he is conveying to his players. “I think we did exceptionally well against all odds because no one gave us a chance due to our opponent's pedigree, but we believe pedigree is one thing and playing the actual game is another. What we brought to this game was passion, hard work and a chip on the shoulder and our strategy worked,” he said.

Samaria went on to say that drawing against one of the biggest clubs on the continent is a huge achievement for his players.

“It is not every day you get to play the likes of Raja Casablanca, but we managed. Our football is undermined and taking into account the resources at our disposal we are obviously the underdogs,” he said.

Stars executive director Salomo Hei said recently signed forward Youssouf Ibrahim has not yet had his paperwork cleared, so he is still not available to play.

However, he is part of the squad that travelled to Morocco.

The match will kick off at 18:00.

The African Stars squad is as follows: Ratanda Mbazuvara, Vipua Tjimune, Pat-Nevin Uanivi, Ivan Kamberipa, Dennis Tjetjinda, Engelhardt Kahua, Treasure Kauapirura, Ronald Ketjijere (captain), Alfeus Handura, Aubry Amseb, Tapiwa Musekiwa, Godwin Jena, Image Isaak, Youssouf Ibrahim, Mario Kotze, Chrispen Mbewe and Panduleni Nekundi.

- Additional info nampa

LIMBA MUPETAMI

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African humbled to play Tigers

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: NFA saga: Uutoni calls for calm

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African humbled to play TigersBattle to stay afloat continues in the NPL One of Namibia's most astute coaches, Maleagi 'Mali' Ngarizemo of Young African, says they are heading into tonight's match against Tigers knowing that they are facing tough competition.

Local clubs Tigers and Young African will face-off today in the 2018/19 MTC Namibia Premier League (NPL) at the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Windhoek at 20:00.

“Tigers are a big club. We are not heading into the match to teach them lessons but just to give a great account of ourselves. Last season they beat us both home away and I don't think that will change.

“We haven't played a match since the year started but we want to hopefully snatch a point,” Young African mentor Maleagi 'Mali' Ngarizemo said.

Ngarizemo said further they have played five consecutive matches away from home and are looking forward to a home game, in order to garner support from their fans.

“We are pushing and have trained hard for the match and to have more than 20 points,” he said.

Mervin Mbakera, who was roped in last September as Tigers' caretaker coach, also has a humble approach to tonight's match.

“It is always important to respect your opponents. African beat log leaders Black Africa sometime back, so we have to be careful, avoid mistakes and be focused.

“Everyone is on par with what is expected of them. Each player is working hard to achieve our goal of reaching the top of the summit,” Mbakera said.

He added they are not happy with their current position on the log.

Tigers are currently in seventh place.

“Our position is not conducive, hence the fact that we are working hard and approaching each match as if it's our last.

“We are trying not to get overwhelmed and will manage the situation we are in,” Mbakera said.

The two clubs are both fighting to reach the upper-echelons of premier league, which is currently led by Black Africa, followed by Mighty Gunners.

In Wednesday's NPL match Eleven Arrows beat Blue Waters 2-1 in a coastal derby at the Kuisebmond Stadium. Tura Magic were scheduled to play log leaders Black Africa last night at the Sam Nujoma Stadium.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

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NFA saga: Uutoni calls for calm

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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NFA saga: Uutoni calls for calm

Sports minister Erastus Uutoni has repeated his call for calm after the names of people purportedly selected for the Namibia Football Association (NFA) normalisation committee were published.

The names published by the NBC's Sports Desk are Sebastian Kamungu, Vivienne Katjiuongua and Gaby Ahrens.

Kamungu, a businessman, was the NFA's secretary-general after independence.

Katjiuongua, a lawyer by profession, is the former chairperson of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and a former president of Netball Namibia.

Ahrens is the current athletes' representative on the Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) and is a former Olympic clay shooter.

The three - if they pass Fifa's eligibility check - will act as an electoral committee. None of them will be eligible for any of the positions during NFA elections.

When contacted for comment, the rumoured committee members did not divulge any information regarding their alleged appointments.

On Wednesday, Uutoni said as far as he is concerned the normalisation committee's members will be revealed by the Fifa delegation, which is due back in the country shortly.

“Like I said at a press conference last week, the normalisation committee will be named by Fifa. As for the names you just mentioned, I do not know anything about that,” Uutoni said.

He said speculation could jeopardise the process of selecting individuals to run the normalisation committee, saying the names will be made public as soon as all the processes have been completed by Fifa.

The normalisation committee is expected to run the day-to-day affairs of the NFA until a new executive committee is elected. -Additional info by NBC

NAMPA

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Omalimbililo kombinga yomuloka

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Iikolokosha pokati kaantu niiyamakuti ya londo pombanda

≪ Previous: NFA saga: Uutoni calls for calm

Omalimbililo kombinga yomuloka Natango oshigwana oshi li momalimbilio ngele onkalo yombepo ya kukuta otayi tsikile moshikakomvula shika moNamibia, naatseyinawa oya kunkilile aanafaalama opo ya kale yiilongekidhila onkalo ya dhigupala noonkondo.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Aanafaalama ya kunkililwa

Nonando otaku tengenekwa ngaa uuta womvula tawu dhenge pevi muule woshiwike shoka twa taalela, okwa kunkililwa kutya onkalo yomvula itayi ka kala onene nokuhupitha aanamapya oshowo iimuna.

Olopota ya pitithwa kuJohan van den Berg, omuteyinawa gwonkalo yombepo moSantam Crop Insurance moSouth Africa, oya holola kutya onkalo yombepo ya kukuta kwaahena omuloka oyi li pombanda ihe ha mo South Afrika owala ihe nomoNamibia woo.

MuJanuari, oshifokundneki shoNamibian Sun osha Ii sha lopota kombinga yomapopyo gavan den Berg, sho a kunkilile aanafaalama opo kaya kale nomukumo gwomvula ihe naya kale woo yii longekidhila onkalo yoshikukuta ya dhigupala.

Olopota kombinga yonkalo ndjoka ya pitithwa momasiku 11 gaJanuari oya holola kutya oshikakomvula shonuumvo oshimwe tashi ka kala oshidhigu noonkondo ngele tashi ya komuloka, nonando pokati komasiku 15 sigo 23 gomwedhi nguka ota mu ka lokwa omata omashona. Aanamapya oshowo aaniimuna naya kale yiilongekidhla onkalo ndjoka, na iya kala unene ye na omukumo gwomulonga.

Omatengeneko ngoka taga ningwa okwa hololwa kutya otashi vulika Januari ngoka a hupako oshowo Februali ya ka lokwe noopresenda 70 ihe onkalo yombepo ya kukuta moshikako sha hugunina, otayi ka etitha oshikukuta sho El Niño.

Onkalo ontiyali yomatengeneko ngoka pahapu dha van den Berg, ope na ompito yoopresenda 30 opo onkalo yoEl Niño kayi kale unene ya dhigupala, naashoka otashi holola omuloka omuwanawa moshikako shoka sha hupako.

Olopota ye oya tsikile kutya oshitopolwa shuumbugantu woshilongo otashi yelekwa noshitopolwa shaNorthern Cape moSouth Afrika mbyoka ya taalela onkalo ondhigu, omolwa omuloka ngoka itagu loko miitopolwa mbyoka.

Olopota yonkalo yombepo ndjoka ya pitithwa esiku lya faathana koHydrological Services Namibia oya holola kutya ondjele yomeya miitopolwa yomonooli yoshilongo ngaashi momilonga ngaashi gwa Zambezi, Okavango oshowo Kunene oya kala tayi londo pombanda omolwa omuloka ngoka gwa dhenge pevi uule womasiku ngoka ga piti ihe omilonga dhomuumbugantu, ondjele yomeya oyi li pevi noonkondo kwa tumbulwa omulonga omushona gwaOrange.

Ondjele yomeya moondama dhomoshilongo nayo otayi limbililike sho kwa lopotwa kutya Ondama yaSwakoppoort oyi li poopresenda 22.2, okuyeleka noopresenda 40.5, mpoka ya li omvula ya piti.

Von Bach moasiku 14 gaJanuari okwa li poopresenda 51.3, okuyeleka noopresenda 52.1, mpoka a li oshiwike shimwe sha piti, oshowo poopresenda 58.3 mpoka a li omvula yimwe ya piti.

Ondama yaHardap oyi li poopresenda 33.3, omanga omvula ya piti pethimbo lya faathana ya li poopresenda 34.2.

Ondjele yomeya mOndama yaNaute oyili pooresenda 64.6 omanga omvula ya piti ya li poopresenda 65.5.

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Iikolokosha pokati kaantu niiyamakuti ya londo pombanda

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Telecom's week of woes

≪ Previous: Omalimbililo kombinga yomuloka

Iikolokosha pokati kaantu niiyamakuti ya londo pombanda

ELLANIE SMIT

Iipotha yiikolokosha pokati kaantu niiyamakuti ya thika po 8 067 oya lopotwa moNamibia momvula yo 2017.

Iipotha mbyoka oya lopotwa momahala ga gamenwa ge li po 71 momusholondondo gwomahala ngoka ga gamenwa ge li po 83 moshilongo.

Iikolokosha mbyoka oya londo pombanda okuza momvula yo 2004, sho kwa li kwa lopotwa iipotha yi li 2 936, mbyoka ya li ya lopotwa momahala ge li 31.

Momvula yo 2016, omwaalu ngoka ogwa thikama piipotha 6 331, momahala ge li po 69.

Uuyelele mboka owu li molopota tayi ithanwa 2017 State of Community Conservation in Namibia report.

Palopota ndjoka, ondjele yiikolokosha mbyoka otayi londo pombanda omolwa uunene womahala ngoka ga gamenwa ngashiingeyi.

Kombinga yiimuna tayi ponokelwa kiiyamakuti, olopota oya holola e yo pombanda noonkondo, sho momvula yo 2017 kwa lopotwa omaponokelo geli 106.

Iimuna yi li pondjele yo 91.1 oya ponokelwa oshowo ondjele yo 13.1 yomapya ga yonagulwa kiiyamakuti, momvula yo 2017.

Momvula yo 2004 sho kwa ningwa omakonaakono, okwa lopotwa iipotha 7 774, momahala ge li 82.

Omwaalu guli pombanda gwiipotha gwa lopotwa ogwa li po 9 228 momvula yo 2013 moka mwa ningilwa omakonaakono omahala ge li po 79.

Moshitopolwa shaZambezi, iiyamakuti mbyoka ya etitha iikolokosha oyindji momvula yo 2017 oondjamba, omanga miipotha 380 mbyoka ya lopotwa, iikolokosha yi li po 200 oya etitha koongandu, omanga iikolokosha 180 oya etitha kuuyandje.

Moshitopolwa shErongo oshowo Kunene omwa lopotwa iikolokosha, moka uuyandje wuli 700 wa kutha ombinga, oongwe about 590, omanga oondjamba kwa lopotwa dhi li po 400.

Olopota oya tsikie kutya iikolokosha 160 oya kwatelamo oonkoshi moKunene nErongo noopresenda 8 dhoonkoshi ndhoka odha dhipagwa.

Okwa hololwa kutya oonkoshi ihadhi dhipagwa unene omolwa eyonagulo ndyoka hadhi ningi ihe omolwa uumbanda omolwa oomwenyo dhaanafaalama pamwe nodhiimuna yawo ndhoka hadhi kala moshiponga, okuza kiilikama mbyoka.

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Telecom's week of woes

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: SOEs move towards compliance

≪ Previous: Iikolokosha pokati kaantu niiyamakuti ya londo pombanda

Telecom's week of woesCable thieves crash phone network Thousands of Telecom Namibia customers were left without connectivity this week.

Telecom Namibia clients were left without services on two occasions this week - first when its switching trunk in Windhoek for voice telephony partially failed and then cable theft also affected its services.

Close to 1 000 Telecom customers were left without telecommunication services on Tuesday night after cable theft in the John Pandeni (Soweto) and Katutura East constituencies.

According Telecom spokesperson Oiva Angula, at least 912 business and residential customers were affected by the breakdown between Kallie Roodt Street in the Northern Industrial Area, Rensburger Street in the Lafrenz Industrial Area and Penning Street in Soweto.

“Technicians are working around the clock to restore services after a gang of cable thieves cut and removed several main cables Wednesday evening, damaging two 800-pair cables, a 1 600-pair cable and another 1 200-pair cable in the process.”

Angula said initial investigations revealed that the cable thieves had broken into a manhole on the western cable run adjacent to Monte Christo Road by cutting the lock with a hacksaw.

He said a similar attempt was observed at an adjacent manhole, although no access was gained.

“Copper and optic-fibre cables were then cut in the manhole and pieces of copper cable stolen. The optic-fibre cables affected are the 48-core linking Northern Industrial and Wanaheda and the 48-core linking Northern Industrial and Katutura.”

He said repairs have started on the first 48-core cable. A contractor has been assigned to haul in approximately 200 metres of optic-fibre cable, after which splicing will start.

Angula added that the theft of Telecom copper cables is a serious problem affecting business operations, and thieves usually find willing scrap buyers for the copper.

“We appeal to Namibians in this area and other parts of the country to be on high alert and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station.”

Telecom's switching trunk in Windhoek for voice services partially failed on Tuesday morning, leading to a number of complaints from customers across the country who were unable to make calls to the city.

Windhoek-based fixed-line customers were also unable to call mobile numbers or receive calls from South Africa and other international destinations.

Angula told Namibian Sun that these services were restored on Tuesday.

“Following accelerated restoration efforts implemented by the company, Telecom Namibia's fixed-line voice services to and from Windhoek were finally restored. In other words, both fixed and mobile voice customers can make calls to and from 061 [area code]. International calls are also going through now,” said Angula.

He added that problems were still being experienced with Telecom's Customer Contact Centre (CCC) system.

According to him the CCC system problem is part of the switching net failure that occurred on Tuesday.

“The engineers are still working on the CCC system problem. In the meantime, to ensure customers can reach us, we have opened an additional switchboard to assist with the high number of calls received.

“Switchboard agents are transferring all customer calls to mobile phones that have been set up. In addition, we have posted alternative TN Mobile numbers on social media that customers can call.”

Angula said technicians had identified the cause of the failure as a faulty power module.

“We build our network infrastructure with robustness in mind. However, with technology failures do happen from time to time. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this network failure may have caused. We also would like to thank our customers for their patience and understanding.”

ELLANIE SMIT

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SOEs move towards compliance

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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SOEs move towards compliance

Public enterprises minister Leon Jooste says parastatals are responding positively to his appeal for them to publish their financial results.

Parastatals are now catching up with their backlog in terms of publishing their financial results, he says.

Jooste last year urged state-owned enterprises to table their results for scrutiny.

“Various state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have responded positively and they are catching up with the backlog. When the new Act [Public Enterprises Governance Bill] comes into effect, we will enter into new performance agreements with boards and CEOs where compliance items will be specified and failure to achieve targets may then lead to dismissal.”

As at December 2017, 27% of Namibia's SOEs had complied with the requirement for audited financial results, 20% had a governance agreement, 25% had performance agreements and 48% had business plans.

Jooste revealed last February that the government had paid commercial SOEs subsidies of N$868 million and given loan guarantees of N$4.9 billion.

Financial SOEs had received subsidies of N$60 million and guarantees of N$3.6 billion, whereas non-commercial SOEs had received N$2.5 billion in subsidies and government guarantees of N$322.5 million.

Namibia currently has over 300 public enterprises, of which 71 are listed as public enterprises. Of these 71 entities, 38 have the potential to be classified as non-commercial, 22 as commercial and 11 as financial institutions.

OGONE TLHAGE

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In case you missed it

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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In case you missed it

June Shimuoshili

Kedezemba came and went so fast, leaving most of us broke from all the plans that were made. A lot of things happened in terms of entertainment too that cannot go without notice, which include Instagram catfight between Blossom and Meriam Kaxuxwena, just to mention a few. Here are some of the details.

Young Wild and Free

Whether you were in Namibia, South Africa or China, you were sure to hear Young Wild and Free by Sunny Boy. The Hikwa artist is known for producing massive summer hits, with previous works including Balance and Summer Time.

Shining bright like a diamond

Although she didn’t bring the crown home, Selma Kamanya, during the Miss Universe pageant, was able to bring unity among the Namibian nation. Selma represented the land of the brave with her national costume in the form of a diamond illuminating the country and showing its diversity.

New host: Who that?

Racy personality Raiza Kweyo slayed the NBC New Year’s bash stage as a very new in the game host. Being given the responsibility to host a live show, while having an audience, is not an easy job, but she killed it. We hope to see more of her at events such as the NAMAs. Kweyo hosted the event alongside Katrina Andreas and both were dripping in Concept Wear.

World Miss University ambassador of peace

Recently crowned Miss Diamond Namibia 2018/19 Ester Shifotoka had a busy, snowy and eventful December. The local model took part in the World Miss University in Seoul, South Korea. Despite being a week late, the model still managed to walk away with titles and a whole lot of experience.

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Oteya and Friends back

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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Oteya and Friends backBigger and better at Chopsi's There has been a cry from fans to have the show back, which brings positive change and aims to unify the industry.

June Shimuoshili

Back by popular demand, Oteya and Friends Wednesday party night at local hotspot Chopsi’s is back, and this time it’s bigger and better.

The initiative was introduced last year to promote local music and artists, with Oteya over a three-month period having different artists every Wednesday night to perform.

It was one of the first of its kind for a top local artist and was establishment to promote Namibian music through live performances.

“This was received well by the local supporters and partners, including fans,” said Kalistu Mukoroli of Alvaro Media, Oteya’s brand agency.

This year Oteya and friends kicked off last Wednesday with singer Nashawn and Ginger Beer as the friends for the night.

This past Wednesday the friend that shared the stage with Oteya was Tulisan.

The gigs will go on until around 9 April with jam-packed performances and surprises throughout.

Mukoroli said this year they are going about things differently and want to include artists from all genres, whether they are new in the industry or not.

“Yes, we calling for artists to approach us. It’s about the music and talent, there is no restriction at all. We have a committee that sits down and has a look at it. The change is to include more diverse clients and upcoming artists as well. This initiative is to promote Namibian music and artists,” he said.

Any artist that is interested to be part of the Oteya and Friends initiative should approach her management team to be considered and any brand or possible partner that would want to come on board is welcome to approach the team.

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Hot collaboration

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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Hot collaborationChikune talks about Pieces, the remix Where there is a will there is certainly a way and Chikune reminds us how it's done.

Female artist of the year 2016, Chikune, has been working hard lately and has finally opens up about her Pieces music video.

The video, which is doing so great on YouTube and other social mediums, features Tanzanian artist Bosso.

The singer says she managed to bag the collaboration through opportunities that presented themselves late last year when Diamond Platinumz came to Namibia for The Dogg's final concert.

“I kept quiet about this collaboration because I was uncertain of how it was going to turn out. I needed things to be in place before I could say anything about it. I met Diamond and I played him the song and he offered to have one of his artists under his record label WCB Wasafi be on it,” said Chikune.

The singer says the whole journey was transformational - from learning Kiswahili which she sang in and catching a glimpse of the Tanzanian music industry.

Chikune was in Tanzania for a week and she said the biggest takeaway from her trip is how hungry the artists are that side and the power of a united industry.

“The song was recorded a while ago and the idea with the team I had back then was to branch out. I pulled off the accent and everything and it's amazing. I saw a different world when I was in Tanzania. We are sleeping when it comes to how we are in the industry, in terms of professionalism and the fact that we don't take our arts seriously. We must look at this as a way to better ourselves and not as an insult,” Chikune said.

The singer said she is considering making music for the African market, but wants to find her footing at home first before branching out officially.

“Fitting into the Namibian music industry is tough because my style of music is not well-accepted that's why I want to dive into the east African music,” she said.

Besides the Pieces music video, Chikune has been performing and marketing her latest album, which has kept her busy. She also revealed she has been working with a local artist on a project and the details will soon follow.

“I won't release an album, but an extended project rather. This is just to find myself once again and also give my fans something. They have been very supportive and I appreciate the love since the beginning of the journey,” she added.

June Shimuoshili

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'Masterclasses' for filmmakers, producers

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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'Masterclasses' for filmmakers, producers

MultiChoice has launched the Best In Class workshops with the aim of upskilling industry filmmakers and producers to produce higher quality African stories.

MultiChoice Africa, under its flagship the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) programme, will roll out the highly-anticipated MTF Masterclasses powered by various industry partners.

The MTF Masterclasses will present the industry with workshops to increase MTF's upskilling outreach to established film and TV industry professionals. The Masterclasses are aimed at developing technical skills of established creatives in cinematography, audio and storytelling, in order to improve the quality of local productions, and will be rolled out in various countries.

The inaugural workshop next month will be open to invited members of the film and TV industry from around the continent who aspire to take their craft to the next level. They will be workshopped over the course of two days.

The workshop will be led by well-respected subject matter experts, including South African director and producer Bobby Heaney, reputable sound consultant from Dolby India, Vikram Joglekar, pan-African storytelling and creative consultant Allison Triegaardt, award-winning Kenyan film producer Appie Matere and Jonathan Kovel, the cinematographer behind the award-winning South African film Ayanda.

“We are excited about the launch of this next touchpoint of MTF as it reaffirms our commitment to supporting the industry and promoting sustainability in the industry by creating shared value across the business through quality programming for our customers and Enriching Lives,” said Roger Gertze of MultiChoice.

The first scheduled MTF Masterclasses will be rolled out from 7 to 8 February in Namibia with Allison Triegaardt on Storytelling. The MTF Masterclasses will be presented with the support from Dolby Laboratories and FOX Portugal, which both play a crucial role in priming the MTF Academy students as key players in the growth and sustainability Africa's creative film and television industry.

“The success of these MTF Masterclasses will, over time, deliver a more professionalised, networked film and television industry across Africa and an expanded community of highly-skilled professionals who are passionate about creating quality home-grown content,” said Gertze.

Interested creative professionals who are eager to upskill their craft should email a short bio of themselves with their contact details to Levana.Cloete@na.multichoice.com

“We will be in touch should you make the list to be part of the MTF Masterclasses coming to your country soon. We are in search for 20 participants who should be established film producers and directors who have been in the industry for a skills transfer opportunity to be part of the amazing workshop,” said Cloete, who is MultiChoice's corporate affairs manager.

June Shimuoshili

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More vuma for Gqom Nation

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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More vuma for Gqom Nation

Busiswa has joined forces with Ntando Duma for the 2019 sequel Of Gqom Nation.

MTV Base (DStv 322) has launched into the New Year with its continued commitment of bringing audiences content productions that resonate strongly with viewers, by announcing the sequel of the riveting television show Gqom Nation. The sequel features Banomoya crooner Busiswa as co-host of the epic music and dance show, working alongside Ntando Duma – who has been with the series since it launched in 2017. Filmed in KwaZulu-Natal where the genre initially exploded, the latest season of Gqom Nation will premiere on MTV Base (DStv 322) next Friday at 18:00.

Produced by The Visual Content Gang, on its debut season the show set tongues wagging for showcasing the captivating music genre with skilled dancers whose electrifying moves synced with the beats created by underground originators and newly famous DJs featured in each episode. For the new season, the production team has collaborated with MTV Base and opened up the industry by holding auditions in 2018 for potential dancers from across KwaZulu-Natal communities in the hopes of unearthing fresh, undiscovered dancers.

From these auditions, 78 talented dancers were handpicked to form 10 different groups, namely ADM, The Champions, Versalites, 031 Movement, Bay Rockers, Team Wassha, All-Stars, D Mob, Ghetto Latinos and Rebels, who are all featured in the show.

“Gqom Nation is one of the first shows that is specifically broadcasting Gqom culture to audiences since its growth, and this genre is certainly taking over the world. I am ecstatic to be a part of this evolution,” said Busiswa.

Staff Reporter

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There is nothing incurable

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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There is nothing incurable

The successes of Bruno Gröning's teachings are so impressive that doctors and other professionals from healing professions in several countries have been interested in examining them thoroughly and using them for their own work.

Gröning, from Germany, lived from 1906 to 1959 and was considered the first healer of modern times.

He developed a doctrine that enables people to maintain and regain their health by learning to receive and pass on the natural life force to themselves and loved ones. Even today, many decades after Gröning's death, his teachings help many people worldwide to maintain their health and physical and psychological wellbeing. A violinist who lives in Swakopmund received a cure a few years ago. The professional musician had not been able to practise his profession as a violinist for years because of a painful osteoarthritis in his little finger. He attended a lecture and experienced his healing in a short time. Now, at an advanced age, he is able to play his beloved violin again and give violin lessons.

Lectures on this natural path to health, given by Austrian, Mr Manninger, will be held in Windhoek on 20 and 25 January in Khomasdal community hall, as well as the Karibib community hall on 21 and 24 January. Admission is free, but a donation is requested. For more information, visit www.bruno-groening.org.

Staff Reporter

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ML relives history

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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ML relives historyVisual representation of the Cassinga massacre Maria Immanual, also known as ML speaks about her latest single, which is a special tribute to her aunt, who inspired it.

There are numerous publications and depictions of Namibian history, encompassing a rich and dynamic narrative of the liberation struggle and at the same time commemorating the heroes and heroines of this great land.

Music has the ability to transcend storytelling and add a visual element; it is in fact a great medium for picture and sound.

A challenge faced by many contemporary artists today is capturing a historic occurrence and delivering it in an honorary yet relatable manner. ML's The Diplomat album was inspired by the tale of Cassinga as told to her by her aunt, who survived the massacre, prompting her to write and record the tribute song Cassinga.

“The past is an integral part of the definition of who we are as people of today. I really wanted to express my gratitude for those who sacrificed their lives for the liberties we experience today,” ML said.

ML said she recalls her aunt taking her to a Cassinga commemoration event where she met other survivors.

“My aunt was only 13 years old and she was shot in her leg and she lives with this memory every day. I met other survivors who have lost limbs etc. and others who live with the trauma of the event. It seems so unreal until you hear it from those who survived it,” she said.

Growing up in an independent Namibia, the singer says that people sometimes take for granted the reality of the liberation struggle, which was literally just 29 years ago. She said it is important that young people know who decided to take their country back, by sacrificing their own lives.

“At least I now have the opportunity to tell their stories through my music, so the young generation and the ones to come can relate to that defining piece of our history through music. The survivors are our living heroes and that is why I decided to dedicate a song to them while they are still alive,” she said.

The Cassinga music video takes the audience on a three-scene recount journey - the fateful day of the attack, a survivor's perspective and thirdly ML's artistic interpretation, making it relatable to different demographics.

ML was intentional in terms of the cinematic treatment of the video - from the locations and outfits to the mood she wanted to evoke within the viewer.

“Investing in a music video can be expensive but it's a great symbol of your work and a visual manifestation of your growth. Working with a team that understood my brand and the vision for this song was key for me. It was a group effort and each one - from the cinematographer to the child actor - everyone knew their tasks and how they fit in.”

ML broke into the Namibian music scene in 2012 with the single Mem'kwetu Kushiinge. She surprised many with her unique hip-hop kwaito sound and rhythmic Oshiwambo lyrics.

Cassinga is available on all her social mediums and YouTube channel. ML has hinted that 2019 will be there year where Namibians and music lovers alike are sure to experience her musicality like never before.

June Shimuoshili

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Nikola to open showroom

January 17, 2019, 2:00 pm

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Nikola to open showroomExciting project to kickstart the year The fashion designer talks about her latest project and taking part in this year's Windhoek Fashion Week.

The year 2019 is opening many doors for Nikola Conradie, including having her very own showroom.

The fashion designer, who has made a household name for her brand, will open her showroom to the public on 28 January. Conradie says opening the showroom is the logical next step for her career and she is excited about her new journey. She wants to make her clients more comfortable and also showcase her collections.

“Imagine it as a walk-in closet. All the consultations and fittings will be done from here. It's a bit of everything, especially for a lady. It is literally the next best thing for me,” she said.

Conradie, who had a home studio, has been in the industry since 2012 and says growth is one aspect she has seen since she started.

“You start thinking about how to go about fashion, especially in a country like Namibia where fashion is still a growing industry compared to other countries. You need to find out how you need to grow financially, so you can make fashion your main source of income,” she said.

Conradie has been working with corporates a lot lately. She said she still needs to show her creativity and this is one of the reasons for opening a showroom. Another reason includes her giving other designers space in her showroom to showcase their work.

“Corporates are very good in terms of finance, but I also want to get back into creative fashion and start designing fashion garments. It's all about balancing the two. So I will make designs that people are more than free to come and look at any time in the showroom. This should show all designers that it's possible for us to have our own retail shops if we work together,” said Conradie.

The fashion designer has a lot lined up this year, including taking part in Windhoek Fashion Week.

“I definitely want to be more out there this year and I'm looking forward to being out there. I need to be in that creative mindset to balance both corporate and fashion,” she added.

The showroom is located at Freedom Plaza unit 3 in Rev. Michael Scott Street

June Shimuoshili

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