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Athletes question reward policy

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Athletes question reward policyAthletes question reward policySport’s money issues again flared up yesterday, with Namibia’s Paralympic athletes determined to know what is in store for them should they achieve success. Grievances heard by sport directorate Sport’s money issues again flared up yesterday, with Namibia’s Paralympic athletes determined to know what is in store for them should they achieve success. Namibia’s Paralympic athletes are demanding to know how they will be rewarded if they achieve success at the Rio Paralympic Games, which start on 7 September.
According to various reports members of the team yesterday went to the Directorate of Sport offices, having refused to train during their morning session.
Namibian Paralympic Committee (NPC) secretary-general Michael Hamukwaya confirmed that the athletes were at the Directorate of Sport offices.
“I understand that most of their grievances were noted and they’ll have a meeting with the permanent secretary [today],” he told Namibian Sun.
Asked whether it would not be more appropriate for the minister of sport or his deputy to hold the meeting with the athletes, Hamukwaya said getting an audience with the permanent secretary was a start, seeing that the NPC was not even aware of the athletes’ intentions.
“It came as a surprise to us as the board but at least talking to the permanent secretary will give the athletes the chance to talk and we’ll be able to take it from there,” he said before mentioning that the biggest issue for the athletes is the government’s reward policy.
It is not clear if the government has a reward policy in place for elite athletes. Over the years controversy has always reigned when an athlete achieved international success.
A case in point involved one of Namibia’s Paralympic stars. There was an uproar when Johanna Benson won a gold medal at the 2012 Paralympic Games, with the government’s subsequent decision to give her a house in Walvis Bay and name a street after her, drawing stinging criticism from other athletes who had excelled in the past.
Another storm erupted last year after Ruben Gowaseb claimed a gold medal in the half-marathon at the Special Olympics held in Los Angeles.
His family felt he was not afforded the same treatment as other athletes.
In the end, he was appeased after being crowned Sport Achiever of the Year and Disability Sportsman of the Year. The government promised to reward Gowaseb but it remains unclear if he has received the promised reward.
The sport ministry was similarly caught by surprise when Namibia’s Brave Warriors won the 2015 Cosafa Cup, resulting in a hastily arranged promise of reward.
The ministry, and by extension the government, now has a chance to avert possible confusion after the Rio Paralympic Games by discussing the athletes’ grievances at today’s meeting.

HECTOR MAWONGA

//Goa!Hoab festival heads to Mariental

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//Goa!Hoab festival heads to Mariental//Goa!Hoab festival heads to Mariental Mariental will be a hive of activity this long weekend as the annual //Goa!Hoab sport festival is held there.
Activities will kick off today with the opening ceremony and a gospel show.
Tomorrow, the football and netball tournaments will start.
The popular event has attracted 37 football teams while 19 sides will compete in the netball tournament.
Traditionally the event is geared to players over 40 years but there will be a category for footballers over 50 this year. The netball will stick to the over-40 age group.
Prize money for the 50+ tourney will see the winners walking away with N$5 000, the runners-up N$2 500 and the semi-final losers N$1 750.
The 40+ football winners will walk away with N$20 000, while the runners-up will receive N$10 000 and the semi-final losers N$5 000. The losing quarter-finalists will get N$2500 each.
The netball winners will receive N$10 000 with the second-placed team receiving N$5 000 and the losing semi-finalists N$2 500.
Other activities during the festival will include a mixed-genre music concert tomorrow and another one on Saturday that will focus on Ma/gaisa and Langarm music.
Entrance for today will be free of charge while the other days will cost N$30 for adults and N$10 for children. The tickets will include entry to the music concerts.
//Goa!Hoab Sport Committee chairperson Ivan Pietersen urged all teams to ensure that they arrive safely.
“Let us drive safely and when we get here, let us abide by the law. We do not want any criminal activity,” he pleaded.

HECTOR MAWONGA

Amateurs to fight in Omusati

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Amateurs to fight in OmusatiAmateurs to fight in OmusatiGetting on par with the rest of Namibia is on the mind of amateur boxing administrators from the Omusati Region. Third tournament to be held in region Getting on par with the rest of Namibia is on the mind of amateur boxing administrators from the Omusati Region. The Omusati Boxing Amateur Federation (OBAF) will host a tournament featuring fighters from four regions on Saturday.
In addition to the hosts, boxers from Oshana, Oshikoto and Ohangwena will slug it out as part of the Olufuko celebrations at Outapi.
According to the OBAF chairperson, Immanuel Hamukwaya, the tournament was organised after they were invited by the Outapi Town Council.
He said they plan to host at least 40 bouts, which will include sparring by Namibia’s national amateurs selected at a tournament in Eenhana.
“The national boxers, who will face Angola in December, are in camp and we will give them the chance to spar against some of our boxers here,” Hamukwaya said.
This will be the third event hosted by OBAF after it was established in January this year.
“We are quite young as a body and all we are trying to do is to put our region on standard like the rest. We have a lot of professional fighters like Immanuel ‘Prince’ Naidjala, Jeremiah ‘No Respect’ Nakathila and Joseph ‘Smokey’ Hilongwa who are from Omusati.
So we’d like to add to that number,” Hamukwaya stated.

HECTOR MAWONGA

Conte preaches killer instinct

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Conte preaches killer instinctConte preaches killer instinctThe Italian mentor has called on his team to be better at seeing off their rivals. Urges Chelsea to be better at killing off games The Italian mentor has called on his team to be better at seeing off their rivals. Chelsea must develop a ruthless mentality to kill games and not invite pressure from their opposition, manager Antonio Conte has said after his side endured a tense finale in their 3-2 League Cup win against third-tier Bristol Rovers.
Two goals from Michy Batshuayi handed Chelsea a 3-1 lead at the interval but Ellis Harrison's penalty early in the second half for Rovers ensured a nervous finish to the second-round game for the Premier League side.
"We must understand when you have the people to kill the game you must," Conte told the British media.
"When you leave it open, a situation like tonight can happen and until the game has finished you are afraid (of a draw)."
England manager Sam Allardyce recently said he would be open to hold talks with John Terry over a possible return to international football, and Conte said it would not be right for him to interfere in the situation.
"I'm a former international team coach so I know this situation and prefer it to be solved between Sam Allardyce and John Terry," the former Italy manager added. "That's the right way.
"John Terry has a great attitude during training and is working very hard. I'm very happy with his commitment.
"But for the international team, it is important for it to be solved between Sam Allardyce and John Terry."
Results elsewhere in the League Cup saw Liverpool romping to a 5-0 win over Burton Albion.
Premier League teams Crystal Palace, Everton, Hull City, Swansea City and Stoke City also went through, Peter Crouch scoring a hat-trick for Stoke in a 4-0 win at Stevenage.
But Watford lost 2-1 at home to third-tier Gillingham after extra time and West Bromwich Albion were beaten 4-3 on penalties by League One side Northampton Town following a 2-2 draw.
The English Premier League continues this weekend with Chelsea welcoming Burnley in their next fixture on Saturday.

EPL fixtures
Saturday 27 August
12:30Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool
15:00Watford v Arsenal
15:00Southampton v Sunderland
15:00 Leicester City v Swansea City
15:00Everton v Stoke City
15:00 Crystal Palace v Bournemouth
15:00Chelsea v Burnley
17:30Hull City v Manchester United

Sunday 28 August
13:30 West Bromwich Albion v Middlesbrough
16:00Manchester City v West Ham United

NAMPA/REUTERS

A - Z of arthritis

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A - Z of arthritisA - Z of arthritisA common cause of disability worldwide, there are methods and lifestyle changes you can apply to help you to manage your condition. Not just for the elderly anymore A common cause of disability worldwide, there are methods and lifestyle changes you can apply to help you to manage your condition. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Here are some steps you can take to manage or alleviate the condition.
The general term used to describe joint pain or joint disease is arthritis. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and it is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. It can affect people of all ages, not only the elderly.

What are the common symptoms?
Swelling, pain, joint stiffness and a decreased range of motion, and the intensity can vary from mild to severe.

What are the most common types of arthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA): This is a degenerative form of arthritis and is also the most common. It occurs when cartilage wears away and bone rubs against bone, causing pain, swelling and stiffness.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): This is an inflammatory, autoimmune disorder where the immune system overreacts and attacks the body, in this case the joints. It is believed that a combination of susceptible genetics and environmental triggers (like smoking) can trigger the auto-immune response. With RA, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment is vital because the slower the disease progresses the less damage is caused.
Gout: When purines from protein foods are broken down by the body, uric acid is formed. In the case of gout, people naturally produce excessive amounts of uric acid and/or the body is unable to clear the excess uric acid fast enough. When the uric acid gets too much, tiny needle-like crystals can form in the joint, causing extreme pain referred to as a gout attack. If uric acid levels are not reduced, the gout can become chronic.

How nutrition can help
OA: Losing >5% of your body weight can result in a modest improvement in pain and function, but unfortunately does not slow disease progression. Eat more dark green and orange vegetables and orange fruits. Sufficient amounts of antioxidants can help to combat inflammation. Avoid foods high in sugar and made from white refined flour as these aggravate inflammation.
RA: Follow a Mediterranean type diet. This involves including more mono-unsaturated fats (like olives and avo) into your diet, increasing your wholegrain, legumes, fruit, vegetable and seafood intake, decreasing your meat and meat product intake and including moderate amounts of low fat dairy.
Gout: Slow and sustainable weight loss (if overweight). Decrease your intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and foods. Decrease your intake of alcoholic beverages, especially beer. Consult your doctor and dietitian abut which foods are high in purines and what other dietary measures you can take to assist with your gout attacks.

How supplementation or medication can help
Antioxidant supplements have not been shown to be beneficial, therefore it is better to focus on your diet Herbal products that show promise include devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), rose hip and seed powder, and the Chinese herbal mixture SKI306X.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) may improve pain when compared to a placebo, but further studies are needed before any recommendations can be made.
High dose omega 3 fatty acid supplements may also have a beneficial effect on some RA symptoms. If you suffer from anaemia, chat to your doctor about how to effectively treat this condition.
Vitamin C doses of 500mg/day appear to be well tolerated and assist with excretion of uric acid. Consult your doctor or dietitian about optimal levels of vitamin C.
HEALTH 24

New marketing executive at BW

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New marketing executive at BWNew marketing executive at BWBank Windhoek has announced the appointment of Jaquiline Pack as its new executive officer for marketing and corporate communication services. Bank gets brand rep makeover Bank Windhoek has announced the appointment of Jaquiline Pack as its new executive officer for marketing and corporate communication services. Jaquiline Pack, whose appointment takes effect on 1 September 2016, takes over from Marlize Horn, who until recently had a dual role serving both the bank and the Bank Windhoek Group.
With Pack’s arrival at the bank, Horn will now focus on the brand and corporate affairs of the group in Namibia, Botswana and Zambia.
A Namibian by birth, Pack holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree specialising in marketing management from the University of South Africa, and is currently enrolled at the Edinburg Business School for a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
She previously served on the executive management team of Standard Bank Namibia as head of marketing and communications, between September 2015 and August 2016.
Prior to that, she was the senior brand manager for Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL).
“I would like to welcome Jacquiline to the Bank Windhoek family and wish her a long and prosperous career at the bank,” Bank Windhoek MD Baronice Hans said on Tuesday.
“I look forward to her contribution to the executive management team, and in leading our marketing and corporate communication services department.”

STAFF REPORTER

Eatery on top of the city

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Eatery on top of the cityEatery on top of the cityThe only restaurant in Namibia that gives one a 360 degree view of the city whilst having glorious international food served with Namibian hospitality at Nimms restaurant. Selling the Namibian story through Namibian food The only restaurant in Namibia that gives one a 360 degree view of the city whilst having glorious international food served with Namibian hospitality at Nimms restaurant. The National Independence Memorial Museum restaurant (Nimms) is an Afropean restaurant that is situated in the heart of Windhoek.
It is to serve both locals and international tourists. “The idea of the restaurant is to sell the Namibian history and the interaction of Africa and the rest of the world. We are in the same line as the museum. Namibia has no history without the Western world,” said the owner Klaivert Mwandingi. Upon entering the restaurant one will pick up that it is divided into two where one side is European themed and the other African. The menu is also split into two. “We serve different types of cuisines including Portuguese, Italian, Brazilian and Namibian, just to mention a few,” he said.
The restaurant is situated on the fourth floor of the National Independence Memorial Museum. Klaivert Mwandingi says in essence, it is about sharing Namibia with the rest of the world. “Most of the tourists that come to Namibia make a stop at the museum and since we opened our doors in July traffic is already high. We not only want to portray the Namibian history, but the lifestyle as well. The lifestyle is portrayed in our hospitality, how we serve our food and how we dine. For the locals it is home away from home,” said Mwandingi.
The restaurant has two menus, one for food and wine and the owner says their prices are very reasonable. “For the location we are situated in we fall under the same rating as Hilton, Kubata and Roof of Africa and that is also the service we portray here. It is the league we want to participate in.” He also said he does not see other Namibian cuisine restaurants as competition but rather as part of the team. “We want to team up with other restaurants and sell the Namibian story to the rest of the world and to the Namibian people as well,” he said.
Nimms opens at 07:00 to 22:00 Monday to Thursday and Friday they open until 00:00, Saturday they open from 09:00 to 00:00 and Sundays from 10:00 until 21:00. For some dessert made from enyandi #nyandi-mousse do make a stop at Nimms today!
June Shimuoshili

Aunty Nangy

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Aunty NangyAunty Nangy My manhood is too big for her


Dear Aunty Nangy
I have a girlfriend who is 18 and I am 20. My problem is that my penis is bigger than her vagina and it cannot enter. I love her too much and I want her to be wife. Maybe it is better for me to get women who are 24-35 years old. I need your help.
It is very clear that something is not being done right and there is no way your penis can be too big for a woman not to enter. You are missing it. God created a woman to give birth to children and the same opening is the same one performing this requirement. My dear, there is no penis that is bigger than a baby’s head. If the head of a baby and the rest of its body can come through the same hole that you say is too small for your item which is smaller than the body of a baby, then there is something that you are not doing right. A woman’s vagina expands to allow the baby to come through and so it will also expand wide enough to accommodate your penis which is way smaller than a baby’s head. It is not correct to think that older women have bigger vaginas. Get your act right and get in.


He cheats but I love him
Dear Aunty Nangy
I really need help. I love my boyfriend so much but he is cheating on me and he always lies to me. Help me please what can I do?
My dear, I think you are blinded by your love for this guy who does not love you at all. If he is cheating on you and you remain truthful then dump the cheat. You are wasting your true love on a man who does not deserve it and does not love you. Just move on.


Sex does not thrill me
Dear Aunty Nangy
I have been having this problem for many years now. Whenever I have sex with my boyfriend I don’t feel anything. Help me what can I do now?
I think this is a psychological problem where in your mind you have this belief that you do not feel anything. It can also be that both of you do not appreciate the fact that sex takes two to tango and it is not have it as an instant noodle. Making love to satisfy is never done in a rush. Try to talk to your partner about how you feel and both of you must explore what parts of your body ignite the sex fires when touched. Lovemaking is an art that I cannot teach you in this reply. Talk to someone close to you and you might get a tip or two.

32 and still hunting for true love
Dear Aunty Nangy
I am a 32-year-old guy but I don’t have a lady and I need to find a true lover.
You sound like you live in a world of your own where no one else exists. Surely if you mix and mingle with friends and even your relatives, you should be able to be connected with someone who will sweep you off your feet. Namibia is full of lovely, loving women too numerous to satisfy your choice. No one is going to put one on your lap.


Bleeding for one month


Dear Aunty Nangy I am a 21-year-old girl and I am struggling with my periods for a month please aunty help.
You must see a doctor as soon as possible because you have been bleeding for a long time. Too much loss of blood can cause other problems. Women who have prolonged menstrual bleeding may be having hormone problems, stress, and in some cases it can be caused by diet or what you eat.


How long to reach orgasm
Dear Aunty Nangy
How long does it take a woman to reach an orgasm?
People are different and there is no set time to reach orgasm. There are many things that determine how long it takes to reach orgasm if at all you reach it because some women have never reached orgasm in all their sexual encounters. It is like going on a journey. The driver will determine how soon you arrive at your destination depending on his speed. Your man must take you there.


My periods are not stable
Dear Aunty Nangy
I am a girl aged 16. The duration of my menstruation days is not the same.
What causes that? Please help me aunty.
A normal period lasts 3-7 days. However you are only 16 and your body is still adjusting to adulthood. If your variations are within this period you shouldn’t worry.




Ndilimani Cultural Troupe for the people

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Ndilimani Cultural Troupe for the peopleNdilimani Cultural Troupe for the peopleUpholding the same old values and with new tunes Ndilimani wants to venture into the commercial market and pleads with the nation to accept their journey. Jezzy Nombanza, the operational manager and band member gives tjil a brief history and talks about future endeavours. They were there, they are here and they will be there Upholding the same old values and with new tunes Ndilimani wants to venture into the commercial market and pleads with the nation to accept their journey. Jezzy Nombanza, the operational manager and band member gives tjil a brief history and talks about future endeavours. The Ndilimani Cultural troupe was established in 1980 in Lubango under the leadership of one of Swapo’s People Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan)’s most brilliant military strategist, our hero, late Comrade Peter Nanyemba. Ndilimani Cultural Troupe played an essential role in the struggle for the liberation of Namibia. Ndilimani is the Oshiwambo word for dynamite which was also the late Peter’s combat name. The troupe was established to educate the international community about the sufferings and bravery of the Namibian people under apartheid. Another reason was to entertain and keep morale within the soldiers in exile high.
“It’s not every day that people where fighting. There were social evenings where they would gather and just dance, sing and enjoy themselves,” said Jezzy. Some of their well-known songs of the struggle include Sema Ouli Peni and Mayovi. Ndilimani became the voice of the Namibian people as they went to different continents and countries spreading the message of the Namibian people to a point where they begun getting assistance such as stationery for the women and children centres. “There are very few countries that the then Ndilimani have not been too,” said Jezzy.
After independence the group had to find a new role as it was established with a political vision to express the suffering of the people. “We had to change the aims and visions. We started looking at activities that we could get involved in to help the country become better.” Jezzy also said that Ndilimani can never be delinked from Swapo as it is registered as a Swapo company. “We cannot change the past and stop singing for Swapo, it’s just that times have changed and we have to move with them. So you might find us singing about the social evils or today’s lifestyle now more than the liberation struggle,” he said. He also said during the Heroes’ Day commemoration their sales are much higher as people listen to Ndilimani for comfort and remembrance.
Today the troupe has 15 members inclusive of the management. “For one to be part of the band they have to go through auditions and interviews just like any other job,” he said. He also said he regards the band as a heroic one as most of the help that Namibia got during the liberation struggle was after they started travelling around the country. “The message that was spread in the music was very powerful. I have met people who would say that they only joined the Plan after hearing Ndilimani… some even left school. I would definitely say that it is a heroic group and it also had its own heroes such as John Nghaatanga and Aguste Shiimi,” he said.
Jezzy says the future looks promising and that they are coming up with ways on how to commercialise the Ndilimani Cultural Troupe. There is an album coming up that is non-political and non-revolutionary. “We want people to support us equally as they did with our struggle songs. We are still just Ndilimani,” he said.
June Shimuoshili

Namibian entertainment idol

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Namibian entertainment idol Namibian entertainment idol Having been in the industry for more than 23 years Ras Sheehama said he wants to be remembered through his music come the years when he is no longer alive. Building his legacy through music Having been in the industry for more than 23 years Ras Sheehama said he wants to be remembered through his music come the years when he is no longer alive. “Not everyone was dodging bullets, the kids were in schools reading and some like me where into music.” Those were the first words the award-winning reggae legend Ras Sheehama said to tjil. Ras said being a child back then began at Kindergarten and then proceeded to primary and secondary school just like today’s routine. “If you made it to Form 3 then they will make a plan for you to go further your studies in West Africa, and that’s how I ended up in Lagos, Nigeria,” he said. Ras said his passion for music did not begin in exile but rather at home.” Being born in Namibia during the period of apartheid was disadvantageous because we were not free to move at night; I’d see my father get stopped for nothing. For me that was not freedom. I would listen to Bob Marley and that motivated me. Botswana was more of a free state compared to Namibia which was a state of South Africa and that’s where I listened to these musicians,” said Ras.
Ras was sent to further his studies in Lagos at the age of 13 and that’s where his musical career started. When he left Namibia he only knew how to ask for water in English. He said he doesn’t recall ever failing any of his tests. “I was sent to study but when I got there I said thank you God, this is where I get to shape my musical talent,” he said. Today he says his music is a fusion because of the different genres he got exposed to in Nigeria although reggae is his speciality. “After my Form 5 I told the representative of Namibia Nangolo Ithete that I was not going to continue with my education because what I wanted was music and he sent me back to Angola,” said Ras. Ras was also part of the Ndilimani Cultural Troupe but he later left as he did not want to be dictated to by anyone as what he should sing.
Ras recorded his first demo with the song ‘Cassinga’ and that’s how he became a household name amongst the soldiers. “There was no musical infrastructure. There was just one recording studio which was not in use as there were hardly musicians to record,” said Ras. He remembers taking part in the then music maker’s competition and he came in second place after Jackson Kaujeua. “Jackson was my mentor. He was very close to me; he would tell me that I still needed to practise at home on a certain song before going to studio. He referred to me to the people that made my first cassette Kings Music,” he said.
In 1998 he released his first CD and it was the first CD ever in Namibia. His latest album was released last year titled ‘Step Up’. Having being in the industry for over 23 years Ras Sheehama recently turned 50 and had a big celebration bash with artists like Big Ben and Sunny Boy. Ras Sheehama said he doesn’t regard himself as a hero but he will leave it up to public. “The Namibian market is very small. Not everyone can pull it off in their Fifties; the bones get rigid and you can’t jump anymore. You have to be special. It takes strength, persistence and motto to drive you. When I write a song I feel alive. Many are called but only a few arechosen,” he said.
Ras Sheehama is currently working on music videos as there were no video producers back then. “People don’t really don’t know most of my work. So I will be working on that. I have all the music that was on cassette and made them into volumes,” he said. Ras said the only legacy he will leave behind is in his music and nothing else. “The legacy I will leave will still be heard 50 years to come from now and that’s fulfilling for me. Some of my work is timeless songs and that’s how it will be.”
June Shimuoshili


D-Naff keeps going for gold

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D-Naff keeps going for gold  D-Naff keeps going for gold D-Naff has been, and still is, a busy man of late... there is a lot coming our way. The stars are the limit for D-Naff D-Naff has been, and still is, a busy man of late... there is a lot coming our way. Singer D-Naff keeps challenging musical boundaries in pursuit of giving music a Namibian identity. This time, the award-winning artist collaborated with Damada/Nama musician Moritz, with the two fusing sounds, complete with a touch of what’s known as Nama-stap.
The two are set to record a music video for the song at Tsumeb next month. “I was actually looking to merge like an Oshiwmabo sound and a Damara/Nama sound. It’s a beautiful song that’s reflective of our diversity and unity, and how that keeps us all together,” he tells tjil.
“We want people to understand that we may be different, but we are completely one, we are Namibian,” he continues.
The singer also recently launched a new music video which depicts the lives of three different friends. Their lives were all affected by severe poverty and pain until they made a decision to find true love, a love which D-Naff says can only be found in God, thus the title, ‘Your love is all I need’.
The music video was shot in Windhoek’s Hochland Park, Auasblick and Prosperita and it took just three days.
“The message is simple, true love is only found in God not elsewhere, and that any love outside God is bound to fail and does not last that is if there is any such love,” he says.
Always sharing wisdom, the man who turned his life around to become one of Namibia’s most adored and celebrated musicians, says for one to succeed where others failed, one must do what others don’t do. “I try as much as possible to make any minute useful. Sacrifice is part of my daily routine. I am bored when I don’t do anything productive in an hour,” he says.
He also spoke to tjil about his upcoming album, which he says is “progressing wonderfully”. The album is produced by Solani from Glow Productions and is said to be in its final stages. Asked who some of the artist are he has worked with on the album, a familiar pops up, D-Naff’s long-time ally Tequila. The two of worked together on award-winning hits and love sharing a stage. Another exciting highlight is probably his collaboration with songstress Sally, who is by far Namibia’s biggest female musician at this stage. Others who worked with him include lyrical genius Sunny Boy, Damiano, and Taz.


STAFF REPORTER

Your own kind of hero

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Your own kind of heroYour own kind of hero I remember being asked who my hero was when I was in Grade three and having to draw them too. I'd always pick someone that did something nice for me that day, like my cousin who helped me solve a simple subtraction sum as I was never a numbers person. Or my sister who helped me to cover for me because I stayed out playing way passed my outside hours. Yes, times where hard on us I'm telling you! But as the years went by the question became more and more difficult to answer since my ability to think critically was kicking in and heroes were more than the personal favourite people of the week that did minor favours for me.
So then what and who does one define as a hero? Under what circumstances and criteria do they fall? Does your hero necessarily have to be mine? And more importantly, what is their use to you? I know of so many people who have felt bad because they got laughed at for not having or knowing their heroes. The things we laughed at though. But nonetheless I would define a hero as someone who is admired for their courage or outstanding achievements, just like Google! So my Grade three heroes were heroes after all! So then these are usually characters from books like the Cinderellas or Batmans of the world, people that have done something extraordinary like the founding father of the land of the brave takekulu Sam Nujoma. He showed the way and he didn’t do it for fame but for his country. He inspired many and is still an inspiration to many.
In the entertainment industry those that are regarded as heroes are those that have paved the way for many to be where they are now. The likes of Jackson Kaujeua, Ras Sheehama, Tunakie for introducing the genre Shambo to the Namibian entertainment industry, Tate Butti, and Sandy Rudd for putting the Namibian theatre production in the centre, raising it like her baby and moulding so many actors and actresses. Today I would like to honour these and many more people, dead or alive as their legacies are being written or already have been; they have done a lot that needs to be applauded. For the fallen, your light still shines onto many and is carried forward in our hearts. It’s really hard work and dedication that is needed for one to be regarded as a hero. If your intent is to make the world a better place, do it and then your name will surely be written on the walls of heroes of the future.
Be your own kind of hero.
June Shimuoshili
june@namibiansun.com

China imposes caps on lending to curb banking risk

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China imposes caps on lending to curb banking riskChina imposes caps on lending to curb banking risk

China imposed limits on lending by peer-to-peer platforms to individuals and companies in an effort to curb risks in the country’s loosely regulated shadow-banking sector.
An individual can borrow up to 1 million yuan (N$2 million) from P2P sites, including a maximum of 200 000 yuan from any one site, the China Banking Regulatory Commission said in Beijing on Wednesday. Corporate borrowers face caps of 5 million yuan and 1 million yuan.
The lenders are barred from taking public deposits or selling wealth-management products and must appoint qualified banks as custodians and improve information disclosure, the regulator said.
China’s authorities are concerned about defaults and fraud among the nation’s 2 349 online lenders. In December, the country’s biggest Ponzi scheme was exposed after Internet lender Ezubo allegedly defrauded more than 900 000 people out of the equivalent of US$7.6bn (N$7.6 billion). The nation has 1 778 “problematic” online lenders, according to the CBRC.
In April, China’s cabinet launched a campaign to clean up illicit activities in Internet finance, focusing on areas such as third-party payments, peer-to-peer lending, crowdfunding and online insurance. It suspended the registration of all new companies with finance-related names.
China’s P2P industry brokered 982 billion yuan of loans in 2015, almost quadruple the amount in 2014 and an approximately 10-fold increase from 2013, according to Yingcan Group, a research firm which tracks the data. P2P firms attracted more than 3.4 million investors and 1.15 million borrowers in July, with loans extended at an average interest rate of 10.3%, according to Yingcan.
Products offered by P2P platforms in China can include anything from loans for weddings, guaranteed against the cash gifts that couples expect to receive, to high-yield lending for risky property or mining projects.

BLOOMBERG

SA junk status fears return

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SA junk status fears returnSA junk status fears returnThe African National Congress (ANC) reformists who are seeking to stave off a ratings downgrade have been dealt a major blow. As Gordhan blow hits rand The African National Congress (ANC) reformists who are seeking to stave off a ratings downgrade have been dealt a major blow. News that South African Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan must present himself to the Hawks today has sent shock waves across the world.
Those seeking to stave off a ratings downgrade have been dealt a major blow, was the reaction from economists Dawie Roodt and Peter Montalto, as well as political commentator Daniel Silke on Tuesday.
The rand fell nearly 3.41% and was at a three-week low yesterday as a result of the news. “This is very bad news for us,” said Roodt. “The rand is reacting badly. This is not good for us.”
Nomura emerging markets economist Montalto told Fin24 that the rand would hit R17/US$ by the end of the year. “There is no way the SARB will cut (interest rates) in a political climate like this,” he said on Tuesday.
Treasury confirmed that Gordhan was summoned to " present" himself to the Hawks by 10:00 today, EWN reported.
Former Sars deputy commissioner Ivan Pillay, group executive Johann van Loggerenberg and initial head of the investigative unit, Andries van Rensburg were also asked to report to the Hawks, Daily Maverick reported.
Zuma is not directly linked to who the Hawks investigate, but political analysts believe the investigation has a political dimension to it ahead of next year’s ANC elective conference.
It also comes as some members within the ANC - the reformers - attempt to keep South Africa from sliding into junk status, which would be disastrous for the country as an investment destination and would see an increase in inflation and unemployment.
Silke said South Africa is “entering a danger zone for the reformers”.
“We knew it would come down to the reformers to really act and provide concrete measures for ratings agencies not to downgrade us later this year,” he said. “These look like they are conflicting with those with who retain the status quo, Zuma and his inner circle.”
Silke said the election put this all on ice, and with the dust hardly settling it has started again.
“The danger is that any attack on the finance minister can plunge the country into a Nenegate scenario,” said Silke. “It means an extreme loss in confidence in our capacity to deliver a coherent economic policy.


NEWS24

Namibia Dairies happy with water savings

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Namibia Dairies happy with water savingsNamibia Dairies happy with water savingsThe local dairy company says it is ahead of the game in preventing the nation’s water woes from slowing down its production. Contingency measures help ease operational stress The local dairy company says it is ahead of the game in preventing the nation’s water woes from slowing down its production. Namibia Dairies has not allowed an escalating water crisis to dampen its enthusiasm, this week reporting that it had managed to reduce its water use by 40%, or 4 200 cubic metres.
The Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group subsidiary yesterday reported on the measures it had taken to help the City of Windhoek save water, including reclamation of usable water and changing its water consumption techniques.
“Even before a water crisis was declared by the City of Windhoek, we realised that we were facing tough times in terms of water availability and that we should implement some actions to save water in order to ensure job security and sustainable production output at our plant at Avis,” said Namibia Dairies technical head Pieter van Wyk.
“We have a savings improvement of 40% (4 200 cubic metres) since the start of our initiatives and this also represents a good improvement on the required City of Windhoek quota. The main indicator on savings however is the ratio of litre water used per litre product produced. This ratio has improved from 3.51l water to 2.61l water per litre product produced,” Van Wyk said.
A water crisis committee established at the company to lead water reduction efforts have implemented such measures as installing additional flow meters monitored and reported on a daily basis; installation of buffer tanks, pumps and pipes to accumulate and redistribute water; installing water-saving devices throughout the plant and its ablution facilities; and arranging weekly tracking meetings and awareness discussions throughout the business.
These efforts, Van Wyk said, are effective at all three Windhoek-based operations of Namibia Dairies, namely Namibia Dairies Avis, Namibia Dairies Prosperita and Windhoek Schlachterei.
“We had a very negative outlook on the situation at the beginning of the water crisis in terms of product supply, job stability, future business opportunities, and so forth,” Van Wyk said.
“Fortunately we, as a Namibia Dairies team, have become accustomed to facing all sorts of challenges and we therefore decided that this will not hamper our spirit. This was an absolute team effort and all credit goes to the team who really thought out of the box and made things happen as it was identified.”
He said these measures enabled the company to keep all departments running at full operation, not having to sacrifice a single litre or unit of product in the process.
“All initiatives implemented are sustainable and will still be in effect even after the water crisis is something of the past. We are still looking at possibilities to reduce water usage, or use available water more effectively,” Van Wyk said.

DENVER ISAACS

Sell, buy and borrow with Cash Converters Gustav Voigts

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Sell, buy and borrow with Cash Converters Gustav VoigtsSell, buy and borrow with Cash Converters Gustav Voigts Most people can attest to the experience of emergencies happening just as their money situation gets into a squeeze.
One possible solution for those in the know, and who may or may not be prepared to sell off their valuable property in a crunch, is Cash Converters Gustav Voigts Centre.
Serving Namibia since 1998, the store is part of the largest second-hand goods franchise in the world, with 750 stores in 21 countries.
Most renowned for its service in buying customers’ unwanted goods for instant cash and reselling these at bargain second-hand prices, the store also offers instant ‘sunny day cash advance loans’ – which simply require holding onto your valuables, from jewellery to electronics, as security against a loan.
The store deals in a wide range of goods, buying and selling items in categories from electronics, music and entertainment, to furniture, sport, outdoor and office equipment, and even power tools.
“Everyone loves a bargain, so why not upgrade your computer or mobile phone at a fraction of the new price? All of our second-hand items for sale are tested, cleaned and in full working order,” store management said this week.
Another example of Cash Converters Gustav Voigts Centre’s commitment to service is in making house calls.
By calling 061 221 707, customers can ask for a buyer to come out to their home (in Windhoek) to evaluate their items for sale, which can then be loaded and brought to the shop, and a price be negotiated for payment to be made on the spot.
“If you don’t need it, someone else does. Sell your unwanted goods to Cash Converters Gustav Voigts Centre and get instant cash, in a safe, convenient and vibrant shopping environment,” the store has emphasised.
“Marietta, Philip and the Cash Converters Gustav Voigts team welcome you.”

STAFF REPORTER

Lungu media clampdown

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Lungu media clampdownLungu media clampdown Authorities in Zambia have suspended the licenses of three private broadcasters, including the country's biggest non-public TV station, saying they had posed a risk to peace and stability during this month's presidential election.
President Edgar Lungu narrowly won the August 11 vote and his opponent Hakainde Hichilema, leader of the UNDP party, has filed court papers to challenge the result, claiming the vote was rigged. The ruling party and the electoral commission have rejected the UPND's accusations.
Muvi TV, largest private television station, Komboni Radio and Radio Itezhi Tezhi had before, during and after the election conducted themselves in an " unprofessional manner" , the Independent Broadcasting Authority said in a statement on Monday.
The broadcasters' actions " posed a risk to national peace and stability" , the regulator said without giving further details.
The three private stations closed down were considered opposition mouthpieces.
Opposition leader Hichilema criticised the move, saying Zambians were left with only government-owned media sources.
" This closure is meant to stifle media freedom," he said.
" Zambians should unite to protect themselves from a brutal dictator. Let us unite to protect our country from thugs."
The suspended stations have 30 days to appeal the ruling, the regulator said.
The run-up to the presidential poll was tense, with fighting erupting between opposition and government supporters. Police have also broken up opposition campaigning.
According to the Zambian Elections Information Centre, at least three people were killed and many injured during a wave of pre-election violence.
NAMPA/AFP

Zim protests unify

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Zim protests unifyZim protests unifyWhile Zimbabwe is no stranger to civil unrest, analysts say that protestors are starting to speak with one voice. Civil unrest in Zimbabwe develops a common thread While Zimbabwe is no stranger to civil unrest, analysts say that protestors are starting to speak with one voice. Zimbabweans are finally " speaking with one voice" , a leading human rights activist said this week, as the country has been rocked by a wave of anti-government protests.
" Zimbabweans are saying enough is enough," said Jestina Mukoko, who heads the non-profit Zimbabwe Peace Project in Harare.
In the past protests were limited to one part of society, each one " angered at different levels at different times" , she said.
" But what we have a now is that the deepening poverty has kind of united Zimbabweans and somehow people are speaking with one voice."
Zimbabwe has seen a spike in the number and frequency of protests against the administration of President Robert Mugabe since June. Mugabe has ruled the country since independence in 1980.
" The bout of protests increasingly shows that citizens have claimed their constitutional rights to demand accountability and response to their demands," Mukoko said at an international human rights conference in Johannesburg.
But Mukoko warned that the mounting protests - spawned by a weak economy, rampant corruption and deepening poverty - could trigger chaos if they succeeded in dislodging Mugabe.
" We still have long way to go. In Zanu-PF at the moment there is factional fighting, so even if he [Mugabe] was to step down today there will still be that wrestle for power and that might actually be more bloody than what we are seeing at the moment."
Zimbabweans have taken to Facebook and Twitter using the hashtag " ThisFlag" to share the hardships of living under the 92-year-old Mugabe's rule and to organise protests.


'Citizens are not afraid'


" What we are seeing is that citizens are not afraid to go on the streets... we haven't seen this in a long time," Mukoko told AFP on the sidelines of the conference, organised by the International Federation for Human Rights.
The government's planned introduction of a token currency - equivalent in value to the US dollar - has triggered memories of the country's devastating 2008 economic collapse, prompting people to take to their concerns to the streets.
Zimbabwean authorities have responded to protests by deploying police to violently put down the demonstrations, and at a government event earlier this month Mugabe warned that protests " don't pay" .
" Things like protests don't pay because usually they end up being violent protests," the long-ruling president said.
" What does it help to go in the streets with the intention to show that you are able to throw stones?"
Mugabe has ruled Zimbabwe for 36 years.
" We see a government that is desperate and also using desperate measures [by blocking social media]. We expect to see a lot of that because mobilisation has been going on the social media," said Mukoko.
" The heavy-handedness that we see the police demonstrating now is what they have used, and they repressed, brutalised those with dissenting voices. They have used those images to instil fear in other citizens and for [a] long time people did not want to cross the line... but I suppose Zimbabweans are saying it's all dying - whether we remain quiet or we talk about it."
Mukoko was abducted by Zimbabwean state security agents and tortured in 2008.
NAMPA/AFP

Their blood waters our freedom...

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Their blood waters our freedom...Their blood waters our freedom... I am glad it took them this long to have some of the latest technological marvels that we enjoy today. Just imagine if we had Facebook and all these social networking media some 100 years ago?
Trust me, if people had Facebook at the time of the historic battle of Ongulumbashe, Namibia would still be known as South West Africa. Ja, we would be known as the Namambwe Province of South Africa, and would call Upington our ‘capital town’.


I tell you, with the weird and often ridiculous posts that one finds on Facebook these days, Namibia would have never attained her independence. Look at it this way; Plan combatants, after drilling in the field for the entire morning, would return to their camps at base.
One of them would post on Facebook, “Og, these people are killing us with these exercises. Can’t wait for the battle of Omugulugwobashe to finally start….”


After seeing the status, some fool would ask: “Haiti meme Maria, when exactly are we expected to fire those first shots? Our commander is being snobbish about the whole thing. It is kamma a top secret or whatever….”


I tell you, if would have been a crazy world. You would have Pik Botha’s son challenging the ‘son of the nation’ on Facebook with, “My father says he will teach you people a valuable lesson on 26 August 1966….”
To this, the ‘son of the nation’ would reply, “I am not afraid of you. My father told me that we will be ready for you when you come….”


With gunfire everywhere and people scattering in all directions to seek cover as the historic battle of Ongulumbashe gets underway, some fool will be standing there in the midst of it all with his I-phone attempting to capture the images for his wall. I can imagine seeing a soldier putting his AK-47 down for a while to post, “Jooooo…there is gunfire everywhere. I am busy fighting for the liberation of Namibia. Wish me luck guys….”


Commanders of the different battalions would then gladly post on their statuses after the last shot of Ongulumbashe by declaring, “I am so proud of my boys. They did their best today. We might have lost 350 brave men out of the 400 we had, but it was a good fight. Dinner is on me, boys.”


My friends from Khomsdal, after watching the whole thing on TV would become ‘expert witnesses’ on it. “O my God… ek het alles gesien (I saw it all)…oh Here vat my nou. Oh heeeere…(Oh Lord take me now, oh Lord)….”


Ja nê, let’s face it – our generation is just too weak for what those gallant sons of the soil went through in their quest to liberate the country. I tell you, my generation, which can hardly live without checking their emails – would not last a minute in the big shoes of Namibia’s heroes and heroines. I am referring to a generation that finds humour telling each other what they are up to through a platform called Tweeter!


Good old action television, in which our hero Chuck Norris shows why he is still the best in the game - is no more. We are now made to watch people sitting, walking, eating and sleeping – referred to as reality television? Then came Google, and society was never the same! Google killed the art of research to such an extent that some of us who still have the full volume set of “Encyclopaedia Britannica” are considered country pumpkins!


The general knowledge of our children has plummeted to levels never imagined before. All our kids know to say these days is that, “…but daddy, it is not in the text book…”. Of cause it is not in the text book – it is supposed to be in your head, had you taken the time to enrich your mind as opposed to marvelling at, “A Shelter for Love - the Luciana Story."


I tell you, if technology keeps its current pace, I would have to email my wife to ask her to pass the butter - even if we are sitting at the same table.


Long live the spirit of no surrender. Their blood indeed waters our freedom.


Until then…


Tjatindi@gmail.com

Our country is not tainted

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Our country is not taintedOur country is not tainted In the spirit of Harambee, where no one, according to President Hage Geingob, must be left out, we are astounded that there is so little local procurement, especially on platforms that are so very public.
A case in point is the issue surrounding Miss Namibia’s preparation for the Miss Universe pageant. Make no mistake about it, we are very supportive of our reigning Miss Namibia and we wish her well in her endeavours for the year. Our beef lies with the organisers of the pageant. How is it that they prepare our princess for the global stage by dressing her in a South African designed garment, photographing her with a South African photographer and ensuring that her make-up and hair are done to perfection… yes, you guessed, by South Africans!
The photographs depict her in a ‘magical Namibian bushveld sunset’ setting.
This is cause for pause as we wonder whether those photos were even taken in Namibia.
However, besides this, we have the skills in the fashion and beauty industry – skills which are sorely underutilised and rarely have a proper platform, or as in this case – an international platform – on which to showcase their talents.
We have, for decades, suffered from the Big Brother syndrome… one which says that all that comes from South Africa is of a higher standard than that which is local.
Government, even parliament and State House, often offer bottled water that is imported from South Africa. If our government procurement is not locally focussed, who then, is left out?
It is high time that we begin to keep our dollars at home. Every dollar spent here is a dollar that can help to create a job, to alleviate the desperate poverty so many of our people find themselves in.
It is shameful that we cannot shake off the shackles of being the ‘fifth province’ of South Africa, a country whose politics puts democracy to shame – a country that is on fire from within. While we continue to enjoy peace, a clean environment and some of the best meat in the world – and our own hormone free milk.
Namibia is not tainted. Let us not act as though it is.
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