Namibian Sun

Doing it differentlyMusic is his choice of drug Slickartie has without a doubt been bursting up on people's radar since his music lingers to touch those willing to understand that he's here to do everything differently.

Go on, be truthful, from the time you heard one song from Slickartie your curiosity was piqued because you never thought that such an artist with such a high melodic calibre existed in the music arena today. Today, tjil formally introduces the much-talked-about Slicartie to you and give answers and clarity to the curiosity that has been bugging you. Thank us later.

The singer, whose biggest music influence is Oliver Mutukudzi, describes his sound as “my own kind of music”. He told tjil that he does not think he makes music that sounds similar to what is out there already and that is what separates him from the rest.

“I know when I do covers of Oliver Mutukudzi people say they can tell he is my biggest influence but I would not say I make music similar to his because we are totally different. He is my biggest inspiration musically, but I believe I have a distinctive sound,” said Slickartie.

He maintains that music has always been a part of his life, so much so that his musical influences are enormous. He shared that growing up he loved dancing and singing and as he grew older he was exposed to other African artists who expanded his musical palate. “I think I have always had the music bug in me. I was always that kid who would perform at parties and my music-making ability got better as I grew up because I was exposed to different genres from all parts of the globe,” he shared.

Musically, Slickartie has been having a good year so far with two singles that he says have been received positively by his fan base. He admired his fans for consuming the songs that are yet to be complemented with visuals. “People love the singles. I understand how important music videos are as some people do not prefer simply streaming the audio but watching the videos too,” said Slickartie, adding that he is hoping to bless his fans with more visuals to his songs this year.

Having performed at numerous international music festivals and collaborating with some of Namibia's biggest music stars, it is plain to see that he is more than just your average vocalist. Sharing his experiences at music festivals abroad, he mentioned that music fans abroad love and appreciate African music. He believes there is a strong market for African music in the diaspora and urges musicians to be fearless in exporting their sound to the international market. “They really love African music for its rawness and languages. They may not understand it but they love it.”

“I think to a certain extent as artists we are also just relaxed and do not make adequate efforts to share our music with the world. Nigerian artists are doing well internationally; they probably perform more elsewhere than they do in their country. We need to emulate that spirit,” he said.

In an effort to share his sound with the world, the vocalist revealed that he is waiting for confirmation for a few international music festivals this year. “I have received word from a few agencies but the confirmations are not rock solid at this stage. I will be applying for more international festivals just to go and share our work out there.” Besides music performances his other musical plans for the year entail listening sessions with his fans.

On collaborations, Slickartie said that he values working with other artists a lot as it grows the industry and individual artists. For him, collaborations mean building bridges, not stealing each other's fan base. His favourite collaborations are with artists from a different music genre as they help him demonstrate that he is flexible to make any kind of music. “Collaborations are important because they build your versatility and being versatile is pivotal because you never know who you might end up performing with,” said Slickartie.

Taking pride in being a live music performer, the vocalist mentioned that performing live is another strong trait of his which he enjoys tremendously. He stated that performing live refines him as a vocalist and adds to his musical experience. “Performing live is not easy because there is no backtracking so you cannot cheat, but it is skill that comes with a lot of benefits for the artist. I sometimes do three things at the same time - play percussion, sing and dance,” she said.

The most gratifying thing about his job he said was healing people with his soothing sounds. “I love seeing people enjoy themselves and have fun. Sometimes people come to a concert and they leave happy because I performed a song that to them sounded like it was directed at them and that lightened their mood. That is what keeps me going,” he said.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

A big blow to Ma/gaisaNamibian music fraternity mourns Phura Duwe Phura Duwe who was popularly known for being the king of Ma/gaisa died yesterday in a Swakopmund hospital after an illness.

His former music manager Andre Guriseb described him as down to earth and very passionate about his craft. Guriseb mentioned that Phura loved his fans and although they had creative disagreements, respect was maintained throughout their relationship. “Phura is royalty that is why it is so difficult in this time to find words to describe him. He was obedient and respectful and had a great love for music,” said Guriseb, adding that Phura's music was celebrated across different ethnicities.

Fellow musician Big Ben told tjil that they grew up in the same town and spoke highly of him. “We called him king of Ma/gaisa because he was instrumental in the establishment of the genre. He made Ma/gaisa matter,” said Big Ben.

Namibia Annual Music Awards executive chairperson Umbi Karuaihe said Phura was really a talented artist. “We as the NAMAs executive are deeply saddened by the loss and we send our condolences to his family and friends. Phura preserved Namibian culture and the spirit of the nation through Ma/gaisa,” said Karuaihe.

Former SPYL secretary Elijah Ngurare said he was saddened by the news of Phura's passing. “Deepest condolences to his bereaved family. He has been part of the politainment generation of artists who helped us campaign for the 2009 presidential and national elections. A true patriot. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Ngurare.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Celebrating jazzKeeping the music alive Namibia joins the world in celebrating International Jazz Day.

Windhoek's international jazz celebration is an annual event organised by Dr Kagiso Moloi and focuses on offering a platform to jazz talents. This year's celebrations in Namibia began yesterday at The Kitchen in Windhoek with a line-up of veteran and experienced performers. The second leg of the celebration is taking place today at the Kalahari Coffee and Jazz Café. The events are free.

The artists that are scheduled to perform at the two events include Erna Chimu, Berita from South Africa, Sereetsi & The Natives from Botswana and other supporting Namibian jazz artists.

Speaking to tjil, Moloi shared that International Jazz Day is an international day which was declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) in 2011. It is celebrated annually on April 30 and highlights jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. “Last year's show was a success and I am hoping for the same this year. In the future, I would also love to have other regions to join us in celebrating this day by hosting their own shows,” said Moloi.

He shared that he fell in love with jazz in the 70s after his father introduced him to the genre. He has since hosted numerous jazz radio shows on different radio stations. “I started with Unam Radio, moved to Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) National Radio and I now host the Jazz Grooves on Energy 100FM,” shared Moloi.

Speaking on her love for jazz Berita, who is a renowned Afro-soul singer with an impressive discography, said she believes Afro-soul music borrows favorably from jazz music and other contemporary genres. “My performance will consist of my own compositions as well as a tribute to the late great legend of African music Oliver Mtukudzi,” said Berita. Berita added that this will be her second time performing in Namibia. “I had a great time the first time around. I'm looking forward to serenading them with my voice and guitar,” promised Berita, announcing that she is in the early stages of working on her new project.

“I'm enjoying the process of creating the music. I will share some snippets of the new song at the show.”

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Indongo Ford sets up shop in north

Business tycoon Frans Aupa Indongo has done it again. This time around the businessman, who chairs the Frans Indongo Group, has opened a new vehicle dealership, Indongo Ford, at Oshakati's Continental Number One complex.

The dealership, which opened its doors recently, serves the entire north, including towns such as Ongwediva, Outapi and Ondangwa.

“I have been blessed with a long business life. During this period, spanning over a number of decades, I was particularly blessed to venture into a number of new business opportunities. Entrepreneurs have the obligation to identify and utilise opportunities, not only to their own benefit, but also to assist in the development of Namibia. The investment in Indongo Ford, which is small compared to some of our other investments, gives me extraordinary pleasure,” Indongo said.

“For many of you who know my background, you will appreciate that the establishment of Indongo Ford here at the Continental One complex is emotionally very special to me. It is here where I started decades ago, establishing myself as a Namibian businessman. This is here where I sweated, worried, persevered and through the grace of God almighty survived and conquered.”

Dealer principal of Indongo Ford Tanja Beukes said the Indongo Group's motor divisions employ more than 250 people ranging from managers to mechanics and sales personnel.

She added that the new Oshakati dealership has provided job opportunities to 23 people.

The Ford dealership is opened to offer convenient service to people in northern Namibia and it has a showroom and vehicle service and maintenance unit.

As an extension of the global Ford Motor Company based in Dearborn, Michigan, Indongo Ford has joined the Ford Motor Company of South Africa which has been an active participant in the South African motor industry since 1923.

All Ford vehicles offer smart technologies, stylish design, fuel efficiency, safety, and service and maintenance excellence at affordable prices, giving drivers peace of mind on the road and in their pockets. “It was in late 2015 when we decided to bring a remarkable motor brand, Ford, to the north. Our investment has been received with such excitement and we have seen only support from the residents in these towns of the north,” said Beukes.

“Team Indongo Ford is committed to earning customer loyalty by delivering sales and service experiences with high quality, excellent value, integrity and enthusiasm.”

From Ondangwa to Ya Toivo airport

The Ondangwa Airport remains an important stimulator and catalyst of regional economic growth and development.

The airport has in recent years received a massive upgrade, with an N$84 million state-of-the-art terminal the notable renovation.

The new terminal was officially inaugurated by President Hage Geingob in 2015 and the facility has been described as a part of Namibia's intention to become the logistics hub for southern Africa.

A key improvement to the terminal building was the inclusion of more commercial service space to increase participation of local people in the economy through trading.

The construction work was done by the Quindao Construction Company. The airport houses a restaurant, bistro, curio shop, foreign exchange service, sufficient and comfortable seating, car rental facilities and an automated parking management system.

Ondangwa Airport also provides links to southern Angola and additionally serves as a refuelling stop for flights to central Africa and beyond.

“Boasting a new terminal building inaugurated in 2015, Ondangwa Airport is about 85 km north of the world-famous Etosha National Park.

“Given its strategic location at the centre of northern Namibia, Ondangwa Airport gives you access to the Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Omusati and Kunene Regions of Namibia, the latter home to the nomadic Ovahimba tribe who reside on the banks of the Kunene River adjacent to the scenic Ruacana Falls,” the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) stated.

The airport will soon be renamed after struggle hero Herman Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo.

“From 2014, calls were mooted and repeated for Ondangwa Airport to be renamed in his honour and following his death in June 2017, these talks gained momentum and were finally approved by cabinet in 2018.”

The former Robben Island prisoner died at the age of 92 on 9 June 2017, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated Namibian struggle stalwarts, who was renowned for his humility.

He died of a suspected heart attack at his home in Klein Windhoek. Ya Toivo was a prominent Namibian anti-apartheid activist, political prisoner and one of the co-founders of Swapo in 1960, as well as its predecessor, the Ovamboland People's Organisation.

He served in several ministerial positions after independence.

Fashion designer talks innovation

Having been conducting business in Ondangwa for the past 30 years, fashion designer Annelly Luaanda has seen it all.

The 50-year-old is on a mission to take her label to greater heights. Luaanda started from humble beginnings and has since made a name for herself in the fashion design industry.

She now operates from the Ondangwa Industrial Park where she employs 10 people. According to Luaanda, the town of Ondangwa has grown exponentially over the last years.

Luaanda graduated from the Rössing Foundation in 1989, but could not secure employment, largely due to a lack of experience.

But this did not deter her from gaining the experience required.

“I started sewing at the age of 10, by then my mother used to make traditional baby carriers and that is where I also started playing as a child, but later it grew into a hobby.

“After I completed grade 12, I could not secure an opportunity to go and study fashion design at a South African institution and I ended up at the Rössing Foundation,” said Luaanda.

“After I graduated I went back home and started sewing with my mother's machine. My mother introduced me to the market and I started getting customers to mend their worn clothes. Those people discovered I had skills and then they started bringing their items to be tailored.”

She added that in 1996 many customers, especially within Ondangwa, started coming to her business. Most of them were wedding planners and people selling second-hand clothes.

This huge demand resulted in her moving to the spacious Ondangwa Industrial Park.

Luaanda said business is about innovation and creativity and one cannot do the same thing over and over.

She said her first innovative project was making graduation gowns.

“In 2003 some graduates from the then Ongwediva College of Education approached me. They said they could only get graduation gowns from South Africa and they were very expensive.

“I took the opportunity and I started making them and the following year, enrolled nurses also started ordering theirs. From there I started taking marketing research seriously to identify what is needed in the community and see what I can offer,” said Luaanda.

In 2015, Luaanda also started designing school uniforms for local schools.

Luaanda added she did not get any financial support to start her business and had to solely rely on her own savings.

According to her, many fashion designers are faced with challenges such as access to proper facilities. She also advised the authorities to consider procuring modern machinery, which can be leased out to local designers to enable them to create jobs.

“There is money in the fashion and design business, but one needs to invest that money back into the business. The sewing machines that we started with have changed and today we are using modern technology. All this requires you to have money all the time to make sure that you keep up with the changes,” she said.

Luaanda advised young people to consider seizing opportunities that require them to acquire skills.

“All you need is to be honest to your customers, be serious with whatever you are doing and also use resources at your disposal to start.

“Also try to make use of opportunities like trade fairs to market your products or services.”

ILENI NANDJATO

OTIE brings hope to Ondangwa

The Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition (OTIE) is designed to promote business and industrial development at the northern town, with small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) and the manufacturing sector making up the majority of exhibitors.

Over the past eight years that Ondangwa has been hosting this event, the town and its surrounding areas have seen SMEs thriving and the manufacturing sector growing at a rapid pace.

There are direct benefits to businesses that get an opportunity to exhibit and trade at the exhibition centre.

The economy of Ondangwa receives a much-needed boost during the exhibition period as exhibitors and visitors alike make use of accommodation facilities, eateries, service stations and retailers.

“We are also seeing the manufacturing sector coming up in Ondangwa and we believe that it's through supporting and growing this sector that we as a town and as a country will create jobs for the locals,” says town CEO Ismael Namgongo.

“It is a proven fact that jobs in developed economies are created in the SME and the manufacturing sectors. With that understanding, the organising committee has extended a gesture to all Ondangwa-based manufacturers, small and established ones, to come and showcase their products at very favourable terms.

“Ondangwa is one of the few towns in the country that is blessed with a lot of comparative advantages.

“It is an ideal place to do business and you are guaranteed easy access to the entire population in the north, it is easy to reach all corners of the north-central regions; one doesn't necessarily need to set up businesses in all corners and towns in the north but once you set up shop in Ondangwa, you are guaranteed of the market in the north.”

According to Namgongo, the town continues to ensure that it is investor friendly at all times.

“As a council, we make sure that the business environment is good to do business in the area and we make sure that supporting infrastructure for business to thrive (business/industrial land, safety and security and other basic services such as water) are available and complemented by other infrastructure such as roads, air transport and rail transport. Having the above advantages over the other towns is a good thing but the economy of Ondangwa and that of Oshana, and subsequently that of the whole country, is still growing compared to bigger economies of the world and in situations like this, we need everyone in the economy to play their part.”

SME commitment

Namgongo says the town also remains committed to see the growth of the local SME and manufacturing sectors, starting with the annual trade and industrial exhibition.

“Ondangwa hosts relatively small but fast growing manufacturers and through this event, council is giving them an opportunity to promote their products.

“Council is calling upon all manufacturers to partner with us in this drive; just call our office and council can offer affordable/favourable opportunities to either showcase your products or set up business in Ondangwa,” he says.

“This event is structured in a way that it promotes both public and private businesses and services. For business to grow, business leaders need information on their businesses and opportunities that are available.

“The event is therefore a platform where the public institutions (government ministries, SOEs, NGOs, municipalities) are taking part in an effort to interact with the general community and give information about the services they are offering to the people.

“Of course as a council we always use this platform to interact with the residents of Ondangwa, business community and with potential investors.”

ILENI NANDJATO

Unwavering passion at Ondangwa Private Hospital

In 2014, Dr Happy Musweu and his wife, Dr Helena Shuuvuni, both general practitioners, established the Ondangwa Private Hospital after identifying the need for a health facility at the growing northern town.

The hospital started as a maternity hospital, but due to the high demand and the growing number of patients, it was transformed into a 34-bed hospital catering for patients with an assortment of illnesses.

The hospital offers casualty, paediatric, gynaecology, surgery, radiology, pathology and maternity services.

Ondangwa Private Hospital is the second largest private hospital in the north and employs more than 32 doctors, including eight specialists.

According to the hospital's spokesperson, Lucky Kalipa, at the beginning of 2017 they started offering oncology services, which was a first for northern Namibia.

Dr Alex Nkandu is the head of the Oncology Clinic, assisted by Dr Mtabeni Jemu. Nkandu said when he started offering free cancer treatment at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, he realised that there was a need to address the high demand considering that every Wednesday there is a bus transporting cancer patients to the Namibian Oncology Centre (NOC) at the Windhoek Central Hospital.

“This is one of the busiest sections of the Oshakati hospital. Patients have to join a long waiting list before getting a chance to go to the oncology clinic at the central hospital in Windhoek. After treatment, patients have to go back onto the waiting list for follow-ups,” said Nkandu.

Nkandu said they established a cancer clinic at the Ondangwa Private Hospital, which is currently offering services including clinical oncology, mammography, chemotherapy services, facilitation of oncology pharmacy and counselling services.

They have over 100 patients under their care.

He said patients can now go for cancer treatment in Windhoek and come to them for follow-up, except for those that require radiation therapy.

“The clinic is of vital importance because we are receiving many referrals from local hospitals in the area. We refer all patients that need to undergo radiation therapy treatment to Windhoek and we take care of the rest,” Nkandu said.

Kalipa said there is a need for a proper cancer care facility, which is why the hospital is expanding the oncology clinic.

“We are hopeful that by the end of the year construction will be completed. We plan to have radiation therapy facilities so that we will be treating all patients here without sending them to Windhoek,” he said.

ILENI NANDJATO

SMEs drive economic growth

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are important drivers of growth, employment and innovation in and around the northern town of Ondangwa.

It is against this background that the town council has prioritised this important sector by providing business training sessions for local SMEs.

The training involves business management, bookkeeping and customer care.

Gerhard Sam, the council's manager for local economic development and marketing, says SMEs are the drivers of economic growth and job creation, which ultimately supports efforts to reduce poverty in Namibia.

“We reserve ample exhibition space for the SMEs to showcase their products. We believe that this is the ideal space needed for SMEs to market and demonstrate their products or services to the people. I therefore urge the local entrepreneurs to make use of the opportunity created and market their services and products,” he says.

“During the Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition we often organise business coaching or training sessions for local SMEs in areas such as business management, bookkeeping and customer care. The introduction of awards for exhibitors also motivates them greatly. They in return get recognition from others, boost customer confidence and trust in their services and goods.”

Sam says there is a strong demand from SMEs to participate in the exhibition, judging by the overwhelming number of applications received.

For food and beverages stalls, the organisers received up to 200 applications and only 30 applicants could be accommodated.

There is also a huge demand for space in the tent accommodating vendors of traditional products.

“We are happy to announce that many of our exhibitors who attended our business development training over the past years, particularly food and beverage exhibitors, are now providing catering services to local banks, corporates and to council functions,” said Sam.

Council spokesperson Petrina Shitalangaho says this year the town has spent approximately N$200 000 on improving 25 general stalls earmarked for SMEs.

ILENI NANDJATO

Jericho takes a new turnDoing music with a different motive Rapper Jericho is now part of the Christian hip-hop community with a gospel rap album in the pipeline.

The music industry can be harsh and vindictive. One day you are living in the sanctuary of what seems like a stable situation and the next, you can be in a state of anonymity that leaves you questioning the very structures that brought you up. No one knows this better than Jericho.

After rising to recognition many years ago and being dubbed the godfather of Namibian hip-hop, the 38-year old rapper has dealt with controversy and fought many battles. His sudden and unexplained exclusion from the limelight has generated attention towards his career leaving many wondering about what happened to him. 'Where is Jericho?'and 'Are we ever going to get a music project from Jericho?' are just a few of the questions a lot of music enthusiasts have asked themselves.

With the release of his new song Back to You featuring Son-G, Jericho rises above the whispers and is taking his career in a new direction. He has decided to join the Christian hip-hop community, a subgenre of hip-hop music that is characterised by a Christian worldview.

Speaking to tjil, the veteran rapper announced that his seventh studio album titled God's Son: People Forget, I Don't is 90% done. He shared that it is going to be a gospel album with 14 songs; 11 full songs, an intro, outro and an interlude. “I do not want people to feel sorry for me and I am not doing gospel music to hide in the shadows of God. I come from a very strong Christian family so sharing the gospel through my music is a calling that has been there for years.

“I have been through a lot in my life and I am at a point where I need to make music that allows me to thank God for my life. With this album I want to affirm to people that there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel through God and prayer,” added Jericho.

He mentioned that he is not driven by high commercial success to release this album; he just wants to touch people's lives through his music. “God already knows where the album is going to end up. Even if I only transform the lives of two inmates with my story that would be more than enough for me,” he said.

The rapper added that the album is about him owning up to his mistakes and being the voice of people who have fought similar battles. He believes Namibia is going through many disturbing social ills that he can address through music. “I am soliciting for funds to go on a national tour. I want to visit schools and correctional facilities to talk to boys and men about the dangers of street life. I want to use my story to inspire them to make sound decisions in life and do the right thing,” he shared.

You would assume the pressure is intense for someone in his position compared to a new artist. Having released music of a certain quality and now the resources and support are not necessarily what they were but the expectations from his fans remains high. Asked if he feels that he has something to prove now that he is crafting his comeback, Jericho said: “I do not feel pressured at all. I am not releasing this album because I have to, this is God doing his job through me.

“I am not perfect but neither is everyone else. People have high expectations of me, which is okay, but they must not be too quick to judge a person because at the end of the day we all have flaws,” he said.

Besides the album, he shared that his musical plans for the rest of the year include being involved in the conceptualisation of his music videos. He conceptualised the Back to You music video and added that he wants to continue doing so with the rest of his visuals. “I was very involved in conceptualising my latest music video and I liked how it came out. I am going to be doing more of that because it is an extension of my creativity,” he said.

On collaboration, Jericho said that he recently teamed up with the Namibia Gospel United group for a collaborative song with other gospel artists. “I am really proud and honoured to be a part of Namibia Gospel United. We recorded a song and shot a music video for it which will be premiered at Ster Kinekor Cinema 5 at Grove Mall of Friday, 3 May.

“In the meantime my fans in Karibib can catch me at Usab Night Club on Friday, 26 April. It's a dance battle show,” shared Jericho.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

King Tee Dee cut on own songNamibia supports King Tee Dee amidst the music video saga Cutting out King Tee Dee has seen to quite the backlash on Namibian social media platforms for Diamond Platinumz.

Fans, artists and media personalities in Namibia took to social media to support King Tee Dee after Diamond Platinumz from Tanzania released a music video to King Tee Dee's One I love without his verses and him not appearing in the video.

Diamond is initially featured on the Valentine's anthem which was produced by Lizar Classic. When reached for comment on the matter, Diamond Platinumz's team shared that both parties have committed to a contract. The contract specifies that both artists in question can recreate the song however they want, or wish, with the knowledge and consent of the producer of the song.

King Tee Dee and Mshasho are yet to put out an official statement on the matter. Poiyah Media founder Ilke Platt whose public relations firm is entrusted with King Tee Dee's PR, told tjil that they are aware of the matter but are dealing with it privately. “Because of the sensitivity of the matter, Poiyah Media and our client King Tee Dee have chosen to deal with the matter confidentially,” Platt told tjil.

Gazza, and businessmen Lazarus Jacobs and Knowledge Katti are some of the notable public figures who have publicly offered their support for King Tee Dee. Gazza admitted that he is not aware of the contractual terms for the song but he made it known that he is rallying for King Tee DEE and Namibia. “This is not a call for sympathy nor for mediation because I myself do not know details of the agreement between the two artists but I do not care, it is my natural duty to stand for Namibia,” said Gazza.

With the issue being a hot topic on social media platforms, Gazza summoned Namibians and his fans to refrain from scorning King Tee Dee for the saga. “Lessons learned for all of us to grow, but still we must support our own and I call on my GMP family and fans to stop with the bashing because today it is King Tee Dee, tomorrow it is us,” said Gazza.

Tweets on the matter

@NdatuHaikali: Diamond Platinumz we Namibians are disappointed in you. Our musician King Tee Dee invited you for his concert in 2018; you recorded a song and rejected to shoot it, just to find out you cropped him out and released your own video. Where is your loyalty?

@MJayOskwata: Let's make a million dislike on the Diamond Platinumz One I love music video.

@jerrymcfly6_9: So many backstabbers in Namibia; instead of supporting your very own artist you are busy dissing him. Shame, right now you all acting up like our politicians. Stop trolling him and defend him.

@Gonsba: Let's do our own Namibian music video and exclude his part out also. He should have excluded the “babe ondikuhole” part from his lyrics, which is our language.

@ChilliKong: The Dogg is one of the most talented artists that will walk on Namibian soil. He gave us hits since 2003-04 till today. Respect the man.

@MariaNepembe: I want to fight!!! Is there anything you/we can do?

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

We need to own our virtual space General elections will be held in Namibia in November 2019 so I figured I would write something that questions whether or not our political parties have agendas that strongly address art, entertainment and the digital space in their manifestos.

Land is a serious issue in Namibia and has been for years, but I believe the next land war is going to be about online virtual space. Twenty years from now, that generation will question why Twitter or Facebook, for example, have so many Namibian users yet they dictate and host our information and content. There is going to be a virtual space war of why international information sharing networks make the most money from our content. Yes, Namibian users benefit here and there but it is not enough.

If you really think about entities like Facebook, Twitter and Google, what they really are, are digital companies that use your content for free. They keep all the profit and sell it to advertisers and here we are just getting recognition in the forms of views, likes and shares.

In the past, government has strongly invested in food production, manufacturing and other sectors of the economy, which is commendable. We acknowledge that certain parts of the economy are more important but the creative community needs state support too.

There is a need for those in power, and those campaigning for it, to look at people or companies in other sectors of the economy that have succeeded despite the odds stacked against them. I think the multimedia and media industry overall is a good case study in this regard. The incredible developments in the media industry are case studies that our leaders can be examining and say; this is actually what a big group of young people care about, why don't we use the dynamism that's there already and support them instead of always stretching them and forcing them into this manufacturing view of the economy that is somewhat outdated to a big portion of the youth. Not all young people have been excited by political ideologies that have been presented to them by the political community and it is time manifestos are diversified to also cater to other parts of the economy, like information sharing entities.

My suggestion is - give young people the tools to build the next multimedia empires. Give young people the tools to explore what it means to be digitally aware in the 21st century and give the youth tools to build technology companies. I believe taking our own initiative is important and the new multimedia community in Namibia mostly made up of young people is a good example of this.

Examine the rise of the new Namibian media environment and digital sources of information started by young Namibians and you will be impressed. I am talking online music stores, online magazines, YouTube channels, blogs, vlogs and podcasts. Nobody gave these creatives hand-outs and no government help for the most part. But they have built this thing into one of the most incredible, with great entrepreneurial spirit. So many businesses have been started online yet they do not yet rake in money for their ideas because for the most part these ideas are hosted on platforms owned by international information sharing companies. Not only new media but the traditional media outlets in Namibia have also done a phenomenal job in keeping up with the times and reinventing themselves.

I might be sounding a bit ambitious saying this but it is high time virtual space is nationalised and a proper banking system is established, one which speaks directly to the business needs of those with businesses online.

michael@namibiansun.com

Blossom takes responsibility

NAMA award-winning artist, Blossom, has formally tendered an apology for the derogatory remarks she made in 2017 insulting the president.

In a formal apology letter send to NAMA executive chairperson Tim Ekandjo, Blossom's letter reads as follows; “I hereby give a formal apology to the public in general, and to the Head of State, His Excellency Dr Hage Geingob, for a comment I made on social media in 2017 when I wrote on my page saying, “Okwankara eeta ondjala, my biggest mistake. I fully take responsibility for this negative remark which may have been considered tribal.

“I further extend my apology as it is part of my duty as a musician and businesswoman to uphold unity.”

Ekandjo welcomed Blossom's apology in a reply letter he said, “We would like to thank you for taking this bold step in tendering your apology. Apologising is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength.

We wish to inform you that the NAMAs have accepted your apology.”

STAFF REPORTER

Teaching the value of failureLearning from where others have messed up F*ckup Nights was brought to Namibia by a group of young adults, with the aim of inspiring the general public with stories of how people, who are successful today, have fallen but are still going strong.

Originating in Mexico, F*ckup Nights is a global event established in Namibia in 2018 by a group of individuals who wanted to show struggling entrepreneurs that even their idols have had a rocky road to where they are now.

Under the mentorship of Cleophas Johannes, the president of AIESEC Namibia, a team of eight started organising the event which is a comfortable space for successful individuals to share their stories of failure and give a behind-the-scenes look at how they got to where they are now, while investigating some of the embarrassing things that happened to them on their way up.

The team aims to inspire locals and break the stigma among Namibians of being afraid to try anything because of the possibility of failure.

They highlighted that more is learned from losing than one could ever learn from winning. Brands and digital marketing executive Mark Katjiku said the event was established to help the youth and other members of the community realise that it’s okay to have a few failures on your way to success.

“Many people give up too quickly on their dreams due to one or two failures. People attending the event should expect a great networking opportunity and a space where they can feel safe being themselves and embracing their mistakes,” he said.

The event’s finance manager Ester Uuzigo hopes that the next F*ckup Nights event to be held on Tuesday, 30 April, will pull a better crowd and reach more people compared to the previous two events, with the most recent one having taken place on 27 February. She said she hopes people will learn from the speakers.

Tega Namwandi, who is tasked with managing the eight-member team, said one of the main challenges they have experienced is attracting sponsors because most companies are sceptical due to the name of the project.

She, however, mentioned that the name is an abbreviation and was adopted from Mexico, where the project originated.

Namwandi encouraged people to be open-minded and come to the event and learn something new.

Having set the standard high, the line-up of speakers for the next event is phenomenal and includes rising musical star Top-Cheri, Tjuna Kauapirura, Netumbo Nekomba, Regto David and Simon Samuel.

The event was initially sponsored by Coca-Cola and Red Bull, but this year Poiyah Media came on board as the main sponsors. The event is scheduled to take place at the Pelican Café in Hochland Park and tickets are available online at Webtickets and at any Pick n Pay, or alternatively via FUN Agents, Tega (081 478 2335) and Ester(081 850 5388) for N$50 or N$100 at the door.

ESTER KAMATI

Conveying characterActress Elizabeth Shakujungua shares her love for acting With her life's mission to tell stories through acting, we will watch Shakujungua any day while being mesmerised by her beauty.

The 3rd Will's lead actress allowed tjil to crown her as cover star for this week. An entertainer in so many ways, she shared the traits of the character she impersonates, and her journey in acting.

The 3rd Will is a Namibian series directed by Bienvenu Lukoki; the show airs on Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and Zambezi Magic. The TV show's plot narrates a story of two half-brothers waging war over a multibillion-dollar company left behind by their father.

Outlining her character Shakujungua shared that she acts as Charlotte, a villain in the TV series. She mentioned that Charlotte is a feisty, bossy and wealthy woman who grew up in a household with wealthy parents. “She happens to be the youngest sister of the Annely Kamati who was married to the late Mr Kamati,” shared Shakujungua.

She added that Charlotte had a previous relationship with Beukes and disappeared. She later retuned when her sister Annely disappeared and went abroad. “Charlotte is currently raising Annely's son Thomas Kamati, and Grace. She runs all deals associated with the Kamati Empire. She wants to ensure Thomas doesn't marry Lucia, who is set on destroying the Kamati family,” she shared.

Asked if she identifies with her character and what similarities they share, Shakujungua mentioned that Charlotte and her are similar women who are powerfully strong emotionally, mentally and spiritually. “I am cheerful, funny and bubbly. Charlotte is sarcastic, loud, cheeky and rude and pushy and loves to call the shots,” she said.

Shakujungua launched her acting career in 2015; she said that her friend convinced her to go for auditions and she eventually got the role as Charlotte the following year.

Speaking on what she enjoys about acting, the 'villain' said that she loves the fact that she is able to entertain people through acting. She added that being in her position allows her to view different situations through a different lens.

“Acting shows you the advantages and disadvantages of a character as well as the fears and weaknesses of the character. These are situations people go through on a daily basis and I get to express them,” said Shakujungua.

Shakujungua revealed that she has acted in three other roles besides Charlotte. “The other roles did not require so much emotion and they were not as powerful and busy as the character in 3rd Will. Charlotte is a powerful force to be reckoned with,” she shared.

On her goals and aspirations as an actress, Shakujungua said she aspires to do more roles and feature in big international projects. She also said she would love to take on more roles on different stages including theatre. “I love acting and growth is good so I would not mind trying out new roles,” she said.

Besides acting Shakujungua hosts events and she is a contractor for marketing. Even though she enjoys her work, she admitted it comes with challenges. She pointed out not having enough acting gigs and a lack of funds for projects as some of the biggest challenges in her line of work. “The film industry in our country does not also get enough support from corporate entities. Despite the lack of support, the drive and desire for many to be in this industry is huge.”

“I believe when support is given it fuels great ambitions and desires. Support creates opportunity for others to also get entry into the industry,” said Shakujungua.

She believes we all have great dreams but to accomplish these dreams, having the zeal to follow your heart and trusting God is pivotal. “The best is yet to come from my side,” she said.

Bienvenu Lukoki described working with Shakujungua is a pleasant experience. Lukoki shared that Shakujungua is great at embracing her character. “She is passionate about her work so I assume it is even easier for her to learn her lines which makes our work easier.”

“Shakujungua is determined and with her drive I can see her going places,” said Lukoki.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Cracks in lion early-warning systemPregnant lioness's death could have been prevented Experts say the early-warning system designed to curb human-wildlife conflict should have warned farmers in the Torra Conservancy about the presence of a pride of lions.

The killing of a pregnant and collared lioness in Namibia's Torra Conservancy over the weekend has raised questions over the implementation of an early-warning system designed to prevent livestock killings by the desert-adapted lions in the area.

According to a statement released by the Desert Lions Human Relations Aid (DeLHRA) this week, the farmer who shot the lioness on Saturday near Spaarwater south of Palmwag lion had “acted legally and had no other options”.

DeLHRA stated it was likely a 12-year-old lioness, XPL-67, who formed part of the Achab pride which had been raiding livestock in the area in recent weeks. After she was killed, it was discovered that she was carrying four “well developed foetuses”.

Izak Smit of DeLHRA said it was unclear “why the farmers did not receive an early warning” from the Desert Lion Project, which had collared the lioness in February, or the Northwest Lion Working Group which is tasked to keep a close eye on lion movements and to provide response teams and farmers with information about potential danger hotspots.

“The upgraded kraals seem to work and remain uncompromised, however daytime conflict can only be addressed if positions are known and conflict pre-empted,” DeLHRA's statement stressed.

Smit said according to information on the ground, the pride of lions had “repeatedly raided” livestock hotspots near Spaarwater recently and the farmer in question had already lost 15 goats during that period, including three goats on the morning of the incident which led to the shooting.

“The lions came within 100 metres of the young herdsman who ran for help, necessitating the use of lethal means which were therefore inevitable.”

Smit praised the farmer for showing restraint.

“He could've shot all the lions, but he said he hoped the others would now stay away and would have learnt a lesson.”

He added that the farmer agreed that an early warning could have “prevented this sad incident”.

DeLHRA said the incident raised questions about “what had happened to the promised system as per the new National Human Wildlife Conflict Policy launched by the environment and tourism ministry.”

Improve

Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda on Tuesday confirmed the incident and said the ministry was investigating, but declined to comment on the early-warning system.

Smit said DeLHRA would continue to put in efforts to assist and enable a “proper and effective implementation of the early-warning and response system”, together with the relevant authorities.

The organisation warned the current system was “clearly lacking in its current form given the many unattended incidents recently”.

Similar incidents, where mortalities were prevented by chasing the lions off, had taken place at Elephant Song, Slangpos and the De Rust farm over the past month, Smit said.

He said the fact that these lions had also “somehow slipped past existing early warning systems” showed the “inadequate infrastructure and manpower which urgently needs to be supplemented by more able parties”.

Smit further warned that upgraded kraals protected livestock at night, but daytime raids were increasing.

“We are of the opinion that the lions will adapt since they cannot breach the kraals anymore, and now lie in ambush during daytime. This has not been proven at Spaarwater and the only remedy is a proper early-warning and response system.” Smit said one solution would be to involve more non-profit organisations such as DeLHRA to ensure more effective coverage of a massive area.

“We have proposed a network including local lodges in strategic locations and their guides and vehicles to participate and they are keen. It just needs implementation and control.”

Apart from a more robust 24/7 monitoring and reporting system, Smit says suggestions include geo-fencing, which would ensure that collars send warnings when the lions breach certain areas.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Vetkoek business gets a boost at Okaku

The Okaku constituency office in the Oshana Region has decided to support the local vetkoek business by donating ingredients to the vendors, most of them women.

Sugar, flour and cooking oil worth N$60 000 were distributed to 65 entrepreneurs.

The control administration officer at the Okaku constituency office, Fillemon Jatileni, said the office had been sponsoring community gardens for the past three years, but they failed to materialise.

“This is not a one-day business but an everyday business and owners are working hard to support their families and get out of poverty,” he said.

“Some of these small business people are struggling ... and that is why we decided to support them in order to boost their businesses,” said Jatileni. Jatileni said the money was sourced from the regional government's food-security scheme (N$30 878) and rural employment scheme (N$29 489). The constituency councillor, Hannu Kapenda, handed over the donations at his office on Wednesday. Ana Jonas (63) from Oneleiwa village, who has been in the business since 1980, said she was grateful, as the donation would make a big difference in her life.

“Since 1980 I have been struggling with this business and today we received much-needed help. I am going to work hard to see how I can improve my business and help my house. I have a big family that depends on this business. Getting this support is a blessing,” Jonas said.

Epifania Ndakolo (35) from Onyeka village said the donation was the last thing she expected, given the economic situation in the country.

“I was struggling with the business. I sell vetkoek at Onyeka School, but the business is not so good this year because many mahangu fields gave nothing. Our customers are school kids who make money from cultivating mahangu fields after school. Getting this donation is a blessing because I did not expect it. All I am going to do is to buy fish to supplement my stock,” said Ndakolo.

Jatileni said he hoped the donation would motivate the beneficiaries to work harder. He said he would visit them to assess how they are doing.

ILENI NANDJATO

Peeping Tom fights for bailSays photos were taken on impulse The 51-year-old South African peeping Tom, Gavin Booth, who was recently sentenced to one year in prison after taking photos of a 24-year-old tourist showering, has lodged an appeal against the sentence.

“I'm disappointed in myself ... it was disgraceful and shameful. I do not know how to face my two daughters,” a sobbing Gavin Booth said on Wednesday at the Swakopmund Magistrate's Court.

Booth testified during his bail hearing and said that the prison sentence imposed was “too heavy”.

Booth was sentenced to a year in prison on March 19 after he was convicted of housebreaking with intent to commit crimen injuria. Booth was charged with taking photos of a showering female tourist and was identified thanks to CCTV footage.

After he was found guilty he appealed against the sentence. The judgment is expected in “about six months” which is why he launched a formal bail application.

During the bail hearing he testified that the photos taken by him were “blurry” and that he immediately deleted them.

“I acted out of impulse, but I immediately felt sick to the core and was disappointed,” he said. He is currently in prison and has since been “reborn” – and has “found God”.

“I started a new chapter in my life,” Booth said, crying.

“I've been baptised in prison and attend almost every service.”

Booth is from Pretoria and is employed as an export and sales manager for an international firm, responsible for the entire SADC region. He wishes to return to South Africa if he is granted bail.

“If the High Court decides that I have to serve the remainder of my sentence, then I'll do it without question,” he promised.

Blaine Carstens, his boss, testified on Booth's behalf yesterday.

“The act was completely out of his character. He's a role model for the young staff,” Carstens said.

“He's punctual, reliable, and if he stays in prison, it will negatively impact the entire company.”

During Booth's cross-examination, prosecutor Latoya Katjitundu said Booth had “no chance of a successful appeal in the High Court”.

“You got off very lightly as housebreaking is a serious offence and usually longer prison sentences are imposed,” she said.

The court was “very lenient”. She added that should Booth be granted bail, he could easily abscond, as he had no family members or possessions in Namibia.

“I would not abscond. I'm an honourable man and keep to my word,” Booth replied.

Booth was represented by Marinus Scholtz. The case before Magistrate Nelao Brown was postponed to next week Tuesday.

ERWIN LEUSCHNER

No suspect in NIMT killings

Ten days after the double murder of NIMT managing director Eckhart Mueller and his deputy Heimo Hellwig, the police are yet to arrest a suspect.

This was confirmed yesterday by Commissioner Andreas Nelumbu, the regional commander of the Erongo police.

“No person has yet been arrested, charged, or is a suspect,” he reiterated yesterday.

This statement comes two days after the spokesperson for the Namibian police, Chief Inspector Kauna Shikwambi, officially announced that NIMT instructor Ernst Lichtenstrasser had been arrested for double murder and was to appear before the Swakopmund Magistrate's Court on the same day. Lichtenstrasser did not appear in court that day on a charge of murder.

“It probably was an internal misunderstanding,” Nelumbu said yesterday.

According to the police chief, Lichtenstrasser was arrested for “another offense”, which is why he is still in custody.

Lichtenstrasser was arrested at Karibib shortly after the murder, allegedly in possession of two .22 cartridges for which he could not provide a licence. He was brought before the Karibib Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, where he was denied bail.

Whether Lichtenstrasser is a “person of interest” in the murder case, Nelumbu did not wish to answer.

“There were many people of interest who were also questioned,” he said. Nelumbu repeated an appeal to the public to report “credible information” that could lead to the arrest of the NIMT shooter(s).

“Unfortunately, some information has been published in the media that should not be distributed there,” he said, without going into detail.

Hunger strike

During Lichtenstrasser's court appearance on Tuesday on a charge of illegal possession of ammunition, he described the conditions of his incarceration as “cruel and a serious health risk”.

According to The Namibian, he added that, “I am also on a hunger strike now until I get to speak to my lawyer or to my wife, or until I am released on bail.”

Mueller and Hellwig were shot dead on 15 April in front of the main entrance of the renowned training centre in Arandis. According to the police eight shots were fired.

Classes at the Arandis campus were scheduled to resume on Tuesday this week, but all apprentices were sent home because the police wanted to re-examine the scene a week after the murders.

“The police cleared the scene on Wednesday evening and we can re-enter the campus,” NIMT principal Ralph Bussel said yesterday.

The NIMT staff will resume work on 2 May.

“We agreed on that date due to the upcoming memorial services of the two victims and the public holiday on 1 May.

“Training at the other NIMT campuses (Tsumeb and Keetmanshoop) is not affected,” Bussel said.

ERWIN LEUSCHNER

Give the ACC more teeth

In his budget statement last month, finance minister Calle Schlettwein indicated the need for a ruthless anti-corruption drive in both the public and private sectors. “It is one of the most immoral causes for inequality as it disproportionally benefits the few and harms the many.

“It creates elites or cliques. When self-interest reigns supreme with no ethics, a society without humanitarian values and compassion is formed, and the principles of social justice, equality and peace are lost,” Schlettwein stated in his 2019/20 budget statement.

The minister is right. Corruption remains enemy number one in Namibia and one of the biggest among all the challenges in our country.

Over the last few years we have seen an increase in corruption cases, and while some of them have ended up in courts and the culprits prosecuted, perceptions about the big fish getting off scot-free continue to linger.

The anti-graft body has only been allocated N$61.6 million in the current financial year to support activities to fight against corruption. The ACC this week argued that this money was not enough as it needs at least N$62.4 million just to fulfil its contractual obligations such as salaries and transport expenditure.

The budget allocation means that it will barely be in a position to pursue its two main mandates, which are to investigate allegations of corruption and to prevent corruption.

We understand that the nation is truly facing financial challenges. However, the underfunding of the ACC just further affirms that there appears to be a lack of political commitment to tackle graft, especially in the public service.

There is already what appears to be a slack attitude coupled by lax prosecution of glaring instances of corruption considering that dockets are piling up at the Office of the Prosecutor-General.

What Namibia needs is a well-funded ACC capable of preventing and effectively fighting corruption. Ruthlessly implementing a zero tolerance stance against corruption at all levels would be hindered if the ACC is not adequately funded.