Namibian Sun

'Let's move on'Geingob shoots down emotional Lubango victims The head of state yesterday told emotional Lubango victims to move on with their lives.

President Hage Geingob has dismissed calls for the establishment of a South African-style Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to deal with the unresolved pain and anguish associated with the so-called Lubango dungeons.

Geingob claimed yesterday that the country would “go up in flames” if the Pandora's Box associated with the dungeons was opened, and insisted the Swapo-led government has done a lot to embrace the then liberation movement's ex-detainees.

The head of state also asked the ex-detainees whether they deny there were spies during the liberation struggle, and said they are not the only ones living with stigma, as the 'Boere' are also living with the stigma of the past.

Geingob said he was branded a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) spy during the apartheid era and told the former Lubango detainees accused of spying for the South African government to move on with their lives and not live in the past.

“We went through things, but we forget. It is a very complicated issue and we will have to start with Koevoet first. But if wounds are now re-opened, this country will go up in flames. There are Koevoet in parliament, in the opposition parties,” said Geingob.

He added there was a blanket amnesty when the United Nations supervised Namibia during the transition from apartheid to an independent government, which covered the apartheid soldiers.

“One thing I cannot understand though is why this issue always comes up during the elections? I know exile is not a joke,” Geingob said. United Nations (UN) Resolution 435, which was adopted on 29 September 1978, compelled Swapo to free all political detainees.

This resolution put forward proposals for a ceasefire and UN-supervised elections in the South African-controlled South West Africa, which ultimately led to the independence of Namibia.

During a visit to State House yesterday a group of Lubango ex-detainees told Geingob they were not there to negotiate, but are demanding the establishment of a TRC, because there is a need for them to sit with their torturers before they can move on. They also demanded to know why Swapo has never investigated the allegations against those the former liberation movement held, tortured and even killed for allegedly being spies.

One of the victims, Justus Tsauseb, who left for exile at the age of 17 and ended up spending nine years in the dungeons, said more than 2 000 people remained in the dungeons and were never returned.

Swapo has claimed for years it only held only 201 “spies” and that they were all released.

Tsauseb wanted Geingob to explain whether the blanket amnesty also covered Swapo's atrocities against its own people.

According to him a group of 160 detainees were returned in 1989 and the last group of 16 people escaped later that year in August.

“We know we left people that were still alive and healthy and they never returned,” Tsauseb said.

A tearful Pauline Dempers refuted claims by Geingob that Swapo has embraced ex-detainees. She said they only had a favourable meeting with former president Hifikepunye Pohamba, whose administration made promises.

She added that to date they had not received feedback from Swapo and its government.

“Swapo killed and detained its own people. For years we lived with death hanging over our heads. We lived with daily uncertainties, whether we would live to see another day. Comrades would fall ill in the middle of the night and die in our arms, while we are shouting for help, and we would carry a dead body out in the morning,” she said.

Dempers told Geingob that ex-detainees who have managed to have successful careers are still being victimised, while others were rejected outright by their families because of fears of guilt by association.

“An ex-detainee moved and settled in a rural community, where she is not originally from and when she realised the community had no communal water tap, she installed one with her own resources. However, some community members refused and instigated others not to make use of the tap, claiming that it might have been paid with enemy slush (fund) money,” Dempers explained.

Others, she said, had for years lived under the radar, because they feared being killed.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Congo fever: Only one confirmed case

Only one patient, who is recovering, has so far tested positive for Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) in northern Namibia.

Two other suspected cases have tested negative, while two results are pending.

At a joint press conference hosted by the health and agriculture ministries yesterday, health minister Kalumbi Shangula said the patient who had tested positive for Congo fever was discharged from hospital on 11 May.

She is a 54-year-old woman from Onethika village, who was admitted to hospital on 21 April.

Samples taken from 77-year-old man from the same village, who died after showing similar symptoms, tested negative for the dreaded disease.

Test results are still pending for two patients, a 27-year-old man who was discharged from hospital on 11 May and a 57-year-old woman.

A 40-year-old man's preliminary results were negative, while a 50-year-old man tested negative.

As part of the two ministries' joint response to the outbreak, pesticides were sent to the affected area yesterday with the aim of treating nearly 3 800 head of livestock against ticks.

The agriculture ministry's Dr Albertina Shilongo stressed that Congo fever is spread by ticks. Although host animals do not get ill, they play a significant role in the life cycle of a tick and therefore in the spread of the infectious disease.

“That is why it's very important for us to spread the message to inform farmers to control ticks by applying acaricides [tick poison] on the body of the animals, so that the ticks die,” she said.

Dr Eric Dziuban, country director of the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Namibia, emphasised that although Congo fever is an extremely serious illness, “there is no cause for alarm for the general population here in Namibia.”

He said this is because the mode of transmission is very specific, namely through a tick bite or through contact with the body fluids or tissues of infected animals or people.

“It does not spread in communities the same way that Ebola does. And we don't see the large outbreaks from the disease like Ebola. This is not Ebola,” he emphasised.

Dziuban said CCHF is a serious disease nevertheless and the risk of death can range from 9% to 50% of infected people. “Most people do recover and survive,” he added.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) representative to Namibia, Dr Charles Sagoe-Moses, said prevention and early detection are key to control the outbreak.

He said protection from tick bites is a crucial first step in halting the outbreak because it accounts for 70% of cases.

He said the early reporting of the first case, the woman in late April, helped to save her life and urged Namibians showing symptoms to immediately seek medical help.

Shangula said signs and symptoms of CCHF include fever, muscle pain, nausea, headache, abdominal pain and diarrhoea which can at times be bloody. Confusion and bleeding are also symptoms.

He warned that the most vulnerable people are those working closely with livestock, such as animal herders, livestock handlers, veterinarians and slaughterhouse workers, and public health workers caring for patients.

Apart from tick-control measures, the ministry is urging at-risk communities to wear protective clothing, such as gloves, long sleeves and trousers, when handling animals.

Moreover, the ministry recommends wearing light-coloured clothing, on which ticks can easily be spotted, and applying insect repellent when working in high-risk areas.

Close contact should be avoided with anyone who displays symptoms of CCHF.

Upon returning from areas where ticks are present, people should inspect their bodies and their clothing for ticks.

When removing a tick it is important to remove it in one piece and not to damage the body of the tick, as this increases the risk of infection.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Griffons poised to pounceWelwitschias desperate for a win The Windhoek Draught Welwitschias are desperate to build momentum in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge, after three losses in a row so far.

The Windhoek Draught Welwitschias will have to dig deep on Sunday, if they are to pose a threat to the Down Touch Griffons at the Impala Rugby Football Club Stadium in Rustenburg, South Africa.

They are desperate for a win in order to keep the morale of the players high in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge. Namibia are the bottom-feeders in their pool so far, after being handed rugby lessons in their first three clashes of the season.

They are not newcomers to the tournament, as they are taking part for the third time.

The Welwitschias are using this year's edition of the SuperSport Rugby Challenge as preparation for their upcoming participation in the 2019 Japan Rugby World Cup.

Head coach Phil Davies has consistently said the SuperSport tournament bridges the gap between club and international rugby.

He believes the tournament is particularly helpful to Namibia's home-based players.

“The SuperSport Rugby Challenge is considered a third-tier competition, behind Super Rugby and the Currie Cup; for the Namibian side it is the highest level of rugby they can play outside of the World Cup,” Davies said in a recent interview with Namibian Sun.

He said along with a focused fitness plan, the competition is helping the players prepare well for the World Cup.

The Welwitschias lost their opening match against the Xerox Lions 23-40 and then suffered a massive defeat to the Vodacom Blue Bulls, who defeated them 21-87 in their second match. Last weekend the Tafel Lager Griquas thrashes the Welwitschias 61-24 at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek.

The Namibian team now heads into the weekend hoping to defeat the fifth-placed Griffons, who lost 20-35 last weekend to the Vodacom Blue Bulls and are also looking to salvage their season.

The match is expected to kick off at 12:30.

The Windhoek Draught squad as follows:

Andre Rademeyer, Louis van der Westhuizen, Obert Nortje, Desiderius Sethie, AJ de Klerk, Ruan Ludick, Wian Conradie, Prince Gaoseb, Christo van der Merwe, Thomasau Forbes, Max Katjijeko, Leneve Damens (vice-captain), JC Winkler, Eugene Jantjies, PW Steenkamp, Cliven Loubsher, Chris Arries, Darryl de la Harpe (captain), Justin Newman, Russel van Wyk, JC Greyling and Johan Tromp.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

Top 8 feverTigers, African Stars to light up final The maiden edition of the 2018/19 Standard Bank Top 8 Cup will conclude tomorrow with a final between Tigers and African Stars at the Sam Nujoma Stadium.

Tigers head coach Ali Akan says his side is eager to lift the Standard Bank Top 8 Cup trophy, when they play African Stars at the Sam Nujoma Stadium tomorrow.

Akan said the N$500 000 financial incentive for the winner was a sweetener, but that “trophies last longer”.

He said he has been working on the morale of the team since taking over from Peter 'Oubaas' Mokwena and that the players are also working hard.

Stars captain Pat-Nevin Uanivi said they had a positive result against Unam (1-0) on Wednesday in the Namibia Premier League (NPL) and this had boosted the morale of the players.

“We really want to win the cup. This might be the only silverware we will win this season, as one never knows what will happen in the league,” he said.

Uanivi, however, emphasised that Tigers are not a club to be taken lightly.

“They will come at us hard as they too want to win, but from our side, the players are ready and we want to display some great football.”

He further urged fans to come in their numbers and to fill up the stadium.

“Come in your numbers and let's celebrate together,” he said. The tournament, which kicked off in February, featured last season's top eight sides - NPL defending champions African Stars, Black Africa (BA), Mighty Gunners, Unam, Tigers, Tura Magic, Orlando Pirates and Eleven Arrows.

BA, Mighty Gunners, Unam, Magic, Pirates and Eleven Arrows were booted out of the tournament at the quarterfinal and semi-final stages.

Tura Magic and BA are the two semi-final losers and will each take home N$125 000.

The runners-up tomorrow will collect N$250 000. The Top 8 is being sponsored to the tune of N$9 million over three years by Standard Bank.

The outstanding player of the tournament will get N$15 000, the same as the top goal scorer and best coach, while the best goalkeeper and referee will pocket N$10 000 each, with the best-performing assistant referee taking home N$5 000.

For every N$30 ticket sold, N$5 goes towards Standard Bank's Buy-A-Brick initiative, which helps Namibians in the low-to-no-income groups obtain housing through the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia.

The match is expected to kick off at 17:00.

NPL action continues

NPL action will still continue on Saturday with Julinho Sporting taking on Eleven Arrows in Rundu at 15:00.

Life Fighters will clash with Tura Magic at 15:00 in Otjiwarongo.

On Sunday, Unam will play Young Brazilians at 14:00 in Windhoek.

Tura Magic and Blue Waters will also cross swords at 15:00 in Windhoek. Orlando Pirates and Mighty Gunners are set to clash at 17:00 at the Sam Nujoma Stadium, followed by a match between Citizens and Okahandja United at 19:00.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

Oonkwatwa dhaSwapo dha pulwa dhi dhimbweMboka oya hala omayamukulo okuza kuSwapo Omutse gwoshilongo mEtitatu ogwa lombwele ooluhupe yomamonitho giihuna moLubango, opo ya pule komeho noonkalamwenyo dhawo.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Omupresidende Hage Geingob okwa tindi omaindilo taga ningwa kongundu tayi iyithana South African-style Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) opo yuungaunge nuuwehame nongeyo tayi kwatatkanithwa nomamonitho giihuna ngoka ga ningwa moLubango kuSwapo, pethimbo lyekondjelomanguluko.

Geingob okwa popi kutya shoka otashi ka e ta evundakano moshilongo, ta popi kutya epangelo lyaSwapo olya longa oshindji mokuhekeleka ookwatwa dhiita pethimbo lyekondjelomanguluko.

Geingob okwa pula woo ookwatwa dhoka nale ngele otadhi tindi kutya kadha li ondaadhi pethimbo ndyoka, ta popi kutya hadho owala tadhi imono oombeedhi ihe noombulu otadhi ipe oombedhi.

Geingob okwa lombwele ookwatwa ndhoka dha li dha tulwa miipandeko pethimbo lyuukoloni molwaashoka odha tadhi ndaadhele epangeo lyokatongotongo shaSouth Afrika, opo dhi pule komeho noonkalamwenyo dhawo.

“Otwa pita miinima ihe okwa dhimbwa. Oshinima shoka osha piyagana na otatu ka tameka naakwiita yomapangelo guukoloni nale. Ngele iilalo otayi tutululwa nena oshilongo otashi yi momundilo. Otu na aakwiita yomapangelo guukoloni moPaliamende moongundu dhompilameno,” Geingob a popi.

Omupresidende okwa popi kutya opwa li ekumbatha lyombili ndyoka lya siikile woo aakwiita nale yuukoloni pethimbo Iigwana yaHangana ya kwatele komeho eeto lyombili moshilongo.

“Oshinima shimwe kandi uviteko oshokutya omolwashike iinima mbika hayi ya po owala ngele shuuka komahogololo? Ondishi shi kutya ekondjelomanguluko kalya li uudhano,” Geingob a popi.

Okatokolitho kIigwana yaHangana konomola 435, hoka ka tulwa miilonga momasiku 29 Septemba 1978, oka pula Swapo opo a mangulule oonkwatwa adhihe dhopolotika.

Okatokolitho hoka oka tula woo miilonga ombili oshowo omahogololo ngoka gwa kwatelwa komeho kIigwana yaHangana moSouth West Africa, ngoka a li e li mepangelo lyaSouth Africa, na oka etitha emanguluko lyaNamibia.

Pethimbo lyetalelepo mEgumbo lyEpangelo ndyoka lya ningwa kookwatwwa nale ndhoka, odha lombwele Geingob kutya kadha li po dhi kundathane nangashiingeyi otadhi pula etotepo lyoTRC, molwaashoka oye wete pe na ompumbwe opo ya kuutumbe naamonithi yawo yiihuna omanga inaya pula komeho noonkalamwenyo dhawo.

Ohaya hala woo okuuva kutya omolwashike Swapo ina konaakona omapopyo ngoka taga ningilwa aakwiita ye nale, gomamonitho giihuna oshowo omadhipago gaamboka ya lundilwa kutya oya li oondaadhi.

Gumwe gwomwaamboka, oJustus Tsauseb, ngoka a yi kondje yoshilongo omanga a li e na oomvula 17, okwa popi kutya okwa kala uule woomvula omugoyi mookamba dhookwatwa moka naantu yathika po 2 000 mboka ya li mookamba dhoka inaya galukila koshilongo.

Swapo okwa kala ta popi kutya okwa li owala noonkwatwa 201 ihe adhihe odha mangululwa.

Tsauseb okwa hala Geingob a yelitha ngele ekumbatha lyombili ndyoka lya popiwa olya siikila woo niilonga yomamonitho giihuna mbyoka Swapo a ningile aantu yemwene.

Pahapu dhe, ongundu yotango yaantu 160 oye ya moshilongo momvula yo 1989, omanga ongundu ontiyali yaantu 16 yiiyaka mokamba ndhoka momvula ndjoka muAguste.

“Otu shi shi kutya otwa dhigako aantu yali ye na omwenyo nuundjolowele ihe inaya galuka,” Tsauseba popi.

Pauline Dempers okwa nyana omapopyo gaGeingob kutya Swapo okwa hekeleke ookwatwa ndhoka, ta popi kutya oya li owala ya ningi omutumba ngoka ye wete gwa li gweende nawa, nOmupesidende nale Hifikepunye Pohamba, ngoka epangelo lye lya li lya ningi omauvaneko.

Okwa popi kutya sigo onena inaya mona omayamukulo ga sha okuza kuSwapo nepangelo lye.

“Swapo okwa dhipaga nokukwata po aantu yemwene, uule woomvula otwa kala tatu lumbu neso lyeendjelele pomitse dhetu. Otwa kala tatu lumbu nomalimbililo ngele esiku lyangula otatu li mono tuu. Komrade ota vulu okweehama mokati kuusiku e ta sile momake getu omanga tatu kugu ekwatho. Olutu lwe ohatu li pititha pondje esiku lya landula.”

Dempers okwa lombwele Geingob kutya oonkwatwa nale ndhoka dhe shi pondola moonkalamwenyo dhawo, ohadhi ningilwa okatongo omanga yamwe ya tindwa koofamili dhawo ndhoka inadhi hala okukwatanithwa nayo.

Kwa kolekwa oshipotha shimwe shombuto yoCongo fever

JANA-MARI SMITH

Omupangwa owala gumwe ngoka a li ta mono epango oye a kwatwa kombuto yo Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) monooli yaNamibia, sha landula iizemo yomakonaakono mbyoka a ningilwa.

Iipotha yilwe iyali mbyoka ya fekelwa, inayi gandja iizemo yombuto ndjoka, omanga yilwe iyali natango iizemo inayi gandjwa.

Pethimbo lyomutumba gwiikundaneki ngoka gwa ningwa kuuministeli wuundjolowele oshowo kuuministeli wuunamapya, mEtitatu, Ominista yuundjolowele, Kalumbi Shangula okwa popi kutya omupangwa ngoka a monika ombuto ndjoka okwa lalelwa moshipangelo momasiku 11 gaMei.

Okuli omunamimvo 54 a za momukunda Onethika na okwa li a taambelwa moshipangelo momasiku 24 gaApilili.

Iizemo yomakonaakono ngoka ga ningilwa omukokele gwoomvula 77 a za momukunda gwa faathana ngoka a hulitha konima sho uulike omadhidhiliko ga faaathana, oya holola kutya omukokele ngoka ka li e na ombuto ndjoka.

Okwa tegelellika natango iizemo yaapangwa yaali, omunamimvo 27 omulumentu, ngoka a lalekwa moshipangelo momasiku 11 gaMei oshowo omunamimvo 57 omukiintu.

Omakonaakono ngoka ga ningilwa natango aapangwa yalwe yaali omulumentu gwoomvula 40 oshowo gumwe gwoomvula 50, inaga ulika ombuto ndjoka.

Kakele komutumba ngoka gwa ningwa pamwe kiikondo mbyoka yepangelo, okwa tumwa aanambelewa yopombela opo ya ka pombele omudhingoloko ngoka gwa gumwa, nokupanga konyala oongombe dhi li po 3 800 okuza koongupa.

Omunambelewa muuministeli wuunamapya, Omundohotola Albertina Shilongo, okwa tsu omuthindo kutya omukithi ngoka gahu taandelithwa koongupa.

Omundohotola ngoka okwa popi kutya osha simana opo ya ndungike aanafaalama ya kondolole oongupa nokupanga iimuna yawo mbyoka yi na oongumba opo ku yandwe etaandelo lyomukithi ngoka.

Omundohotola, Eric Dziuban, ngoka e li omukomeho moshilongo gwoUS Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), okwa popi kutya nonando omukithi gwo Congo fever ogwa nika oshiponga noonkondo, inagu pumbwa okweetitha embandapalo mokati koshigwana molwaashoka etaandelo lyomukithi ngoka olishiwike kutya uuna omuntu alika kongupa nenge a kwata iikunguliki yomolutu yomuntu ngoka a kwatwa.

Okwa popi kutya omukithi ngoka ihagu taaandele moshigwana ngaaashi omikithi dhilwe a tumbula omukithi gwoEbola.

Okwa popi kutya nonando omukithi ngoka ohagu e ta omaso goopresenda 9 sigo opo 50 mokati kaantu mboka ya kwatwa, aantu oyendji oya pangwa nokuhupa okuza komukithi ngoka.

Omukalelipo gwehangano lyoWorld Health Organisation (WHO) moNamibia, Omundohotola Charles Sagoe-Moses, okwa popi kutya ekeelelo nedhidhiliko lyomukithi ngoka petameko osho sha simana mekondololo lyomukithi.

Okwa popi kutya eigameno okuza koongupa olyo onkatu yotango mekeelelo lyomukithi ngoka, molwaashoka iipotha ya kalela po oopresenda 70 yomukithi ngoka ohayi zilile koongupa.

Okulopota omukithi ngoka pethimbo omuntu uulike omadhidhiliko gopetameko lyomukithi nasho osha simana noonkondo, ta gwedhwa po kutya shoka osho sha hupitha omwenyo gomukiintu ngoka a kwatwa komukithi muApilili. Okwa kunkilile AaNamibia ya ka konge omakwatho gopaunamiti meendelelo uuna ya mono omadhidhiliko gomukithi ngoka.

Shangula okwa popi kutya omadhidhiliko gomukithi ngoka ongaashi oshivu, uuwehame moontumba, oluyeye, oshipwatagula, uuwehame mepunda oshowo oshimela shoka ethimbo limwe hashi kala ombinzi. Engwangwano oshowo etiko lyombinzi nayo oyimwe yomomadhidhiliko.

Okwa kunkilile kutya mboka ye li moshiponga shoka unene oomboka haya kala piimuna olundji, ngaashi aalithi yiimuna, aaanambelelwa yuundjolowele wiimuna, aaniilonga yomuutomeno oshowo aanambelewa yuunamiti mboka taya sile oshisho aapangwa yomukithi ngoka.

Kakele kokuyanda oongupa, uuministeli otawu kunkilile aakwashigwana ya zale omanyala oshowo iikutu yokwiigamena uuna taya ungaunga niimuna, oshowo okuzala iikutu yi na omalwaala ga yela hoka oongupa tadhi vulu okumonikila mbala.

Ekwato lyaantu taya ulike omadhidhiliko gomukithi ngoka olya pumbwa okuyandwa noonkondo.

Okuza komahala hoka kwa dhidhilikwa oongupa, aantu oya pumbwa okukonaakona omalutu gawo, opo ya tale ngele oye na oongupa.

Uuna omuntu tiikutha ongupa, okwa pumbwa oku yi kutha ko ayihe lumwe, na nakuyandwe okutopola olutu lwongupa molwaashoka otashi tula pombanda ekwato komukithi ngoka.

Governmentpolicy causes economic declineNEEEF bothers private sector What the government says will empower many is feared to be the last nail in the coffin of free enterprise.

Local businesses burdened with a crushingly tough economic climate feel the government's policies have contributed to the current climate, particularly legislation aimed at empowerment and increased protectionism.

A survey gauging the private sector's feelings about the proposed National Equity Economic Empowerment Framework (NEEEF) indicates a general sense of hopelessness among Namibian-owned businesses that feel they have no say in the government policy-making.

The survey was conducted by the Economic Policy Research Association (EPRA), which is a voluntary association with a membership of about 600 Namibian companies, most of them concerned about the possible impact of the proposed NEEEF on their businesses and the country's economic future.

NEEEF, NIPA won't empower or improve investment climate

Most of the respondents (81.1%) are knowledgeable about NEEEF and feel it will result in “substantial economic decline”. More than 12% said it would result in “some economic decline”, and not a single respondent felt that it would bring about economic growth.

Most (75%) feel that even if a mandatory 25% previously disadvantaged ownership clause were to be removed from the proposed NEEEF, it would not result in broad-based empowerment of previously disadvantaged Namibians, as is propagated by the government.

Worrying is that the majority of respondents knew very little (51.1%) or nothing at all (19.44%) about the Namibia Investment Promotion Act (NIPA), a piece of legislation promulgated almost unnoticed in 2016.

While amendments to NIPA are still under review, most businesses (about 50%) say they do not know if it will promote investment in the country. None of the respondents felt it would increase investment here.

EPRA had earlier expressed concern that the NIPA would further damage Namibia's investment and economic environment because it would increase government control over private-sector investment.

The concern is that this will mean an increase in bureaucracy, create fertile ground for corruption and ultimately scare investors away by restricting repatriation of profits and entrench easy routes for expropriation of investors' property.

“While countries across the world are attracting skilled people and investors by opening their markets, providing excellent incentives to investors, by reducing bureaucracy, by increasing investor protection, and by allowing free repatriation of after-tax profits, Namibia does the opposite,” said EPRA's Eben de Klerk.

He said this contributes to Namibia's continuing slide down the global competitive rankings.

Government states that NIPA is to promote sustainable economic development and growth by attracting foreign and domestic investment.

It will also to provide for reservation of certain economic sectors and business activities to certain categories of investors.

EPRA had previously raised concerns over the fact that NIPA provides for an investment approval regime that gives the responsible minister sweeping discretionary powers in the regulation and decision-making on investment matters.

According to De Klerk, NIPA gives the minister the power to decide how much is to be invested here, how much investments are allowed to grow, and what profits can be repatriated from the country.

NIPA further makes provision for expropriation of land and property owned by investors “in the public interest”.

“What NIPA is saying to potential investors is that the government will be able to take a portion of your business when you come here, that you will have to pay bribes and arrange kickback deals because you have to influence one minister, and that we can expropriate your investment any time we want if we feel it is in the public interest. That is not an attractive environment for any investor,” De Klerk said.

He says confidence in the business climate in the country is on a dangerous and steady decline “and is not stopping”.

“You can only grow business if you incentivise businesses. Then you grow your tax revenue, which in turn grows your social safety nets, which provides a more secure environment for poor people.

“Instead, it would appear as if the government brings in policies to kill the private sector. We have already seen a substantial increase in retrenchments and a decline in expected tax revenue as a result thereof,” is De Klerk's damning conclusion.

No voice

Businesses feel they have no say or influence over government policy-making.

Ninety-three percent say they have no influence in government policy, while 82% said they do not belong to the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI). It appears that business do not trust the NCCI, with 54% stating that they don't know if the NCCI can adequately and effectively represent the interests of the Namibian business community, while 38% stated that NCCI can definitely not be trusted to do so.

Only 7% of businesses state that NCCI can do so.

CATHERINE SASMAN

Keeping the fire burningOmidi D'Afrique back with fifth studio album The award-winning band Omidi D'Afrique will launch their fifth body of work at Pepata on Saturday, 25 May, Africa Day.

In an interview with tjil, Fari Bantuson, the lead singer of Omidi D'Afrique, shared that the title of the album is Keep the Fire Burning: Don't be Blinded by the Smoke.

Fari Bantuson mentioned that this album seeks to encourage their listeners to strengthen their faith and remember that no matter how hard a situation is, you have to strive to do better.

He added that this album is also a reminder to people to not forget to be grateful when God answers their prayers.

“Often people stop praying when they receive the blessings they have been praying for; but it should not be like that. Just change the prayer to thank you.

“Don't be blinded by the blessings, continue to say your grace.

Most importantly we want to remind our leaders that when you get on top of the mountain, you are not there to be seen but for you to be see and help those behind you,” added Fari Bantuson.

Omidi D'Afrique maintains that they want to reach the masses with this album by performing outside Windhoek and ultimately out of the country more often.

“We believe we spread positive message through our music and the last four albums were mostly marketed in Windhoek and Walvis Bay because of the lack of resources, however we want to spread our wings with this album and reach as many people as we can.”

Keep The Fire Burning: Don't be Blinded by the Smoke has 11 songs and features Exit.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Behati fights for Namibia's rhino

Supermodel Behati Prinsloo is back in her motherland in an effort to help save the rhino which in recent years has been increasingly targeted by poachers.

The 30-year-old model who is married to Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine was born in Grootfontein and has joined forces with Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) Namibia to raise awareness about rhino conservation and stop poaching.

As part of her alliance with SRT, Prinsloo is launching a global campaign and has travelled to Namibia this month, entrenching herself in its movement to protect the critically endangered black rhino and conserve the population.

The supermodel took to Instagram recently to share snaps from her trip, in hopes to raise awareness for the cause. 'This is where I've been. The motherland....Can't wait to share my adventure.' On Earth Day in April, she teased her then-upcoming trip with a post dedicated to the rhinos. She then revealed her partnership with Save the Rhino Trust.

Prinsloo did not post to her page again until last week, when she teased of what would come. She later revealed the reason for her trip, and referred to it as an unforgettable trip filled with love, passion, adventure and dedication from everyone involved.

In a statement issued by Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, Prinsloo returned home and hit the ground alongside trackers from Save the Rhino Trust and Rhino Rangers from the Conservancy Rhino Ranger Incentive Programme.

“Tracking rhinos on foot across rugged terrain and absorbing the effects of wildlife crime compounded by the drought, she gained a deeper understanding of the commitment needed to protect these critically endangered animals,” said SRT.

This was her first trip to Namibia in seven years and it provided an opportunity for her to chronicle this transformative journey in an effort to share the story of these incredible creatures and the amazing community of Namibians fighting for their survival.

“Namibia is my home. It's the secret jewel of Mother Africa. It's also one of the most amazing places in the world, and the rhinos contribute to this sense of wonder. I grew up there and it is where my parents still live so this cause is very close to my heart. The opportunity to come home to see what is happening, to meet people caring for orphaned black and white rhinos, and to work with the trackers, rangers and communities to raise awareness is very important to me. Someday, I want to take my children to experience these animals in the wild. They've inspired us for generations; it's on us to help them now,” Prinsloo said.

According to Ginger Mauney, who pioneered this partnership under the World Wildlife Fund in Namibia's Rhino Innovation Fund they also received enthusiastic support from their partners in conservation at B2Gold, Mount Etjo Safari Lodge, Ongava Game Reserve, WestAir Aviation and Wilderness Safaris Namibia who helped to make this trip possible

“This supports speaks to the level of excitement shared by all of us at SRT, Rhino Rangers and within local conservancies. We are thrilled to welcome Behati Prinsloo to our team and we know that her involvement will make a tremendous difference for rhinos and for Namibia,” said CEO of SRT, Simson Uri-Khob.

ELLANIE SMIT

Newbie Mulberry impressesA review of Mulberry's first studio album There is a new female artist you should look out for - her name is Mulberry and her album is fire.

As you can imagine tjil's music submission inbox looks like what we imagine hot Instagram models' DMs to be; overcrowded with hopeful attempts from men. We receive a lot of prospects every month looking for their music to be heard. Some good, some great and others who need to realise that day jobs are still a thing. And then there is another category; those who have been working for years sharpening their music-making abilities and their first album sounds refined – Mulberry falls into this category.

Mulberry is an Afro-pop artist but the album is a montage of various genres including Ovirije, R&B and house.

Her album I am Mulberry was released on 2 May under Hybrid Rekordz. The project has 12 songs and features Patrick from PDK, Adora, MBM and Kalefa Tjirjange. On production, the singer worked with Kallo on the Beat and Glo Production.

The album opens with an up-tempo tune Tuakangara. It is a party song with Otjiherero vocals. Produced and mastered by Kallo on the Beat, Tuakangara sets the tone for the album.

The second song on the album features Adora and is titled Appetite. Its instrumentals are sampled from Tate Buti's 4 Call and vocally borrows from Jackson Kaueja's classic !Nubu !Gubus. Appetite is a banger and would make a great single. If promoted well it has the potential of being one of the biggest songs on the dance floors. Adora was the perfect feature for this song. It is a synthesis of Oviritje and Damara Punch.

Another notable feature to look forward to on this 12-track project is Bye Bye which features PDK. Bye Bye has a Kizomba feel. On the song they vocally complement each other well while narrating their own love stories.

Not a lot can be said to fault this album, except there is a lack of diversity in production as she did not work with a lot of producers. We just hope her label Hybrid Rekordz will sufficiently invest in her talent because she has a lot to offer to the music industry.

Ratings: 3.5/5

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Suzy Eises shares her London experience

Award-winning saxophonist Suzy Eises recently returned from London where she represented Namibia in an orchestra.

On how the opportunity came about, Suzy Eises told tjil that, the Namibian High Commission in the UK received a request from Universal Music and BAFTA award-winning, Oscar-nominated English composer George Fenton that they were searching for a Namibian musician. “They contacted me as I was in London at the time and I gladly accepted the invitation to participate.”

She mentioned that they did not perform but recorded a piece of music in the famous Abbey Road Studios with an orchestra that will feature one musician from every country. The group is called Earth Orchestra. There will also be an accompanying documentary that is being shot in London and in some of the musicians' home towns/villages/cities.

The seasoned saxophonist shared that the highlight of the recording session was simply the fact that she was the first Namibian to record at the famous Abbey Road Studios. “Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran and The Beatles recorded there - so it was a first for Namibia, one for the history books and I am glad to represent our country and be an ambassador.

“I hope to inspire other Namibian musicians, creatives and entrepreneurs to keep growing, keep improving and keep believing,” said Suzy Eises.

She told tjil that she believes that African music is celebrated globally as she has received enthusiastic responses to her music. She is grateful and glad to share her jazz-influenced African music with the world.

Eises just got home in April after a three-month jazz course at the London College of Creative Media in London. She said she feels so motivated and inspired to study and perform more. “Along with the studies, it was great to see other musicians perform at social events and learn from them as well,” shared Eises. This year, she is channelling her energy and focus towards her music studies, working with the Physically Active Youth and schools to educate and inspire the community, especially the youth, about music, their personal issues and how to overcome them while promoting the country internationally.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Donlu Africa reaches a milestoneBig numbers online Donlu Africa hits a millions streams.

Donlu Africa is a digital platform where artists and creatives sell their music and merchandise. The site sells and allows for streaming of albums and single tracks. They recently hit a million streams and tjil spoke to the founder of the digital store, Llewellyn Adams, on what this success means for the site and this is what he had to share.

tjil (t): Firstly, congratulations on hitting a million streams. What does this success mean to the platform?

Llewellyn Adams (LA): In short, it reflects that the platform works; more people locally and internationally believe in what the platform has to offer!

t: Donlu Africa is relatively new but has managed to achieve a lot and put so many artists on. What do you attribute this success to?

LA: A lot of factors, with one not being more important than the other. However, the faith and belief from people, both within and outside the company (lovers of art), our hard work, our vision and passion in executing our vision have definitely been major forces in achieving all this, and more.

t: What are some of the setbacks you had to deal with to get to this point?

LA: The biggest challenge has been to influence a whole market that hasn't achieved critical mass when it comes to online purchasing of any goods or services - a shift from analogue to digital. I think financial backing has also been one of our main challenges.

Everything has literally come out of our pockets. With funding we can take Donlu to the rest of Africa and the world and potential investors need to realise the magnitude of our influence on the market and everyone involved.

t: How do you plan to grow the platform further?

LA: The growth is already happening. We don't want to give too much away but we'll definitely grow into working more closely with artists, hosting workshops, opening a music store which dignifies the legacy of Namibian artists and other cool projects too.

t: What are you doing to celebrate this one million stream success?

LA: We just hit a million streams! So you know we have to take a moment to reflect on a job well done so far. Just a small intimate event to say THANK YOU!

t: What is the ultimate contribution that Donlu Africa wants to make to the music industry in Namibia?

LA: To add lasting value to the lives of those in our local and international market.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

'The industry chose me'Behind the curtain with Julia 'Boss Lady' Kadhikwa If you picture yourself having all access to the best exclusive parties, music concerts and taking selfies with big African stars backstage, you might want to read further.

Music promoter, artist management and event organiser are terms you sort of know what they are concerned with, but at the same time, not really. If you have ever confused them for magic, do not worry, you are not alone. They might really not be that different.

Julia Kadhikwa, or Boss Lady as she affectionately calls herself, is one of the people in the music business who has been able to bring her experiences of partying with continental stars to Namibia through her Vlistyle parties.

In a sit-down with tjil, the Olive Entertainment founder shared how she got into showbiz, her dreams for Olive Entertainment and the progress on the movie she is working on with Nigerian actor and filmmaker Mike Ezuruonye.

Kadhikwa told tjil that she first got into event organising because she just wanted to have all access to events where her favourite celebrities were booked. “I had access to the VIP area at my first musical outing and I loved the experience so much that I always wanted to go to shows knowing I had access to rub shoulders with the stars.

“I was young and it is every young person's dream to have a moment with their favourite celebrity,” she said.

She mentioned that by having access to these artists, she began knowing them personally and she became one of the go-to people in the entertainment scene. “I remember being approached by an artist who was big at the time asking me to speak to Cabo Snoop for them for a collaboration.

“I felt so honoured because that made me the 'connect' person,” said Kadhikwa.

She maintains that what separates her from other music promoters and event organisers is her charisma and ability to make and keep friendships. Kadhikwa believes everyone can have the opportunity to engage with a celebrity but not everyone has what it takes to keep the celebrity wanting to talk to them again. Through her travels, she has met and partied with a lot of African stars, some of which she has hosted through her Vlifestyle parties. “Vlifestyle is a networking event. People see me partying with the likes of D'Banj and are impressed by that and my aim is to bring those experiences home,” she said.

Despite managing to throw parties with some of these stars in Namibia, she admitted that the entertainment scene is fickle and she has had her own fair share of disappointing encounters.

Last year she was supposed to host South African television personality, rapper and actress Boity but changed to Minnie Dlamini-Jones at last the minute.

“Not that Minie Dlamini-Jones is a less of a star but I acknowledge that there were people who were disappointed because they wanted to party with Boity as we initially advertised, but the party went on regardless and I was happy with how it came together.”

Kadhikwa explained that she booked Boity in May 2018 for her party which was scheduled for August that year. “As we were getting close to the day of the party, Boity was booked by NBA Africa for the same day. It is NBA so I don't blame her, as much as it was unprofessional; a lot of people would have taken her decision.

“She wanted me to postpone my party to the following week but I did not have the energy to market the event for another week. Plus, that was going to cost me more money,” she said. She told tjil that her favourite Vlifestyle party was the recent one where she hosted Sthembiso 'Shaka' Khoza. “My dream for the Vlifestyle parties is to grow the platform to the point we start hosting parties at stadiums with multiple marquees. I want Vlifestyle to be like the Sun Met or Durban July.”

New ventures

Earlier this year, she branched out to production and content creation when her company Olive Entertainment joined forces /with Mike Ezuruoenye to work on a movie aimed at promoting Namibia's diversity. “That is why I say I did not choose the entertainment scene; the industry chose me. I did not think of venturing into film but the opportunity presented itself and I grabbed it with both hands.”

“I know Mike for a while now and he loves Namibia and its beautiful landscapes and is going to shoot a movie here,” said Kadhikwa.

Giving the progress report on that production, she said they are busy with the ground work and will commence shooting by next year; they are busy with paper work now. Her dream is to open a school she will call Olive Entertainment Coaching Academy, to groom and help give exposure to new talent with her extensive network.

“Opening a school has always been my dream. I am going to get old one day and I cannot keep chasing celebrities for gigs. My future kids may not have my charisma and confidence so I have to create something for them to run,” she said.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

NFC premieres three short filmsWomen at the forefront of storytelling The Namibia Film Commission (NFC), along with three female producers and directors, hosted the first-ever all female short film premiere last night at the National Theatre of Namibia.

This event celebrated and gave recognition to the immense contribution and role of women in the film industry, and the Namibian entertainment industry as a whole. The three films, Encore, Iitandu and Wind on your Skin all share stories which not only open up public discourse on issues faced by women, but which also aim to entertain.

Developing the film fraternity remains NFC's core function as an entity, and ensuring that it emancipates women in this male-dominated industry is even closer to NFC's values.

Women for the longest time were pushed to roles in front of the camera and not as content creators. However, there has been a shift around the world.

Films that explore the beauty of African identity are gaining popularity and global recognition, and women filmmakers from Africa are leading the way.

We are seeing more and more women taking on leading roles in producing content and changing the narrative of many a film, from stories told with patriarchal angles to more inclusive stories.

The commission is thus pleased to play a key role in ensuring that the voices and ideas of Namibian women in film are heard and seen, it said.

“Women can be strong. Women can be smart. Women can actually be funny.

Women can change the world. Positive female representation in the media is important not only for young impressionable minds, but to inspire any girl to chase after her dreams”.

Encore, a film by Senga Brockerhoff, tells the story of a dancer who finds herself lost in an old theatre. There she meets a carpenter who shows her something which turns her reality upside down.

Another short film directed by Lavinia Kapewasha is a film set in post-apocalyptic Namibia, called Iitandu (Pieces) which is about a young female traditional healer who desperately seeks to escape the southern area of Namibia to avoid a deadly virus, despite her current surroundings and the danger posed by others.

The Wind on your Skin, is the third episode of a scripted drama web series, written and produced by Naomi Beukes and directed by Jana von Hase from Moodpixel Namibia. The episode focuses on the pressing issue of gender-based violence in Namibia, which tragically often leads to the brutal murder of girls and women.

This moving drama explores how a community is shaken, when a young woman from a small town LGBTI community is killed because of who she loves, and how these kinds of hateful acts can spark a wave of resistance.

NFC is proud to celebrate the women that have dedicated their lives and careers to telling unique, authentic stories. Storytellers have long turned to film to highlight and celebrate African narratives, and thanks in part to the rise of streaming, many of these films are more accessible to audiences than ever before.

The Commission beliefs filmmakers, men and women, should all be advocates for diversity and equality and celebrate it whenever they can.

STAFF REPORTER

Tailored for Namibian skin Hanna Nangula launches full coverage cream and mink lashes Beauty is truly skin deep with this new offering on the Namibian market – locally made, quality makeup.

Catering for the Namibian market, makeup artist Hanna Nangula last weekend introduced her Namibian-made cosmetic range, 'Hanna Nangula'. The full coverage cream foundation is tailored for the Namibian market; keeping in mind the diversity in skin types and weather conditions. On what motivated her to create her own line of foundation, Hanna Nangula shared that during her long professional makeup career she got to use almost all the brands on the market but there was always something missing specifically, for the African market. She mentioned that the available products were either too light or too dark or overly orangey or yellowish. “Most of them were also only light coverage when clearly the Namibian market was demanding for full coverage foundation.”

She mentioned that the journey began by testing recipes on a wide variety of skin tones on Namibian women. This process, she said took about a year and a few months before final testing and production could start. Her aim is to create Namibian cosmetic products that can compete with the established international brands. At the launch, Hanna Nangula extended an invitation to retailers and individuals who would like to distribute her products in different parts of the country to not hesitate to get into business with her in this regard. “We have different wholesale packages from which you can choose. We also courier countrywide and sell beyond the Namibian borders,” she said.

At the launch she also facilitated a brief workshop demonstrating how to use makeup. The event was attended by aspiring makeup artists and fashion enthusiasts.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Fashion Council adds three new board members

The Fashion Council of Namibia (FCN) has announced the appointment of three new members to its Board, bringing the total to 10.

The council looked at adding members that would assist it to reach its overall mandate and is delighted to welcome the new members as per the FCN by-law provisions.

The by-law allows for additional members as per the need of the council, in which the council is fully confident that the entire team represents the vitality and various components which make up the fashion industry. With over a decade’s worth of combined experience and skills, the new members complement the strengths of the current board and will assist as the council begin its industry mapping exercise.

Joining the FCN board are:

Tanya Turipamwe

Tanya Turipamwe, founder and creative cirector at Turipamwe Designs, Turipamwe currently serves as a board member of the City of Windhoek Bokamosa Entrepreneurial Centre, FCN and moderates Digital Art and Design of Journalism and Media Technology Communications at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.

Turipamwe, an industry leader within the design sector and self-admitted caffeine dependent brings to the council a passion for skills sharing, creative industries and the power of tech entrepreneurship. She serves the FCN holding the funding portfolio.

Tanyaradzwa Daringo

Tanyaradzwa Daringo is founder and creative director of communications and public relations agency, Zeronine Media. Daringo adds over six years’ industry experience to the team and has worked with some of the world’s largest brands. Daringo loves the idea of creating and directing perceptions within an ever-changing world and reckons it is time the Namibian fashion industry took its seat at the high table.

She serves the FCN within the communications and public relations portfolio.

Vilen Hifindaka

Vilen Hifindaka, LLB (Hons) holder and candidate legal iractitioner, Vilen has key practical experience in areas of contracts and commercial transactions, corporate governance and intellectual property. A budding photographer, he is excited to contribute to the industry by creating frameworks to uphold industry interests through the council.

He serves the council as legal secretary.

FCN is currently undergoing an industry mapping exercise aimed at understanding and structuring the fashion industry of Namibia. The new board prioritises the need to acknowledge the billion-dollar industry that is fashion and acknowledges the need to begin changing the narrative and bridging the various sectors that make up the industry.

For more information, contact the Fashion Council of Namibia at: fashioncouncilofnamibia@gmail.com

STAFF REPORTER

Less beef more chicken I am starting to question the existence of the game five years from now. What will the scene be like? Will we have another Big Ben or Kanibal or will we have a flood of artists who speak little or no content in their music?

Will we have another real competitive beef or are Exit, King Tee Dee and Gazza the standard now? Will we ever have a surge of lyrical artists killing it at the same time or will we have been reduced to artists whose dance skills are better than their content? Music has always been a battlefield where artists used to represent their towns, their crews and how they see themselves being better than the next musician. This used to be a whole culture; a culture where pride used to be at the heart of the game and winning awards or battles was the most exciting feeling for artists and their fans, a feeling similar to securing a deal.

In the beginning the Exit, King Tee Dee and Gazza beef was entertaining and exciting because we'd never seen beef get this serious in Namibian music on social media platforms. It was fun and entertaining; no lie. But personally I think it has gotten to a point where it is exhausting for the fans and also the other players in the industry. If this thing continues, it will keep the spotlight on these three heavyweights and will trend on our social media timelines, while there are other artists doing amazing things who do not get the attention they deserve. Not to mention that because the industry is small and everyone is connected, it's forcing people to pick sides whether they want it or not and that is not cool. A couple of people have been sucked into this whole thing by association to one of the guys involved - consciously and subconsciously.

We get it that Exit is a talented lyricist who sometimes enjoys antagonising social media trolls, and King Tee Dee and Gazza are veterans who have chosen not to respond to this with a diss song. It's time to bury the hatchet and give the rest of the music game space to flourish.

In this issue we shine light on producer and singer Sean Blizzy and how he is revolutionising the sound in his region. Another feature to look forward to is on Julia 'Boss Lady' Kadhikwa, a music promoter who is giving music fans opportunities to party with their favourite African stars; find out how she does it. A lot has been happening in other spheres of the entertainment scene as well. Makeup artist Hanna Nangula recently launched her cosmetic range; tjil was there and in this edition we share with you what went down. Donlu Africa also recently hit a million streams, a big milestone for the platform, and they are planning a big celebration; tjil has all the details for you. We also caught up with celebrated saxophonist Suzy Eises who was at an orchestra in London last week and she shares her experience with tjil. These stories and more in this edition, enjoy!

michael@namibiansun.com

Good art takes timeMaking music with pride Sean Blizzy's biggest hit might be titled 'Blesser' but it took him over a decade to be blessed with a breakthrough and get his dues.

Now in 2019, he is his town's pride and glory, and he does not plan on giving that up anytime soon.

With an album titled Kavango Zinyetu, which denotes a big idea and lifestyle, Sean Blizzy is on a mission to keep the throne with his new project and brand repositioning.

Kavango Zinyetu was digitally released on 2 May and will be launched officially on Friday, 24 May at Werah Café and Theatre in Rundu. He describes this body of work as one of his best musical offerings. The album consists of deep house, Afro-fusion rhythm blended with traditional percussions and ancestry sounds.

“Expect to be mesmerised. I mostly used Rukwangali, Oshiwambo, dialects from Zambezi and English on this album,” said Sean Blizzy.

He shared that he began working on the album in June 2016 and has recorded more than 50 songs; thus he has left out more than 30 songs. He said that the album is packaged in a way that it caters for everybody.

“After listening to this album, I want people's musical thirsts to be quenched. Everyone will have a favourite song on the album after listening to it,” he said confidently.

Speaking on the rollout plan for the album, Sean Blizzy mentioned that he has a team responsible for distributing physical copies across different towns.

He announced that by July the physical copies will be available nationally. At the moment, Kavango Zinyetu is digitally available for purchase on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, Deezer, Spotify and Pandora. “I am also pushing the album through social media.

I am not afraid to pay Facebook and Instagram to promote my music. I have been doing that for a while now; I will also shoot more videos and do more shows to give it more exposure,” said Sean Blizzy.

On the album, he features; Sito-Jah Mufasa, Zhondiena, Challo, and Ayce Flame. “In production I worked with Sean Lik, but for the most part, most of the songs were written, produced, mixed and mastered by me.”

“This album has 15 songs and two bonus tracks. Three more videos can be expected from this album,” he added.

He maintains that he has already achieved how he pictured his work to be received; which is to be listened to worldwide. For Sean Blizzy, this album is a conduit to express his God-given talent in the correct manner. “Ultimately, my goal is to master the art of creating music so that I can also be a music guru. My wish is for my art to live forever,” he said.

Based on how the lead single has been received, Sean Blizzy is positive that this body of work is going to do well commercially. At the time of going to print, Blizzy had 78 338 downloads and 73 538 plays for his single Love In My House on namibianmusic.com “A lot of my fans overseas are purchasing the songs online as well,” he added.

Having been in the music scene for over a decade and consistently producing for other artists but only having a major breakthrough now, Sean Blizzy admitted to being underrated.

“I remember in 2010 I took instrumentals to one of the big artists in Namibia to use on their album but they never did,” he recalled, adding that this never discouraged him, but made him push harder so that one day they'll knock on his studio door for projects.

Being based in Rundu, he had this to say about the music scene at the town: “Rundu is like the hidden music factory in Namibia, they must give us time and Rundu will be the capital city of hybrid music in the country. Our music here is like fruit salad - all in one.”

When people reflect on Sean Blizzy and his artistry, as an artist he wants to be remembered as Kavango's romantic singer. As a producer he wants to be remembered as the one who created the new sound for this era in the region.

“I literally helped most of the artists in Rundu to pop because of my unique sounds,” he summed up.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

No in-region school hopping

Learners will no longer be allowed to move from one school to another unless their parents move to a different region.

This was announced by education ministry spokesperson Absalom Absalom yesterday.

He said an application to enrol at a different school must be supported by a letter stating that the parents or legal guardians have been transferred to another town or region.

“Learners that are already attending a school where the next grade exists will not be allowed to move to another school as the child already has an automatic place in the next grade, except in cases where parents move from one region to another. In such cases, applications should be supported by a letter of transfer from the parent's or legal guardian's employer or pastor.”

He added that the principal of the new school should request the learner's academic records from the previous school.

The ministry also reminded parents that applications for next year's school admissions must be done before the end of the month. Parents are also reminded that school attendance is compulsory for every child from the beginning of the year in which the child turns seven.

“Parents applying for places in pre-primary schools should note that only learners aged five years before or on 31 December of the academic year may be admitted as per entry requirements for pre-primary,” Absalom said.

Application fees

The ministry also informed parents that schools may not charge exorbitant application fees. Such fees are only for administrative purposes such as covering the cost of photocopies, and do not guarantee enrolment.

“The ministry would like to urge parents to be cognisant of the fact that each school is unique, and logistics put in place may be based on their environment and administration processes.

“Finally, parents and guardians are encouraged to contact schools and the directorates of education, arts and culture in the respective regions for guidance,” said Absalom.

JEMIMA BEUKES

Farmworkers at risk of layoffsDrought crippling their employers While much has been reported regarding livestock assistance and the impact of the overall drought on farmers, very little has been said about the high risk of job losses for the labourers.

Social Security Commission (SSC) CEO Milka Mungunda said the drought situation in the country is putting farmworkers at risk of losing their jobs, which would worsen the already high unemployment rate.

Mungunda made this statement at the SSC headquarters in Windhoek on Tuesday, where she handed over a cheque of N$400 000 to the Dare to Care initiative through the labour ministry.

Mungunda said the SSC wants to live up to its mandate of meeting the government halfway by looking after workers' welfare, thus found it fit to donate funds towards drought relief to help farmers save their livestock while at the same time saving the jobs of farmworkers. She said if farmers are not producing anything, then workers will be retrenched and worsen the already high unemployment rate in the country.

“The drought situation is affecting everyone whether you are a farmer or not, and it is affecting us at the Social Security Commission as well, because farmworkers are our members,” added Mungunda.

She called on everyone to contribute by donating anything they have towards the Dare to Care initiative and help farmers that are affected by the drought.

“Come through with the little you have, you don't have to be a millionaire to contribute as anything will be appreciated. This donation is not a lot and even though it will make a difference, it is almost like a drop in the ocean,” emphasised Mungunda.

Deputy labour minister Tommy Nambahu said he was at his village recently and spoke to elders aged in their 80s and 90s who say they have never experienced a drought like this before.

He said this year's drought is regarded as the worst in the history of the country as only a few areas have received average rainfall and some did not receive any at all.

“This means workers in the agriculture sector, which is the primary industry of the domestic economy with a large number of workers, are consequently at risk of losing their jobs,” said Nambahu.

Dare to Care is an initiative of the Agricultural Union of Namibia and the Namibia Emerging Commercial Farmers Union aimed at soliciting donations to assist farmers acquire livestock feed.

NAMPA