Namibian Sun

Epangelo tali zula maakwashigwanaIimaliwa aniwa oya nuninwa okuyambidhidha oshigwana Onkalo yoombululu moshiketha shepangelo oya kolekwa koompangela dhepangelo opo li pule oshigwana shi gandje oshali yoopresenda 2 okuza kiiyemo yawo yokomwedhi, pakwiiyamba.

Epangelo komasiku gokomeho otali ka pula aaniilonga yiiyambe nokufuta oshimaliwa shoopresenda 2 okuza koondjambi dhawo onga omukalo gwokuyambidhidha aniwa iinyangadhalwa yepangelo yokukwathela oshigwana.

Omunambelewa Omulukuntu mombelewa yOmuprima minista I-Ben Nashindi, okwa shanga omukanda ta pula etsakaneno nomahangano gaaniilonga, opo ya vule okuyelitha eindilo lyawo.

“Omu shi shi kutya oshilongo osha taalela omaupyakadhi ga yooloka, mwakwatelwa onkalo yoshikukuta ndjoka ya etitha Omupresidende a tseyithe kutya oya ninga onkalo yopaulumomhumbwe moshilongo, nokupula aakuthimbinga ayehe ya dhane onkandangala mokweeta po ekandulepo lyomikundu dhoka.”

Omahangano omakalelipo gaaniilonga lyoNational Union of Namibian Workers (NUNW) oshowo oNamibia National Teachers Union (Nantu) oga pulwa opo ga hiye omahangano omakwawo go ga vule okukundathana iishoshela mbyoka.

“Molwaashoka iishoshea mbika otayi gumu AaNamibia ayehe ehangano lyoNational Union of Namibian Workers otali hiwa li etelele omahangano galwe omakwawo komutumba opo ya kundathane oshikundathanwa shoka sheiyambo lyokufuta oopresenda 2, okuza koondjambi dhaaNamibia ayehe,” Nashindi a popi.

Okwa uvanekele omahangano kutya iimaliwa otayi ka longithwa ngaashi ya nuninwa.

Okwa popi kutya iimaliwa otayi ka longithwa mokukondjitha onkalo yoshikukuta oshowo okugandja omayambidhidho kooprograma dheyambulepo lyuunongo dhaanyasha oshowo dhuunangeshefa.

Ominista yemona, Calle Schlettwein ina vula okumonika a tye sha.

Omupopiliko gwOmbelewa yOmuprima minista, Saima Shaanika okwa koleke ombaapila ndjoka ta popi kutya omushangwa ogwa nuninwa aaniilonga yuuministeli.

“Omupresidende Hage Geingob okwa popi kombinga kombinga yokwiiyamba nokugandja iishoshela kepangelo yoopresenda mbali dhiiyemo pethimbo a ningi Oshipopiwa she shOpashigwana naashoka osha pumbwa oku mu pa uuyelele owundji,” Shaanika a popi.

Job Muniaro okwa popi kutya otaka vula owala okupopya sha konima yomutumba ngoka gwa ningwa.

“Otandi ka pulakena kwaashoka Omuprima taka popya shi na sha niishoshela mbyoka. Otu na omutumba tagu kalako mEtitano ndika twa taalela (nena) moka tatu ka pula minista kutya iishoshela mbyoka iipe otayi kala yi li ngiini.”

Dr Omo Kakujaha-Matundu okwa popi kutya otashi ka kala oshihwepo okukala inaku futithwa aakwashigwana iishoshela mbyoka.

“Elongo lyonkalo yeliko olye tu longo kutya oshihwepo okweetha iimaliwa yi kale moondjato dhoshigwana pethimbo lyomathimbo omadhigu gopaliko. Aalandi ohaya longitha iimaliwa yawo nuukeka pethimbo ndyoka. Omayele omawanawa okweetha iimaliwa yi kale moondjato dhaalandi.”

OMUTOOLINKUNDANA GWOMENI

Emino lyevi kali shi epuko lyelelo lyUukwambi

Elelo lyopamudhigululwakalo lyUukwambi Traditional Authority itali vulu okupewa uusama omolwa emino lyevi lyaaheli paveta ndyoka lya ningwa pIiheke yaNakele oshowo mOnanime, omahala ngoka ge li meni lyelelo lyUukwambi, pahapu dhOmuleli gwelelo ndyoka, Herman Iipumbu.

Iipumbu okwa popi ngaaka pethimbo lyomutumba ngoka gwa ningwa nokomitiye yoParliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources, ngoka gwa ningwa mUukwangula metiyali.

Okwa popi kutya uuministeli womidhingoloko owo tawu pewa ombedhi molwaashoka owa gandja uunzapo woenvironmental clearance certificate opo ku vule okuminwa evi okuza pomahala ngoka gaali.

MuDesemba gwomvula ya piti, uuministeli owa gandja uunzapo mboka kelelo lyopamuthigululwakalo, na owa kuthwa oonkondo kuMinista Pohamba Shifeta muMaalitsa gwonuumvo, sigo elelo lyuukwambi, aamini yevi ndyoka naakwashigwana ya kala omutumba nokutsa kumwe kutya otaya ka topola ngiini iiyemo mbyoka tayi zi memino ndyoka.

Shoka osha landula omanyenyeto ga ningwa kaakwashigwana yomomidhingoloko ndhoka mbali, taya pula opo uuministeli wu kuthe oonkondo uunzapo mboka nokuhulitha po emino lyevi okuza pomahala ngoka molwaashoka inaya kundathanwa nayo sho emino ndyoka lya tameke.

Aanangeshefa oya kala nokukutha evi pIiheke yaNakele oshowo mOnanime uule woomvula 20 dha piti naakwashigwana inaya mona mo uuwanawa washa okuza miiyemo tayi ningwa.

“Epuko kali shi lyetu molwaashoka tse ihatu gandja omikanda shokupitilka emino ndyoka,” Ipumbu a popi a geya, ta gwedhwa po kutya omukanda ngoka ogwa gandjwa kuuministeli.

Iilyo ihamano yoParliamentary Standing Committee, tayi kwatelwa komeho kuAgnes Kafula, oya ningi woo omutumba naakwashigwwana yopIiheke yaNakele mEtiyali na oya falwa kehala hoka haku kuthwa evi nokutala sho ehala lya yonagulwa kaamini,

“Kape na emino okuza pIiheke yaNakele tali ka pitikwa,” omupopiliko gwokomitiye yaakwashigwana pIiheke yaNakele, Lukas Nantanga, a popi omanga tuulike omikanda dhoka dhi na omanyenyeto gawo.

Kafula okwa popi kutya okomitiye otayi ka ngonga po olopota ndjoka tayi ka gandjwa mOmutumba gwoPaliamende, opo yi kundathanwe.

NAMPA

Iipotha yoMalaria ya gu pevi

Iipotha yomukithi gwomalaria oya gu pevi noonkondo miitopolwa iyali yaKavango, sho kwa lopotwa owala iipotha yi li 1 120 okuyeleka nomvula ya zi ko ethimbo lya faathana, sho kwa li kwa lopotwa iipotha yi li 6 000.

Shoka osha hololwa kwaangoka ta longo pehala lyomukomeho gwuundjolowele oshitopolwa shaKavango, Dr Abiola Adesina, ngoka a popi kutya egwo pevi ndyoka nuumvo olya etithwa koprograma yopombela yoIndoor Residual Spraying (IRS) ndjoka ya ningwa omvula ya piti, oshowo omuloka gwa nkundipala ngoka gwa dhidhilikwa nuumvo.

Namibian Sun okwa li a lopota muSepetamba omvula ya piti kutya, okwa lopotwa iipotha yoMalaria yi li po 24 000 oshowo omaso 32.

Adesina okwa popi ngaaka pethimbo lyepatululo lyomutumba gwoongamba dhaNamibia naAngola ngoka tagu ningilwa moRundu.

Omunambelewa ngoka ina popya ngele okwa lopotwa omaso ga etithwa komukithi gwomalaria ngashiingeyi.

Iitopolwa yaKavango iyali oyo unene hayi gumwa noonkondo komukithi gwomalaria moNamibia.

MuApilili gwo 2017, iitopolwa iyali yaKavango oya lopota iipotha yi li po 4 617 ya pombanda iikando ine niipotha mbyoka ya lopotwa moshitopolwa shaHangwena yi li 1 184, Zambezi 582, Omusati 237, Oshikoto 196, Otjozondjupa 97 oshowo Oshana 69.

Adesina okwa popi kutya nonuumvo otaya pangele okutula miilonga oprograma ndjoka yoIRS na okwa pula aakwashigwana ya yamukule nawa opo ku vule okuyandwa omukithi ngoka.

Okutameka omvula yo 2016, epangelo olya kala tali longithwa omuti tagu ithanwa K-Othrine ngoka tagu vulu okugamena okuza koomwe uule woomwedhi hamano.

Adesina okwa popi kutya ngele oprograma ndjoka yoIRS oya tulwa nawa miilonga nena iipotha yomalaria otayi vulu okushunithwa pevi.

Sho a pulwa ngele oprograma ndjoka otayi yi miilonga moAngola, sho oshilongo shoka sha kala sha taalela omashongo ngele tashi ya ketulo miilonga lyoprograma ndjoka, Adesina okwa popi kutya mbyoka oyimwe yomiinima tayi kundathanwa pomutumba ngoka.

Omvula ya piti, pethimbo lyedhimbuluko lyEsiku lyoSADC Malaria Awareness Ominista nale yUundjolowele, Bernard Haufiku okwa holola kutya iipotha yomukithi gwomalaria yi li po 3 000 oya lopotwa momvula yo 2012, na oya londo sigo opiipotha 66 000 moshilongo ashihe momvula yo 2018.

Adesina okwa yelitha kutya elalakano lyomutumba ngoka taya ningi okutopolelathana iiyetwapo nokwiilonga iiyetwapo iiwanawa okuza kaanambelewa yiilongo mbyoka iyali.

Okwa tsu omuthimbo kombinga yekondololo lyomikithi nepango kutya otali e ta iizemo iiwanawa yoonkundathana ndhoka.

Nonando ongaaka okwa kala omashongo ngaashi elongitho lyoonete dhoomwe mokukwata oohi.

MuApili gwo 2017, omukalelipo gwoMalaria Elimination 8 (E8) oshowo ominista nale yuundjolowele Dr Richard Kamwi, oya lombwele oNamibian Sun kutya nonando uuministeli otawu gandja oonete dhokwiigamena koomwe ngele nena oonete dhoka itadhi longithwa mokwiigamena nena o E8 itayi a dha omalalakano gawo gomo2020.

KENYA KAMBOWE

Wife fined for husband's suicideTraditional court blasted over heavy punishment A woman must pay 15 cattle or N$30 000 following her husband's suicide after she caught him cheating.

The justice ministry has condemned the Gciriku Traditional Authority for ordering a woman to pay 15 head of cattle or N$30 000 for the death of her husband, who committed suicide.

The order was handed down to Hendrika Shiputa, 38, during her appearance in the traditional authority's court on 23 April, after it found her guilty of the death of her husband, Mukwangu Haingura Mukwangu.

He committed suicide on 28 February by hanging himself.

The incident was confirmed by the police in Kavango East, who said there was no foul play involved.

The ministry's deputy director of community courts, Amelia Nathanael, told Nampa on Tuesday although the traditional authority does not fall under her jurisdiction, she decided to follow up the case.

“The case is not a community court case matter, but people cannot be treated this way,” Nathanael said.

She said she was further informed that the traditional authority also hears matters it should not, adding that community court officials are trained to deal with these kinds of issues.

She therefore advised that Shiputa take the case to the local magistrate's court for an appeal, before stating that community court cases are normally sent to her office for review.

In an interview with Nampa and in a complaint letter addressed to the office of the ombudsman, Shiputa said she allegedly found her husband with another woman after they had come back from her home village where they worked on their mahangu field.

She said her husband did not take the news of her finding out well and allegedly threatened to kill her.

“I informed the Ndiyona police station but was told to open a case against him, which I did.

However my husband committed suicide by hanging himself not far from my homestead,” she explained.

Her family gave two cattle, two goats, a bag of mahangu and N$3 200 for the purchase of the coffin and towards the burial of her husband, but his family reported the case to the traditional authority, which found her guilty.

Asked how they arrived at this verdict, Gciriku Traditional Authority secretary Nando Lipayi said Shiputa was found guilty by headman Josef Shashipapo because her husband committed suicide at her home village and she had to pay for the tears of her husband's family.

Legal practitioner and human rights activist, Norman Tjombe said the incident is an appalling case of blatant injustice.

“It perpetuates the age-old view that a woman is to be blamed for the adulterous conduct of her husband. That decision by the traditional court goes against every sense of justice,” Tjombe said.

NAMPA

Police chief happy to be back

City Police chief Abraham Kanime returned to his post yesterday morning after a 14-month suspension on allegations of serious misconduct.

“I am so happy; it is long overdue,” Kanime told Namibian Sun shortly after his return to office.

He confirmed that he had been given a letter yesterday morning, instructing him to report for duty within 72 hours. He was back on duty at 10:00, he said.

His return follows a special City Council meeting on Tuesday night, at which the council approved a recommendation by the management committee (MC) to reinstate him.

The special council meeting followed a 10 May High Court order by Judge Harald Geier that the City must make a final decision on Kanime's costly suspension on or before 22 May.

The court order was issued after last-minute negotiations by lawyers representing Kanime, the City Council and its CEO Robert Kahimise.

Kanime had lodged an urgent application to be allowed to return to work and to have his disciplinary proceedings finalised.

The parties agreed to set a date for Kanime's disciplinary hearing before 22 May.

By noon yesterday, it remained unclear whether Kanime had been provided with a date for the disciplinary hearing.

The municipality spokespersons could not confirm whether a date had been agreed on.

Kanime faces 19 charges related to the appointment of 20 people without CEO approval.

Of the total of 69 misconduct charges Kanime initially faced, charges 24 to 69 were withdrawn in January. They related to the appointment of City Police members in acting positions.

In an answering affidavit submitted during the hearing of the urgent application, City CEO Robert Kahimise said an inquiry into the allegations of misconduct was continuing.

JANA-MARI SMITH

Dealing in leatherMohenn – the new leather brand on the market Being like everyone else sucks, but in the pursuit of ultimate style, it's not always easy to find what you need to make sure that you aesthetically separate yourself from the rest.

From wallets, duffle bags, back packs, fanny packs and everything in between, Mohenn has all the leather accessories you need to stay fresh. Speaking to tjil, founder of the Mohenn brand Oiva Muronga said Mohenn has been around for about two years now but he is only going to officially launch it in August this year at Swakopmund.

Muronga mentioned that they now have a Namibian supplier of raw material but before they used to source their leather outside the country. “Having a Namibian supplier has made our work easier but most importantly, we want all our products to be proudly made in Namibia by Namibians.”

With Mohenn, Muronga said he wants to bring vintage style back in fashion. “Leather accessories were quite big and popular during the 80s and 90s and because I love the art, music and fashion of that era I am on a quest to sustain that trend,” said Muronga.

Describing how Mohenn products stand out, Muronga stressed that Mohenn is a very unique brand adding that he has seen his competitors' leather and does not come close to his. He said that he may be in the same industry with others but he has identified his own market, thus he is running his own race. “Other companies have shiny leather, I just make use of leather that is soft but strong and maintains the vintage feel,” he said.

His dream for Mohenn entails establishing a proper structure with various departments to run the business. It is against this background that he recently teamed up with public relations specialist Kalistu Mukoroli to handle Mohenn's PR. Muronga believes in business there are divisions that one is good at and other divisions where one needs to source help. “I am a sales person by profession but I am not necessarily the best in public relations so I needed someone with a good connection to the media and Mukoroli is that person.”

“He has been of the best help to me and my brand as he has managed to create good exposure in this short time we have been working together,” added Muronga.

Mukoroli said he is excited to work with Mohenn and is confident that together they are going to disrupt the industry. Mukoroli stated that he is eager to help and guide upcoming talents in the creative space.

With his industry expertise, Mukoroli said he knew from the get go how to promote this brand.

“It is accessories so it falls under fashion, thus I knew already what approach to take, where to do product placements for clients to buy and what type of activities to execute with the brand,” said Mukoroli.

Currently the majority of people who purchase Mohenn accessories are based at Swakopmund and Walvis Bay; it is for this reason that the public relations team is pressed to create brand awareness all over the country. “With the strategies we have been implementing, Mohenn's clients are becoming diverse and we are trying to ensure that the accessories are readily available in most towns,” said Mukoroli.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

There is no school like the old schoolTaking you down memory lane It's time for a throwback party at Trinity Lounge with Doctatainment.

Doctatainment will be taking their followers back in time to the most chilled vibe in entertainment and showcasing the best of the 80's and 90's music at tomorrow's Matinee party at Trinity Lounge.

Handling the decks at this old-school themed party is DJ Fantasy, DJ Lantis, DJ Steven the Legend and Cellos Deep.

Speaking to tjil, Doctatainment's John Cloete mentioned that the funk is back this year and 2019 promises to be even bigger and better. Following the success of the previous years, the event grew in stature and became known as the not-to-be-missed event of the year.

“The party attracted dance lovers; young and old. In 2015 this party attracted 857 party revellers. In 2017 we attracted more than 1 000 party revellers.

“We had three editions in 2018, one in Rehoboth, one in Walvis Bay and the last one in Windhoek,” added Cloete.

This year the party will be hosted and hyped by Cheese from Fresh FM. He will take the microphone to host this renowned event and letting your memory take you back. For those of you who missed this era completely, in the words of the Notorious B.I.G: “If you don't know now you know.”

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Gazza's in the bizniz

Enlightening tjil on his Rwandan excursion, Gazza said the summit was aimed at discussing ways of transforming Africa and ensuring that the continent becomes self sustainable in different sectors of the economy.

“I went there as an observer and to learn. I have a passion for my country. I believe it is not what the government can do for you but what you can do for the government,” he said.

Gazza shared that it was an informative summit and he is seeking business partnerships between Namibia and Rwanda in culture, tourism and entertainment.

Before going to Rwanda, Gazza and his business partners had a company called Habesha Africa, which connects African countries in the areas of trade and culture. The name of the company has since been changed to Rwanda-Namibia, which in essence is a group of companies that will act as a bridge between Namibia and Rwanda to help share culture, music and food, but also explore opportunities in terms of business and tourism.

“I feel like the government administration of Rwanda is way ahead of ours but we also have expertise and facilities that the Rwandan people can benefit from. So in order for us to exchange and transform skills I saw fit that we had to learn from each other,” said Gazza.

Gazza explained that Rwanda-Namibia as a group of companies is a gateway for Namibians to be able to invest in Rwanda and vice versa. Namibian delegates, and part of the Rwanda-Namibia group of companies, will facilitate and guide Namibian business people to travel to Rwanda and unlock business opportunities in the areas of entertainment, advertising, promotions and refrigeration and cooling systems. Gazza maintained that Rwandan nationals were impressed when he showed them what Namibia has to offer in terms of holiday destinations and urges business people to explore the differences and similarities of the two countries. “We will be hosting the Rwandan delegation in Namibia later this year and we look forward to working closely with the people of Rwanda,” said Gazza.

Fashion model doing her thingModel Rahab Inghalwa shares progress for her online shop This Namibian beauty is definitely a talent. Nust alumnus, online store owner and fashion model. Let's get to know Rahab Inghalwa, shall we?

Rahab Inghalwa has been doing professional fashion modelling for three years and has since branched out to selling women's clothes and accessories. She launched her online shop Ravenda Posh last year and has been selling clothes to mostly Namibia but also in southern Africa.

She mentioned that her aim is to provide services and products through Ravenda Posh that are different from what is already out there. “I want to make shopping easier for a lot of Namibians. The internet is the future so I am just trying to capitalise on it and keep up with the trends of doing things,” she said.

Inghalwa told tjil that her dream for Ravenda Posh is to grow it to a point where it becomes one of Africa's foremost online shops. The model believes not a lot of people will be shopping at physical stores in the future so she is striving to establish her online shop as a household name that is a go-to place for style enthusiasts.

Speaking on what informs her fashion sense, Inghalwa said that being in the fashion industry has exposed her to a lot of fashion designers who inspire her style. “I have been able to model for London Fashion Week and work with so many amazing fashion designers. Being in the midst of designers and models inspires me,” said Inghalwa.

She announced that plans are at an advanced stage for her to start making and selling clothing for men as well. She shared that she has received a lot of compliments for her work from industry peers and they always suggest for her to start catering for men as well. “A lot is in the pipeline and clothes for men are definitely coming. I want to do it right so that I do not disappoint my clients but when the time is right I will tap into that space,” she said.

The model added that she is overwhelmed by the support she has received ever since launching her shop. She revealed that she is looking forward to partnering up with local designers for joint fashion projects. “This week, Miss Namibia shot with our clothes and that means so much for me and my brand.”

“There are local designers I am really keen to work with and I have already been in talks with them, it is just a matter of putting it on paper,” added Inghalwa.

In an effort to grow her brand, Inghalwa recently signed a six-month contract with Versatile Media Agency to handle her public relations. She stated that she has been running the administration of her company all by herself and the time has come where she needs to get help where it is needed.

“I do everything by myself but you know what they say, to succeed you need a solid team behind you. I am happy to have Versatile Media Agency on board,” she said.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Student of the gameLearning from the best and honing his skills By now you should know who Profit is and what sort of damage he has been doing in the game.

With his hit song Mamase featuring Male Artist of The Year Kalux, That I Like featuring LSD and The Fallen Angel EP, Profit is hard not to notice, and tjil had to get some words from the rising star to keep up.

Profit, real name Panash Pieters, 24, describes himself as young, talented and enthusiastic hip-hop artist. He is known for his fearless charisma when on stage as he channels his studio energy and shares the joy and excitement of music with the crowd. His single Mamase made it to the popular Drums of Africa countdown on Energy 100 FM which is hosted by Dazzle Skrywer. Mamase has also garnered over 30 000 streams and 20 000 downloads on Donlu Africa.

Profit told tjil that he loves performing on stage thus when he creates music, he strives to produce music that the crowd will engage with. “As an artist you would want to do something that the crowd reacts to, and something that is catchy.

“I have been making music for about six years now and I have noticed that you have to identify your market and make music that will serve the needs of your audience,” said Profit.

He admitted that it has been difficult being an independent artist but it is passion and determination that drives him every day to keep pushing.

With funding being one of his biggest challenges, Profit maintains that the most efficient way to reach a lot of people for artists like him is through social media. His music is available for streaming downloads on Donlu Africa and namibianmusic.com, however he maintains that he has not neglected the traditional media in his quest to reach a lot of people with his music. “It comes back to studying the game. I push my music on social media but I also submit it to various radio stations.

“By promoting my music on these different mediums it exposes my art to different audiences,” he added.

His debut EP The Fallen Angel was launched last year, a body of work he credits to his musical growth. He mentioned that The Fallen Angel was a project that allowed him to vent his frustration, however he also learned a lot from the process of creating it. “I used to make music mostly inspired by my personal experiences but I have learned to be a storyteller and narrate experiences of others through my music,” said Profit.

He announced that he is working on his debut album which is slated for release later this year. He said working on his first official album has come with pressure because he does not want to disappoint his newly found fan base. However, he maintains that he appreciates the pressure as he believes you are not supposed to feel comfortable when working on something as big as an album.

“I think it is normal as an artist to feel pressured when working on your debut and if you are comfortable then something is wrong.

“The pressure is pushing me to deliver. It keeps me focused and brings out the best in me. For about six years that I have been around and I only got a little breakthrough two years ago, and now I am getting booked for big shows so I cannot be comfortable,” he summed up.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Liina Kaandjetu drops Kakutu Ndjimba

We wouldn't be surprised if many of you haven't heard the name Liina Kaandjetu yet, because if all of you had, tjil wouldn't continue to find aspiring Namibian musicians for you to know more about.

Fame Production signee Liina Kaandjetu recently released her debut album Kakutu Ndjimba. In an interview with tjil Kaandjetu said that this album is a medium she is using to advise the youth to not only be enticed with material things. “Materialism is a big disease among young people and I felt it is important for me to explore this subject in my music,” she said.

The album has 10 songs and features the late Jomolizo, 2Tiko, Zulla, Anchux Ama Daz Floor, Glo and Rejoice. Kaandjetu added that having this album out means a lot to her as it has always been her dream to have an album. “As musicians we encounter a lot of financial problems to get our music out there. I am glad I did not let those challenges crush my dream,” she said.

Her manager Sabrina Brown revealed that the album will be complemented with three music videos. Brown said they already shot the video for the title track and are currently working on story lines for two more videos. “Just watch out for them because you are going to love them,” said Brown.

Brown mentioned that as her manger her plan is to motivate her to work hard and achieve her musical dream. Brown's wish for Kaandjetu is for her to collaborate with other musicians and make good music. “I want her to win a lot of awards. As her management, we want to make her a household name, where everyone speaks about her and they love her music. We are pushing her to be where she deserves to be which is up in the sky with the stars,” said Brown.

Kaandjetu shared that she is inspired by Sally Boss Madam and would like to collaborate with her one day. “I am a fan of her music and she inspires me so much. My label is working on making a collaboration with her happen; I believe it is going to be a nice feature,” said Kaandjetu.

Kaandjetu is set to perform songs from Kakutu Ndjimba at Ruacana next weekend. She said the launch of the album will be announced later and the album is available at Antonio's Art.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

NTN workers allege unethical practicesErick ready for his one-man comedy show at Beacon Lodge The NTN employees have expressed disappointment regarding alleged unethical practices and poor governance, in a petition handed over to the chairperson of the company's board of directors, Manna Maswetu on Monday.

The NTN facilities officer, Raphael Ndana, who was speaking on behalf of the disgruntled employees, demanded a meeting with the company's board of directors to discuss their back pay that is outstanding for almost three years, as well as to formulate updated policies such as for human resources and finance, which have been unchanged since 2004. Ndana said the absence of these policies allows favouritism, nepotism and corruption along with other unethical conduct to flourish at NTN.

“This brings it to the point that in most if not all cases, the human resource department is, so to say, dormant as it only acts in the interest of the company and never that of the employees, and we are examples of such instances,” Ndana emphasised.

In the 2014/15 financial year, NTN agreed to regrade the employees' positions, however, it took five years to implement as it was only completed on 13 February 2019 and the company concurred to back pay as a result of the extended process.

The NTN management decided on no more than a 12-month back pay to the employees and Ndana said, refused further negotiations to reach a mutual understanding between both parties.

“This refusal to negotiate and delay tactics in finalising this matter is demoralising to employees and additionally causes them not only emotional but financial suffering,” Ndana said.

The employees, in the petition, further questioned the fact that the company's organogram has changed four times without the approval of the board and the absence of an annual general meeting since 2016. If the board does not address their grievances within seven days, the employees vowed to take the matter to the labour court or to the line ministry.

Maswetu, representing the board of directors, received the petition and committed to look at the grievances, however saying they cannot come immediately with the answers the employees seek.

NAMPA

Erick ready for his one-man comedy show at Beacon Lodge

Lovers of comedy can look forward to the first edition of a one-man comedy show at the Beacon Lodge tomorrow with comedian Erich Nepembe.

Adding a fun-filled entertainment extravaganza to its new and classy venue, the Beacon Lodge will start hosting a stand-up comedy every month, to give an opportunity to old and new talents into rollercoaster shows of comedy.

Opening the series this week is Erich Nepembe, popularly known as Erick in comedy circles. On the night, audience can expect a funny guy who is unapologetic, and tell his jokes like it is. His jokes are diverse, mostly observational comedy where he mocks out ailing politics, economy and out fashioned cultural norms.

Erick said that his achievement so far is the recognition he gained in the industry.

“I have performed mostly in the shower, but seriously I have been everywhere; I have performed at corporate events like Debmarine Namibia and Namcor, several weddings (which made me eligible to get chicken), opened up for comedians like Courage the Comedian and Mark Kariahuua at their one-man shows,” said Erich. The show will start at 20:00 and will be complemented by sets from various Windhoek DJs.

STAFF REPORTER

NAM Comedy Circle back with more jokes Your monthly dose of laughter NAM Comedy Circle returns to the Hilton Kalabar on Wednesday, 29 May featuring Tapiwa Makaza, Kris with a K and Lloyd.

The popular stand-up comedy event regularly metamorphoses into a party with the Hilton Hotel offering prizes ranging from complimentary cocktails to a massage at the Hilton Breeze Spa and a dinner for two at the Ekipa restaurant.

The forthcoming NAM Comedy Circle precedes a public Namibian holiday – Ascension Day, offering additional ease of mind to the audience.

Free Your Mind’s Last Comic Standing 2012, Tapiwa Makaza unravels weaknesses and strengths within the Namibian public service culture with a special reference to current social and political affairs. Returning from a comic stint at the Happy Hippo Comic Club in Durban, where he shared the stage with well-known South African comedian Emilio Tobias and Zimba the Comic King from Zimbabwe, he hopes to promote his very own xenohopia-survival-kit. Makaza further takes a look at excesses within Namibian Defence Force’s operational efforts, the upcoming Miss Namibia event and at overriding Namibian sentiments vis-à-vis the recent Leonard Witbeen ‘affair’.

Kris with a K is back with a bang, following a hilarious presentation at the recent Free Your Mind Housing is Not a Joke show at the Warehouse Theatre. Kris, full name Kristiana Hafunda first entered the Namibian stand-up comedy scene in 2014. He has since been a regular performer at corporate functions, Free Your Mind events and the University of Namibia, where he is studying towards a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in Media and Drama Studies. His international exposure includes Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa; where in October 2017 he participated at the revered Johannesburg International Delphic Comedy Championships, ending up as one of the finalists. Kris with a K has an astute talent for funny stories. He manages to depict life in the ghetto in a fashion that reveals both love and appreciation for people of his generation, who are negotiating the options of accepting the hardships of life and seeking novel ways to overcome it.

Lloyd will round up the evening. This comedian’s favourite past time is to mimic personae of various cultural backgrounds. His personification of well-known members of the Namibian society, combined with an irresistible inclination to put words in other people’s mouths make him a prime proponent of comic versions of accumulated fake news which usually leaves the audience cracking with laughter.

Comedian in his own right, Mark Kariahuua takes over the reigns as master of ceremony. Once again, jovially joining the pieces together and adding spice where necessary, whilst fervently and openly defending the art of comedy in an on-going battle against obliviousness of his Herero peers.

The entrance to NAM Comedy Circle is free of charge. The event begins at 20:00 and excerpts from previous NAM Comedy Circle shows are available on YouTube.

STAFF REPORTER

Catch up Music keeps evolving, but for some reason there are people who refuse to adapt and embrace new sounds. You know, those types of people who always complain about how back in the day there used to be real musicians and they used to kill it. I am tired of such music fans, coming every day with your “music hasn't been the same since…” remarks.

Sure, there are some things the music and culture are lacking. There always will be, and I pray that there will always be, some pure-hearted people around who are genuinely concerned with the growth of it. But (1) the music you are asking for still exists and you can and will find it if you stop solely relying on mainstream media to determine what you listen to; and (2) things are evolving pretty well if you look closely. Someone needs to create a time machine, load all of you throwback folks into it and send you back to 2005 where you can do dance moves in your Dickies outfits for all eternity. My point is, it is not fair that you keep belittling new artists just because they make music that does not appeal to you. This is their era and let them own and be proud of their sounds and style of music without constantly being put against those who came before them.

Anyway, I just needed to get that out of my chest. Cool, I have gracefully just reached my 10th tjil edition. I thank you for all the continuous support you give me on all platforms. Over the past couple of weeks, I have personally been meditating on one revelation I believe I received as a means of fulfilling my cool music purpose.

What I have come to realise and accept is that tjil has grown beyond the point of just being considered art and entertainment supplement, but the tjil brand itself has transitioned into a 'cultural' publication. Cultural in what sense? Namibian entertainment and lifestyle culture. Sure, since its inception tjil's most important segment or beat has always been the music side, but tjil has also considered other areas of our entertainment scene just as important, if you think about it, so music, fashion, lifestyle, beauty pageants, comedy, art, photography, dance and overall creativity plus design all bundled up is what a tjil edition issue should be made of.

It is for these reasons that we always try to bring you diverse entertainment stories and features for your perusal pleasures. So why catch up? Okay, keep up. By now the year 2019 is steadily approaching its mid-term and we have witnessed how certain artists have solidified their brands within the culture. So in a way this edition is putting a shine on artists and creatives who have given the Namibian entertainment scene the impression that they are ahead of their competition. Among other features, not only is this a way to honour and praise KK who graces the cover of this edition because of his unending drive to elevate himself in all that he does. This edition once again profiles the new talent you should look out for and brings you the latest entertainment news. Enjoy!

michael@namibiasun.com; @MichaelMKAY on Twitter

Expanding his creative palateHe walked in and everything changed Rapper KK should be no stranger to you. Having been part of the industry's development, KK's impact is always felt - one way or another.

tjil got to interview rapper KK about his new music and his move to content creation, fashion and modelling. The rapper told tjil that it has been a busy year for him as he is working on completing his next album. This will be his fourth, and is a project he says will reflect his maturity and growth so he is striving to get it as close to perfection as possible.

Having been around for a while now, KK told tjil that his sound has evolved ever since bursting on the scene with the classic We Go Hard featuring Desmond. He said that he has grown and learned a lot over the years. “I've come a long way from the boy that shook and took the game by storm and once the album is out, the music will do all the talking.”

KK, real name Kadeen Kaoseb admits that a lot of artists get into music because it is cool, but with time they attach meaning to it. Asked what purpose he is making music for now, he mentioned that he wants to inspire, motivate and prove that music is more than just a good melody with some catchy words. He wants the less privileged children, the boy from the streets with just a dream, the girl that lost all hope and feels alone, to believe in themselves and feel strong enough to want to conquer the world. “And of course, take care of my family and leave behind a real legacy,” he added.

On venturing into film and acting, KK shared that his first acting role was in the local series Dreamers produced by Desert Films. He revealed that he has always had a love for film and when the opportunity presented itself he just couldn't let it pass. With the recent buzz the team created around this series, KK hopes Namibians will have a chance to see it on their television screens soon.

He explained that Dreamers is a drama based on the everyday lives of what's happening in Namibia. He detailed that it is very emotional but also accurate and realistic. “It's easily relatable and will be the best show to come out of this country,” said KK.

The rapper announced that he is also part of a feature film titled Hairabeb that was shot in January this year. “I don't have an exact release date but it should be out in the next two months or so. The official trailer is out on YouTube.”

Tapping into the modelling space, KK opened up to tjil and said that besides being a little chubby and short, he believes he is more than capable of being the face of any brand that should require his services. “I've worked on making sure I keep my brand and image very clean and professional,” he said.

His fashion sense is informed by his friend and rapper Cassidy Karon of Paradox. He is pointed out fashion designer Simeone Johannes and his Synedgy collections as another brand that influences and inspires his style. “I really like what Cassidy Karon has done with //Concept and I also think Synedgy stands out as one of the best in the country. Big ups to them,” said KK.

He maintains that he strives to be the best at anything he puts his mind to, so just like with music he also wants to dominate the new spaces he is occupying. He stressed that he is perfectionist thus his goal is to be remembered as one of the game-changers.

He thanked his fans for their patience and promised that it will be worth the wait. His next offering is ready and he emphasised that it is a masterpiece, adding that he is planning big things too, so stay tuned. “I am working on a few things to make sure KK becomes a household name both locally and across our borders,” said KK.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Business ponders mass exodusEmpowerment bill, socialism scares Private enterprises in the country say that the government's tendencies towards increased socialism and the economic empowerment bill are causing uncertainty.

A recent survey by the Economic Policy Research Association (EPRA) of close to 600 businesses concerned about the government's policy direction shows that a staggering 58% of local businesses have contemplated leaving Namibia over the past three years.

The businesses cite economic decline and Swapo's increased move towards socialism, factors which they say place the sustainability of their businesses at risk.

The businesses have lost substantial trust in the government and business climate since the start of discussions on the New Equitable Economic Empowerment Bill (NEEEB) and the promulgation of the Namibia Investment Promotion Act (IPA).

As many as 32% said they had since then considered registering their businesses in a foreign country instead.

Sixty-seven percent said they had not thought about registering their companies elsewhere, and 1.7% said they had already registered the entire company, or part of it, in a foreign country.

During the public consultation process on NEEEB, many companies started contemplating moving their business to other countries, notably Mauritius for its flat 15% tax rates, ease of doing business, and low corruption index.

“These are things people had not even thought about before the NEEEB was first distributed,” says EPRA's Eben de Klerk.

Asked about their investments, only 18.3% of the businesses said they invested some or all of their profits outside the country.

Governance makes for risky business

The respondents ranked the factors that expose their businesses' sustainability to extreme risk as economic decline (91%), government bureaucracy and poor service delivery (80%), government's drive towards socialism (75%), seemingly unstoppable government corruption (74%), and government policy (73%). Fifty percent regarded crime as an extreme risk.

An overwhelming number of businesses (97.2%) said they did not believe the government showed sufficient political will to fight corruption. Almost 73% said they did not think the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) was effective in fighting corruption, and nearly 80% said they though corruption was on the rise.

“It seems as if the fight against corruption is lost,” said De Klerk.

“If those who are in the highest and best positions to commit corruption are the same people to appoint those who must fight corruption, the fight is lost even before it started. For instance, if no investigations or any action followed when the director of the ACC [Paulus Noa] himself was accused of corruption.”

Namibian companies were also concerned about the Chinese bonanza: about 66% felt Namibia never benefits when the government awards capital projects and tenders to Chinese firms. About 25.6% said Namibia benefits “rarely”. None (0%) felt that Namibia always benefits when tenders go to the Chinese.

Not a single company was satisfied with the government's spending priorities: 97% say they were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied.

Despite President Hage Geingob's claims of an inclusive 'Namibian House', 57.22% of the businesses felt that tribalism is on the increase; 40.6% though tribalism has remained the same as before.

According to De Klerk, tribalism trumps concerns over racism, saying there is a strong indication that appointments and tenders are being awarded along tribal lines, while influencing the policy environment as well.

“The story of Namibia can never be unity if tribalism continues to trump the day,” De Klerk said.

None of the businesses were content with Namibia's disparate income distribution. In fact, 66.1% said they were dissatisfied and very dissatisfied with the Gini coefficient of 0.57.

Employee crime the lesser evil

Despite high levels of crime and fraud committed by employees, governance factors by far trump concerns about sustainability at the responding companies.

The majority (53.3%) of the businesses said they had suffered damages over the past year due to crime, fraud and corruption committed by their employees.

About 70% felt they cannot rely on the criminal justice system to bring errant employees to book; 53.9% felt the civil justice system (in cases of interdicts, contractual and damages claims) is “somewhat” or “very” inefficient.

No voice

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

A whopping 93% feel they have no influence, and 82% say they are not members of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI).

The businesses seemingly have no trust in the NCCI, with 54% stating that they do not know whether the NCCI can adequately and effectively represent the interests of the Namibian business community.

Thirty-eight percent said the NCCI can definitely not be trusted to do so. Only 7% think the NCCI can.

This is important considering that the NCCI is the only private-sector platform the government engages with under the Harambee Prosperity Plan (HPP).

CATHERINE SASMAN

Namibia ranks poorly for diversity

For a country that is described by many as one of the most diverse in the world, Namibia has ranked fairly poorly in a new diversity index.

The Global Diversity Index ranks Namibia in 48th place among 125 countries, while neighbouring South Africa (ninth) and Mozambique (fifth) are the only southern African countries ranked among the top 10 globally.

The index looked at which countries around the world are the most diverse, weighing up everything from religious beliefs and multilingual communities to freedom for diversity.

The index based its ratings on the following criteria: The level of ethnic diversity, the number of immigrants, number of languages spoken, the number of religious beliefs, number of political parties, the level of religious freedom, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender rights and freedoms and the level of personal freedom.

These criteria were then divided into four categories - cultural diversity, religious diversity, political diversity and freedom for diversity.

Each country was then scored out of five across each sub-category and overarching category. The four overarching scores for each country were then added up to get a final score out of 20, which was used to rank the countries.

Namibia received a total score of 10 out of 20 for its diversity.

It scored the poorest for 'democratic political system', which specifically looked at political choice (one out of five).

For 'religious diversity' it was also scored one out of five.

For 'cultural freedom' the country was scored four out of five and this category focused on ethnic diversity, immigrant population and language mix.

Under the category 'freedom for diversity' Namibia was scored four out of five. This category took into account personal, sexual and religious freedom and any form of discrimination.

Namibia has 13 ethnic groups that include the Khoisan and many others like the Owambo, Ovaherero, Kavango, Tswana, Himba, Caprivians, Nama and the Damara, the index said.

The number of individual languages listed for Namibia is 27. All are living languages. Of these, 22 are indigenous and five not.

The index said further that Christianity is the most widespread religion in Namibia, of which the largest denomination is Lutheran. About 80 to 90% of the population are Christians.

Meanwhile, Benin ranked first with an index score of 15. The West African country is home to 56 languages and is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world.

There are around 42 different African ethnic groups and Benin is also home to a melting pot of religious beliefs, ranking 10th in a Pew Research report into religious diversity.

The same report ranks Namibia 205th among 232 countries for religious biodiversity with a score of 0.6. This is among the lowest scoring countries for religious biodiversity in the world.

The diversity index ranks Belgium in second place, Suriname in third and Brazil in fourth place.

According to the index many European countries ranked as some of the least ethnically diverse, including the United Kingdom, France and Italy.

“At the other end of the scale, there was a large portion of African countries topping the list for ethnic diversity, including Benin, Chad and Kenya.”

The lowest ranking countries on the index in terms of diversity were Saudi Arabia with a total score of five, as well as Algeria (five) and Egypt (four).

ELLANIE SMIT

Bild challenges Guibeb

The German newspaper Bild has rubbished a claim by the Namibian ambassador to Germany, Andreas Guibeb, that no arrest warrant had been issued against him.

The newspaper published a facsimile of the warrant in its 22 May edition with a caption reading, “Hello Ambassador, today we show your warrant.”

The arrest warrant was issued by the Schönenberg district court in Berlin on 16 May.

The embarrassing tit-for-tat between Guibeb and Bild started when the paper reported on the outcome of a court case in which the diplomat was sued over unpaid bills. Guibeb owed Friedrich Schiller University €34 500 and a company called Diskurs Communication €46 410.

Bild said Guibeb was hiding behind his diplomatic immunity.

Bild was also incensed when Guibeb told Namibian media that the article on the court case was “fake news”.

In response to the German newspaper's initial report, Guibeb issued a three-page statement saying that it was the “dark side of the development cooperation business” and a “revengeful use of mafia-style fake news to blackmail diplomats to make ransom payments for frivolous claims that were not upheld in the courts of law”.

Guibeb claimed that the source of the Bild article was the legal representative of Diskurs Communication, Olaf Gutting, who is also a member of parliament of the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

He said the report was “non-story fake news with clear propaganda intent against maybe the reparations talks between the German and Namibian governments”.

Guibeb further said the Diskurs Communication claim was dismissed with cost by the Berlin High Court and that there was no arrest warrant against him.

“Even if it existed, it could only have been obtained where the applicant misleads the court about the identity of the person against who claims were made,” Guibeb said.

Bild had pointed out that the arrest warrant could not be enforced because of Guibeb's diplomatic immunity.

Under the Vienna Convention of 1961 diplomats enjoy immunity against the courts of host countries, and criminal prosecutions or civil claims are not enforceable against them.

In the latest Bild article Gutten is quoted as saying that Guibeb's behaviour, as a representative of a nation that “repeatedly demands and receives special services from Germany”, was “especially annoying”.

Guibeb has not responded to the latest Bild article.

CATHERINE SASMAN

Fallout over 2% taxHands off our salaries, unions say The government's idea of a “voluntary” additional tax to fund drought-relief efforts has gone down like a lead balloon.

Political parties and analysts have called on the government to abandon a plan to introduce a “voluntary” 2% tax to fund drought relief.

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila is set to meet labour unions today to discuss the tax.

If implemented, all salary earners will be required to pay a one-off tax of 2% of their basic salaries.

Asked what government will do if its appeal does not yield the desired results, finance minister Calle Schlettwein said legal instruments are available.

“Of course all policy options are on the table which are needed to step up the revenue to satisfy the needs of our citizens. We are not begging to get off the hook; we believe in individual responsibility. If that does not work there are legal instruments that are available,” he said.

Schlettwein said the response from Namibians to the 2% voluntary contribution is a sad indication that we have become a society that has lost its compassion and appreciation of solidarity and the concept of an unequal society.

“It looks like we changed into a materialist one, which has lost that desire to make a valuable contribution to those who do not have enough,” he said.

He also said government realised that in an economy which is under pressure, and where growth has disappeared, tax reform is not the most stable way to generate revenue.

The finance minister added they hope to collect between N$500 and N$600 million from the civil servants alone, based on the current wage bill.

Critics called on the government to rather reduce size of the cabinet.

“We reject this proposed idea and call upon government to cut its bloated cabinet including State House decorated and over-glorified so-called advisors, and then this country will have enough money to last a decade and get this economy working again (sic),” said National Unity Democratic Organisation (Nudo) secretary-general Joseph Kauandenge.

“The president must lead from the front and stop with his expensive taste of how he runs government, starting with cutting his neverending foreign trips. After all, charity begins at home and nowhere else,” Kauandenge added.

According to him, the idea belongs in the dustbin. The newly established Landless People's Movement shared Nudo's sentiments.

“We as LPM feel that the 2% could have been a good initiative. However, the application of the 2% across the board does not augur well.

“All of a sudden we are all treated as equals but when the SME Bank money, the Kora Awards, GIPF looting occurred, fishing quotas and mass housing shambles, all Namibians did not benefit equally,” said its deputy leader, Henny Seibeb.

He offered suggestions how the government could cut costs, starting with the size of the cabinet.

“Relieve all deputy ministers of their duties and save on salaries, benefits and subsistence and travel allowances. Eliminate the vice-president position as there is already a prime minister. These layers are top-heavy and serve more as bureaucratic impediment rather than adding value,” Seibeb said. Seibeb also suggested that the number of parliamentarians in the National Assembly be reduced from 96 to the original 72.

“Namibia is a small country and there is no logic as to why we need such a huge parliament. The initial proposal of 96 members of parliament was conceived out of patronage and not out of real fast-tracking of development,” he said.

Trade Union Congress of Namibia president Mahongora Kavihuha questioned the sanity of the person that came up with the proposed tax.

“This idea is irresponsible and childish,” said Kavihuha.

He suggested that the government look at its spending patterns, citing a recent handover of school furniture in the Kunene Region by President Hage Geingob, where he said hundreds of government vehicles were seen.

According to him, this example showed that the government was not managing its resources well.

According to Kavihuha, Tucna is gathering support from civil servants to have the idea shot down.

OGONE TLHAGE

JEMIMA BEUKES