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Ground Geingob - Venaani

June 12, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Ground Geingob - VenaaniGround Geingob - Venaani Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) leader McHenry Venaani says Namibia remains “rudderless” as President Hage Geingob clocks up “frequent flyer miles” while scores of breadwinners in the country are at home as a result of mass retrenchments.

“They should curb the president's flying and send delegations to secure foreign investment. There has been zero return from the presidency's flying except loan offers that will end up making us economic slaves,” Venaani said yesterday.

He was responding to the latest statistics released by the Employment Equity Commission (ECC), which indicated that nearly 37 000 employment contracts were terminated for various reasons in 2017/18, with the wholesale retail sector leading the pack with 12 580 terminations.





The agriculture and construction sectors were also hard hit by massive job losses.

Geingob returned yesterday from Nigeria where he celebrated Democracy Day in that country.

His travelling has been a source of discontent since he became president in 2015, and this has been exacerbated by the shocking state of the economy and government's finances.

In April, during a question and answer session after he delivered his State of the Nation Address (Sona), the head of state claimed he does not enjoy travelling, but had no choice because as president, he has the mandate to represent Namibia at international events.

The subject of Geingob's travelling has been highlighted in many news reports.

Last year, The Namibian noted that the president had travelled to 16 countries since assuming the presidency in 2015. These destinations included China, Kenya, Mauritania, Canada, England, Ethiopia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, Botswana, Malawi, Angola, Guinea, and Portugal.

In January this year Geingob travelled to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates to attend the Zayed Sustainability Prize award ceremony and the opening ceremony of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

In February he travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where he met with that country's new president.

In April the president travelled to Portugal to attend a three-day meeting of international business and political leaders.

Geingob also attended the inauguration of South African president Cyril Ramaphosa in May.



Cut to the bone

Venaani said finance's minister Calle Schlettwein primary job must now be saving and creating jobs.

“He must cut all perks and luxuries to the bone. Saving and creating jobs must now be his only job, because these are real families, not just statistics. The Harambee sloganeering must end. It is a failure. It's time for real politick with people at the centre.”

Venaani also said there is a need for Namibians across political homes to urgently find a way to create jobs. He therefore repeated his call that a jobs summit should he held as a matter of urgency.



“We know that thousands of breadwinners are now at home. We know that one in every two youth are unemployed, and yet its business as usual for the sitting government,” said Venaani.



He said the jobs summit must include aligning the required skills to what students are studying and act as platform where entrepreneurs are linked with funders and donors.



According to Venaani, the innovation, science and IT sectors should receive special focus.



Earlier this year, Geingob appointed a 22-member High Level Panel on the Economy (HLPE) to help bring in an investment of US$1 billion (or about N$15 billion at the current exchange rate) within the next two years.

JEMIMA BEUKES
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Inflation ebbs in May

June 13, 2019, 2:12 am
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Inflation ebbs in MayInflation ebbs in May Annual overall inflation in May came in at 4.1%, down from 4.5% the previous month.
In May 2018, annual overall inflation was 3.8%.
Figures released by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) this morning show a significant drop in overall food inflation compared to April. Overall transport inflation, however, increased slightly.
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Operation Kalahari Desert claims first death

June 13, 2019, 2:18 am
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Operation Kalahari Desert claims first deathOperation Kalahari Desert claims first death A taxi driver has been killed at a mobile road block set up by members of the police and army, part of Operation Kalahari Desert, in Greenwell Matongo informal settlement. According to Chief Inspector Kauna Shikwambi, a Toyota Passo, with taxi number L68 approached the road block at around 01:00 this morning. It is alleged the driver, who was alone in the car, made a sharp U-turn and fled from the road block causing a Namibian Defence Force soldier to fire at the vehicle with an AK47. The single bullet penetrated the back of the vehicle and hit the driver in the head, killing him instantly. He is yet to be identified.
The soldier, 38, is based at Luiperdsvallei outside Windhoek and is a member of A Squadron. he has been arrested and is set to be charged with murder and the negligent discharge of a firearm today.
STAFF REPORTER
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Nam's trade deficit shrinks

June 13, 2019, 6:45 am
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Nam's trade deficit shrinksNam's trade deficit shrinks Namibia recorded a trade deficit of N$2.95 billion in the first quarter of 2019, a drop of about N$6.3 billion or nearly 68.3% compared to the first quarter of 2018.
According to the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), the country’s exports in the first three months of the year amounted to nearly N$21.4 billion, up nearly 12.4% on an annual basis.
Imports totalled nearly N$24.4 billion, down around 11.5% year-on-year.
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Green light for tobacco project

June 13, 2019, 7:27 am
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Green light for tobacco project Green light for tobacco project
Armas Amukwiyu’s controversial tobacco project in the Zambezi Region has been approved by cabinet on Tuesday.
The company, Namibia Oriental Tobacco, belongs to Oshikoto Swapo Party regional coordinator Armas Amukwiyu and Chinese business partners.
Amukwiyu's application for land was rejected in May 2015 by the Zambezi Communal Land Board.
However Zambezi governor Lawrence Sampofu said the land was available for the project to go ahead.
The Mafwe Traditional Authority gave the company 10 000 hectares of land for the project, based on promises of the creation of 3 000 permanent jobs.




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Double murder accused maintains his innocence

June 13, 2019, 9:34 am
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Double murder accused maintains his innocence Double murder accused maintains his innocence Ernst Joseph Lichtenstrasser, accused of murdering NIMT CEO Eckhart Mueller and his deputy Heimo Hellwig in April, today maintained his innocence during his bail application in the Swakopmund Magistrates' Court. “It was not me,” Lichtenstrasser, who was under heavy police guard told the court. He, however, added that he was coerced and allegedly “threatened” by the police to admit to the murders. “I wanted to protect my wife and therefore confessed to the murder,” the 57-year-old said. The state is objecting the granting of bail and the release of the suspect. State prosecutor Antonia Verhoef argued the accused poses a flight risk if released on bail. It is also not in the public interest nor will it be in the interest of the administration of justice if the double murder accused is granted bail, the state added. "The allegations are very serious," she noted. Mueller and his deputy, Hellwig, were shot at close range when they reported for duty at the Arandis campus on Monday, 15 April. The bail hearing continues tomorrow.

ERWIN LEUSCHNER






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Namibia hunt second win

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Namibia hunt second winNamibia hunt second winRussia in the firing line at Nations Cup Namibia will play Russia in their last match of the World Rugby Nations Cup tomorrow. Namibia's senior men's rugby team caused a big upset in their second match by beating hosts and defending World Rugby Nations Cup champions Uruguay, and are hoping to repeat their exploits when they clash with Russia tomorrow in their final match.

Flyhalf Cliven Loubser broke Uruguayan hearts with the last kick of the game on Tuesday, with the match ending 30-28 in the Namibian team's favour, as they recorded their first win at the tournament.

This was definitely a sweet victory for the Namibians after they lost their first match 25-39 against Argentina XV on 4 June.

The tournament forms part of their preparations for the upcoming 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Filled with a mixture of youngsters and a group of experienced players, Namibia will play alongside Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and Italy in Group B in Japan.

Head coach of the team Phil Davies said their first match against Argentina was their most structured and controlled game so far against quality opposition.

“We are very pleased about how we played,” he said.

Davies said he is proud of the team's performance and that they are moving in the right direction, considering they defeated Uruguay in their second match, who are ranked way above them in the world rankings.

“The World Rugby Nations Cup provides a vital opportunity for the competition teams to advance their Rugby World Cup preparations and test their squad selections just three months ahead of the showpiece tournament in Japan,” World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said.

Topping the log are Uruguay with seven points, as they secured a bonus point win over Russia.

Argentina are second on six points. Russia are third, while Namibia remain at the bottom of the log with four points.

LIMBA MUPETAMI
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Viljoen suspended for racism

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Viljoen suspended for racismViljoen suspended for racism Namibian player Christoffel Viljoen has been suspended for four matches after accepting that he was in breach of the International Cricket Council's anti-racism code for participants, following two incidents that occurred during an ICC T20 World Cup Africa qualifier match last month.

Viljoen made inappropriate comments during the match against Uganda in Kampala on 21 May that were considered to be in breach of the ICC's Anti-Racism Code, which resulted in him being charged with offences under 2.1.1. of the code, namely: “Engaging in any conduct (whether through the use of language, gestures or otherwise) which is likely to offend, insult, humiliate, intimidate, threaten, disparage or vilify any reasonable person in the position of a player, player support personnel, umpire, match referee, umpire support personnel or any other person (including a spectator) on the basis of their race, religion, culture, colour, descent, national or ethnic origin.” Viljoen has been handed four suspension points for each offence, which will run concurrently and result in him missing Namibia's next four matches.

As per article 7.3 of the Anti-Racism Code, Viljoen will also have to undergo an education programme to promote a better understanding and awareness of issues directly relevant to the offence that he committed. The ICC will work with the Cricket Namibia to determine when and how this should take place.

NAMPA/ANA
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Glitz and prizes

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Glitz and prizesGlitz and prizesNPL awards set for tomorrow Outstanding players, coaches and referees will be rewarded for their hard work at the NPL awards tomorrow night at the Safari Court Hotel in Windhoek. The MTC Namibia Premier League (NPL) awards ceremony will see Black Africa duo Dynamo Fredericks and Wesley Katjiteo up against Issaskar Gurirab of Life Fighters for the 2018/19 footballer of the season ultimate prize.

Gurirab is tipped to walk away with the award, as he is also nominated in the players' player of the season category as well against Katjiteo and Absalom Iimbondi of Tigers.

The young player who is currently on national duty with the Brave Warriors in Dubai, as they prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), will also be crowned top goal scorer of the season after netting 22 goals.

Regarding preparations for the event, NPL spokesperson Andre Gariseb said everything is on track. “All the parties are on board and the event will also be live on the national broadcaster, NBC.

“Just to add flair to the event we will have live performances by the likes of Tswazis and KP Illest. The event will also incorporate the Standard Bank Top 8 awards,” said Gariseb.

Black Africa are the league winners after a haul of 64 points from 28 matches, while scoring 66 and conceding 22 goals.

The champions won 19 of their 28 matches, losing only two and dropping two points on seven occasions.

African Stars, who missed out on defending their title by six points, finished the season with 19 wins, six draws and six loses. Tura Magic had one of their best seasons in the premier league since gaining promotion and finished third.

Unam, who also had a good season, came in fourth with 11 wins, nine draws and eight losses, while registering 42 points after 28 matches.

The NPL awards will feature high-profile sports personalities, some of who will present the awards.

Other nominees include Fortune Eichab (Tura Magic), Paulus Shipanga (Black Africa) and Nicholas Woody Jacobs (Unam) for coach of the season.

The referee of the season title is being contested by Jackson Pavaza (Otjozondjupa), Jonas Shongedi (Oshana) and Nehemia Shoovaleka (Ohangwena).

The assistant referee of the season is being contested between Matheus Nevonga (Hardap), Mathew Kanyanga (Khomas), and Eneas Shikongo (Khomas).

LIMBA MUPETAMI
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Aakwiita ya dhengagula aniwa omukwashigwana

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Aakwiita ya dhengagula aniwa omukwashigwanaAakwiita ya dhengagula aniwa omukwashigwana JANA-MARI SMITH

Omukwashigwana gwomOvenduka ngoka a tulwa miipandeko omolwa oshipotha shedhengo muMei okwa popi kutya okwa li a dhengwa nokumonithwa iihuna kaakwiita yoNDF nokutulwa miiketanga konima yohauto yetanga lyegameno.

Omukalimo gwomOkuryangava, Jason Kauhondamwa (29) okwa lombwele oNamibian Sun kutya okwiiyadha monkalo ya dhigupala momasiku 16 gaMei lwopotundi onti 10:00 yongula pethimbo a li ta taaguluka ondjila yepandanda lya moMonte Christo, sho iithanwa kaakwiita yahala okuhadha mokandjato ke kokomapepe.

Okwa popi kutya mokandjato ke omwali okakalata komeya, omapando gaali giikamusino noshifokundaneki.

Okwa popi kutya onkalo oya piyagana mbala sho aakwiita ye mu lundile kutya ke na omikalo na ota tukana.

Kauhondamwa okwa popi kutya okwa thikamekwa nale kaapolisi nokumuhandha ihe okuwete kutya aapolisi naakwiita inaya faathana.

Okwa popi kutya, sha landula oshiningwanima shoka ke wete we a gamenwa uuna a mono aakwiita.

Okwa tulwa miipandeko lwanima omolwa oshipotha shedhengo oshowo okuya moshipala omunambelewa gwopolisi a longe iilonga ye. Okwa kala modholongo uule womasiku gatano omanga ina pewa omboloha yoshimaliwa shooN$2 000.

Kauhondamwa okwa patulula oshipotha nopolisi yaWanaheda omolwa edhengo nomathangagulo ngoka a ningilwa kaakwiita esiku ndyoka.

“Onda hala ya ninge omakonaakono. Kashi li pauyuuki. Aantu mboka aakwiita na otaya hepeke oshigwana. Kashi li pamulandu.”

Opolisi oya koleke kutya oshipotha shaKauhondamwa osha patululwa na otashi konaakonwa.

Okwa popi kutya okwa tokola okuya moshigwana molwaashoka ngele wa popi opo owala to mono omalunduluko.



Okwa popi kutya mesiku ndyoka lyomasiku 16 gaMei omukwiita ngoka a hadha mondjato ye okwa pula kombinga yomaihumbato ge na okwe mu lombwele opo a ye naye kohauto hoka kwa li ku na aakwiita yakwawo ya tegelela.

Okwa popi kutya oya taambathana omalaka, na okwa zimine kutya sho omukwiita e mu tuku naye okumu tuku.

Okwa popi kutya okwa tulwa miipandeko nokutulwa mohauto moka a kala ta dhengwa kaakwiita nokumu lombwela kutya otaye mu zula opo nongele okwe ya mono a kale he ya tilwa.

Oshipotha shoka a patululilwa osha undulilwa komasiku 17 gaSepetamba.

Kauhondamwa okwa popi kutya otiikalelepo yemwene mohofa, ta popi kutya ina pumbwa ekwatho lyomukalelipo gwopaveta molwaashoka otaka popya owala oshili.

Okwa popi kutya nonando okwali eehamekwa ina pewa epango omanga eli modholongo.

Okwa popi kutya osha li oshiidhigu okupatulula oshipotha shoka, sho aapolisi yali yemu lombwele kutya okupatululila aakwiita oshipotha kashi na mpoka tashi yi.

Sha landula oolopota dhomadhengo taga ningilwa aakwashigwana kaakwiita, omahangano ogendji oya kondema omaihumbato gaakwiita.

Omahwahwameko gOperation Hornkranz, ngoka ga nuninwa okukondjitha iimbuluma na oga shituka omadhengo gaakwashigwana oga pingenwapo ko Operation Kalahari Desert.

Petameko lyomwedhi June, Komanda gwopolisi yaKhomas, Joseph Shikongo oka popi kutya iimbuluma oya shuna pevi moshilando konima nkene kwa tulwa miilonga ‘Operation Kalahari Desert’, muMei.
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Oompangela dhokuhupitha ehangano lyoAir Namibia

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Oompangela dhokuhupitha ehangano lyoAir NamibiaOompangela dhokuhupitha ehangano lyoAir NamibiaEhangano ndyoka tali kanitha oshindji komvula Aatseyinawa yopaigwana moshikondo shomatukodhila oya ulikwa opo ya vule okulundulula ompangela dhopangeshefa dhehangano lyomatukodhila lyaNamibia, lyoAir Namibia. Okomitiye yoKabinete yOmahangano gEpangelo otayi ulike ongundu yaatseyinawa, ndjoka tayi ka ulikwa kwiikwatelelwa komagwedhelepo opo ku tulwepo oompangela oompe dhopangeshefa dhoka tadhi ka hupitha ehangano lyomatukodhila lyaAir Namibia.

Ominista yiiputudhilo yepangelo, Leon Jooste, mEtiyali okwa zimine kutya omulandu gwompangela yongeshefa ngoka tagu longithwa ngashiingeyi kehanganp ndyoka, itagu vulu okuliningitha ehangano tali vulu okwiimonena iiyemo.

Ongundu yaatseyinawa mboka taya ka kwathela mompangela ndhoka oompe olya thikamapo mongundu yaatseyinawa yopauyuni moshikondo shomatukodhila.

Jooste okwa popi kutya oompangela ndhoka tadhi ka ningwa otadhi ka gandja ethano moka mu na ngashiingeyi ehangano ndyoka, oshowo shoka tashi vulu okuningwa, ehangano li vule okuhupa mongeshefa.

Uuna oompangela ndhoka dha ziminwa nena ongundu yaatseyinanwa ndjoka otayi ka ngonga po oompangela dhopangeshefa oompe, dha nuninwa ehangano ndyoka lyoAir Namibia.

Okomitiye tayi ithanwa Cabinet Committee on Overall Policy and Priorities (CCOPP) oya kundathana kombinga yonkalo yehangano lyaAir Namibia mEtitatu lyoshiwike sha piti.

“Otwa tala oshili shoka sha taaalela Air Namibia monkalo moka e li ngashiingeyi, ondjele yoongunga dhe naashoka tashi ka pula opo a vule okulundululilwa mehangano ndyoka omuntu a hala okutala,” Jooste a popi.Minista okwa popi kutya okwa talwa komikalo dha yooloka ngaashi opo ehangano ndyoka li tsikile okulonga monkalo moka li li, na otali ka kala ngiini nompangela ompe yopangeshefa. Aaniilonga yehangano ndyoka oya pewa ompito yokugandja omagwedhelepo gwawo ngoka ye wete kutya otaga ka longa nenge iikumungu mbyoka ya pumbwa okutalwa. Nonkalo yahuguninwa elandithepo nenge epato lyehangano ndyoka.

Sho a pulwa ngele oshilongo shomwaalu omushona gwaakwashigwana osha pumbwa okukala nehangano lyomatukodhila, Jooste okwa yamukula kutya Air Namibia monkalo ompe ota vulu okukala eliko enene kuNamibia, unene okutala komayakulo gomatukodhila gomoshilongo ngoka ha gandja. Okwa popi kutya omatukodhila gopondje yoshilongo ga kala taga ningwa nale kwaamboka ye li methigathano lyopangeshefa naAir Namibia Ehangano lyoAir Namibia olya kala muupyakadhi wopashimaliwa na olya kala lyiikolelela owala kiimaliwa yoshigwana okuza nkene lya totwa po moomvula yo 1990. Kwiikwatelelwa kuuyelele mboka wa gandjwa koonzo dhishi okwiinekelwa, Air Namibia okwa kanitha iiyemo yi li pokati koobiliyona 4.5 noobiliyona 5 okuza momvula yo 1998.Oonzo odha popi kutya ngashiingeyi ehangano ndyoka otali kanitha iiyemo yi li pokati koomiliyona 600 no 70 komvula.

Na ohali futu oshimaliwa shili pokati oomiliyona 50 no 60 komwedhi kehe mokuhiila oodhila dha thika pu ne ndhoka hadhi longithwa kehangano ndyoka momatukodhila. Nonando ongaaka omupopiliko gwoAir Namibia, Paul Nakawa okwa popi kutya ekanitho lyehangano ndyoka ngashiingeyi eshona okuyeleka naashoka tali gandja keliko lyoshilongo.

Minista Jooste okwa zimine oshiwike shika kutya oondhila mbali ndhoka hadhi longithwa molweendo lwaFrankfurt odhili omukundu omunene kehangano ngashiingeyi.

Air Namibia okwa shaina etsokumwe lyuule woomvula 12, oomvula hamano dha piti ngashiingeyi, opo a kale ta longitha oodhila ndhoka.

CATHERINE SASMAN
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Civilian accuses NDF of assault

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Civilian accuses NDF of assaultCivilian accuses NDF of assaultSays he no longer feels safe Following his arrest, an Okuryangava resident has laid charges of assault against the police. A Windhoek civilian who was arrested on assault and obstruction charges in mid-May alleges the charges stem from an assault in which he was beaten and kicked by soldiers while handcuffed and stuck in the back of a Namibian Defence Force van.

Okuryangava resident Jason Kauhondamwa (29) told Namibian Sun he became embroiled in the “very scary” situation after a soldier on 16 May at 10:00 in the morning saw him crossing Monte Christo Road and allegedly called him over, demanding to search his backpack.

His backpack contained a prepaid water card, two pairs of socks and a newspaper, he told Namibian Sun.

He claims the situation escalated quickly, after he was accused by the soldier of being rude and insulting.

He claims after he was bundled into a Namibian Defence Force (NDF) van a short time later, they told him they were disciplining him and that unlike “the police, they want to make sure that when I see them, I must be afraid”.

Kauhondamwa made it clear he doesn't think “all the police and soldiers are the same” and that he was treated well during previous stop-and-searches.

Nevertheless, he says he no longer feels safe when he sees soldiers.

He was eventually arrested later that day and charged with a count of common assault and another count of obstructing a police officer executing his duties. He spent five nights behind bars before being released on N$2 000 bail five days later.

Subsequently Kauhondamwa opened a case with the Wanaheda police, accusing the group of soldiers of beating and kicking him that day.

“I want them to investigate. It wasn't fair. Those people, the soldiers, they are bullying people. It is not professional.”

A police spokesperson, Chief Inspector Kaunapawa Shikwambi, confirmed that a case had been opened by Kauhondamwa. She said a case of assault GBH was being investigated but no arrests had been made. Kauhondamwa told Namibian Sun he decided to go public because “when you speak out, there will be change”.



Unexpected

His says on the day in question, 16 May, the soldier who demanded to search his backpack questioned his attitude and instructed him to walk with him to the van, where more soldiers were waiting.

He claimed verbal insults were exchanged, and admitted that after the soldier swore at him he swore back.

Eventually he claims he was handcuffed and instructed to get into the back of an NDF van. He further claims he was then assaulted by several soldiers. He alleges they told him they were “disciplining” him.

“They said they want to make sure when I see them, I must be afraid.”

He was eventually arrested after he was taken to the Wanaheda police station. He further claims that while he was injured, he was not provided with medical care while in jail and that he bears scars from the assault, on his wrists and his torso.

The case opened against him was postponed to 17 September. Kauhondamwa says he will represent himself. “There is no need for a lawyer. I just need to tell the truth.”



Change needed

He says he hopes others who have experienced similar incidents with law enforcement and the defence force “will get the courage to speak out. I hope members of the community stand together, so we can speak to our leaders, and they can speak to the big bosses”.

In the aftermath of the incident, an elderly family member warned him that if he is ever approached by soldiers or police officers again, he “should just show respect”.

Friends agree with him however that assaults on civilians “should not happen. These people are disturbing the peace. We are on the streets and when we see them, we are afraid”.

He further claims that he had tried several times to open a case before succeeding. At first, he claims he was warned by a police officer that opening a case against an NDF soldier was likely “to go nowhere”.

He claims he was also told that he could not accuse the soldiers of a crime he himself had already been accused of by them.

He did eventually succeed to obtain a case number on 4 June, after writing down his version and providing the police with his notes.

“I told them I was beaten. I told them the whole story of what happened.” Following a spate of accusations of assault on civilians by members of the police and NDF of unwarranted assault, several organisations condemned the “indiscriminate assaults”.

The joint police and NDF operation code-named Hornkranz was promptly replaced with Operation Kalahari Desert.

At the start of June, the Khomas regional commander, Commissioner Joseph Shikongo, said crime had dropped in the central region as a result of Operation Kalahari Desert, which was launched mid-May.





JANA-MARI SMITH
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Sodomy law's days numbered - Geingos

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Sodomy law's days numbered - GeingosSodomy law's days numbered - Geingos First Lady Monica Geingos says Namibia may soon follow the example of Botswana when it comes to removing anti-gay legislation, including the controversial sodomy law.

She was speaking at the official opening of The Journey dialogue, which is interrogating the country's strides in addressing human trafficking, drugs and alcohol abuse, abortion, child marriage and abuse, bullying, gender-based violence, rape, suicide and homelessness.

According to Geingos the sodomy law is the only law in existence in the country that discriminates against men.

“It is a little bit illogical to the point that nobody has been charged and convicted with sodomy in a very long time, to the point that we had put it on ice. There is a moratorium on this charge,” she said.

Geingos pointed out that Botswana decriminalised anti-gay laws on Monday, as well as other African countries, and that “Namibia will be next”. Dr Anthony Brown from the University of Johannesburg commended Geingos, saying her remarks show that she is in touch with the people. Brown made these remarks during a panel discussion on 'Unleashing the power of our collective: The journey towards realising human rights in Africa' and a discussion on compulsory heterosexuality.

He pointed out that it is unacceptable that laws made by “privileged white men” still control the bodies of black women years after colonialism.

He also emphasised that while strides are being made to protect the rights of women, transgender women and sex workers are still left behind. “Many of them cannot live equal and decent (lives) because we call them confused. Our sisters cannot legally and in a safe way terminate unwanted pregnancies.

“Backstreet abortions have cost the lives of many of them because these outdated laws call them murderers,” he said.

Brown added that sex workers' rights are still unrecognised and many are harassed and some even murdered. “Many call them prostitutes, a cast-out identity in the hegemonic spheres of our society,” he said. Ricardo Mensah from Out-Right Namibia (ORN) added that sexual minorities are tired of sharing and telling their stories; they now want real change and real action that will change their lives.

“The remarks by the first lady of Namibia were bolstering and it shows that there is impetus to move forward,” he said.

Edwina Husselman a local psychologist, said Namibia's human rights reputation is excellent, but sadly only on paper.

“The fact that we are not implementing these laws is holding the country back. And so the nation is segregated in various boxes,” she said.

JEMIMA BEUKES
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Cops nab 176 for drug possession in May

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Cops nab 176 for drug possession in MayCops nab 176 for drug possession in May The Namibian police arrested 176 suspects in connection with the possession of illicit drugs worth N$1.1 million in May 2019 in all the regions of the country.

According to a media statement issued by police spokesperson, Chief Inspector Kauna Shikwambi the haul of N$1 126 150 drugs seized include dry cannabis worth N$835 800 and 30 cannabis plants valued at N$300.

They also confiscated 549 mandrax tablets of N$65 880 as well as 802 units of crack cocaine estimated at N$80 200. Cocaine powder came in at 180 grams worth N$90 000 alongside 991 counterfeit 'Yes' cigarette packets costing N$53 970.

Among those arrested were 165 Namibians, one Zambian, two South Africans, four Tanzanians, three Angolans and one Congolese national.

Shikwambi added that a parent was arrested on 28 May 2019 after a minor child was caught selling drugs at a primary school in Katutura.

The parent was arrested as he allegedly gave the child the drugs.

The suspect appeared in the Katutura Magistrate's Court, paid N$600 bail and the case was postponed to 14 June 2019 for further investigations.

The police warned parents to be alert and refrain from using drugs as their children will emulate their conduct.

“Drugs can be very destructive to society, especially to children,” Shikwambi noted.

The police also urged community members to report drug dealers to the nearest police station.

NAMPA
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NAMAs 2019 judges announced

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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NAMAs 2019 judges announcedNAMAs 2019 judges announcedGet to know the adjudicators Meet the music authorities, from different parts of the world, who are doing the judging at this year's NAMAs. The biggest night in Namibian music entertainment, the Namibian Annual Music Awards 2019, also known as #NAMA2019, is gaining significant traction ahead of this year's next out-of-this-world spectacular showcase of the best in Namibian music entertainment.

#NAMA2019 is building again on its past successes and stepping it up on all fronts, including the stellar line-up of judges confirmed to assess and score all of this year's entries.

The outcome of these collective scores will determine who will make it onto the list of acclaimed nominees contesting for this year's highly acclaimed trophy as the best in Namibian music within each of the categories.

The esteemed judging panel for this year is once again made up of a very credible and highly acclaimed Namibian panel of judges together with music, entertainment and media executives from South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Jamaica and the USA.



Che Ulenga (Namibia)

Che Ulenga joined Katutura Community Radio in April 2006 with the station's youth show and since has grown to be one of the nation's most sought-after radio personalities. She took the world of radio by storm, acting as a strong voice on Namibia's most prominent radio stations' breakfast shows and as a master of ceremonies (MC) at a string of Namibia's most sophisticated events, both entertainment- and corporate-based.

Since then she has continued gracing the stages of many other showcases by prominent and established Namibian artists, including being the host at events for major African artists, such as Jimmy Kane Roux, Dama do Bling, Black Motion, Busiswa, Trompies, Cassper Nyovest and Paul G. She has also hosted special celebrations such as the 80th birthday celebration of the Founding Father. Chè has hosted international acts Eve, P-Square and Boyz II Men at the annual Windhoek Draught Live Concert including American RnB crooner - Trey Songz - at the MTC Namibia 25th year independence celebrations, and the annual Windhoek Jazz Festival in 2015. She was a nominee of the NAMAs in the Best Radio DJ category (2017) and the Namibian representative at the 9th Advance Media Training Course hosted by the Egyptian Media Training Centre in Cairo, Egypt in October 2017. With qualifications in public relations and marketing from the University of Cape Town, she continues to host corporate, entertainment and private functions. Since 2012, Che daily welcomes the sunrise on 99FM's breakfast show The Ignition from 06:00 to 09:00 and then takes Namibian music to greater heights with 99FM's The Tribe on Fridays from 19:00 to 20:00. This was an initiative created by her to give impetus to Namibian music locally and beyond.

Axali Doeseb (Namibia)

Axali Doeseb is Namibia's first post-independence black conductor of the Namibian National Symphony Orchestra and author of the Namibian National Anthem. The NAMAs recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award has made his mark in contemporary Namibian music industry and to this day he still continues to play a great role in nurturing and advising, and composing music for Namibian society.



Sean Watson (South Africa)

Sean Watson is the managing director of Sony Music Entertainment Pan Africa. Watson is one of the most highly acclaimed music entertainment industry moguls on the African continent and the man behind the global success and careers of a myriad of the biggest names in African music including megastars Wizkid, Davido, Alikiba, Kwesta, Joyous Celebration, Zonke, AKA, Shekhinah, to name a select few. Watson was also the former managing director of CCP Records, director at EMI and former CEO of the South African Music Awards. All of the global Sony Music Group imprints falls under Watson across the African continent including RCA Records, Arista, Columbia, Provident, Sony Masterworks, Legacy Recordings, Century Media, Red Distribution and BMG.



Yvonne Chaka Chaka (South Africa)

Yvonne Chaka Chaka is an internationally recognised South African singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, humanitarian and teacher. Dubbed the Princess of Africa, Chaka Chaka has been at the forefront of South African popular music for 27 years and has been popular in Zimbabwe, Kenya, Gabon, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast.

Songs like I'm Burning Up, Thank You Mr DJ, Motherland and the ever-popular Umqombothi ensured Chaka Chaka's stardom.

The song Umqombothi was featured in the opening scene of the 2004 movie Hotel Rwanda. She has performed for Queen Elizabeth II, US president Bill Clinton, South African president Thabo Mbeki and a host of other world leaders. Chaka Chaka is a champion for the Global Fund to Fight Aids, TB and malaria, the United Nations MDG Envoy for Africa, and the Goodwill Ambassador for the Roll Back Malaria Partnership.



Alma Ulamba (Namibia)

Alma Ulamba comes from a musical family where her foundation started as piano student many years ago. Artistically inclined, she followed that urge by joining the art industry.

Her experience in the industry is versatile since she has been in the corridors of arts as a chairperson of the National Arts Council, and currently she is the head of the National Theatre of Namibia.

As a seasoned judge, she has been with the NAMAs since its inception but took a break for three years. She is back to rock the boat like never before.

Jasmine Dotiwala (United Kingdom)

Jasmine Dotiwala, who studied at Roehampton University in the United Kingdom where she completed a BA Honours degree, is an award-winning trailblazer and key influencer who has gained international acclaim over a career most would just dream about. Dotiwala has worked with talent, moguls and celebrities across the board from breaking new, young talent, to working on groundbreaking and edgy TV programming featuring A-List celebrities including the likes of Eminem, Jay-Z, Destiny's Child, Usher and Mariah Carey. She has interviewed a multitude of rising stars such as Goldie, Mark Morrison, Jean-Claude van Damme and even went record shopping with R&B singer Aaliyah and Jodeci.



Morgan Heritage (USA/Jamaica)

Morgan Heritage, formed in 1994, made its first appearance at Reggae Sun Splash in Jamaica. Morgan Heritage has worked with many reggae bands and DJs, including Capleton, Junior Kelly, Luciano, Gentleman and Beres Hammond. The group's 2015 album Strictly Roots won the Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category in 2016. The band later released the album Avrakedabra, which was nominated for another Grammy in 2018.



Lischen Khachas (Namibia)

Lischen Khachas has been dubbed Namibia's top female DJ. She is a holder of a diploma in sound engineering and music production. Khachas is also a radio personality, an MC, and has been a part of the Namibian music industry for more than 12 years as a DJ, and also behind the scenes. She has worked for Radio Energy 100FM where she started off her career as a commercial DJ in 2010 and also worked for Fresh FM and has vast experience in the broadcast and media industry.

Khachas has also assisted and worked alongside a Grammy Award-winning sound engineer and producer Allen Sanderson in 2013 during the recording of one of Namibia's top rock bands Penilane. Khachas has also released two house singles as a DJ of which one made it to International African Top 10 Charts.



Sammy Forson (Ghana)

Sammy Forson is a Ghanaian award-winning broadcaster with Joy 99.7FM and has over 14 years on air experience, business manager for BET and MTV VGMA award-winning Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie and CEO of both Aspire Music/Entertainment and Evolve by Sammy Forson.



Somoina Kimojino (Kenya)

Managing director at the number-one radio network in Kenya, 98.4 Capital FM and managing director of one of the biggest music, media, entertainment broadcasters and networks in East Africa, Capital Group Ltd East Africa, Kimojino knows the business. Kimojino, for the last 14 years has been at the helm of radio in Kenya as programmes director for Capital FM. She has successfully managed a number of talents and kept the brand innovative and alive as one of the leading stations in the region.

A music enthusiast with a keen eye for talent she has built a great team of noteworthy shows and presenters.

She pioneered and brought the concert culture back to Kenya which has seen the likes of Joe, Johnny Gill, Erykah Badu, Papa Wemba, Freshly Ground, Baaba Maal just to name a few, through Tusker Lite Experience, The Lounge Unplugged and is now the curator of one of Kenya's largest festivals The Koroga Festival. She also launched a talent management company at the end of last year to focus on nurturing upcoming talent.



Sammy Thuo (Kenya)

Thuo has been in the marketing, digital, advertising, and media industries for over 21 years and is the director and co-founder of Saracen OMD - one of East Africa's largest independent media specialist agencies providing world-class media planning and buying services to leading local and international clients across the sub-region. OMD, the global media advertising company of Omnicom in 2003 is arguably the world's largest marketing communications network, with offices in over 80 countries.

STAFF REPORTER
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Musicians discuss fatherhood

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Musicians discuss fatherhoodMusicians discuss fatherhood Balancing fatherhood and a career in entertainment The emotional rollercoaster of fatherhood could provide enough creative inspiration for a collection of albums.

In honour of Father’s Day this Sunday, tjil spoke to Sunny Boy and D-Jay on what the day means to them and how they navigate fatherhood and their music commitments.

Wikipedia defines Father's Day as a celebration honouring fathers and celebrating fatherhood, paternal bonds and the influence of fathers in society. For Sunny Boy, who is a father to three children, two girls and a boy, Father’s Day simply means the appreciation of unsung heroes.

Sunny Boy mentioned that fathers do a lot for the family and are the ‘muscle’ who are generally not allowed to show a sign of weakness because they carry and rally the family on. “It’s a day to just say thank you for what we do and for us, that is more than enough to continue being there for our loved ones,” said Sunny Boy.

Fatherhood has taught Sunny Boy about responsibility and has also taught him to not only live for himself but for his children. “It has taught me to be strong, especially for my kids during moments like visiting the doctor for injections or moments of weakness. A father has to be the pillar of strength for his kids.

I travel a lot and it used to affect me emotionally at first. At times, I'd lock myself in my hotel room depressed for being so far away from them. But I have learned to cope by being in constant contact with my family via phone calls and video calls,” he said.

For rapper and father D-Jay, fatherhood has also taught him about responsibility, patience and sacrifice. D-Jay mentioned that the interesting thing about being a parent is that your ability to sacrifice grows to the point that it never really feels like you are sacrificing anything because the rewards of parenting outweighs anything. “I know for some people Father’s Day is uncomfortable because maybe they didn’t know their father or they hate their father. But for me, it’s a celebration when you say, thanks for being there,” summed up D-Jay.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE
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Gratitude on PDK's 12th album

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Gratitude on PDK's 12th albumGratitude on PDK's 12th albumA review of PDK's latest offering Trio adds another well executed project to their catalogue. What can we say about PDK that you haven't heard before? We could say they are the epitome of longevity, or we could say they are hit-makers and we would not just be saying that to hype them up. There are a multitude of overly glamorous adjectives we could use to describe PDK, but let's just summarise it in one sentence… they are grateful.

Officially launched last week Friday in Windhoek, PDK's Grateful album is produced by Glo, Brown Klaxic, K Ketu and Andrew On The Beat. Grateful features Mulberry, Blossom, Top Cheri, King Elegant, Athawise and Tesh.

It boasts 15 tracks, all carrying kasi-related themes and experiences. On Grateful the trio maintain their sound, yet still manage to stay up-to-date with the current Namibian soundscape.

Patrick's singing is still well refined; Dion's delivery is still vigorous and Kamtonyo is still chilled, yet candidly solid. In terms of production, Glo provides what might be the strongest production on the project as displayed on tracks such as Tambuleni, Inda, Ondeya, Golf, Hambelela and Peace. Overall, the beats on this body of work are world-class, thanks to all the producers involved. The trio roped in guitarist Rodriguez on track nine titled Kenya. Rodriguez's guitar sounds are one of the album's best moments.

Overall the album packaged with hits, but some of the outstanding and single-worthy songs include Wanna Love You, OmnhuWoye, Party, Saka and Hambelela. PDK take the majority of the writing credit on the album, but Kamasutra, Blossom, Tesh and Mulberry are credited for contributing to the writing process of the songs on this album.

Another impressive element about this album is the track sequencing, Tambuleni was great of opening the album as it eases the listener to the tracks that follows after. The last song is also a nice closing song, they could not have picked a better tune.

Not a lot can be said to fault Grateful, however, music consumption has changed so I do feel like15 songs are maybe a lot for an album in 2019. I feel like there are about three songs that could have been left out and the album would have still been excellently executed. Personally, my least favourite song on the album is Opo; had they left it out and only kept Opo (house remix) I feel like it would have not taken away anything from the project.

All in all, Grateful is an amazing album that once again demonstrates the immense musical talents by the trio. The album is available at Antonio's Art.

Rating: 4.5/5

MICHAEL KAYUNDE
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Let's talk hip-hop

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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Let's talk hip-hopLet's talk hip-hop I remember mockingly being called a ‘n*gga’ in my location for my dress code, choice of music and how I chose to carry myself.

Today I walk up to sneaker stores and the Nike Air Force One, which is a must-have shoe for any hip-hop head is out of stock. I tune into Trace Africa and I see Namibian hip-hop music videos being aired. I attend music concerts and most of the time there is always a hip-hop artist on the line-up. We have come a long way as hip-hop lovers, it is crazy. But let’s keep it real; if you do not purchase albums by Namibian rappers - both old- and new-school and you do not attend their shows, you are not all the way hip-hop verified.

I feel I have to say this as a hip-hop fan, because as a hip-hop fan I do my part in contributing to the culture. Print media in Namibia has played a major role in my life in terms of inspiring me at a time when the art was not getting sufficient recognition. My problem is hip-hop fans who keep saying the genre back then was real rugged and raw, yes we had the likes of Jericho, Catty Cat, Kanibal and Mappz, to mention but a few. Too bad hip-hop artists did not get major radio airplay and print media attention back then like they do now. The only thing we should be concerned with is not losing that essence by encouraging the current rappers to continue building what those who came first started. As a journalist I am reminded from time to time of how the media should be a vehicle to mobilise this genre, but there are standards to this thing and we will not just give coverage to anyone just because they are from the streets.

Here is the thing, with respect to all the ones who helped build hip hop in Namibia, being from the streets or being an old school rapper does not automatically makes you the best rapper. For so long, we have been misled into believing that there is a link between struggle and realness, as far as music is concerned. I view it a positive that the current generation is less concerned with where you are from and if you have battled, and more concerned with whether the music is good or not. I strongly believe there is space for many brands of hip-hop to exist simultaneously and that is why KP Illest and Skrypt can flourish at the same time as Lioness, MIG and Phred Got1. tjil is here for all of that.

In this edition, we cover newbie Yessonia who recently launched her music career but is already proving to be a force to be reckoned with with her work ethic and the type of shows she is being booked to perform at. We also join the world in celebrating Father’s Day this Sunday with a piece on what Father’s Day is. We spoke to a few of the fathers in the music space. The Namibia Annual Music Awards (NAMAs) also announced the judges and that is one feature to look forward to so that you may familiarise yourself with these music authorities. This and more in this edition! Enjoy, until next time its goodbye for now!

michael@namibiansun.com; MichaelMKAY on Twitter
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NBC launches Body with Maria Nepembe

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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NBC launches Body with Maria NepembeNBC launches Body with Maria NepembeFitness reality TV show for Namibians The 13-episode reality TV show was premiered at Ster-Kinekor at the Grove Mall last Friday. Host Maria Nepembe describes the show as a reality TV show that focuses on fitness and health. “We are getting 10 individuals who want to work on their ultimate body goals and documenting their journey on this show,” said Nepembe.

Producer of the show, Pombili Shilongo, added that Body with Maria Nepembe is an ‘emotainment’ show that focuses on emotions and entertainment. “It focuses on body structure, body maintenance and fitness, as well as a little bit of drama and personalities,” said Shilongo.

At the premier, NBC director-general Stanley Similo mentioned that as a public broadcaster there has been an outcry that NBC should air more local content and the media house is delighted to finally be able to offer that. “I thank the NBC crew that have worked tirelessly to make this a reality and equally participants of the show, and in particular, Maria Nepembe. This is the beginning of great things,” said Similo.

Menesia Muinjo, NBC’s chief news and programming officer shared that the show was produced based on the latest scientific research data, especially for the young ones who want to watch and hear reality shows on NBC’s platforms, shows. “The production was done by our own producers and technical teams with some guidance from our trainer partners,” shared Muinjo.

Director Bobby Haikali said that directing the show was a fun and challenging experience. Haikali mentioned having to deal with different personalities on the show as some of the highlights for him while working on the show. “Directing a reality TV show is not easy because it is something that you cannot do again. It is reality. If something happens and you miss that, you miss the moment but then again that is the interesting thing about it,” said Haikali. The show will be airing on NBC1 at 19:00 on Sundays.

MICHAEL KAYUNDE
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The feisty hustler out to get it all

June 13, 2019, 4:00 pm
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The feisty hustler out to get it allThe feisty hustler out to get it allTaking Namibia all the way up Sonia Shalukeni hails from Swakopmund. When she steps into her alter ego called Yessonia, this 31-year-old entrepreneur transforms into an entertainer. Having performed in Angola, Nigeria at the AYLIVE comedy concert, doing songs with Top Cheri and Zimbabwe's KNG BL, and being invited to represent Namibia at Africa Fashion Week Amsterdam (AFWA), you can understand the heat.

In a sit-down with tjil, Yessonia shared that she has been invited as a performing artist at the 2019 AFWA under the theme Behind the Mask. AFWA is a prestigious fashion and cultural franchise that comprises an amalgamation of creative thinkers ranging from fashion designers, models and textile distributors, to artisans, culinarians and musicians. The event combines African culture with tourism by fashioning a collective environment where like-minded individuals can network to showcase collaborative ventures.

“I will be representing Swakopmund and its culture at the event in Amsterdam. I am super excited for it.”

Yessonia is expected to take the Namibian cultural heritage and fashion experience to new heights.

Being new in the music space, Yessonia added that she launched her music career to finally fully entertain her love for music. She identifies herself as an Afro-pop singer who is open to try out other genres. “I am a relatively new artist, I do Afro-pop but I am still experimenting with various sounds.







I joined the music industry to be part of the array of artists who have been putting Namibia on the map with their talent,” said Yessonia.

The singer mentioned that her debut single Muscle Up sums up the message she is trying to convey through her music. She said it was received well and she was content with the reception it got when she performed it in Nigeria. “Crowds normally react well to songs they know, but I was surprised by how they were vibing to a foreign song,” she said.

She describes her single Wakasikwa, featuring Zimbabwe's KNG BL, as a simple yet potent love ballad which is a perfect mix of Afro-beat, soulful jazz with Kwanyama and Shona accompanied lyrics. “I have another song with Top Cheri called Bring it on. My next task now is to get in shape so that I can shoot music videos. I look good but I have my body goals,” she added.

On themes she explores through her music, Yessonia emphasised that she is passionate about motivating women to be strong and independent, hence the title of her debut single Muscle Up. “My writing is spontaneous; I go to the studio, listen to the beat and write to it but the motive is to inspire women to do their own thing and get their money,” she said.

Besides music Yessonia is a linen shop owner and currently busy with her MBA at the University of Liverpool. She admitted that balancing being an entrepreneur, musician and student is a challenge but her hunger to achieve what she has set out for herself keeps her going. “It is really challenging coming from the corporate world. As a musician you have to look the part but it is not easy when you have business meetings in between because you do not want to rock up at a business meeting looking all gangsta or go to a concert with corporate attire but I will figure it out,” she said.

With a few singles out on various digital platforms including iTunes and Deezer, Yessonia announced that she is working on her debut EP. The majority of the project will be produced by Andrew On The Beat. “I am comfortable working with Andrew, I like his production style and work ethic,” said Yessonia. On the sound direction of the EP, Yessonia shared that she will stick to the Afro vibe and depending on the features, she is willing to delve into various music genres. “Right now my priority is preparing for the AFWA but I will be coming home in between that tour to shoot videos and complete my EP.”

As far as her musical dreams and ambitions are concerned, Yessonia summed up by saying: “I want to go all out with this music thing. I do not just want to come on the scene and do the whole 'she tried thing'. I am here to stay so look out for my EP.”

MICHAEL KAYUNDE
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