Namibian Sun

Provisional figures released by De Beers yesterday show the diamond giant sold gems worth US$355 million in its second cycle of the year, down nearly 36% or US$196 million less than the previous cycle. Compared to the same cycle in 2019, sales decreased by 28% or US$141 million. De Beers CEO, Bruce Cleaver, said the group “recognised the impact of COVID-19 Ccronavirus on customers focused on supplying the Chinese market and put in place additional targeted flexibility to enable customers to defer allocations of the relevant rough diamonds". De Beers and the Namibian government each own 50% of Namdeb Holdings. Photo Nampa/Reuters

SORED sparks fly in the SouthReluctance to join power distributor Six local authorities in the South are not willing to join the regional electricity distributor. There was no development at all and there were no fair charges for 17 years. – Desmond Basson, CEO: Keetmanshoop municipality

KEETMANSHOOP - Some local authorities in the //Kharas and Hardap regions are reluctant to join the Southern Regional Electricity Distributor (SORED), saying revenue from electricity sales helps them keep their heads above water.

This came out in a consultation meeting at Keetmanshoop on Tuesday. The aim of the meeting was to get the local authorities in both regions to decide whether they wish to join SORED and give the distributor the mandate to supply electricity to their respective local authorities.

Cabinet approved the establishment of regional electricity distributors in 2000. So far only three distributors have been established, namely the Northern Regions Electricity Distributor (Nored), the Central North Regional Electricity Distributor (Cenored) and Erongo RED.

Local authorities that strongly suggested that they will not join SORED are the Keetmanshoop municipality, Karasburg, the Rehoboth and Lüderitz town councils and the Bethanie and Berseba village councils.

They said electricity sales help them pay salaries and cover operational costs.

The chief executive officer of the Keetmanshoop municipality, Desmond Basson, said the local authority generates close to N$95 million from electricity alone. Surrendering the supply of electricity to another party is not a decision they can take after their experience with the Southern Electricity Company (SELCo), he said.

SELco aftertaste

“In the past when we had SELCo we had no development of electrical infrastructure.

“There was no development at all and there were no fair charges for 17 years, but when we took over from SELCo in 2017 we are able to generate so much revenue that we used it to pay our employees in the electricity department, we have our own assets and we even have a separate electricity account,” Basson said.

He urged other local authorities to follow the example of the Keetmanshoop municipality and continue supplying their own electricity, cutting out the middle man.

Local authorities that indicated that they are willing to join SORED are Aranos, Stampriet, Koës, Aroab, Tses and Gochas.

However, they will only do so if their conditions are met.

This includes SORED increasing surcharges and writing off their debt with NamPower. The local authorities also do not want to be required to hand over their infrastructure to SORED.

A delegation was appointed to represent the //Kharas and Hardap regions at a meeting schedules to take place in Windhoek on Friday with the ministry of mines and energy, where the local authorities will pronounce themselves on their decision on whether to join SORED or not. - Nampa

Corona Watch

Senegal

Senegal's health ministry said a second person who flew to the West African country from France last week tested positive for coronavirus on Tuesday, taking the total number of cases in Sub-Saharan Africa to three.

The latest patient, an 80-year-old man from the Sarcelles suburb of Paris, arrived in Senegal on Feb. 29 and presented himself at a hospital in the capital Dakar on March 2.

Senegal confirmed its first case on Monday and another case of coronavirus was confirmed in Nigeria last week. – Nampa/Reuters

Algeria

Algeria confirmed three new cases of coronavirus, bringing to eight the total number of people tested positive for the virus, the health ministry said on Tuesday.

The eight cases include seven Algerians from the same family and an Italian man, the ministry said in a statement. – Nampa/Reuters

World Bank

The World Bank on Tuesday announced an initial US$12 billion in immediate funds to assist countries grappling with the health and economic impacts of the coronavirus virus outbreak that has spread quickly from China to some 80 countries.

World Bank president David Malpass called on countries to coordinate their actions on a regional and international level, saying the speed and breadth of the response would be critical to saving lives.

The bank's International Development Association, which helps the world's poorest countries, could also receive additional funds in the second quarter of 2020 if its Pandemic Emergency Financing Facility (PEF) is triggered, which has not occurred yet, Malpass said.

The World Bank said the $12 billion in fast-track grants, loans and low-interest loans would help developing countries provide better access to health services, strengthen disease surveillance and bolster public health interventions, as well as work with the private sector to reduce the impact on economies. – Nampa/Reuters

IMF

The International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, citing growing concerns about the fast-spreading coronavirus, on Tuesday said they will adopt a "virtual format" for their Spring Meetings instead of convening in person in Washington.

The institutions' Spring Meetings, scheduled this year for April 17-19, usually bring some 10 000 government officials, business people, civil society representatives and journalists from across the globe to a tightly packed, two-block area of downtown Washington that houses their headquarters. – Nampa/Reuters

Federal Reserve

The US Federal Reserve cut interest rates on Tuesday in a bid to shield the world's largest economy from the impact of the coronavirus, though Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggested the threat to the economy would not soon abate.

The decision was unanimous among policymakers. It was the first emergency rate cut since 2008 at the height of the financial crisis, underscoring how grave the central bank views the fast-evolving situation.

WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Tuesday warned of a global shortage and price gouging for protective equipment to fight the fast-spreading coronavirus and asked companies and governments to increase production by 40% as the death toll from the respiratory illness mounted.

About 3.4% of confirmed cases of COVID-19 have died, far above seasonal flu's fatality rate of under 1%, but the virus can be contained, the WHO said. – Nampa/Reuters

The scourge of abuse

There is no denying that drug and alcohol abuse destroys Namibian families every year.

Our country is not only grappling with the toll of heavy drinking, especially among the youth, but drug abuse is now also widespread among teenage addicts.

We have to admit that substance abuse has the potential to drag teenagers far away from the happy and purposeful life they deserve. We have also read how drugs, alcohol and just plain boredom have been leading Namibians down dark roads filled with sexual experimentation. Children of school-going age are falling prey to substance abuse and this has been attributed to the chaotic behaviour at schools including ill-discipline, aggressiveness, hostility, disrespect and vandalism.

We are in total concurrence with the education authorities and experts who believe that there should be a critical understanding of the underlying causes that lead to high rates of violence, especially in a school environment. Coming up with better strategies aimed at combating substance abuse is a mammoth task for both parents and teachers. The challenge we are faced with is that as much the state increases penalties for offenders dealing in drugs, it is also important to handle addicts in a way that allows them to move toward recovery and rejoin society in a productive way. This is more so when dealing with teenagers who are still attending school.

All stakeholders involved, including teachers, parents, education authorities and social workers, must ensure that all school-based drug and alcohol prevention programmes are effective and properly address the problem at hand.

What we can ill-afford is for drugs and alcohol to destroy the country's future by destroying the very leaders of tomorrow. Holistic and concerted efforts are therefore needed to deal with the scourge of abuse that traps young minds and bodies each and every day. We can no longer sit idly by and watch as our children are swept away by an ever-increasing flood of drugs and other harmful substances.

Africa Briefs

SA unions threaten govt about wages

South African trade unions said on Tuesday that they would lodge a formal dispute if the government doesn't honour a three-year public-sector wage deal, a step that could lead to months of arbitration and culminate in a strike.

Unions are in a militant mood after government officials said last week that they couldn't afford to pay public servants wage increases due in April and asked to renegotiate the deal struck in 2018.

Finance minister Tito Mboweni said in his annual budget speech that he wanted to make R160 billion of cuts to the public-sector wage bill over the next three years.

"On April 1, if there is no implementation we will file a dispute and enforce the agreement," NEHAWU spokesman Khaya Xaba said.

Trade union federation FEDUSA echoed that view. "We are going to be declaring a dispute ... we don't want to open any discussions on a matter that was settled in June 2018 already," general secretary Riefdah Ajam said. – Nampa/Reuters

Ethiopia chides US over Nile talks

The United States has been "undiplomatic" in its role facilitating talks between three countries on the Nile River over a giant dam, Ethiopia said on Tuesday, but promised to continue negotiations.

The US has been enabling talks between Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, set to become the largest hydropower plant in Africa.

The US$4 billion project has set Addis Ababa and Egypt at loggerheads since Ethiopia broke ground in 2011 - Cairo worried that filling a huge reservoir too quickly could staunch the Nile's flow lower down.

The US treasury department stepped in last year after Egyptian president Abdel Fattah al-Sisi put in a request to his ally US president Donald Trump.

Last week, the department said an agreement had been reached and urged Ethiopia to sign "at the earliest possible time" and Egypt said it had signed the "fair and balanced" deal.

But Ethiopia, which skipped the most recent round of talks, denied any deal had been agreed.

"The recent statement by the US we believe is undiplomatic and does not reflect a great nation like this," Ethiopian foreign minister Gedu Andargachew told a press conference on Tuesday.

Togo court confirms Gnassingbe's victory

Togo's president Faure Gnassingbe has won re-election with 71% of the vote, final results from the constitutional court showed on Tuesday, extending his 15-year-old rule and a family dynasty that began when his father took power in a 1967 coup.

Despite widespread disaffection and protests calling for him to step down, a fractured opposition struggled to launch a concerted campaign to unseat Gnassingbe in the small West African country of 8 million people.

His closest rival, former prime minister Gabriel Messan Agbeyome Kodjo, won 19% of the vote in the contest last month, and longtime opposition leader Jean-Pierre Fabre got 5%, the latest results showed.

"This proclamation is final and closes the debate on the presidential election of Feb. 22," the head of the court, Aboudou Assouma, said at a press conference.

The result gives Gnassingbe five more years in power, a blow for opposition protesters who have taken to the streets in recent years, calling for him to step down. – Nampa/Reuters

Last Congo Ebola patient discharged

The last patient being treated for Ebola in Democratic Republic of Congo was discharged on Tuesday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said, bringing the 19-month-old outbreak closer than ever to an end.

The patient's release from hospital in the eastern city of Beni, feted by hospital staff who sang, danced and drummed on trash cans, marks the first time there have been no active cases since the outbreak was declared in August 2018.

In that period, the virus has killed 2 264 people and infected nearly 1 200 more, making it the second-worst Ebola outbreak in history. Only the 2013-16 epidemic in West Africa was deadlier, killing more than 11 000.

Congo has now gone 14 days without any new confirmed cases. The outbreak can be declared over once 42 days have passed without a new case - equivalent to two cycles of 21 days, the maximum incubation period for the virus. – Nampa/Reuters

Kalahari officers face 73 misconduct cases

While more than 6 000 people were arrested during Operation Kalahari Desert, 73 incidents of alleged unprofessional conduct were also recorded involving law-enforcement officers.

Operation Kalahari Desert came to an end yesterday and yet another countrywide anti-crime operation, code-named Operation Namib Desert, was officially launched.

Police Inspector-General Sebastian Ndeitunga said of the 73 incidents involving Operation Kalahari Desert members, 49 are still under investigation.

One case was finalised, two are on the court roll and one was withdrawn by the complainant.

The prosecutor-general's office declined to prosecute seven cases, while a decision on 13 others is still awaited.

Speaking on the successes of Operation Kalahari Desert, Ndeitunga said a total of 6 194 suspects were arrested.

Of these, 3 566 were for offences such as murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm, possession of wildlife products, and housebreaking and theft.

A total 2 628 arrests were for minor offences.

Ndeitunga said 6 908 dangerous weapons were confiscated, including 45 rifles, 43 shotguns, 186 pistols and 1 471 rounds of ammunition. Other weapons such as knives, screwdrivers, pangas and spears were also seized.

He said drugs to the value of more than N$10.33 million was confiscated, including cannabis, mandrax and cocaine.

A total of 27 339 summons were issued and 744 livestock was recovered.

Operation Kalahari Desert was launched last May after Operation Hornkranz came to an end.

Meanwhile, Operation Namib Desert, which commenced yesterday, will last until 28 May, with intervals every 28 days.

Ndeitunga said the Namib Desert, which stretches along Namibia's entire coastline to the west, has a rich and historical significance.

The Namib, particularly at Skeleton Coast, constituted a formidable barrier to foreign explorers, traders and would-be settlers during Namibia's pre-colonial era, he said.

“We attach a special sentimental affection and meaning to the Namib, and have decided to name the police-led joint crime-prevention operation after the oldest desert, as we intend to put up a formidable barrier to crime in Namibia.”

Operation Namib Desert has mobilised a reckonable size of men and women in uniform countrywide, drawn from the police, the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), the Namibian Correctional Service, the Windhoek City Police and other municipal authorities and partner agencies.

He said all members who will be taking part in the operation underwent an intensive induction prior to their deployment, particularly on the conduct, roles and rules of engagement during the execution of their duties.

“Therefore, I trust that they will do their utmost best to serve you with professionalism, diligence, care and conscious of your human rights.”

Ndeitunga also requested the public to desist from any acts that would constitute lawlessness, the undermining of authority, obstructing officers in the execution of their duties and lack of cooperation.

“As law-enforcers, we will not tolerate unruly situations or unbecoming behaviours. I am thus calling on all peace-loving and law-abiding citizens to cooperate and respect the authority, just as we will do everything in our power to serve you.”

He said a peaceful and stable environment will, inter alia, attract investors, boost the tourism industry and therefore contribute to the economic development of the country.

According to him, Namibia has only been successful in attracting foreign investment and tourists through maintaining an environment that is peaceful and conducive to such investment, and therefore the rule of law in the country should be upheld.

ELLANIE SMIT

Prison service bans cellphones

The Namibian Correctional Service (NCS) has, with immediate effect, banned the use of cellphones by staff during meetings and in the presence of Commissioner-General Raphael Tuhafeni Hamunyela.

Hamunyela issued the order during a staff address on Tuesday.

He said it had come to his attention that some staff are acting unprofessionally by recording what is said during meetings and then circulating this on social media.

He said another issue was that some staff members were making or receiving calls during meetings or leaving to make calls.

“These acts have been disturbing meetings and indeed have not been appreciated by the majority of attendants,” Hamunyela said.

He said apart from the use of cellphones during meetings, there have been incidents where officers have attempted to record him in his office when given an audience.

“Thus, I have ordered with immediate effect that no person will be allowed to have an audience with me while having a cellular phone, be it in my office or in any other office.”

Hamunyela further expressed concern about the abuse of leave by staff members, especially sick leave.

“I observed an alternated leave record of some officers, both at the national headquarters and other correctional institutions.”

He said from an assessment done by his office, it was observed that some officers get sick leave just before their vacation leave and others just afterward or when they are required to do certain tasks.

The assessment also indicated that leave records are not updated and some staff members do not submit leave forms to the personnel office.

Hamunyela said it also seems that some officers leave the areas where they live while on sick leave.

He said this was an indication that they go to the doctor to get sick leave while not really being sick.

“I have already directed your supervisors to look carefully at some of the suspicious sick leaves and also to keep leave records of all correctional staff under their command and conduct visits to ensure those on sick leave do not leave their jurisdiction area.”

Hamunyela said they need to know exactly who tops leave lists, especially sick leave, and this has to form part of the NCS annual report.

Hamunyela said this information has to be submitted to him by the heads of sub-departments by 13 March.

According to Hamunyela, the discipline of staff at national headquarters also remains a concern, with a tendency off staff members to commit disciplinary offences such as absence from duty, tardiness, leaving posts without permission and a lack of action.

He said that one of the main challenges is the lack of accurate information and data.

“On several occasions, I addressed the senior managers on the need for accurate data and information, but no improvement has been observed in these areas, as most of the reports submitted to my office lack accuracy, as they are not supported by accurate data.”

Hamunyela stressed that accurate information is needed for both strategic planning, policy formulation and decision-making and also to measure the performance of the entire organisation.

“We can no longer operate on thumb-sucked information when we are moving towards professionalism. Therefore, accurate information is not only crucial to guide policy and strategic planning, but it is a cornerstone for the realisation of our vision.”

ELLANIE SMIT

Four years under a treeBroken man sleeps exposed to snakes and the elements Every night, Moses Mukoso is at the mercy of snakes and other animals when he lays down two blankets and covers himself with a third, while he rests his head on a small bag.

For the past four years 31-year-old Moses Mukoso has been living outdoors, exposed to the elements and wild animals such as snakes.

Hailing from Mupapama village in Kavango East, Mukoso, who is commonly known by his middle name Kafuro, sleeps under a tree in inhumane conditions.

Mupapama village is situated about 65 kilometres east of Rundu.

Mukoso is the eldest of five siblings, two of whom have died.

Under a manketti tree, he lays down two blankets and covers himself with a third, while he rests his head on a small bag crafted into a makeshift pillow.

His improvised bed is not far from where he cooks his meals. From the tree hangs bags of mahangu, cooking oil and dried cow skin - his pantry.

While some residents of the village refer to Mukoso as mentally challenged, during an interview with Namibian Sun he was coherent and clear about his difficult circumstances. Many attribute Mukoso's behaviour to a tragic incident in 2006, when he lost his younger brother in a crocodile attack when he was just 17.

“We went to the river to go and bath. While we were there, I just saw my brother being pulled into the river by the crocodile. I tried pulling him back but it did not help. My brother's last words were that I should let go of him as I cannot save him,” he recalled.

Mukoso mentioned he was also present the day they recovered his brother's body, and that it greatly affected him. Asked whether the day still haunts him, Mukoso said he continues to mourn his brother to this day, over a decade later.

Why sleep outside?

Mukoso said he has been sleeping under the tree for the past four years after his aunt Innocencia Mukoso, who inherited his father's homestead in 2013, relocated the family home.

He refuses to live at the new homestead with his siblings Markus and Edith, saying: “I will stay where my father raised us.”

Mukoso said the only help he needs is a Good Samaritan to erect a structure for him under the tree.

When asked whether he is concerned about the weather conditions, as most of the country has been experiencing widespread rainfall, he said he just has to endure the conditions. He added that over the past four years he has only been to hospital twice.

“If it rains, it rains. If it does not, it does not. I am at peace where I am. This is where my father raised us and I am not going anywhere,” he said.

His aunt and siblings said they have been trying to convince Mukoso to move in with them for years, but he remains adamant that he won't budge.

“We tried talking to our brother and we just had to give up because he is not willing to move in with us. He does not even accept our food, which is also why we stopped offering him,” Mukoso's sister Edith said.

Their mother Rosa Kunyanda Ngunga (59), who turns 60 next month, is allegedly not fit to take care of her children.

Ngunga struggled to express herself. Speaking in a soft voice, she asked the public to assist her son.

Innocencia also appealed to Good Samaritans to help Mukoso, saying she is unable to buy corrugated iron sheets to erect the structure her nephew desires.

“I have exhausted all my attempts to accommodate him in our home, which he refused. My monthly pension grant can't afford to buy him those zincs. If there is anyone out there who can help him, please do,” she said.

When approached for comment, Mashare Constituency councillor Phillip Mavara said he is unaware of Mukoso's situation.

Assistance needed

Mukoso said he would like a bed, a mattress, food and clothes, although he will appreciate any help he can get.

He also delved into his past, narrating how he only attended school until Grade 4, after which he was instructed to look after livestock.

He shared that growing up, he loved playing football and his favourite position was midfielder.

Kenya Kambowe

'Strong governance, ethics sacrosanct'Remove obstacles, says Alweendo Africa's policies and politics need to change, Namibia's mines and energy minister says. -

Governments in Africa still need to do far more to strengthen the culture of governance, ethical and professional leadership, mines and energy minister Tom Alweendo has told investors in Canada.

Delivering the opening address at a breakfast meeting of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business in Toronto on Tuesday, Alweendo said: “As elected political representatives we can no longer rely solely on political rhetoric and sloganeering to win elections.”

“The African electorate is increasingly educated, worldly, understand and expect that elected political office bearers must provide the leadership that will enable smart investment that delivers win-win outcomes,” Alweeno said. Alweendo is attending the MineAfrica's 18th Annual Investing in African Mining Seminar which forms part of the convention of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC). The minister urged investors to follow an approach of shared economic benefits, where they and the community in which they operate enjoy returns. A significant part of his speech also elaborated on what “governments must bring to the party, if we want greater investment that meet the aspirations of our local communities”.

Eroding trust

“It stands in every investment book that investors need safety and security, predictability of the legislative environment, protection of assets and the ability to repatriate assets and dividends”, Alweeno said.

“In the 21st century, doing these things gives you very small, if any, competitive advantage. Doing these things is the very bare minimum of any government seeking to attract investment,” he said.

Alweendo continued that strong governance structures and ethical conduct - at all times among front line officials, senior executives and political leaders – “must become sacrosanct”.

The trouble with unethical leadership is that it erodes public trust, Alweendo continued.

“It undermines the mandate to govern that the electorate bestows on politicians. It also harms the businesses and the enterprises expected to operate in an environment where good governance is not adhered to,” he said.

Doing business

Africa's economies will grow much faster and sustainably once all regressive obstacles from doing business on the continent have been dismantled and eliminated, the minister said.

The mining fraternity has been a key partner in Africa's development. “It is incumbent upon all of us to leverage this historic partnership to usher in a new order of shared growth and shared prosperity,” he said. Africa's policies and politics need to change, Alweendo said. “It is now so important for us as elected political officials on the African continent to ensure that our policies on extractive industries address the two most topical current themes of global commerce – namely the license to operate and sustainability.”

Alweendo said he was “keen to hear from current and prospective investors in Namibia”.

“How can I help you? What can I do to enhance your investment experience in Namibia, and if you are thinking about investing in Namibia, or Africa – what can I tell you or do to convince you?” he concluded.

Jo-Maré Duddy –

'Policy certainty crucial for investment'

The lack of effective and attractive policies to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in strategic untapped sectors such as tourism and agriculture remains a challenge in Namibia.

Therefore, policy certainty is of critical importance to investors, the head of distribution at Stanlib Namibia, Tjivi Mbuende, said yesterday.

Speaking at a Stanlib Namibia roadshow breakfast yesterday, Mbuende highlighted risks to the domestic economy.

These include the continuation of low or negative and unsustainable economic growth, as well as borrowing at a fast and scary pace. The inability of government to address the fundamental problem of creating sufficient job opportunities, especially for the youth, was also singled out. Sufficient jobs are necessary to boost productivity, consumption and savings.

Mbuende said the overreliance on government as a key economic driver is a challenge, as the private sector is not active.

He said Namibia in 2016 entered a recession experiencing low growth rates and large budget deficits as government failed to collect sufficient revenue relative to expenditure. As a result, government started cutting spending to stabilise the budget. Low commodity prices characterised this period.

Debt is used to fund the budget deficit and has rose to R38.7 billion, with 45% of this due within the next five years.

Capital projects

It is very important to spend on capital projects in order to generate economic activities as it is crucial for sustainable growth, Mbuende said. Spending on non-developmental expenditure such as salaries can be harmful because there will be no long-term growth, he warned.

Private sector credit extension (PSCE) has been a challenging, Mbuende said.

Individuals are highly indebted because they are constrained and seek ways of smoothening their consumption over time by borrowing. Local vehicle sales remains low because consumers are not spending, he said. As a result, business confidence is down, Mbuende said.

Inflation is at its lowest level since 2005, which gives the central bank room to cut interest rates to make borrowing attractive and help stimulate the economy.

The low inflation rate is brought about by a lack of business and government investment, as well as little economic activity, the analyst said.

Also giving a presentation at the roadshow was Stanlib's chief economist, Kevin Lings, who talked about the impact of the coronavirus outbreak and gave an update on the performance of the South African economy.

Phillepus Uusiku –

BA hit back at Moeti Black Africa Sports Club, under the leadership of the interim Executive Committee, have fired back at former chairperson Cassius Moeti for rallying supporters in a bid to fight his removal from the position.

This after Moeti took to local dailies, inviting supporters to a meeting this weekend on what he called an “illegible removal”.

The club's interim committee yesterday however issued a statement condemning Moeti's actions and explaining why the former chair was replaced.

“The club took a decision at the first executive meeting held on 29 October 2019 to rotate the leadership of the club, in particular the interim chairperson and deputy chairperson.

“In terms of this decision, Moeti was nominated as the interim chairperson of Black Africa, deputised by Browney Mutrifa.

“An executive meeting was called on 25 February 2020, where Moeti was replaced by Wilhelm Goagoseb as interim chairperson and Mutrifa replaced by Doris Lamperth,” the statement said.

The committee stated that Moeti is not mandated to call a supporters' meeting or to address supporters, and announced that it distances itself from Moeti's meeting as well as any decisions that may emanate from the gathering.

The committee has also called on its supporters to refrain from attending the meeting.

“The committee assures its supporters that there is no leadership crisis within the club and the interim committee.

“As mentioned in earlier meetings with supporters, the committee also assurers its supporters that it is hard at work and will in due time call an annual general meeting where supporters in good standing with the club will nominate and elect their leaders.”

Black Africa further stated that the meeting they held on 26 January was merely an information session on Ranga Haikali's exit as owner of the club, as well as to introduce the new interim committee.

“This meeting was not used as a platform to select the new interim committee, and no approval or endorsement of the new interim committee was sourced at this platform.

“In fact, for an election to take place, supporters in good standing will participate in the elective process by way of submitting nominations.” Meanwhile, Moeti said it is up to the supporters to decide whether the meeting is legitimate or not.

“The meeting will go on as planned and supporters are invited to come to Immanuel Shifidi Secondary School on Sunday.

“We have nothing to hide and that is why we need to discuss Black Africa issues,” he said.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

Maize Triangle welcomes Brave Warriors

The Maize Triangle Foundation members look forward to hosting the Brave Warriors at Otavi this weekend, adding that it will benefit the town and its surroundings.

The national team's preparations for the African Nations Championship (Chan) continue and the men will battle Maize Triangle Invitational IX at the Khoaheb Otavi Sports Stadium tomorrow, 7 March.

The small towns of Otavi, Grootfontein and Tsumeb demarcate the Maize Triangle, a relatively high-rainfall area with a flourishing agriculture sector centred mainly around the cultivation of maize and lucerne, some of which is under irrigation.

Chelsea, Chief Santos, Benfica, Touch & Go and other northern clubs from the area participate in the local football league.

The national team will play two matches tomorrow against players selected from teams residing in the Maize Triangle surrounding areas.

Jefta Gaoab of the foundation believes the matches are important for both the Brave Warriors and the local teams.

“The Maize Triangle League has been the only active league in Namibia and it's a project that puts emphasis on youth development.

“This is not only important for the triangle but to the Brave Warriors since they will keep fit through such engagements,” Gaoab said. He added that with the Warriors visiting Otavi, it will be a perfect opportunity for the Maize Triangle Invitational players to showcase their talent.

He insists that the Brave Warriors coaching department is in for a surprise regarding the talent the area has to offer.

“Who knows? The coach might spot talent there and might draft in some players from the triangle into the national team.

“This is important for the Maize Triangle and it is important for the players, fans and inhabitants of the triangle,” Gaoab noted. The foundation will host a coaching clinic tomorrow, also at the stadium, which will involve under-nine, -12, -15 and -17 boys from 09:00 to 10:00.

The Warriors will then tour Otavi before taking part in a photo session with fans.

The first match kicks off at 14:00, while the second match will be played at 16:00.

Jesse Jackson Kauraisa

Diergaardt back in the hot seatNew sheriff for national senior squad The Namibia Rugby Union announced the appointment of Johan Diergaardt as the new head coach of the senior side yesterday. LIMBA MUPETAMI

Johan Diergaardt is new head coach of the senior rugby side. This was announced yesterday by the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) at a press conference in Windhoek.

Of 18 coaches who applied for the post, Diergaardt was the only Namibian who eventually made the cut for the position. Three other candidates, Antonio Aguilar from Portugal and Wilber Kraak and Jonathan Mokoena – both from South Africa – were also shortlisted.

According to union president Corrie Mensah, the candidates were interviewed through Skype and after an in-depth assessment and presentation process, the board approved the recommendation from the interview panel to appoint Diergaardt.

“It should be mentioned that it was tough and a close race for the position, however, Diergaardt empowered himself for the role, attending rugby courses in South Africa. That and his vast experience convinced the interview panel that he is the right man for the job.

“They were also looking at different requirements such as qualifications as well as technical and coaching abilities,” he further added.

The newly appointed coach’s mandate was not disclosed by NRU as that is a discussion between the entity and Diergaardt, Mensah stated.

Diergaardt also didn’t reveal much about his appointment yesterday, only responding to say that he was in a meeting.

His task, however, now is to lead the squad into the upcoming SuperSport Challenge Cup with the Welwitschias’ first match at home on 25 April against the Blue Bulls.

On 2 May, the Namibians will face Golden Lions (away), while 9 May will be a feature against the Griquas (away). On 16 May, a home match will take place against the Griffons.

On 23 May, the Welwitschias will face the Leopards (away), while 30 May will see them crossing paths with the Pumas at home. On the same day, a test match is also scheduled against Zambia.

“We are in talks to have the match moved. If that doesn’t happen, we will obviously field the first team against the Zambians,” said Mensah without hesitation.

In the past, Diergaardt had a stint in the head coach role when he led the men to victory at the Nations Cup in 2010, and he also led the World Cup squad in 2011.

At club level, he won three successive trophies with Unam Rugby Club. He has a level three qualification accredited by World Rugby. Before his appointment, he served as head coach of the under-20 national rugby side.

He was tasked to prepare the team for Rugby Africa's under-20 Barthés Trophy, which doubles as a qualifier for the World Rugby under-20 trophy.

The newly appointed coach will have the choice of his technical team, with the approval of the board, it was also announced. Asked whether they are also empowering former rugby players to take up coaching positions, Mensah said not every good player becomes a great coach. “It also boils down to whether they are interested and capable to take on the role because we are pro transfer of skills to Namibians, in order for them to fill the positions,” he said.

In addition to the post at the U-20s, the national sevens coach and team managers were also appointed. The U-20 coach is Jood Opperman, while Robbie Dicksen and Chrysander Botha were shortlisted.

The national sevens coach is David Philander. Gerald Loubser and Renaldo Pedro were shortlisted.

The team manager for the national senior side is Irwin Newman and the U-20 team manager is Desiree Coetzee, while Jacky Husselman will fill the position for the national sevens.

CAF Champions League quarters are on

Goal-shy Esperance will look to Abdelraouf Benguit as they attempt to overcome a 3-1 away defeat by Zamalek when they host the second leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final tonight.

Chasing a record third straight title, the Tunisian club have been poor at home in Africa this season, twice winning narrowly and twice drawing while scoring only five times.

Although a midfielder, Algerian Benguit is the leading Esperance scorer in Africa with three goals, including the one that gave them the lead away to Egyptian outfit Zamalek. Should Zamalek succeed, the semi-finals could be contested by Egyptian and Moroccan clubs with Al Ahly from Cairo and Raja and Wydad from Casablanca holding 2-0 aggregate leads.

If Esperance are eliminated by Zamalek, they will be the third consecutive defending champions to fall at the quarter-finals stage.

Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa lost on penalties in 2017 to Wydad, who exited at the same stage the following season to Entente Setif of Algeria. Esperance have won just one of eight CAF clashes with Zamalek – the second leg of the 1994 Champions League final after a goalless first encounter.

Record eight-time African champions Ahly take a remarkable domestic league record into the second leg against Sundowns in Pretoria.

The Cairo Red Devils have won 16 consecutive matches under Swiss coach Rene Weiler since the 2019/20 Egyptian Premier League kicked off, scoring 45 goals and conceding just three.

Tunisian Ali Maaloul scored twice within 12 minutes to give Ahly the advantage as they seek revenge for a 5-1 aggregate drubbing by Sundowns at the same stage last season.

Tunisian outfit Etoile Sahel hope Karim Aribi can rediscover his scoring touch when they try to overturn the deficit against Wydad.

After scoring seven goals in three qualifiers, the Algerian found it harder to find the net in the six-round group phase, adding only three for a total of 10.

The individual scoring record for a Champions League season is 13 goals set by Nigerian Stephen Worgu of Enyimba in 2008.

Opposing coaches Pamphile Kazembe of TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Jamal Sellami of Raja have been Champions League winners as players.

Kazembe was part of the victorious 2009 and 2010 Mazembe teams while fellow midfielder Sellami helped Raja conquer Africa in 1997.

The first Raja goal in Casablanca was scored by former Mazembe forward Ben Malango, whose transfer was hotly disputed, forcing Fifa to intervene.

Esperance vice-president Hechmi Jilani said most clubs lose money by competing in the Champions League, even those who pocket the N$38.3 million first prize.

He said at least half the winnings usually go to the players, and travel costs are enormous in the vast continent with the Tunis club sometimes using chartered flights to save time.

Fifa president Gianni Infantino touched on the subject recently, saying: “Some African clubs with millions of supporters have to pay in order to compete in CAF competitions.”

NAMPA/AFP

Masters proceeding as scheduledGame on despite coronavirus concerns Augusta National Golf Club is consulting with health experts and following the situation, with plans to take further action as events require.

Plans for the 84th Masters and related events will proceed as scheduled despite growing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, Augusta National Golf Club chairman Fred Ridley said.

Spectators from around the world flock to Augusta annually for the year's first major golf championship, scheduled for 9 to 12 April under the famed Georgia pine trees down Magnolia Lane.

“The safety, health and well-being of everyone is our top priority at Augusta National Golf Club,” Ridley said. “We are, therefore, mindful of the novel coronavirus covid-19, which has been widely reported and continues to spread in areas where it has been detected.”

Other events that remain on schedule include the Augusta National Women's Amateur, a 54-hole event that starts on 1 April and concludes at Augusta National on 4 April, and the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals youth event on 5 April.

“Augusta National is not only monitoring the situation closely, but also consulting with relevant experts, including the World Health Organisation, Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Georgia Department of Public Health and local authorities,” Riley said.

“As a result of this collaboration, and based upon our knowledge of the situation at this time, we are proceeding as scheduled for the Augusta National Women's Amateur, the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals and the Masters tournament.”

Changes in the situation will be monitored and could result in later changes in plans, as warranted.

“We will continue to review the available facts and information with the experts and authorities, establish precautions and take appropriate action to ensure the safety of all involved,” Ridley said.

“We are asking that everyone follow the preventative actions advised by the CDC to mitigate the spread of any virus. In addition, we strongly encourage all those travelling to Augusta, Georgia to become knowledgeable of the most recent travel protocols and restrictions.”

NAMPA/AFP

Peugeot 208 named ‘Car of the year 2020’Engine range impresses panel The all-new Peugeot 208 is the sixth Peugeot to be named “Car of the Year”. This trophy underlines the excellence of the work and great commitment of all the teams of the brand and the Groupe PSA. - Peugeot

Car of the Year 2020, the all-new Peugeot 208 rewrites the book in the B segment.

Available with either an electric engine or an internal combustion engine, the all-new Peugeot 208 provides the power of choice to its future driver.

Its exterior design embodies the DNA of the brand with the 3-claw LED front headlights. The carved wheel arches and rear wings are a nod to the ‘sacred number’. The Peugeot i-Cockpit (head-up display, compact steering wheel and touchscreen) innovates with a 3D digital cluster, which is not only aesthetic but also improves safety.

The Coty 2020 rewards a bestseller. Nearly 110 000 customers have ordered the new Peugeot 208 since its launch in Europe in October - 15% of the mix are electric versions. In France, the all-new Peugeot 208 leads the registration rankings of the car market at the end of February 2020.

“This trophy underlines the excellence of the work and great commitment of all the teams of the brand and the Groupe PSA,” Peugeot said.

‘Power of choice’

It’s the first time that a PEUGEOT “2 series” has triumphed. Three Peugeot “Cars of the Year” are currently on road with the 3008 SUV and the 308 alongside the all-new 208.

The Coty 2020 legitimates the Brand’s “power of choice” strategy.

Peogeot enters the “top 3” of the brands with the most awards in the Car of the Year history, with six trophies.

The all-new Peugeot 208, named Car of the Year 2020, follows the 3008 SUV in 2017, the compact hatch 308 in 2014, the 307 in 2002, the 405 in 1988 and the 504 in 1969.

This prestigious trophy joins the twelve other international awards the all-new Peugeot 208 has already won.

The Car of the Year award is the most coveted. The panel of judges comprises 60 automotive expert journalists from 23 European countries.

Founded in 1964, the award is the longest-running and most renowned European prize. The winner is announced every year at the Geneva International Motor Show. - MotorPress

Two giants, one stage – Gazza on performing with Burna BoyPushing the African musical narrative One of the biggest concerts in the country – Burna Boy’s African Giant tour in Windhoek – is just around the corner, and we got an exclusive from one of the biggest performers on the line-up. MICHAEL KAYUNDE

When the line-up for the Namibian leg of Nigerian superstar Burna Boy’s African Giant Tour was announced, the inclusion of music industry king Gazza had fans beaming in anticipation.

It’s safe to say both Gazza and Burna Boy are giants in their own leagues. However, both artists swim the same tide when it comes to pushing the African music narrative, and for the two to hit the same stage in one night is a big boost for the Namibian entertainment industry.

Gazza, deemed one of Namibia’s biggest music exports, for long has been leading the pack when it comes to flying the Namibian flag high. This is visible in the deals and collaborations he has done with international acts including Nyanda, Davido, DJ Buckz and DJ Maphorisa, to mention but a few.

Despite these milestones, in an exclusive interview with tjil, Gazza said he is still in the process of finding himself as a leader and getting a clear understanding of what is required of him.

“I believe my contribution to the industry thus far is towards paving a way and creating a chance not only for those who look up to me directly but for the next Michael Jackson to come out of Namibia. Like Femi, Fela, Burna, so shall it be from Jackson Kaujeua, Gazza, the next.”

The award-winning artist did not shy away from admitting that he is inspired by other African artists too.

“Every day we live to learn, I have no enemies, and every person I get in contact with is a teacher and every experience a lesson. The Nigerian artists are taking the world by storm, we have a lot to learn from them in terms of management, image, stage presence, investment and wealth creation,” he said.

On Burna Boy specifically, Gazza said he listens to his music not necessarily because of the hype, but to learn. “Burna has no boundaries when it comes to creativity and vibe. He can, for instance, cough on a record and make it vibe,” the Namibian superstar said.

With only a few weeks before the two giants share a stage, Gazza said depending on the vibe and energy, he is looking forward to engaging the Nigerian Afro-pop artist. “He’s a vibe guy, I believe. I’m a real n*gga, I think, so I will let the spirits lead,” Gazza said.

Donlu Music Festival – for us, by us MICHAEL KAYUNDE

The first instalment of the Donlu Music Festival is slated for Saturday, 29 August, at Windhoek’s Trusto United Sports Field, with a strictly Namibian line-up.

In an interview with tjil, Donlu Music Africa’s founder Llewelyn Adams shared that the idea stemmed from not seeing Namibian line-ups at festivals. “We decided that since we have created the website as a platform for Namibian artists, and now Angolan artists too, to sell their music or offer it as free downloads, why not create another platform where they can express and showcase their art even further?” Adams said.

Since the news about the festival broke, the engagement and interest from the music community has been pretty loud, especially from artists and their fans. Everyone wants to be on the line-up. Asked what some of the criteria the organisers are looking at when compiling the list of acts, Adams said they give preference to artists whose music is available on the Donlu Africa website. “But we decided to also invite some of those whose music is not available on our platform.”

The first phase of tickets for the festival has already gone on sale and Adams said that while the response was slow at first, sales have picked up a lot.

It is for this reason, he shared, they are looking forward to the next phase of ticket sales, due to start in April. “We want artists who will be involved to look back and be able to proudly say that they have contributed to the setting up of the music hub, which is why the festival is being hosted,” said Adams.

On opportunities being created through this initiative, Adams shared that the event could always do with an extra pair of hands, thus the organisers welcome any sort of volunteering. “There’ll be a host of activities leading up to the festival including shows at different venues and so on, so anybody who wants to get involved is more than welcome to reach out to us,” he said.

He highlighted difficulties to secure sponsorships as one of the challenges the organisers are facing to put this event together, but added that getting artists on board has proven to be fairly easy. “We would like to encourage people to wait and see what we have planned as we want them to experience something they have never experienced in Namibia when it comes to music festivals,” Adams said.

DJ Dreas’ tour yields opportunity MICHAEL KAYUNDE

Following his Cape Town tour, UMB Academy signee DJ Dreas has secured a partnership with Musito Agency.

A South African media marketing agency, Musito trades in branding, event promotions, talent management and content marketing. “We would like to welcome DJ Dreas. A well-known Namibian DJ and producer who is gaining popularity in most southern African countries,” tweeted the agency’s official account.

DJ Dreas’ tour included three venues. He performed at one of Cape Town’s most prominent radio stations, Bush Radio, and played sets at Black Coffee and DJ Euphonik’s clothing shop Yawa Africa and at the ever-vibrant Unfiltered Cape Town. “The tour is one of many steps I am taking in my quest to conquer Africa.

“The crowd at Unfiltered was immense! It was a perfect boiler room experience; the spot is set up in a way in which people surround you and the love the crowd gave a stranger from Namibia was surreal,” recalled Dreas.

The DJ and producer added that he met amazing people who will be vital for the projects he has lined up and for the greater good of the industry as well. “I can’t reveal much now, all I can say is watch out for UMB Academy and our moves,” he shared, adding that he extends his gratitude to everyone who has been supporting, sharing, liking and promoting his work and that of his label mates. “Thank you very much for being part of my journey.”

Keeping It Real Right on, my good people! This is the inaugural Friday tjil focus page as announced last week. We are moving into a territory that not many understand but don’t despair, we are going to guide you through it all. The first tjil collector’s item edition is slated for next Friday, 13 March, and what better theme to go with than Namibia’s Independence Day celebrations? Just like the political landscape should be audited for milestones reached in the last 30 years, so should we look back at music made since 21 March 1990. I do not want to give away too much on what the edition will carry, but I can assure you we are hard at work cooking up content you’ll want to frame. Enjoy this edition and don’t forget to follow @namibiansun on Facebook and Twitter for all our latest updates.