VW leads passenger car market

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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VW leads passenger car marketMarket share increased by 1.1% to 21.5% In the first 10 months of 2020, Volkswagen sold 42 354 passenger vehicles in the local market. Though our export numbers are lower than in some previous years, this performance is testament to the perseverance of VWSA. Bernd Schaberg, acting production director: VWSA Volkswagen South Africa continues to make a positive comeback in the local car market after reeling from the effects of Level 5 lockdown earlier this year.

“Even though we won't see a repeat of our record-breaking 2019 volumes, we have made incremental volume gains and posted a record year-to-date market share thanks to a strong performance from our dealer network,” said Mike Glendinning, sales and marketing director for Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA). In the first 10 months of 2020, Volkswagen sold 42 354 passenger vehicles in the local market. The passenger car market is down year-on-year by 33.3% and Volkswagen's sales showed a 29% year-on-year decline. Volkswagen's passenger car market share increased by 1.1% to 21.5% when compared to October 2019's figure of 20.4%.

“This year has been challenging for all South Africans and as a brand that has been in the local market for close to 70 years, we invested back into our communities by heralding the Drive Local campaign,” Glendinning pointed out. “The Drive Local campaign saw us building a field hospital to assist Covid-19 patients in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro, using our employees' technical expertise to manufacture medical equipment as well as supporting vulnerable communities through funding Non-Profit Organisations”, he said.

“The Drive Local campaign urged people to champion proudly South African products and services. For our brand the results are evident in the sales and market share figures we recorded in the first 10 months of this year,” added Glendinning.

The locally-manufactured Polo Vivo is Volkswagen's best-selling range with 15 494 units sold in 2020. With just a little over a year since being launched in South Africa, the T-Cross is now the brand's best-selling imported vehicle with 3 965 units sold in the first 10 months of 2020.



Trade

The Volkswagen plant in Uitenhage showed strong export figures during the first 10 months of 2020, despite the impact of the Level 5 national lockdown which halted production.

To date, the Uitenhage plant has exported a total of 68 232 locally-manufactured Polos to both left and right-hand drive markets. Of the 10 months, October delivered the highest number with 10 576 vehicles exported.

“Though our export numbers are lower than in some previous years, this performance is testament to the commitment and perseverance of VWSA and each of its employees,” said Bernd Schaberg, acting production director.

“We have recovered from a low point of zero exports in April to a steady performance in the months that followed. Our priority for the rest of 2020 is to continue building on this growth by manufacturing quality vehicles – in the safest way possible for our employees,” concluded Schaberg.

“As a brand, we want to finish 2020 strong. Later this month, we will launch the newest derivative in the T SUV range, the T-Roc. Sales of one of South Africa's most powerful double cab bakkies, the Amarok 190kW, will also start this month,” concluded Glendinning.

- MotorPress

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New Land Rover Discovery

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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New Land Rover Discovery New Discovery combines an exceptional design evolution with a versatile and intelligently packaged interior which embodies the spirit of family adventure that has characterised Land Rover's premium family SUV for more than 30 years.

Featuring the latest generation of powerful and efficient six-cylinder Ingenium petrol and diesel engines, advanced Pivi Pro infotainment and superior comfort and practicality, New Discovery remains one of the most capable, connected and versatile full seven-seat premium SUVs in the world.

With Land Rover's new Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) underpinning a suite of advanced technologies, New Discovery delivers new levels of sophistication, desirability and efficiency while retaining its customary breadth of on- and off-road capability and towing credentials.

The distinct character and optimised proportions of New Discovery embrace more than three decades of design evolution. Discovery DNA design cues including the clamshell bonnet, the stepped roof and the highly visible C-pillar remain, but New Discovery delivers a bold exterior evolution optimised to project a more confident road presence.

New signature LED headlights with a daytime running light signature set lower into the units create a more purposeful look, while animated sweeping front and rear indicators provide heightened visual sophistication and the body-colour front fender vent accentuates the premium SUV's familiar broken waistline.

A revised front bumper features a wider body-coloured graphic and new side vents combine for a more purposeful and dynamic appearance. At the rear, New Discovery features new signature LED lights, which are joined across the back of vehicle by a new Gloss Black panel.



Connected technologies

Inside, New Discovery benefits from enhancements designed to highlight the premium position and craftsmanship of its full-size seven-seat layout, with a spacious cabin incorporating Land Rover's cutting edge Pivi Pro infotainment. A completely redesigned centre console houses its 48% larger 11.4-inch, full HD touchscreen, which provides a fast and intuitive interface.

With a simplified menu structure and pioneering design, Pivi Pro provides immediate responses even when starting the vehicle for the first time. Its built-in back-up battery means navigation initialisation takes just seconds, while the logical menus allow the most commonly used functions to be accessed directly from the customisable home screen, to reduce driver distraction.

Connectivity is provided by dual-sim technology, with two LTE modems enabling the system to carry out multiple functions at the same time such as streaming media and downloading Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates – without compromising performance.

-MotorPress

Star teacher of the week

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Star teacher of the week Wiandri Ludwig - Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children. I decided to become a teacher because I knew the importance of education and shaping young minds. I’ve always had the need to help others, and my mother was also a teacher and I could see how she was able to make a difference in the lives of the children she taught.

What motivates you every morning to get up and go to work and how long have you been in the education industry?

Since 2018 I’ve been a grade 1 teacher at Windhoek Afrikaanse Privaatskool and I’m genuinely happy with my career choice. Every year I see how different personalities and talents are developed daily, and even when you need to be strict sometimes, each day your learners will greet you with sweetest and friendliest faces. Grade 1 learners also place so much of their trust in their teacher, and that trust and love is something I will not trade for anything in the world.

Can you tell us more about your teaching journey?

I studied a B.Ed Foundation Phase degree at the Northwest University in Potchefstroom, South Africa. During my studies I completed the practical part of my course at various schools and I was able to learn so much from all the different teachers. I am also a part of the school’s sport and cultural programmes and I am beyond proud to be associated with this school. During 2020 we as teachers were pushed beyond our comfort zones, and we were forced to adapt and become very creative. On this career path we experience lifelong growth and I would like to be a teacher for many more years.

What are some of the challenges you face daily and how do you overcome them?

When you work with children, you always need to remember that no two learners are the same and each one is special and unique in their own way. As a teacher, you need to know your learners very well, and each day brings its own stress, but also rewards. When you decide to become a teacher, you can’t choose this career because of the money, because there are so many other rewards apart from the money. A teacher needs to be committed and have the right mindset, and I try to do this every day.

What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned from your learners?

To believe as unconditionally as a child. This is what stands out most for me of being a teacher and working with children; how easily learners trust and believe. As adults we always want to be in charge and sometimes, we can learn from kids to just let go and trust that our God is in charge.

What are some of your talents and what are you passionate about?

I’m extremely passionate about my work. I don’t mind devoting time and energy to my work, because I truly love and value what I get to do every day. I also practise hockey and I adore sport, which is a big part of who I am.

What is your favourite song, place to visit in Namibia and your dream car?

I love Afrikaans music and every week I have a different favourite song. We travel so much throughout the country and one of the places I’m happiest in is in the Zambezi Region. My dream car has to be the new Volkswagen Tiguan.

Shannon a fumbikwa pasimaneko

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Shannon a fumbikwa pasimaneko Konima sho olutu lwe lwa kala mombila uule woomwedhi dhontumba, omukiintu ngoka a dhipagwa edhipago tali limbilike okwa fumbikwa mehuliloshiwike lya piti. LEANDREA LOUW

WALVIS BAY



Nakusa Shannon Wasserfall (21) okwa fumbikwa mondoolopa yaMbaye mOlyomakaya ga piti, kengathithi lyaalilisa mboka ye mu pe esimaneko lya hugunina.

Wasserfall okwa kana momwedhi Apilili momvula yo 2020 nolutu lwe olwa adhika lwa fumbikwa melambo momasiku gahamano gaKotomba popepi noNarraville.

Aafekelwa yaali Azaan Madisia (28) oshowo omumwayinamati, Steven Mulundu (22) – oya tulwa miipandeko na otaya tamanekeklwa oshipotha shedhipago nokuya moshipala iilonga yuuyuki.

Ohungi yokudhimbuluka nakusa oya ningwa mEtitano pokapale kaNarraville Rugby Stadium.

Yina yaShannon, Poppie Wasserfall, okwa ti kape na iitya tayi vulu okuholola shoka uuvite.

“Ngoye owa li uuyelele monkalamwenyo yandje, emanya lyandje. Onkalamwenyo oya talala na itayi ka kala ya faathana sho ka ndi ku na. onda hala andola twa kalele pamwe ethimbo ele. Omwenyo gwandje otagu luluma noonkondo. Uululume itawu hulu, na onda mono ehekeleko mOmumwa oshowo eimemeho lyokamati koye-Junior.”

He, Tega Mathews, okwa popi kutya Shannon okwa li oonte dhe dhetango. Okwa pandula woo keyambidhidho ndyoka ya mono okuza moshigwana. Omupeha minista gwoshikondo shomauyelele, Emma Theofelus, okwa popi kutya onkalamwenyo yaShannon oya tetulwa.Theofelus okwa popi kutya omwenyo gwaShannon ogwa hulithwapo okupitila momiyonena dhoka tadhi tsikile moshilongo, na kehe esiku ota galikana andola edhipago lye olyo li kale lya hugunina, ihe omiyonena dhoka onkene tadhi tsikile.

Shannon okwa fumbikwa mOlyomakaya okuzilila mongeleka yaCatholic moKuisebmond.

Omuvali gwopambepo gwaShannon, ngoloneya gwoshitopolwa shErongo, Neville Andre, okwa popi kutya itaka mona we ompito yokumumona monkalamwenyo ye.

Okwali a pyakudhukwa okukala monkalamwenyo ye nokumu mona ta piti ouniversiti oshowo oku mu gandja pethimbo lyohango ye, ihe shoka itashi ka ningwa we molwaashoka ngashiingeyi okwa thikama poshiketha she te mu laleke.

Ya monika ondjo moshipotha shekwatonkonga

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Ya monika ondjo moshipotha shekwatonkonga NAMPA

OVENDUKA



Aanyasha yatatu mboka ya kala taya tamanekelwa oshipotha shekwatonkonga yomukiintu moGobabis oomvula ne dha piti oya monika ondjo.

Kingsley Balzer (19), Fritz Naobeb (19), oshowo Norman Witbeen (23) oya ningile omukiintu omatilitho nombele oshowo ekatana omanga yali taye mu thindikile kegumbo. Oya yakapo ongodhi ye woo, pethimbo ya longo oshimbuluma shoka.

Omupanguli mompangu yopombanda, Naomi Shivute, okwa mono ondjo Balzer moshipotha shimwe shekwatonkonga, Noabeb naWitbeen oya monika ondjo miipotha iyali yekwatonkonga. Oya monika woo ondjo miipotha yuulunga wongodhi.

Omupanguli okwa tindi eipopilo lyaatamanekwa kutya e yo miihulo ndyoka olya ningwa pazimino lyomukiintu ngoka, ta popi kutya omahokololo gawo itaga tsu kumwe.

Omaipopilo gawo gamwe ongaashi kutya omukiintu ngoka okwiihumbata a fa omuntu a hala omulumentu.

Natango oya popi kutya omukiintu ngoka okwa li a pandula sho ye mu thindikile kegumbo, na okwa ali a hala okuya pandula pakuya nayo miihulo.

Shivute okwa popi kutya gumwe gwomaatamanekwa mboka, Noabeb, okwa popi kutya okwa yi owala miihulo nomukiintu ngoka molwaashoka yekwawo oye muningile omatilitho nombele oshowo ekatana.

Timo Iitula oye a kalelepo epangelo moshipotha shoka.

Oohahende dhoLegal Aid, Milton Engelbrecht, Jermaine Muchali oshowo Ndiriraro Kauari oya kalelepo aatamanekwa.

Oshipotha osha undulilwa komasiku 25 gaJanuari.

COMPANY NEWS IN BRIEF

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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COMPANY NEWS IN BRIEF Vodacom reports a rise in H1 earnings

South African mobile operator, Vodacom Group reported a 15.7% rise in half-year earnings, boosted by a once-off deferred tax rate adjustment and reinstated medium-term targets.

The firm, which is majority owned by Britain's Vodafone, said headline earnings per share for the six months ended Sept. 30, rose to 532 cents from 460 cents a year earlier.

In May, Vodacom had postponed issuing medium-term forecasts due to the uncertain economic outlook for its markets as the effects of the coronavirus pandemic continue to unfold.

"We do however expect this outlook to improve into FY22," the company said, adding that this assumption of economic improvement, together with the relative demand for its services to date, provides the basis for reinstating medium-term targets.

Overall group revenue grew by 7.8% to 47.8 billion rand (US$3.09 billion), while service revenue rose by 7%, buoyed by strong demand for voice, data and financial services during the coronavirus lockdown. - Nampa/Reuters

Nissan explores possible sale of 34% stake

Nissan Motor is looking to sell some or all its 34% stake in Mitsubishi Motors, Bloomberg News reported yesterday, citing unidentified sources, a move that would reshape a three-way alliance that includes France's Renault.

"There are no plans to change the capital structure with Mitsubishi," a Nissan company spokeswoman told Reuters in an emailed statement. A Mitsubishi Motors spokesman said the same, adding the company would continue to collaborate within the alliance.

Nissan, struggling to recover from the pandemic-induced downturn, could sell its stake to a Mitsubishi group company such as Mitsubishi Corp, which already owns a fifth of Mitsubishi Motors, Bloomberg said.

Such a deal would fundamentally alter a three-way partnership built by Carlos Ghosn, former chairman of the alliance, which plunged into confusion when he was arrested in 2018 on charges of financial misconduct.

Ghosn had wanted a full merger of Renault and Nissan, which was shelved, according to Reuters sources, as the companies decided to fix the troubled alliance. - Nampa/Reuters

Korean Air to spend US$1.6 bln

Korean Air Lines Co Ltd said it will spend 1.8 trillion won (US$1.62 billion) to become the largest shareholder of indebted Asiana Airlines Inc, in a deal that would create the world's 15th biggest carrier.

The suitor plans to issue 2.5 trillion won worth of shares next year to fund the deal with buyers including its own parent, Hanjin Kal.

Asiana's state-run creditor Korea Development Bank (KDB) said the 2.5 trillion won will include liquidity and funds to conduct integration efforts such as the consolidation or closure of redundant businesses.

Hanjin Kal's largest shareholder, the Korea Corporate Governance Improvement Fund (KCGI), has said any KDB investment would likely support current management. The activist fund favours replacing family-appointed executives with outsiders.

Combining South Korea's two biggest carriers would create the world's 15th largest airline based on the industry measure of kilometres flown by paying passengers, according to 2019 data from the International Air Transport Association. That represents a jump from 28th for Korean Air and 42nd for Asiana. - Nampa/Reuters

Walmart nearly exits Japan

Walmart Inc is selling a majority stake in Japanese supermarket chain Seiyu to investment firm KKR and e-commerce company Rakuten for over US$1 billion, after suffering years of poor profitability amid stiff competition.

The deal, which values Seiyu at 172.5 billion yen (US$1.65 billion) including debt, comes after on-off speculation about the world's biggest retailer looking to exit Japan. It is below the 300-500 billion yen it reportedly sought a few years ago.

KKR will buy 65% of Seiyu and Rakuten will acquire a 20% stake while Walmart will retain 15%, the companies said in a joint statement on Monday.

Walmart first entered the Japanese market in 2002 by buying a 6% stake in Seiyu, and gradually built up its stake before a full takeover in 2008.

The Seiyu deal is the latest divesture of underperforming assets by Walmart, following its exits in Britain and Argentina, as it struggled to compete with nimble local rivals. – Nampa/Reuters

J&J launched a new late-stage trial

Johnson & Johnson launched a new late-stage trial in Britain yesterday to test a two-dose regimen of its experimental Covid-19 vaccine among thousands of volunteers, as the US drug maker expands its trials by geography and type.

The UK arm of the study is aiming to recruit 6 000 participants among a total of 30 000 people globally, scientists leading the UK trial said. Volunteers will be recruited at 17 sites across the UK.

J&J signed an agreement for the two-dose global Phase III clinical trial with the British government in August, to run in parallel with a 60 000-person trial of a single shot of the experimental vaccine which was launched in September.

If the results of the single-shot trial are positive, the company said it could simplify distribution of millions of doses compared with leading rivals requiring two doses.

The efficacy of a double-dose vaccine could be affected if people fail to return to get a second shot.- Nampa/Reuters

Stryd teen geslagsgeweld duur voort

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Stryd teen geslagsgeweld duur voort Medscheme en One Economy Foundation werk saam Enzo Amuele

Medscheme, in vennootskap met die One Economy Foundation, het op 12 November N$210 000 geskenk as deel van hulle korporatiewe en maatskaplike verantwoordelikheid in die stryd teen geslagsgeweld (GBV).

Die geleentheid het in Windhoek plaasgevind en fokus daarop om die stryd teen GBV in die land te ondersteun.

Me. Monica Geingos, Namibië se eerste dame, het tydens die geleentheid die multidimensionele karakter van geweld beklemtoon.

“Geweld is ’n multidimensionele verskynsel. Dit ontneem ons van ’n vrye en waardige lewe en die kwesbaarheid van slagoffers en oorlewendes moet ook in ag geneem word,” het Geingos gesê.

“Geweld kan seksueel en geslagsgebaseerd wees en dit belemmer die land se produktiwiteit, gesondheid en welstand wat weer die ontwikkeling van die land beïnvloed.”

Geingos het die skenking van Medscheme se raadslede, trustees en bestuurslede geprys.

Volgens mnr. Rudiger Saunderson, die besturende direkteur van Medscheme, is GBV steeds een van die mees kommerwekkende kwessies in die gemeenskap en een van die grootste skendings van menseregte.

Saunderson het gesê dit bly een van die misdade wat die minste vervolg word en die grootste en blywende impak op vrede en ontwikkeling het.

“Die geweld teen vroue en kinders kom teen ’n ongelooflike prys vir ons gemeenskap, land en samelewing se welstand, gesondheid, veiligheid, skoolprestasies, produktiwiteit, wetgewing en publieke programme en begrotings,” het Saunders gesê.

Me. Bertha Tobias het die GBV-gevalle van die afgelope paar jaar uitgewys, veral die moord van Shannon Wasserfall wat die hele land geruk het.

Tydens die geleentheid is die belangrikheid van samewerking tussen organisasies en die gemeenskap in die stryd teen GBV beklemtoon, met alle partye wat hulself tot die stryd verbind het.

Vir meisies deur meisies

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Vir meisies deur meisies Jong dames maak ’n verskil Mariselle Stofberg

YourPain.YourBlessing is ’n organisasie wat in Januarie vanjaar deur twee jong dames begin is.

Ma-ri Scheepers en Anthea van Rensburg het die organisasie begin met die doel om sanitêre doekies vir jong meisies en vroue in hul gemeenskap – wat dit nie self kan bekostig nie, in te samel.

“Ons wil ’n verskil maak in die lewens van ander meisies en vroue. Soveel meisies gaan nie skool toe nie omdat hulle menstrueer. Hulle het nie die geld om sanitêre doekies te koop nie. Onderrig is so belangrik en speel ’n ongelooflike groot rol in die bou van ‘n beter toekoms, en met die voorsiening van sanitêre doekies kan ons help om ‘n beter toekoms vir die meisies en vroue in die land te verseker,” het hulle gesê.

Vir die twee dames gaan dit oor meer as net die blote skenking van doekies, want hulle wil ’n blywende verskil in die lewens van ander maak.

“Ons het ook verskeie ander fokuspunte in die organisasie, maar die skenking van doekies is die hoofdoel van ons organisasie.”

Scheepers sê die idee vir die organisasie het ontstaan nadat sy besef het hoe bevoorreg sy is om elke maand sanitêre doekies te kan koop, terwyl soveel ander meisies van haar ouderdom nie so gelukkig is nie.

“Ons het in Oktober 1 675 doekies aan ’n hoërskool in Rehoboth geskenk, wat vir ons ’n ongelooflike mylpaal was.”

Tot dusver het die organisasie ongeveer 1 800 doekies geskenk.

Die dames sê die naam YourPain.YourBlessing se inspirasie is geskoei op die manier waarop die lewe meeste mense hanteer.

“Met talle uitdagings ervaar ons soveel pyn, maar daar is altyd ’n seëning en lig aan die einde van jou swaarkry.”

“As jongmense is dit ongelooflik belangrik vir ons om ook betrokke te raak by projekte soos hierdie, asook by ander maatskaplike kwessies. Ons organisasie het my uit my gemaksone geneem en my geleer hoe om my tyd beter te spandeer, maar het my oë ook oopgemaak om werklik die swaarkry en seer in ons gemeenskap raak te sien,” sê Scheepers.

Scheepers sê dit is belangrik om die negatiewe wanopvattings oor menstruasie aan te spreek.

“Meisies moet altyd onthou dat dit waardeur jy is en dit wat vir jou wag klein is in vergelyking met die ongelooflike potensiaal en krag binne jou. Ons moet almal help om ons gemeenskap oor menstruasie in te lig, hoekom dit gebeur en wat jy moet doen as dit gebeur. Deur mense te bemagtig met kennis, help ons ons samelewing om die ongemaklikheid en vrees verbonde aan menstruasie te takel.”

Die organisasie is tans besig om lootjies te verkoop om doekies vir 2021 aan te skaf. Indien enige iemand ‘n bydrae wil lewer, kan hulle Your Pain.Your Blessing by 081 278 5812 kontak of ’n e-pos na yourpainyourblessing@gmail.com stuur.

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Campaigns in unrecognised areas

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Campaigns in unrecognised areas KENYA KAMBOWE

RUNDU



While many local authorities are at loggerheads with people who have settled illegally on council land, the same areas have become hotspots for campaigns by political parties who visit those areas seeking potential voters, which makes it difficult for councils to evict the illegal settlers after the ballots are cast.

With regional and local government elections taking place in two weeks' time, Namibian Sun has observed how political parties have visited areas which local authorities do not recognise.

This has played out in towns like Rundu in the Kavango East Region, which is battling with people who have grabbed land. The council is failing to address the situation amicably. Most of the residential areas in Rundu have been developed after people squatted there illegally for years and then demanded services from the council.

Currently Rundu is faced with a situation at Tumweneni informal settlement, where thousands of people have been living illegally since 2018.

Last year, Namibian Sun reported that there were about 3 700 people registered by the committee in that community, but that number has since increased significantly.

According to a committee member interviewed last week, there are close to 6 000 people currently living at Tumweneni.



Politics

Political parties campaign intensively in such areas where residents are demanding basic services. Tumweneni needs adequate water supply, proper streets, electricity and sewerage. Most political parties and civic associations represented at Rundu have campaigned at Tumweneni.

A couple of weeks ago it was reported that Swapo and the Rundu Urban Community Association (RUCA) had a heated confrontation at Tumweneni.



Not recognised

But despite all the campaigns by political parties, the Rundu town council has not recognised Tumweneni location as a residential area.

The minister of urban and rural development's representative on the Rundu town council, Sebastian Kantema, says as far as he is concerned an eviction order issued by the High Court still stands and must be executed.

“Nothing is moving around that issue,” Kantema said.

“The council is sitting back but looking into the matter. I would be lying if I said that something is happening. The thing is that there was a court interdict and the council is not the custodian of implementing the court ruling. We are still waiting for the implementers of the court ruling to do their work. The court order needs to be taken into consideration and what the obstacle is, I don't have knowledge of.

“There should be a discussion. The planners were supposed to inform the people of the new development and it is not yet finalised. We cannot just say you are evicted, evicted to where? We cannot just send people to the street.”



Resistance

Last October the district deputy sheriff, Daniel Grobbelaar, accompanied by members of the police and defence force, turned up to execute the eviction order.

The team was met by armed women and men threatening them with stones, pangas, knives and sticks, and had to retreat.

The eviction order in regard to the area known as Farm Rundu Townlands Portion 1329 was issued by the High Court on 27 June 2019. It ordered the squatters to remove their property from the illegally occupied land within 30 days.

The deputy sheriff was authorised to remove them in the event that they did not voluntarily vacate the farm. The police were authorised to assist the deputy sheriff.

kenya@namibiansun.com

Association blames Swapo for Rundu mess

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Association blames Swapo for Rundu mess• Election campaigns wrapping up The Rundu Concerned Citizens Association promises voters that it will clean up the mismanagement at the local authority. KENYA KAMBOWE

RUNDU



The Rundu Concerned Citizens Association (RCCA) has blamed the ruling party for the poor development at the cash-strapped riverside town, saying that Swapo is governing the town no differently than a village.

Speaking at a rally at Rundu, RCCA leader Reginald Ndara told his supporters that the Swapo Party has demonstrated that it cannot address the issues faced by the over 100 000 residents.

Ndara said the Rundu town council was being run like a village council by the ruling party.

“For the past few years, RCCA studied the situation within the Swapo Party-dominated Rundu town council and concluded that there is no possible way Swapo Party could change the current situation in Rundu,” Ndara said.

“The residents of Rundu have suffered enough under the Swapo Party administration. The current situation in Rundu was caused by the Swapo Party as the governing party and the electorate cannot expect the same party to find a remedy for the situation after it has been in power for so many years.

“Swapo Party has been at the helm of the Rundu town council leadership and management since the inception of local authorities in Namibia in 1992.

“This town is being governed like a village and as residents, we should not allow this situation to continue. This is a situation of confusion and someone should rescue the Rundu town council.

“RCCA is therefore ready and well prepared to take over the leadership and the management of the Rundu town council,” Ndara said.



Promises

Ndara also used the opportunity to inform the public about the association's agenda if elected into power.

He said the RCCA would introduce a number of programmes such as establishing a mayoral fund that would be used to offer interest-free loans to street vendors. The loans would be repaid over 36 months.

The RCCA also promised to introduce policies and regulations on land management and constructing affordable houses.

“RCCA will work closely with the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia by giving land to the federation for free to enable members of the federation to construct their houses,” Ndara said.

“RCCA will strive to deliver quality municipal services to the residents of Rundu. We will put strategies in place to empower women and youth groups in order to eradicate the high unemployment rate and poverty among the designated groups,” he said.

Ndara urged residents to go and vote for RCCA for a better Rundu.



Beset with problems

The Rundu town council has been in the media spotlight for all the wrong reasons in recent years.

The local authority has been without office bearers for the past seven months. The former minister of urban and rural development, Peya Mushelenga, suspended the entire council, including Ndara, for poor governance and service delivery.

The council owes NamWater N$100 million because of residents not paying their municipal bills.

Residents are demanding services such as provision of water, electricity and streets.

kenya@namibiansun.com

‘It is not a death sentence’

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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‘It is not a death sentence’ As diabetes is a complex condition, it needs a multidiscipliniary team to take proper care of all the different factors. “By controlling the blood sugar with proper management, the person with diabetes is as normal as any other without it.” Charlotte Thiele Henriette Lamprecht – Although it is a chronic condition, it is not a death sentence. Diabetes can be controlled and long term complications can be prevented, says Charlotte Thiele, registered dietician and accredited diabetes coach.

According to her, iff diagnosed at an early stage, it may be possible to achieve remission by major adjustments in life style e.g. significant weight loss.

Explaining the different types of diabetes Charlotte says a type 1-diabetic has to inject insulin on a daily basis as the pancreas produces none. Blood sugar levels must be monitored and carbohydrates eaten counted in order to calculate insulin doses. According to Charlotte modern technology made this more user friendly with the availability of insulin pumps replacing injections and Continuous Glucose Monitoring replacing finger sting testing.

In the case of type 3-diabetes the actual cause is insulin resistance which is treated in three ways. Firstly with medication which is three different tablets of which Metformin is always the first line. Insulin may be needed after some years when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough anymore, says Charlotte. One’s food intake needs to be controlled, although there is no such thing as a diabetic diet, she says. The person needs to exercise regularly, while bllood sugar levels have to be monitored as well.

Charlotte warns it is very important for the diagnosed person to receive the correct treatment.

“Not controlling blood sugar levels can cause long term complications e.g. blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, gangrene causing amputations and erectile dysfunction. If the blood sugar levels remain high there is damage done to organs,” she explains.

One of the long term complications called neuropathy involves deterioration of the nerve end points which causes loss of feeling in especially the feet. A sore or wound might then develop without the person being aware of it and by the time they realize its there, it might already be infected.

“Poor supply of blood and other important agents in healing of wounds complicate wound healing. There are a few miracle workers called wound care nurses available to treat this and which is critical in prevention of having to amputate.”

Although diabetes it is a chronic condition, it is not a death sentence, Charlotte emphasizes.

“It can be controlled and long term complications can be prevented. If diagnosed at an early stage, it may be possible to achieve remission by major adjustments in life style e.g. significant weight loss.”

With reference to gestational diabetes, which can develop in pregnancy, it usually resolves after the birth of the baby, but might be a precursor of future type 2 diabetes as there usually is a strong family history, she warns. The condition is triggered in pregnancy due to insulin resistance triggered by pregnancy hormones.

Prevention of type 2 diabetes is straight forward – eating healthy with regular exercise to prevent weight gain and do not smoke.

Charlotte explains the managing of diabetes is a complex challenge as it involves more than a daily tablet and multiple daily decisions.

“It involves the measuring of blood sugar, making good food choices, making time to exercise, taking medication and that as part of the daily rat race that most of us run.”

If one doesn’t plan ahead and have a proper routine, it will be difficult to adhere to treatment, she warns.

“Of course it seems more difficult to take injections than any thing else. We strive to plan a realistic routine together with each individual”

According to Charlotte the concept of Diabetes Self Management Education and Support has become part of all Global Standards of Care as it ends up playing the most significant part in the management process.

Qualified and experienced educators, now rather called “coaches”, guide people with diabetes in learning the best way to manage their own diabetes as they themselves have to live with it day to day.

“Ideally the person’s care taker e.g. spouse, friend, partner and or family member accompanies them in consultations as this support is most beneficial e.g. reminding your partner to take medication and measure blood sugar.”

Steps that are imperative of a person with diabetes’ journey includes assuring blood sugar levels are controlled by eating healthy, exercising and taking medication etc. from day to day.

Regular doctor visits e.g. every three to six months includes a blood test called HbA1c which is done to monitor average blood sugar levels of the past three months. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels needs to be monitored as these usually are associated with type 2 diabetes, while body weight and waist circumference as well as kidney function needs to be regularly checked.

“All these reduce the overall risk of long term complications. Eye examinations also have to be done yearly, so that any early damage can be detected and managed.”

A person with diabetes can “absolutely” live a normal live, Charlotte emphasizes.

“By controlling the blood sugar with proper management, the person with diabetes is as normal as any other without it.”

As diabetes is a complex condition, it needs a multidiscipliniary team to take proper care of all the different factors e.g. medical and medication, diet, exercise, psychology, foot care, says Charlotte. Such a team consist of a doctor and a dietitian qualified and experienced in diabetes care, a diabetes nurse, a biokineticist, a podiatrist, a psychologist and endocrinologist (a physician who specialised in diabetes) or paediatrician in case of children with diabetes.

Currently there are no endocrinologist in Namibia , but says Charlotte, a few physicians are very experienced in diabetes care. - henriette@republikein.com.na

Power of sport in schools

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Power of sport in schoolsIntegrated physical education and school sports programme Last week the official launch of the Integrated Physical Education and School Sport (IPESS) Advocacy Campaign took place in Windhoek, which will play an important role in the future of school sports. Mariselle Stofberg and Enzo Amuele

The ministry of education, arts and culture (MoEAC), the ministry of sport, youth and national service together with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German federal ministry for economic development and cooperation and other relevant stakeholders launched the advocacy campaign on the Integrated Physical Education and School Sports (IPESS) programme on 11 November 2020.

The event took place at Van Rhyn Primary School in Windhoek.

The launch of the advocacy campaign on the IPESS programme is aimed to see physical education and school sports become an intrinsic part of all school learners’ overall development and form part of their healthy lifestyle.

According to Ellen Goelz from the German embassy, the campaign is to create awareness of the importance of physical education and school sports throughout the country.

The fully inclusive programme will not just focus on the “very sporty” children, but all children with whatever level of ability will be included.

The MoEAC and the ministry of sport, youth and national service are working with the support of GIZ as well as the private sector.

Green Enterprise Solutions is the IPESS programme first major sponsor and the managing director Kehad Snydewel handed over a cheque of the total sum of N$350 000 as a Gold sponsor.

Insuring improved implementation of IPESS

In 2017, the MoEAC signed a Terms of Reference with the ministry of sport, youth and national service whereby both ministries made the commitment to ensure improved implementation of integrated physical education and school sports.

Since then, the ministries, with the assistance of their development partners, have made great strides in this endeavour.

They have developed two Physical Education 4 Life manuals, one for grade 10 and 11, which was launched last year, and one for pre-primary to grade 3, which will soon be launched.

They are also in the process of developing similar manuals for the remaining grades.

The ministry has also embarked on the development of an Integrated Physical Education and School Sports (IPESS) policy, which is the first of its kind in Africa.

“The ministry believes that in order to support learners to attain optimal learning and teaching outcomes, we have to look at the holistic development of our learners and physical activity is a vital part of this development,” said Faustina Caley, the deputy minister of MoEAC.

“It fosters their physical, social and emotional health. Effective participation in schools depends on the good health of our learners. The benefits of the physical education and school sports reach beyond the impact of physical well-being and the educational benefits of physical education and sport should not be under-estimated,” Caley added.

Integrating life skills into physical education

One of the aims of the IPESS programme is to integrate life skills into physical education and sports for development, using these as a tool to strengthen the resilience of learners.

“Life skills is not only learned in the classroom, but through practice, implementation and learning. The ministry sees IPESS as a vehicle not only for a healthy nation, but to also improve the life skills of our learners. Through IPESS we can keep our learners constructively engaged, decreasing their participation in negative behaviours such as substance abuse and falling prey to teenage pregnancy,” Caley said.

“We believe in creating a culture of care in our schools and the IPESS programme can be a way of achieving this. Through teamwork and participation, learners get to know each other and foster positive relationships not only between themselves, but also with their coaches. The more we strengthen the culture of care in our schools, the more we will achieve in all spheres of learners’ social development,” Caley added.

“A few years ago, physical education and physical activity were an integral part of daily life. Unfortunately, in the name of progress, we have chipped away at it that physical inactivity seems normal. We remain dedicated to our quest for sport development the ministry has concluded a historic Terms of Reference Agreement with the MoEAC aimed at refocusing our efforts on physical education and schools sport. Special emphasis is placed on the youth,” said the minister of sport, youth and national service, Agnes Tjongarero.

Tjongarero said this agreement is another milestone in their long journey of repositioning physical educational and school sport by launching this advocacy campaign.

“The ministries, with the assistance of GIZ, are in the final process of validating inputs and comments from key stakeholders towards finalising the draft IPESS policy,” Tjongarero added.

The advocacy campaign is set against the backdrop of the policy, which will be a first for Namibia, and the campaign will involve a set of public activities targeted to create support and awareness for the policy and the IPESS programme in general.

“The campaign represents a huge milestone for the ministries’ efforts of improving the status of physical education and school sport and we believe that this programme will become the bedrock of our entire sport development continuum,” Tjongarero said.

“Sport is not only a goal in itself. It promotes the development of physical and social skills and contributes to the empowerment and social responsibility of young people. Sport can teach us respect, to solve conflicts peacefully, to follow the rules and play fair and to achieve goals as a team.

Fact box: Sport for development

Using sport and physical activity as a tool for child and youth development as well as to achieve development goals.

Benefits:

1. Health

a. Reduced risk of non-communicable diseases

b. Increased knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs)

c. Increased knowledge about contraception and sexual relationships

2. Life skills

a. Communication

b. Self-confidence

c. Teamwork

d. Decision making

e. Goal-setting

3. Academics

a. Improved academic performance

b. Hard work ethic

c. Improved ability to concentrate

4. Equality

a. Girls’ empowerment

b. Enhanced participation

c. Learn about gender differences

Covid-19: Rapid tests available for travellers to SA

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Covid-19: Rapid tests available for travellers to SA Rapid tests for the coronavirus are available at all South African border posts, according to the South African Government Information Service (GCIS).

The advantage of these tests, compared to the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test where samples are taken from someone's throat or nose, is that the results are available within 15 minutes.

According to a statement by GCIS, travellers to South Africa who do not have a certified negative PCR test for Covid-19 must first be tested before they can enter the country. The negative test may not be older than 72 hours.

According to the South African government, some of its neighbouring countries, including Lesotho, do not have the ability to do PCR tests for all travellers to South Africa.

Rapid tests make it possible to manage the influx of travellers without certified PCR tests. Priced at about R150, rapid tests are much cheaper than PCR tests. The cost of the test must be paid by the traveller.

If the test is negative, the traveller may move to the entrance point. If the test is positive, the traveller must be placed under quarantine at a designated quarantine facility for that border post.

Travellers without a certified PCR test who refuse to take the rapid test will be denied access to the country and must go to a designated quarantine facility.

All travellers must still take a PCR test within 72 hours prior to their departure or arrival at a border post in South Africa. – Sanews.gov.za

Serial rapist strikes again

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Serial rapist strikes againSingle women targeted A man targeting women who live alone has raped another Walvis Bay woman at gunpoint. LEANDREA LOUW

WALVIS BAY



The Erongo police are investigating a third case of housebreaking and rape after a woman (28) was raped at gunpoint in Walvis Bay on Saturday night.

Deputy Commissioner Erastus Iikuyu said the latest incident happened around 03:30 in Cormorant Street, Tutaleni.

“The victim was asleep when the suspect broke into her home, pointed a firearm at her and raped her without her consent.

The victim was alone during the incident,” he said.

Ikuyu said the rapist has not yet been identified and the police are making every effort to find and arrest him.

“The suspect is described as a middle-aged male of medium height and dark in complexion.

The crime prevention team has intensified patrolling in Tutaleni and Kuisebmond during the night. We urge communities to stay alert.”

The first woman (28) was raped in her home in Brama Street at around 02:30 on 20 October.

A second woman (30) was raped in her home in Cable Beach Street at around 04:00 on 28 October. Both women live alone.

Anyone who may have information on these crimes, or knows the suspect or his whereabouts, is urged to contact Deputy Commissioner Iikuyu at 081 246 4757, or Detective Chief Inspector Shangula at 081 667 6820, or Inspector Ileni Shapumba at 081 297 7798, or the nearest police station.

Kahimise resumes CEO duties

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Kahimise resumes CEO duties ESTER KAMATI

OTJIWARONGO



The chief executive position at Cenored has been filled by Robert Kahimise, who assumed duty on 1 November and signed his contract last Friday.

This position was previously filled by August Kahimumu, who served in an acting position since April this year after founding executive officer Mburumba Appolus left the company.

The chairperson of the Cenored board of directors, Moses Matyayi, said at a brief ceremony on Friday that Cenored was privileged to have one of the most experienced executives in the country joining their ranks.

Matyayi added that it is an advantage to have Kahimise, who has experience working in the electricity industry.



Experience

Kahimise was previously the chief executive of the City of Windhoek – a position he held for four years. Kahimise's prior experience includes a stint at the ministry of mines and energy, after which he joined the private sector in Rosh Pinah before moving to the Ohlthaver & List Group. Kahimise also worked at the Electricity Control Board (ECB) and later moved over to Erongo Red.

Kahimise said affordability and access to electricity are some of the key issues that he plans to tackle.

“We are also cognisant of aging infrastructure that needs to be upgraded to ensure that our key towns remain with power irrespective of challenges.”

He added that he is excited to return to the energy sector.

Cenored has been in existence for over 15 years and aims to maintain efficiency within the electricity sector.

– ester@myzone.com.na

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Green scheme projects needs to improve

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Green scheme projects needs to improveManagement inefficiencies, under-production Namibia is the only country producing asparagus in Africa, while other countries in the world are Spain, Peru, Argentina and China. You need to improve your production to be able to pay your input. Calle Schlettwein: Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform Minister of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform, Calle Schlettwein said most of the green schemes in the Omusati Region are under-producing due to management issues and are in need of improvement.

Schlettwein said this on Sunday during his visit to the agricultural green scheme projects at Etunda in the Omusati Region’s Ruacana Constituency.

Etunda is the region’s main green scheme project, where several small-scale farmers are engaged in the production of, among others, maize and vegetables.

“You need to improve your production to be able to pay your input,” Schlettwein said speaking to journalists during his visit to the asparagus factory at Ruacana Town, adding that the management should be able to know what is expected to be done on the farm.

Regarding the asparagus plantation, Schlettwein said it is a commendable initiative as it is diversifying production, adding value to the product and it has secured a good market in Europe.

Opportunities

“We hope it will plough back into the economy and eventually create job opportunities for our people,” cited the minister.

The asparagus project has employed 17 permanent workers and is of the capacity to give work to 400 casual workers during harvest time.

“Our main market is Europe, but there is room for the product (asparagus) to be introduced to local people to become aware of it before we start supplying the local market,” said the project’s technical officer, Giel Boshoff.

Boshoff pointed out that Namibia is the only country producing asparagus in Africa, while other countries in the world are Spain, Peru, Argentina and China. - Nampa

Young artisans to renovate government houses

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Young artisans to renovate government housesEmpowering the youth The initiative has sent out hope and positive energy to hundreds of unemployed artisans countrywide. Works and Transport Minister John Mutorwa handed over four dilapidated government houses for renovations to the Association of Unemployed Artisans and Skills Development Hub in Namibia.

Mutorwa while handing over the houses in Windhoek said the association which has over 5000 unemployed members has signed a memorandum of understanding with the ministry to give young artisans an opportunity to participate and benefit from the government’s capital projects.

For the four houses, the association will use 53 young artisans whose outputs according to Mutorwa will determine whether government can start to directly work with the association or continue to put projects on public tender.

“We are giving you this opportunity once-off, but if you utilize it well and deliver then you will create more opportunities for you and others. This is a test, a pilot project, if you fail then you have closed bigger opportunities for you and others. Use your skills and education practically and give us quality work,” he said.

Quality control

He pleaded with government officials who will be supervising the project to be more hands-on and help groom the young artisans.

“Without compromising on quality, keep in mind that these are young people, recent graduates with less experience. Do not wait for them to fail so you can report that they are not good but rather help them, guide them and uplift them every step of the way so that they learn and deliver standard and quality work,” Mutorwa advised.

The initiative came after the association reached out to Mutorwa, earlier this year, requesting the ministry which is the custodian for government capital projects to create opportunities for their members, most of whom have been home without jobs for over five years now.

Chairman of the association, Florian Mwetulundila, in his acceptance speech, said the initiative has sent out hope and positive energy to hundreds of unemployed artisans countrywide. - Nampa

Crazy enough to change the world

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Crazy enough to change the world Rebecca Kalekela

Coastal High School hosted its valedictory ceremony on 6 November and it was a blast. Everyone was so excited and you could tell that real bonds were forged over the past few years of being together at school, even though it was difficult to admit at the time. It was more than just a reminder of how far we have come from our primary school years to high school.

At Coastal High, throughout all these years we were taught to build our character. That’s the one gift you have that only you as an individual can create. To be fair, we lost a little of ourselves during that process but we still made it.

I learned that you have no one else but yourself at the end of the day, so if you don’t take control of the decisions you make then you’d have no control over yourself and that’s what we never realised during school.

Most of the things I’ve done wasn’t for record holding purposes; it was to try and change the views of the youth, because it’s one thing to say something and another to actually do it. As my English teacher always says, “procrastination is the thief of time”. It never made sense because I always felt the need to debate and correct people where they’d go wrong but I later realised it was never about what was said, it’s about how it was expressed.

I believe in always staying patient even though patience isn’t really our strong point. It’s okay for you to feel judged or alone but remember to create your own happiness. It doesn’t matter where you are and who surrounds you, always speak your truth.

Always know that you’re the only difference you need to change the world to have your happy ending. Remember the values and morals installed in you by your parents and guardians because that is the foundation they laid for you.

Editor’s Note

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Editor’s Note Leave a legacy Andy Helmuth Gaseb



Here we stand as graduates, at 17 or 18 years of life, and 12 years of schooling behind us. We have all the bumps and bruises of adolescents.

The world we live in is plagued with dangers; coronavirus, rape, climate change and gender-based violence, but coronavirus was beyond my imagination. All my plans were lost and I became alone. I looked up but I could not see the stars at night. When I started feeling lost, I remembered my face in the mirror. Despite all the odds, we still managed to graduate. At the same time, we all make mistakes, since we could not allow ourselves to become so caught up in the past that we forget about the future or the present.

When I say to live without regrets, I also mean not letting the moments pass by; those special minutes, hours and days that will remain with you all of your life. If you forget to stop and look around you, you are left with little or nothing.

Think of the things you have learned, how you have grown in every sense, think of how destined today seemed. Just as today came it would be gone in memories, so cherish each moment.

Now, at the end of our careers as learners, we have countless opportunities to find and pursue our passions and leave our mark. William Shakespeare once said, "Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.”

In life we cannot always count on being born great or having greatness thrust upon us, but always remember that the opportunity to achieve greatness is within our grasp.

Keep in mind that many of our social and political leaders started their lives as average persons, like you and me. Despite the failures and mistakes we will make, and although we may be average, average can achieve greatness, whether recognised by the whole world or just a few.

If there is anything you take from today, remember to leave a legacy and to achieve greatness. It is not to get money and recognition; it is to leave those with whom you cross paths a little more happiness and hope.

Our time as a senior class will not be remembered by grades and popularity, but by the relationships we have built.

Farewell to the class of 2020

November 16, 2020, 2:00 pm

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Farewell to the class of 2020 Unique Naris



We all knew there would come a point where there would be no grade 12s left at school. Well, that time has come, where we say farewell to the last grade 12s.

Going to school for 12 years was a journey with ups and downs. The next generations can be delighted to go school for 11 years and finish school at approximately 17 years of age, which is fantastic, right? We all prayed for a year like that, so future generation don’t stop praying, because you never know maybe someday your prayers too will be answered.

Grade 12 year is a great experience, because everyone looks up to you. Some of us went to school for 13 years, just because we played in grade 10, but we got another chance to reach to our goals of being in grade 12 and finishing our school. You don’t expect some things when you’re promoted from grade 10 - there aren’t any CASS marks, your passing marks comes from your exams. You don’t get forced to do your work - that’s something good but on the other hand at the end of the day you’re responsible for your own loss or your own win.

Also being a senior is also exhausting, speaking from personal experience. You get to be an example to the juniors of the school. Mr Martin, our principal, always says, “The young ones look up to you, so behave.” That’s when we knew we’re the mothers and fathers of the new birds in town.

There were fights, there were arguments, sometimes we got on each other’s last nerve but, most importantly, there was love. At the end of the day we always prayed together as a family.

We actually didn’t spend the whole grade 12 year together; we were struck down by Covid-19 and we only got a taste of our senior year for three months. If I had to say something, I would say, God already had a plan to wipe out the old curriculum but we managed to pull through, and for that we’re forever grateful.