GWM launches impressive P-Series

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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GWM launches impressive P-SeriesLuxurious leather seating The vehicle boasts a push-button start feature, as well as safety assistance in the form of a handy rear-view camera. PHILLEPUS UUSIKU

Pupkewitz Motor Division recently launched the impressive new GWM P-Series at their showroom in Windhoek’s Independence Avenue.

Opening the door of this vehicle, prospective buyers are treated to the sight of an impressive interior with ample space, luxurious leather seating and a 9” colour multi-touch screen.

The vehicle also boasts a push-button start feature, as well as safety assistance in the form of a handy rear-view camera with guidelines, an electronic parking brake, and a tyre pressure monitor system.

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Rain amid landlessness

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Rain amid landlessness The good rains received across the country in recent days have laid bare chronic failures of successive post-independence governments, and leadership in general, in our country.

As seen in viral videos and photos taken this week, many urban youths have been flushed out of the tiny apartments they are renting from land barons, who include politicians and policymakers.

In their desperate quest for a quick buck, many of these barons have built housing complexes in riverbeds and other vulnerable landscapes, capped by substandard engineering work.

The unsuspecting and desperate young people moved into these rented homes as their leaders continue to toy around with the urban land conundrum, perhaps so that they can keep the youth in rental bondage to the benefit of policymakers-cum-businesspersons.

From an agrarian point of view, while people like President Hage Geingob, who this week tweeted a video of himself ploughing at his farm, celebrate the good downpours, many Namibians are watching on helplessly as they own no land.

It’s easy to tell people to “work the land” and contribute to food security, but doing so has become a luxury reserved only for a handful of Namibians.

As long as we continue to convene lengthy land conferences with regurgitated speeches of how colonialism led to the current state of landlessness – without reversing the situation – the good rains will only continue to be a source of desire to ‘Netflix and chill’ among many young people, as is presently the case.

More than 30k pupils ‘fall through cracks’

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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More than 30k pupils ‘fall through cracks’Schools to reopen on 26 January According to the education minister, the number of schoolgirls who fell pregnant doubled last year. Henriëtte Lamprecht







WINDHOEK

More than 30 000 pupils did not return to school last year when face-to-face learning resumed.

This is according to education minister Anna Nghipondoka, who said "they fell through the cracks and we were unable to find them”.

According to her, the number of pregnancies among schoolgirls during the closure of schools has also doubled. From March to September, 3 600 schoolgirls fell pregnant.

Despite the number of Covid-19 cases soaring in recent weeks, schools will reopen on 26 January, the ministry's executive director, Sanet Steenkamp, said. "Research has shown that it is more detrimental to close schools and it is better to manage the risks and the situation," Nghipondoka added.

Last year, pre-primary to grade three pupils missed 104 school days; grade four, five and six 119 days, grade seven and nine 109 days, grade eight 104 days, grade 10 78 days and grade 11 and 12 53 days.

Postponement ‘a last resort’

"The postponement of the schools' reopening is only regarded as a last resort," Steenkamp said, adding that education and training must continue. “Accessible, equal and quality education for every Namibian child remains the ministry's highest priority in 2021.

"With the right precautions, measures and regulations, it is possible to continue with face-to-face teaching while still ensuring the safety and health of teachers and pupils," she said.

Steenkamp further said there is no evidence that schools and teaching institutions are the primary drivers of the spread of Covid-19.

"Teachers and staff at schools are not in greater danger than any other profession of being exposed to Covid-19. Since the reopening of schools between August and September last year, no increase in infections has been reported that can be attributed to this.”

The education ministry has availed N$56 million for schools to procure disinfectants, soap and other precautionary measures for returning pupils.

Meanwhile, Nghipondoka said no child was seriously ill or was hospitalised at schools where Covid-19 cases were recorded amongst teachers and/or pupils.

"We have five schools where there were sporadic cases, but the children were asymptomatic. Of course, they can still transmit the virus, which is why hygiene in the home is so important.”

- henriette@republikein.com.na

Manica pumping massive funds into modern technology

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Manica pumping massive funds into modern technologyAdvanced mobile hopper and bagging system The plant’s superior and efficient performance translates to significant cost savings, which includes less handling of bags, direct delivery and lower transportation costs. PHILLEPUS UUSIKU

Manica Group Namibia has recently invested in an advanced mobile hopper and bagging system, the first of its kind in Namibia and a historic milestone for the port of Walvis Bay.

According to Monique Marias, the spokesperson of the Group, the bagging plant arrived in Walvis Bay at the end of 2020 and is currently stationed in the port awaiting the arrival of its first shipment.

In a nutshell the bagging plant allows for products to be shipped in bulk and bagged at destination, a revolutionary approach to bulk shipping, she said.

The Nectar Hopper and Bagging system is one of the world's most advanced mobile bagging systems and is designed to be completely self-contained.

Although technically advanced, it is user friendly and easily operated. Each unit contains 2 bagging lines with built-in scales, strictly certified in accordance with Dutch Weights and Measures (NMI), enabling a guarantee of accurately weighed bags and detailed records of delivered and received cargo quantities, she added.

Efficiency

The plant’s superior and efficient performance translates to significant cost savings, which includes less handling of bags, direct delivery, lower transportation and handling costs, to name a few. The equipment can bag free flowing bulk products at up to 140 tonnes per hour. The mobile design allows movement of facility between berths or even different terminals.

The hopper has a capacity of 21m3 and is fitted with a protection frame suitable for touching down a grab directly from the ship’s crane. Galvanised steel grids with 30 mm holes on top of the unit prevent lumps or foreign material entering the weighing mechanism, Marias pointed out.

The hopper also comprises a lockable storeroom for secure storage of spare parts. It features two extendable hopper sides operated by hand winches. These extend the total grab discharge area to 4.5 x 5 meters.

Manica Group Namibia looks forward to increased productivity and ease of business for their customers and providing a one-of-a-kind service, whilst promoting Walvis Bay as a premier bulk handling destination, she concluded.-phillep@nmh.com.na

Retired army general arrested for stock theft

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Retired army general arrested for stock theft Kenya Kambowe



RUNDU

Controversial former commander in the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), Major General Thomas Hamuyela (64), yesterday appeared in the Rundu Magistrate’s Court where he was denied bail on a count of stock theft.

He is been investigated for theft of five cattle in the Kavango West Region.

Hamunyela appeared before acting presiding officer Rufinus Jikerwa, who denied him bail because police investigations are still in their infancy.

The matter was remanded to 10 March and he remains in police custody pending a formal bail application.

Hamunyela informed the court that he will apply for legal aid from the state.

Hillia Munzenze was the state prosecutor.

Preliminary report

Meanwhile, according to the charge sheet, Hamunyela has been charged with one count of stock theft after he allegedly stole three oxen and two cows belonging to Sipipa Thadeus Naironga at Mutorwa village.

The livestock in question - valued at N$29 000 - was allegedly found Hamunyela’s possession.

The former commander is no stranger to criminal offences - in 2016, he was accused of using a government vehicle and property for private use.

At the time, the Anti-Corruption Commission decided that Hamunyela be charged on three counts of fraud and corruption for using an NDF vehicle and a soldier to transport building material to the construction site of his private home at Sivaradi village.

He also faced a case of attempting to defeat the course of justice by allegedly falsifying a letter dated January 2015 in which he claimed that he had permission to make use of the NDF’s water tanker, tents, blankets and a grinder during the construction of his house.

In 2016, Namibian Sun reported that Hamunyela was summoned to appear before the Rundu regional court, but did now show.

Attempts to get information on this case yesterday proved futile.

kenya@namibiansun.com

Wakudumo ‘witch-hunt’ tribal and political - marchers

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Wakudumo ‘witch-hunt’ tribal and political - marchers KENYA KAMBOWE



RUNDU

Some Swapo Party Women’s Council (SPWC) members in the Kavango East Region argue that the recent attacks and calls for the removal of beleaguered governor, Bonifatius Wakudumo, is part of an alleged ploy to dislodge Swapo from its north-eastern stronghold.

This remark is contained in a petition addressed to President Hage Geingob by a group of Wakudumo’s supporters who yesterday marched through the streets of Rundu.

The group condemned the demands of anti-Wakudumo protesters - who marched in the streets of Rundu on 29 December 2020, calling for the removal of the governor after he appointed a Chinese-born Charlie Min Xie as one of his 20 advisors on development in the region.

They congratulated and thanked Geingob for appointing Wakudumo as governor.

Wakudumo on 28 December 2020 revoked his decision to appoint Xie and apologised for the inconvenience his decision had caused.

Politically motivated

“In our considered view, the call for our governor to be dismissed or asked to resign is based on tribal and personal vendettas and is politically motivated,” the petition to Geingob read.

The protesters further claimed that the Kavango Concerned Group are not against the appointment of Xie as Wakudumo’s advisor, but are instead against Wakudumo’s appointment as regional governor.

The group also took aim at Swapo members who took part in the protest, which was organised by anti-Wakudumo protesters, urging party leadership to investigate the matter.

“We Swapo members in the Kavango East Region would like President Hage Geingob, the Swapo secretary-general Sophia Shaningwa and the political bureau to call upon those Swapo members who were involved in the demonstration against our Wakudumo to be taken to disciplinary hearing and use [the] Swapo code of conduct and constitution accordingly,” the petition read.

“We call for an internal investigation in the matter because we know and are sure that some of our party members are the ones who organised and took part in the demonstration.”

The petition was received by Kavango East chief regional officer Ludwig Thikusho, who informed the protestors that their document will be handed over the chairperson of the regional council management committee, Damian Maghambayi.

kenya@namibiansun.com

GIPF pulled into Shoprite-AR brawl

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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GIPF pulled into Shoprite-AR brawlFund shares in retail group worth N$84 million Whether by design or by default, AR’s planned shutdown of Shoprite stores directly affects the GIPF, with whom the pressure group has been bickering for weeks. MATHIAS HAUFIKU







WINDHOEK

The Government Institutions Pensions Fund (GIPF) could suffer collateral damage from the shutdown of Shoprite stores, planned by the Affirmative Repositioning (AR) movement for today.

AR - which for weeks has been a thorn in the flesh of the national pension fund, calling for fund members to gain access to their pensions before retirement, is now threatening to derail operations of the multinational retail giant, in which the pension fund is a 1.07% shareholder.

The Namibia Food and Allied Workers Union (Nafau) has successfully sued Shoprite after the High Court ruled in favour of the union’s demands last week. AR joined the fray later, saying the retail giant must comply with the demands or face a national shutdown.

Financial experts fear the planned shutdown might adversely impact Shoprite’s share price on the markets, subsequently pushing down the value of GIPF’s shares.

According to Shoprite’s 2020 integrated annual report, the GIPF is among the 15 beneficial shareholders that hold more than 1% in the group.

As of midday yesterday, Shoprite boasted a market capitalisation of N$79 billion. The GIPF’s shareholding translates into just over N$84 million in monetary terms.

‘Put the matter to bed’

Economist Salomo Hei, the managing director of the High Economic Intelligence Research Agency, said Shoprite should work on swiftly finding a solution to end the stand-off with its employees.

“Markets respond negatively to negative sentiments and it is therefore in the interest of Shoprite to put this matter to bed as quick as possible. With workers claiming that they are being mistreated, shareholders could be the most affected,” he said.

AR is hell-bent on forcing the retail giant to succumb to workers’ demands, which include higher pay and increased benefits. Most who work on contract claim they receive a salary of N$1 200 per month and have to spend up to N$750 on transportation alone.

The movement will today lead a shutdown campaign aimed at closing the doors of the retail giant.

AR spokesperson Simon Amunime this week called on the movement’s activists to shut down Shoprite stores across the country if the company “does not start negotiating in good faith”.

Shoprite Holdings currently has 95 corporate stores in Namibia.

Job protection

While confirming industrial action at some the Shoprite and Checkers supermarkets by Nafau, the group said it is doing everything in its power to protect jobs.

Questioned about the potential impact the planned AR shutdown might have on its share price and operations, a group spokesperson said it is a priority for Shoprite to resolve the matter through the appropriate channels and in the interest of all parties.

The spokesperson added that it is an accepted retail practice to employ seasonal workers during peak periods, including the festive season, Easter and other peak times throughout the year.

Shoprite employed some casual workers on 15 December 2020 to assist at its shops during the festive season. Their contracts end tomorrow, 15 January.

Last Friday, the High Court ruled that Shoprite should not recruit any new persons to replace the striking workers.

The group said it has a long-standing view that all workers are entitled to reasonable and decent working conditions and it believes that it offers market-related salaries, adding that contingency plans are in place to continue trading in most stores with minimal disruption to customers where possible.

“Dealings with our employees are always on the principles of fairness and respect and in compliance with the provisions of prevailing labour legislation,” Shoprite told Namibian Sun.

Pension fights

While the AR-led shutdown comes at a time when the pressure group is entangled in a pension fight with GIPF, the fund’s CEO David Nuyoma said a shutdown will not be in the interest of anyone because jobs will be jeopardised.

“It is our wish that a negotiated settlement that benefits both parties is found. We also hope that Shoprite demonstrates good corporate citizenship as per the country’s labour laws and that they have the ability to address these types of challenges,” he said during a telephonic interview.

Nuyoma said although the GIPF’s investment is at a group level, bickering at lower levels cannot be ignored.

“Shoprite has a network of stores across Africa and, therefore, if any enterprise in the group is jeopardised, it will be felt across the group,” he said.

Namibia’s current account deteriorating

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Namibia’s current account deteriorating Increase in imports, weak export performance in Q3 The goods balance recorded a deficit in the third quarter of 2020, slightly narrower than the deficit during the third quarter of 2019. PHILLEPUS UUSIKU

A recovery in imports following the easing of local and global Covid-19 restrictions, as well as a bounce-back in oil prices together with a broadly weak export performance, erased part of the significant current account surplus print in the second quarter of 2020.

Looking at merchandise trade, the goods balance recorded a deficit in the third quarter of 2020, slightly narrower than the deficit during the third quarter of 2019, according to Eloise du Plessis, head of research at PSG Namibia.

This was mainly due to the import bill declining more than the decrease in export receipts during this period. The value of merchandise imports declined by 24% year-on-year reflecting lower demand for all import categories, she said.

The sharpest declines were recorded for fuels -40%, vehicles, aircraft & vessels -33%, and consumer goods -19% year-on-year.

Furthermore, diamonds declined by - 61%, manufactured goods -38%, and food and live animals -28% year-on-year fell the most. On the bright side, the value of gold export earnings rose on an annual basis on the back of a higher gold price, she pointed out.

Markets

Namibia continues to source most of its goods imports from South Africa 62.9%, followed by China 6.9% and the eurozone 6.1%. The country mainly imports fuel and consumer goods from South Africa and machinery from China.

Namibia’s leading export partners were China 30.5%, South Africa 26.5%, and the eurozone 17.5%. The share of exports to China nearly tripled over the past year, reflecting an increase in exports of uranium and zinc concentrate. Exports to South Africa were mainly gold and live animals, she pointed out.

The possibility of prolonged travel restrictions amid new waves of Covid-19 infections despite the roll-out of vaccines, which would weigh on travel and transport services, as well as the possibility of continued weak demand for luxury goods are major downside risks to the current account balance in the near term.

Furthermore, the expected loss in revenues from SACU transfers, diamond exports, and services would also give rise to further debt financing by the government, which could reduce the country’s credit worthiness, she said. - phillep@nmh.com.na

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Dundee exceeds its gold production targets

January 13, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Dundee exceeds its gold production targets PHILLEPUS UUSIKU

Dundee Precious Metals (DPM) has not experienced any material disruptions to its operations as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The company exceeded its production targets, with total gold production for the year being at the high end of the company’s 2020 guidance range.

The preliminary production results include both of its mines in Bulgaria and Tsumeb.

“Our impressive operating results throughout the year reflect outstanding efforts by our teams to effectively manage the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic while continuing to prioritize the health and safety of our workforce and local communities,” said David Rae, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dundee.

The Tsumeb smelter processed approximately 231 900 tonnes of complex concentrate in 2020. During the fourth quarter, approximately 52 500 tonnes of complex concentrate were processed, reflecting a 4-day shutdown following the previously announced employee fatality in November, as well as maintenance activities in the converter area of the facility, he said.

Mines in Bulgaria

Ada Tepe delivered impressive performance in 2020, producing 118 7000 gold ounces, which exceeded its gold production guidance of 94 000 to 115 000 ounces.

Chelopech continued its consistent track record in 2020, producing 179,600 ounces of gold and 35.6 million pounds of copper, achieving the high end of its gold production guidance of 163 000 to 184 000 ounces and meeting its guidance for copper production of 35 to 40 million pounds, Rae pointed out.

On December 8, 2020, DPM announced a 50% increase to its quarterly dividend from US$0.02 per share to US$0.03 per share. – phillep@nmh.com.na

New Goethe-Institut director takes up post

January 14, 2021, 5:31 am

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New Goethe-Institut director takes up post German ambassador to Namibia Herbert Beck welcomed the new director of the Goethe-Institut Namibia, Dennis Schroeder on 12 January.
Schroeder took over on Monday, 4 January, from his predecessor, Daniel Stoevesandt.
The Goethe-Institut is Germany’s cultural institute, active worldwide. It promotes the study of German abroad and encourages international cultural exchange.
Goethe-Institut Namibia aims to promote the German language through language classes and courses for teachers of ‘German as a Foreign Language’. Furthermore, the institute fosters intercultural co-operation between Namibia and Germany through cultural programmes, as well as the multimedia library that mediates a modern and complete picture of all fields of life in Germany.

Services
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Goethe-Institute library is open to the public for browsing and returning content, but long stays are not allowed. Users can also select items online, book via email at library.windhoek@goethe.de and collect at reception.
Registration is open for German language courses in face-to-face, online and blended learning formats. Afrikaans and Oshiwambo courses are only available face-to-face.
The Goethe-Institut Namibia office is open from 09:00 to 17:30 on Mondays to Thursdays and from 09:00 to 14:00 on Fridays. Social distancing and mask-wearing are observed at all times.

For more information, visit goethe.de.

Kambindu – Namibia's weapon

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Kambindu – Namibia's weaponWarriors going all out Namibian forward Elmo Kambindu is Namibia's weapon for the Chan competition in Cameroon. LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK



Footballer Elmo Kambindu is one of 27 Brave Warriors who have been selected to attack in the upcoming Cameroon African Nations Championship (Chan) tournament.

All too familiar with this kind of task, the 27-year-old, Otjiwarongo-born Kambindu is great in the air and is also comfortable with the ball on the ground.

Last year he scored Namibia's only goal when they faced Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The match ended 2-1 in favour of the visitors. So far, he has made nine appearances for the national side, with four goals to his name.

Another goal poacher to look out for is 23-year-old Isaskar Gurirab, who was the top goal scorer in the 2018/19 season of the Namibia Premier League with 22 goals, as well as the Player of the Season. He has appeared eight times for the Warriors and has scored two goals.

Gurirab said they are not going to Cameroon to make up the numbers.

“Even though we didn't have friendly matches, we are focused and hungrier than ever to get the best results. We need all the support we can get to conquer the best in Africa in terms of local competitions,” he added. The vice-captain of the side, Iimbondi, said, “Football is inside us despite the Covid-19 challenges. We were born to play football and it is always a privilege and great opportunity to represent Namibia at the highest level. This should bring out the best in us. We remain united and can cause surprises at this year's tournament.”

The provisional list consisted of thirty 30 players, of whom three were dropped - a goalkeeper and two infield players.

Before departure, the team was split into three groups: the first group left at 11:00 for Johannesburg, the second group boarded a direct flight to Addis Ababa at 14:30, and the last group left Windhoek at 16:35 for Johannesburg to meet up with the first group before heading to Addis.

Namibia will face Guinea, Tanzania and Zambia in Group D of the competition. They will start their campaign against Guinea on 19 January. They will then cross paths with Tanzania on 23 January and finish off their group action against Zambia on 27 January.

The sixth edition of Chan, a biennial football tournament, was organised by the Confederation of African Football exclusively featuring players from the respective countries' national championships. The Chan competition will run until 7 February.



The team

The Brave Warriors squad is as follows:

Edward Maova, Ratanda Mbazuvara, Kamaijanda Ndisiro, Jonas Mateus, Emilio Martin, Vitapi Ngaruka, Ivan Kamberipa, Pat-Nevin Uanivi, Aprocious Petrus, Gregory Aukumeb, Johannes Mutanga, Erasmus Ikeinge, Alfeus Handura, Dynamo Fredericks, Iimbondi, Immanuel Heita, Ambrocius Amseb, Wendell Rudath, Gustav Isaak, Llewelyn Stanley, Wesley Katjiteo, Brandon Neibeb, Marcell Papama, Panduleni Nekundi, Gurirab, Deryl Goagoseb and Kambindu.

Hamukwaya confident of new 'darling'

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Hamukwaya confident of new 'darling' LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK



To move away from always depending on the seasoned crop of Paralympic athletes, the Namibia National Paralympic Committee (NNPC) has been hard at work in unearthing the new 'darling' of local Paralympics to ensure a bright future for Namibia in this code.

According to the secretary-general of the NNPC, Michael Hamukwaya, they have been busy with the 2020 Tokyo pathway for Namibian athletes to qualify for the Games since 2017.

He said the pathway makes it mandatory for athletes to participate in internationally sanctioned International Paralympic Committee events like the world championship and other major events.



We have fresh legs

“At the moment Namibia has nine athletes with the potential of making it the Paralympic Games in athletics and swimming, meaning definitely we have a lot of upcoming potential athletes for the future. The Games are slated for 24 August to 5 September.

“We are waiting until April to find out the number of slots which will be allocated to Namibia by IPC in swimming and athletics for us to allocate to the deserving athletes through the Paralympic qualifying pathway. “We are very hopeful and working very hard behind the scenes to make sure Namibia is well represented and definitely new stars are always born from this championship,” added Hamukwaya.

He added that it would be immature to give away the names of athletes who might make it to the Paralympic Games, as that might give them false hope.

However, he added that the athletes who may make the team, depending on the number of slots allocated by IPC, are Bradley Murere, Silvia Shivolo, Rudely Gowaseb, Lahja Ishitile and swimmer Matias Angula.

Namibia has in the past depended on the likes of the darling of local Paralympics, Johanna Benson, as well as Ananias Shikongo and Johannes Nambala to bring home medals. The 30-year-old Benson competes in T37 long jump and sprint events and at the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London won the women's 200 m race in her classification. Her 200 m success in London made her the first Paralympic gold medallist in Namibia's history.

The 34-year-old 200m T11 sprinter Shikongo made history in Rio 2016 by becoming the first Namibian man to win an Olympic or Paralympic gold medal. He further won bronze in the 100 and 400 metres. The 29-year-old T-13 sprint star Nambala in 2013 became the first Namibian to win a gold medal at an IPC Athletics World Championships when he won the 400 m sprint in Lyon.

Fighting for survival

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Fighting for survivalAshikoto upbeat about 2021 Local boxing promoter Risto Ashikoto is prepared to go out of his way to make sure that some of his young boxers' dreams of reaching the top do not fade. JESSE JACKSON KAURAISA

WINDHOEK



Local boxing promoter and academy co-owner Risto 'Pac-Man' Ashikoto has his sights set on raising amateur boxing to greater heights.

The promoter for Power-Power Development and Boxing Academy says he has to act as guardian angel for many of the young boxers in their academy.

Many of the boxers are aspiring to become to professionals but it requires hard work and funds.

“I will try by all means to get funds, so that I can uplift amateur boxing in the country during this year.

“I am just not sure if amateur boxing has been at its best for the past two or three years like it used to be.

“That is why I want to embark on a journey of getting our club and boxers to another level,” Ashikoto said.

Ashikoto and his partner, Paulus Ambunda, started the academy in 2016 but it only became active in 2019.

The aim of the academy is to restore the lost dreams of some of the young boxers who are unable to access training facilities.

Ashikoto has struggled to get a sponsor for his academy but refuses to give up on his young boxers.

“I will not give up on these boys even when the odds seem to be against us.

“Last year was very difficult and we went on a break because of the pandemic but this year we are going to defy the odds.

“The boys will return to training and as a club, we are going to make sure that amateur boxing returns to greatness like in the era of Ambrosius Kandjii and Joe Kaperu,” he added.

Barca reach Spanish Super Cup final

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Barca reach Spanish Super Cup final NAMPA/AFP



Marc-Andre ter Stegen's heroics ensured Barcelona edged past Real Sociedad on penalties on Wednesday to reach the Spanish Super Cup final, without the injured Lionel Messi.

Messi was watching on as Ter Stegen did his best to fill the void in Cordoba, the goalkeeper immense both in the shoot-out and during normal time, which had finished 1-1.

Frenkie de Jong's header was cancelled out by a penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal, who then missed in the shoot-out, one of two crucial saves made by Ter Stegen before 21-year-old Riqui Puig hit the winning shot.

“I wasn't down to take one but we needed one more taker and I stepped forward,” said Puig.

Barca advance to meet either Real Madrid or Athletic Bilbao in the final on Sunday, when Messi is expected to be available again, although coach Ronald Koeman was cautious at full-time.

“We have to wait,” he said.

Koeman's team have a mountain to climb in La Liga's title race but they are improving, now nine games unbeaten and with a trophy in their grasp.

This is the second year of the Spanish Super Cup's new format, which has four teams playing each other in a semi-final and final.

Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad joined after reaching the final of last season's Copa del Rey, which is still to be played, while Barcelona finished runners-up to Madrid in La Liga.

Yet while last season's version controversially took place in Saudi Arabia, the pandemic means this year's semis are in Cordoba and Malaga, with the final to be played in Seville.

Barca were the better side in the first half but had Ter Stegen to thank for not conceding early as Alexander Isak sped into the area only to see his chipped finish saved by the goalkeeper.

It was De Jong's dash to the near post that brought the first goal, an Antoine Griezmann cross hanging just long enough for the midfielder to get there first and direct a superb header in.

Yet De Jong gave Real Sociedad a way back just after half-time, the ball striking him on the hand and allowing Oyarzabal to equalise from the spot.

Barca nearly pulled ahead instantly as De Jong swivelled in the box, only to take an unnecessary extra touch. Ousmane Dembele fired just wide and Trincao, on as a substitute, also had a chance to win it before the 90 minutes were up.

Zaldua unleashed in extra time but Ter Stegen tipped over. Dembele's finish was saved too while Adnan Januzaj poked wide at the end of a brilliant run and then hit the post with a free-kick.

Into the shoot-out, and Jon Bautista's first attempt was parried away by Ter Stegen, only for De Jong to hit the post.

But Oyarzabal, who had scored earlier from the spot, this time missed, Ter Stegen guessing right again. Dembele scored before Willian Jose struck the post. Miralem Pjanic tucked in and so did Mikel Merino under pressure.

In-form Foden is natural fit for England

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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In-form Foden is natural fit for England NAMPA/AFP



Phil Foden should be an automatic pick for England at this year's delayed European Championship after his outstanding season so far, says Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.

The 20-year-old midfielder scored his eighth goal of the season as City beat Premier League strugglers Brighton 1-0 on Wednesday their seventh successive win in all competitions.

City climbed to third spot in the table, just four points behind leaders Manchester United and one point adrift of Liverpool with a game in hand on the champions.

Guardiola praised his young match-winner, who is City's leading goal scorer this season.

“In the last few days, Phil has played against (Chelsea's Cesar) Azpilicueta, one of the most incredible defenders in the Premier League, and was outstanding,” he said.

“It was the same against (Manchester United's). I am pretty sure he would be selected (for England) if it has me.

“(England manager) Gareth (Southgate), I don't know but I am sure he was really impressed by him, like all of us.”

Foden first sprang to prominence when England won the Under-17 World Cup in 2017 and has since earned three senior caps.

“He is a guy with a special instinct close to goal, not just with the left foot, but with the right foot,” said Guardiola.

“He deserves to play. His standards are higher. I have the feeling he lives his life 24 hours to play football.

“When you see his face, he is happy at training sessions and playing games. When that happens, the rest is what everyone sees in his performance.”

Foden said he was enjoying the responsibility he was being given by Guardiola, adding that City were back in the groove after a slow start to the season.

“It definitely feels like we're back to our best,” he said. “We've taken confidence from the last few results.”

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Airlink to continue Windhoek and Walvis Bay flight routes as SA closes land borders

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Airlink to continue Windhoek and Walvis Bay flight routes as SA closes land borders STAFF REPORTER



Following South Africa’s closure of all land borders, independent airline Airlink announced that it will continue with its comprehensive flight schedule and air route network in the region, of which the Windhoek and Walvis Bay routes will be serviced.

The airline said flights are scheduled to enable customers and personnel to comply with South Africa’s curfew and still commute to and from airports with sufficient time to complete the necessary health, security and immigration checks prior to departure.

“As a result, all Airlink flights depart after 08:00. Similarly, Airlink flights arrive at their final destinations for the day before 20:00, providing customers and personnel with sufficient time to reach their homes or places of accommodation before the 21:00 curfew,” the statement added.

According to Airlink managing director and CEO Rodger Foster, health and safety are critical, as is economic continuity, for which regional air travel is the only viable alternative.

“Airlink will continue to provide travellers with safe, reliable and affordable connectivity between South Africa and destinations throughout Southern Africa,” he added.

Currently Airlink serves Lubumbashi (D.R. Congo), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Maseru (Lesotho), Sikhuphe (Eswatini), Harare and Bulawayo (Zimbabwe), Gaborone, Maun and Kasane (Botswana), Windhoek and Walvis Bay (Namibia), Lusaka and Ndola (Zambia), Maputo, Beira, Pemba and Vilanculos (Mozambique) as well as numerous South African destinations.

South Africa this week decided to close its 20 land borders for all but cargo, emergency and exceptional travel, as countries across the region continue with efforts to curb Covid-19 infections and limit the pandemic’s harmful social and economic impact.

Shifting Africa from the back seat to the front seat

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Shifting Africa from the back seat to the front seat Part 2: Unity and the pursuit of purpose SARAH GOROH



It is no news that Africa has been in the back seat for far too long with minimal influence in our global society. There is a need to shift Africa from the back seat to the front seat, and a change in our perception is one of the ways to achieve this dream. Part two of this article reveals the power in unity and the pursuit of purpose as major drivers of change.

The key to unlock the doors to economic freedom and development, and to set Africa at a place of influence in our global society, can be achieved through education, unity and the pursuit of purpose. The pursuit of purpose begins when we discover our identity as Africans and unite in purpose and vision. What defines us as true Africans? Who are we and what do we have to offer to the global market? We need to be true to our origins, value what we have and celebrate our diversity.



The Pursuit of Purpose:

If we want to achieve a unified goal or vision for the development of our nations, we must pursue purpose as a continent, as nations, as communities and as individuals. What is our end goal? The pursuit of purpose begins with the individual, not the bigger group. As individuals, we need to ask ourselves these set of questions; “Who am I? Why am I here? What should I be doing?”

Once we have defined who we are and where we are going, a strong drive will be birthed within us and we won't allow the rest of the world to place a tag on us. In order for us to set ourselves at a higher place of affluence globally, we need to put our differences aside and choose to discover and pursue our purpose. The current pandemic has revealed our deep dependency mindset and our lack of multi-generational leadership. Henceforth, it's time for us to grow and let go of limiting beliefs.

However, in order for us to grow, we must acknowledge that we have indeed come far. We are not where we used to be. We have experienced growth over the last couple of centuries. If we do not acknowledge that we have experienced growth, we will fail to move to the next level and we won't take notice of the progress or changes that are taking place, and this will continue to place us at the back seat. It's time for us to increase our sphere of influence as we set the stage for more inventors, creators and innovators.



United We Stand:

We desire to set the standard and to stand out from the rest of the world. However, it is imperative that Africa becomes united with one vision in mind. We should seek to become a continent that feeds, educates and cares for its inhabitants. It's time for a shift through industrialisation. We have the means and the resources, but we must put them to good use and invest them in avenues that will benefit Africa as a continent for generations to come.

It is vital that we begin to invest for the future. This can be made possible by holding our leaders and fellow citizens accountable, applying the principle of teamwork and designing and implementing long-term policies and plans that are efficient for the nations of Africa. We must unite and abolish racism, tribalism, xenophobia and inequality. If we do not abolish these practices, we will fail to unite in vision, and Africa will remain at the back seat. We all form part of the bigger picture and every African nation has their part to play. Once we unite in purpose and vision, we can create a chain reaction that will reap a great harvest for generations to come. Africa will eventually become self-sustained.

Some of the ways we can encourage sustainable development, is through supporting trade, education, local investments and easy travel between African countries. This should be done intentionally to promote sustainability. There must be a call to action where we hold ourselves accountable to enforce, implement and to execute our written plans. We need to learn and apply key principles from the Western World that we believe may bring change or make a difference in our continent. Africa is blessed and it is imperative that we begin to value what we have before we offer it back to the rest of the world. Let us begin to refine and polish our 'own' people, our resources, our businesses and ideas as we showcase them to the global market. By so doing, we will learn to be team players and avoid being spectators.

What is our role as individuals, nations and as a continent as we seek economic freedom? Uniting in purpose and vision will define our individual roles and set us on a path for multi-generational progression and sustainable development.



* Sarah Goroh is an inspirational writer, speaker, content creator, blogger, poet, author, certified life coach & NLP practitioner, administrator and ordained minister. She impacts the lives of many through her brand - Charizma Inspirations.

Shoprite discontent the tip of an iceberg

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Shoprite discontent the tip of an iceberg CEES STRIJBIS



We could not agree more with the people who strike for better wages. Now at Shoprite, Checkers and U-save, tomorrow perhaps at Pick n Pay, next week at Clicks or Spar, only to be followed by others such as farmworkers.

The solution is in fact quite simple: the government should up the minimum wage to at least N$3 000 per month. (And also the old-age pension and disability grant, for that matter.)

The government has no money? Then let the government do something about it. We have 23 ministers for 2.7 million people. Holland has 17 for 17 million people.

The IPC president, Dr Itula, considers 12 ministers to be enough for Namibia. A minister earns close to a million dollars a year on top of a host of allowances. The prime minister gets more, the president close to N$1.3 million in cash alone. So, by limiting the number of ministers to 12, the government saves heavily. Remember, fewer ministers means fewer deputies, fewer executive directors. Also, if the government limits the number of civil servants to fewer than 100 000 (we have 230 000 of them now), billions could be saved.

Jade McClune states in an article in The Namibian (Friday, 8 January) that the Shoprite CEO earns N$60 000 a day (stunning indeed) while a cashier earns at best N$90. Our president gets roughly N$5 000 per working day versus the minimum wage of domestic workers at N$72.35 per day and farmworkers at N$68.33 a day.

I am sure that the CEOs and their senior staff have to perform to get what they get. But if I look at the election results it is as if many of us do not believe the president and his ministers have performed.

So, don't blame Shoprite and all the others alone. We should blame our leaders too. If we are a Christian nation, as we say we are, let's behave like Christians and pay the labourers a decent wage. We should not only help ourselves but especially our workers who make it possible for us to make money. And, by the way, is it not that the main mission of entrepreneurs, like Shoprite is to make money in order to expand and make more money which will create more jobs, whereas the main mission of government is to serve its people?

We all should endeavour to drastically reduce inequality. For too long have we allowed it to rise. The choice is ours.

Covid-19 and the triple bottomline – Emphasis on people

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Covid-19 and the triple bottomline – Emphasis on people The salmon run takes guts and effort, still knowing that you will die afterwards. You fight for the survival of your species and for a new life cycle to begin. It is a difficult journey that all salmon embark on in their adult lives. Natasja Beyleveld



What happens when leaders fail their journey’s purpose because of self-interest?

Donald Trump, and the political circus hosted in America. Parastatals allocating hefty bonuses to executives amidst local businesses losing out on N$20 billion due to the impact of Covid-19 on Namibia’s economy. It is no secret that Covid-19 has had us all treading water. Had us going through the motions rather than proactively leading outside the comfort zone at times. Had us questioning our purpose and intent. Questioning this difficult journey, perhaps not wanting to return from the ocean to the river just yet. Perhaps healing took place on other levels, towards establishing what in fact is healthy for the economy, and for our citizens.

Self-doubt is a natural process in life, therefore the need to have well established networks and peers to ‘bounce off’ with.

Starting off with the media hype pertaining to Harambee some years ago: what vision have we been sharing passionately? What behaviours are counter-productive in terms of furthering our educational, ethical, and growth-oriented needs? What are we excusing and therewith encouraging?

The best leaders are uncomfortable with being comfortable. Say that twice. You will not be alone, but you will also not be popular when your light unblinds the obvious.

Where there is no communication; disconnection is happening. Disconnecting is also a choice, and a behaviour where you choose to create distance from feelings, emotions, situations, stress, action, in fact – from implementation. It is to avoid. To connect, asks from you to confront openly, and to be honest. To become vulnerable is to become relatable. If you avoid this you also allow yourself to remain in the prison cell, choosing misery above uncertainty. Life was not meant to be easy, but it sure is a beautiful privilege and commitment.

Back to the point, do we at times subconsciously allow disconnection as the norm? Is disconnected leadership at the mid of the storm, when our focus is directed to Profit, and Planet – not as much to People? We tend to count on Profit, Performance – as the only certainty; because it ‘makes sense’ and is clear in statistics.

When disconnecting, explore whether this action is ego-centrical, purely competitive, the unwillingness to learn, or by choice. When we lose trust in leadership by becoming disengaged, we are not changing or allowing change to propel the situation forward. The fact is that our leadership needs you, and your critically active support.

The Birth of New Confidence

‘Speaking up’ assists the processing of information that helps us accept change-for-the-better. Are we being heard, with messaging above the awareness threshold? The year 2020 saw most media coverage directed towards donations and sponsorships for housing, agriculture, vaccines, safety against Covid-19, against gender-based violence, and the digitalisation of systems and processes in business. Around 60% of the global population still has no computers or access to the internet. Digital divide has become the new inequality scale.

We were deprived of large events, sport activities, arts, and performance, effectively contributing to social disconnect and the (fun) shared confidence in a community. Take away social life, and you have isolation that easily becomes counter-productive. The Dalai Lama said, “The Covid-19 pandemic has reminded us how interdependent we are: what happens to one person can soon affect many others, even on the far side of our planet. Therefore, it is up to all of us to try to cultivate peace of mind and to think about what we can do for others, including those that we never see. It is natural to feel worry and fear at a time when so many are suffering. But only by developing calmness and clear-sightedness can we help others and, in so doing, even help ourselves. In my own life, I have often found that it is the most difficult challenges that have helped me gain strength.”

Confidence is in essence to stay connected regardless of challenges, and to make it personal and not generic. It is sharing the challenges and voicing out against fear, depression, abuse, and neglect. So many citizens are silenced in depression and fear of the unknown, with no safety nets in place. Leaders that share in the confidence of their people are the ones that aim to move forward.

So, what does this mean for us in the aftermath of Covid-19? Sandra Galea, professor of epidemiology at Boston University, best sums it up: “It means that we need to take a long, hard look at the social and economic systems that underlie how we live, work and play. It means that we need to question why there are deep asset gaps between haves and have nots, and to ask why we continue to have long entrenched marginalisation of minority racial and ethnic groups.

“Importantly, these are social problems, not biological ones. And social problems are harder to address and deal with. But Covid-19 should give us the reasons – finally – not to rest until we have restructured our world so that there are no health haves and health have-nots, and that we are investing in the forces – like safe housing, good schools, liveable wages, gender equity, clean air, drinkable water, a fair economy – that create a healthier world.”

Warmer Atlantic attracts unusual species

January 14, 2021, 2:00 pm

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Warmer Atlantic attracts unusual species STAFF REPORTER

WALVIS BAY



Due to the particularly warm temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean off Namibia's coast (a balmy 24°C at the Mole on Tuesday) many more swimmers are seen in the water every day. However, along with the warmer temperatures, some fish and shark species that are not usually found off the Namibian coast have been caught, including two small hammerheads that were caught by a ski boat and by a kayak. “It was very unusual,” said kayak angler Stephan Calitz. He caught the shark at Mile 7, about 500 metres from the beach, using sardine as bait. The shark was about 1.5 metres in length.

In another instance, ski boat fishermen claim to have had an unusual encounter about 1 500 metres from the beach at Vierklantklip, saying they saw a large hammerhead shark, a blue marlin and eight orcas.