South Africa's unemployment rising

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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South Africa's unemployment risingNew record high of 32.6% in Q4 The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated South Africa's labour market woes. Construction has been depressed for quite some time it has shown losses on the side of GDP as well as employment for a long time. Risenga Maluleke, Statistician General: SA Statistics Agency South Africa's unemployment rate rose to a new record high of 32.6% in the first quarter of 2021 from 32.5% in the final quarter of 2020, the statistics agency said on Tuesday.

The rate was the highest since the quarterly labour force survey began in 2008. Statistics indicated the number of unemployed people at 7.242 million in the three months to the end of March, up from 7.233 million people in the previous three months.

Africa's most industrialised economy has long suffered from extremely high levels of unemployment, trapping millions in poverty and contributing to stark inequalities that persist nearly three decades after the end of apartheid in 1994.

The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated South Africa's labour market woes. The economy was in recession before the country recorded its first coronavirus infection in March last year.

Statistics South Africa said job losses in the first quarter were recorded mostly in construction, followed by trade, private households, transport and agriculture sectors.

"Construction has been depressed for quite some time it has shown losses on the side of GDP as well as employment for a long time," Statistician General Risenga Maluleke told a news conference.

Construction, with 87 000 job losses in the quarter, accounts for 7.2% of total employment and 2.9% of gross domestic product (GDP), while trade, which lost 84 000 jobs, accounts for 19.9% of employment and 16.2% of GDP. - Nampa/Reuters

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EDITORIAL: Stop favouring the rich

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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EDITORIAL: Stop favouring the rich On paper and in the context of law, any person charged with a crime should face the same treatment by police and the courts in terms of procedure and protocols.

Lately, there have been selective radical departures from such established rules in order to accord persons of certain prominent statuses lenient – and even unlawful – regimes of handling their matters.

Exhibit A of this irregular behaviour is how the police failed to place in custody – even just for a night - a British billionaire who, by his own admission in court, shot dead his employee during an argument in February.

Then, as one of our front-page stories today narrates, the son of a powerful family in Windhoek was allowed to go home after blatantly refusing to take a breathalyser test or give a blood specimen for suspected drunken driving.

Our police force is turning into a unit that ties the shoelaces of the rich while meting out harsh punishments for even the slightest of perceived violations by the downtrodden.

Some destitute inmates continue to rot in jail for trivial transgressions for which they can’t even afford bail of N$200, but murder suspects are treated like kings of ancient kingdoms.

This wealth-based discrimination of Namibians by the police has to end right now, or the victims of this selective treatment will rise one day and render this country ungovernable. The oppressed have always had a way to hit back.

Africa's share in India's oil imports rises

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Africa's share in India's oil imports rises16.3% increase in April Overall, India's oil imports in April declined 3.7% from the previous month as state-run Hindustan Petroleum Corp did not receive oil for its Mumbai refinery. NIDHI VERMA

Africa's share in India's oil imports surged to a seven-month high in April as refiners boosted purchases from small regional players such as Ghana and Congo on better economics and less competition from China, data obtained from sources showed.

The share of African oil in India's crude imports rose to 16.3% in April, the data showed.

Overall, India's oil imports in April declined 3.7% from the previous month as state-run Hindustan Petroleum Corp did not receive oil for its Mumbai refinery, which was fully shut for revamp.

Refiners shipped in about 4.2 million barrels per day (bpd) oil in April, a decline of about 8.7% from the same month last year.

Compared to last year, Indian refiners cut intake of long-haul oil from Latin America, the United States and Canada, and raised imports from Kuwait.

Higher purchases from Kuwait raised the share of Middle Eastern oil to about 67.9% in overall imports, the highest in nine months.

India's oil imports in May could decline as refiners cut crude runs towards the end of April after a second Covid-19 wave forced several states to impose mobility restrictions, hammering fuel demand and leading to larger stockpiles.

Domestic sales of gasoline and diesel by state-run refiners plunged by a fifth in May from a month earlier, preliminary data showed.

In April, Iraq continued to be the top oil supplier to India followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Kuwait improved its ranking by two notches to No. 4, replacing the United States which tumbled to No. 6. Nigeria continued to be the fifth biggest supplier to India.

Higher imports of Middle Eastern and African oil raised the share of OPEC oil in India's imports to a six-month high of about 77.5%. - Nampa/Reuters

IMF, Uganda reach agreement

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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IMF, Uganda reach agreement The International Monetary Fund and Uganda reached a staff-level agreement for a US$1 billion program under a three-year extended credit facility, the Fund said on Tuesday.

The African country said last month it had applied for an IMF loan in order to bolster its shaky finances after the Covid-19 pandemic hammered its economy. Last year, the Fund loaned Uganda over US$490 million.

"The IMF-supported program supports the next phase of the Covid-19 response and strengthens the fundamentals of a more inclusive private sector-led growth," said Amine Mati, head of the IMF team that held virtual missions to Uganda earlier this year.

"Strengthening governance and budget transparency will be key to fostering public sector efficiency while preparing the ground for sound management of oil revenues."

Uganda imposed one of Africa's tightest Covid-19 lockdowns, which included a shuttering of all businesses except the most essential.

The staff-level agreement is subject to approval by the Fund's management. - Nampa/Reuters

‘Connected’ Tilahun Jr refuses to take breathalyser test

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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‘Connected’ Tilahun Jr refuses to take breathalyser test STAFF REPORTER



WINDHOEK

Police in Khomas have initiated an internal probe after Haddis Tilahun Jr., the son of a rich Windhoek family who refused to take an alcohol breathalyser test and was charged with assaulting uniformed officers, was granted bail hours after his detention.

Khomas Regional Commander, Deputy Commissioner Ismael Basson, confirmed the investigation, saying the officer who granted bail was summoned over the matter.

Tilahun Jr, son of millionaire couple Martha Namundjebo-Tilahun and Haddis Tilahun, was arrested on Saturday night on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol along David Meroro Street.

Traffic officers told their bosses that Tilahun Jr drove through red traffic lights and was stopped and asked to take a breathalyser test, which he refused to do.

Police officers allege that the 28-year-old Tilahun Jr assaulted them by “throwing punches” at them before they finally overcame him and forced him into a police vehicle to take him to Katutura State Hospital for a blood test.

Upon arrival at hospital, Tilahun Jr blatantly refused to take blood tests and “continued to throw punches” until the doctor gave up, officers allege.

He was then taken to the Windhoek police station where seven charges were opened against him.

Long rap sheet

He was charged with driving a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, refusal to have his blood sample taken by an authorised medical doctor, refusal to provide a specimen of breath on request of a traffic officer in uniform, obstructing the course of justice, obstructing police officers while performing their duties, assaulting uniformed police officers while performing their duties and resisting lawful arrest.

He allegedly told police officers that he was the son of powerful parents and that the charges will fall flat.

Namibian Sun can confirm that Tilahun Jr was released on N$8 000 bail the night after his parents claimed that he enjoys diplomatic immunity from arrest.

With anger raging among junior officers over the perceived soft treatment of Tilahun Jr, especially given the gravity of the charges and his alleged blatant disrespect of officers, the matter was discussed by police chiefs on Monday at a management meeting.

“Everyone in management was not happy. The prosecutor-general was informed too and she’s not happy. The officer who granted bail was summoned to the commander’s office to explain among others why bail was only granted for drunken driving while there were six other charges,” a senior traffic cop told his irate juniors in a communication seen by Namibian Sun.

Basson yesterday said he was “not happy” with the manner the matter was handled on the night.

“The matter was discussed at management level and we have started an internal investigation. The officer who granted the suspect bail was summoned and action to be taken will be dependent on the outcome of the probe,” he told Namibian Sun yesterday.

When approached for comment, Tilahun Jr threatened legal action against this newspaper if it went ahead with publishing the story without his “consent”.

Samherji ran spy syndicate

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Samherji ran spy syndicate MATHIAS HAUFIKU



WINDHOEK

Icelandic fishing giant Samherji Group ran a spying syndicate on one of its former bosses, Johannes Stefansson, to get insight into the status of operations in Namibia.

The company has continued to deny allegations that it was party to the Fishrot scandal, which saw over N$150 million in alleged bribes paid to politicians and their cronies.

The spy ring is contained in an affidavit filed with the High Court on Monday written by Jon Ottar Olafsson, who claims he was recruited by Samherji allegedly to gather information from Stefansson and feed it to the Icelandic bosses.

Stefansson became a target at the corruption-accused multinational seafood giant after he blew the whistle on alleged rampant corruption by releasing a trove of over 30 000 internal documents to Wikileaks.

Samherji claims the information released to Samherji was “cherry-picked”.

“I was surprised when I found out that out of almost 200 000 emails that Mr Stefansson sent or received between 2008 and 2016, only 19 497 emails are on Wikileaks,” Olafsson said.

A private investigator of the Icelandic fisheries company, Olafsson details in his affidavit how he was tasked in 2016 to travel to Namibia “to investigate what was really going on and report back to them regarding issues such as financials, staff and other operational matters”.

Dodging calls

Coming to Namibia under the pretence of being Stefansson’s operational assistant, he said the trip was necessitated because “the management team in Iceland had very little insight into the operations and status in Namibia and often had great difficulties reaching Stefannson”.

Stefansson allegedly always made excuses and ignored emails and phone calls from his superiors in Iceland.

Olafsson said Samherji wanted to fire Stefansson in 2016 and replace him with other expatriates in Namibia. Such plans, Olafsson said, were halted as “that turned out not to be feasible”.

“The reason was that no one in the group, apart from Mr Stefansson, had an overview of or insight into the operations in Namibia or contact to vendors and business partners,” he said.

Stefansson was allegedly the only contact between Samherji and its Namibian partners.

Olafsson detailed how he had kept trying to become Stefansson’s friend on several occasions in order to win his trust “to gather as much information as was possible”.

“I started talking to Mr Stefansson about the work in Namibia and hinted that I was not happy about being sent there. That I wanted to stay in Iceland.”

He also said Stefansson’s plan to was do business in South Africa.

“He proudly told me that he had already established political contacts there that would lead the group to getting a lot of quota in the coming years, all the way up to the minister of agriculture and fisheries. This came as a surprise to me as neither Mr [Aðalsteinn] Helgason, nor Ms [Arna] McClure had mentioned to me that the focus of the operation was moving from Namibia to South Africa,” he narrated.

Behind closed doors

Olafsson would update the bosses in Iceland on the progress made as far as obtaining information from Stefansson is concerned.

He said Stefansson did not want him to meet Fishrot-accused persons such as James Hatuikulipi, Tamson Hatuikulipi and Sacky Shanghala.

“From the onset, it was clear that Mr Stefansson did not want me to meet with them by myself or sit in meetings with them. Every meeting began with Mr Stefansson speaking to them behind closed doors and then he came out to call me in. I noticed that Mr Stefansson communicated with them extensively via WhatsApp and kept 100% control over the relationship with those men,” Olafsson said.

He added that Stefansson owned a company called Karee Investments One Two Three which operated fish shops owned by Samherji. The Samherji bosses in Iceland allegedly had no knowledge about the existence of these fish shops in Oshikango.

“The company operating the fish shops and the trading company, Karee, was not owned by the group as Mr Stefansson had told me but instead it was owned by himself. Nevertheless, the group financed the operations as it was believed to be a group company,” he revealed.

Olafsson alleged in the affidavit that in November 2016, months after Stefansson was fired, he [Stefansson] transferred N$200 000 from Karee to his personal bank account meant to pay salaries and other operational expenses.

Betrayal

Stefansson on several occasions alleged that Samherji’s way of doing business was simply through bribes.

Olafsson, however, said Stefansson did all the negotiations and not the group.

Stefansson was allegedly unhappy working for Samherji because “he was owed a lot of money in bonuses for all the quotas he had brought to the operation in Namibia”.

Olafsson also said he was the one who informed the management at Samherji’s headquarters in Iceland that Stefannson was planning to quit.

“He was going to stay with the group for a few more months and then betray them and start cooperating in Africa with another seafood company from Iceland. He told me that the minister of fisheries in Namibia had been told and apparently approved this plan.

“The quotas would be taken from the group, according to Mr Stefansson,” Olafsson said.

Inside the German-Namibia genocide deal

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Inside the German-Namibia genocide dealSet to operate on equal partnership, joint decision-taking Granular details have emerged regarding the genocide settlement declaration reached between the governments of Namibia and Germany. STAFF REPORTER







WINDHOEK

Seven regions to benefit

Damara and San included

Separate N$838m agreed

Land acquisition on agenda



Seven Namibian regions - Erongo, Hardap, //Karas, Khomas, Kunene, Omaheke and Otjozondjupa - have been exclusively identified for unique reconstruction and development support programmes as part of the deal reached with Germany over crimes of genocide.

Such development would include land acquisition within the framework of the Namibian Constitution, and land development, agriculture, rural livelihoods and natural resources, rural infrastructure, energy and water supply, technical and vocational education and training.

This is according to the joint declaration between the two governments, seen by Namibian Sun, and from which Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila is expected to derive her opening speech to Parliament next week.

While the much-maligned N$18.6 billion agreed between the two governments will go towards “the reconstruction and development support programme for the benefit of the descendants of the particularly affected communities”, an additional N$838 million will be dedicated to projects on reconciliation, remembrance, research and education, the declaration said.

“The governing and implementation structures for both programmes will operate on the basis of the principles of equal partnership, joint decision-taking, good governance and transparency as well as affected community participation,” the document further stated.

Both Namibia and Germany have agreed that these amounts settle all financial aspects of the issues relating to genocide, although communities this week called for a renegotiation of the amounts to be paid.

Sources in the Namibian government told Namibian Sun this week that the settlement is seen as a significant political victory by Namibia, especially the admission by Germany that the atrocities in which 85 000 people died constituted genocide.

Genocide atrocities

Namibian communities whose kith and kin were butchered indiscriminately by colonial Germany are demanding N$8 trillion in reparations, saying that would make up not only for the lives lost but also for land lost.

The declaration itself conceded that “in the aftermath of the war, large swathes of territory, constituting ancestral land historically inhabited by and belonging to indigenous communities, were seized and occupied by the German state”.

“These actions led to the expulsion and displacement of indigenous communities from their ancestral lands. In some cases, communities were forced out of what today is Namibia itself and have remained uprooted to this day.”

It is believed that over 15 million hectares of land was taken away from the Ovaherero and Nama communities, and much of that land is today occupied by descendants of German invaders, who are now Namibians.

“Furthermore, human remains of members of indigenous communities were removed unlawfully and shipped to Germany for pseudo-scientific racial purity and eugenic ‘research’ without respect for human dignity, cultural and religious beliefs and practices,” the declaration read.

“The shipments also included cultural artefacts of these communities. Overall, tens of thousands of men, women and children were subjected to the orders and associated German policies. They were shot, hanged, burned, starved, experimented on, enslaved, worked to death, abused, raped and dispossessed - not only of their land, property and livestock, but also of their rights and dignity.”

It further stated that “a large number of the Damara and San communities were also exterminated”.

“On the same basis, Germany accepts a moral, historical and political obligation to tender an apology for this genocide and subsequently provide the necessary means for reconciliation and reconstruction.”

According to the declaration, a bi-national commission will be established to consolidate a lasting political framework for the consolidation of relations between Germany and Namibia.

Data an essential tool for research

June 2, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Data an essential tool for researchNUST, NSA sign Memorandum of Understanding Enhancing evidence-based, coordinated and efficient policy development, monitoring and evaluation. This collaboration is testimony that NSA does not collects statistics for its own but for stakeholders for evidence-based policy and decision making. Alex Shimuafeni, Statistician-General: NSA PHILLEPUS UUSIKU

The availability of data, and information together with knowledge and training plays a crucial role in conducting research which will ensure that policy formulation is evidence based.

The Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) whose mandate is to collect, produce, analyse and disseminate official statistics, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) on Tuesday.

According to NUST Vice Chancellor, Dr Erold Naomab, in order for all stakeholders to benefit from the best possible actions arising from statistical decision-making now, and in future, it is strategically important to work collaboratively.

“We have identified three primary areas of cooperative activities. The first being, to coordinate the collection, processing, and dissemination of agricultural statistics in a cost-effective manner to reduce duplication. Secondly, the collaboration of joint lectures and socio-economic research. Thirdly, implementing student attachment and in-service training,” he said.

NUST is delighted to offer technical and professional expertise and advanced technological platforms to support this undertaking. All faculties, Centres and Institutes are expected to benefit from this initiative based on the principle of cross-sectorial inter-disciplinary cooperation, he added.

The Agricultural Trade Policy Institute from the Faculty of Natural Resources and Spatial Sciences, officially launched their two-year training course last month, titled Agricultural Trade and Policy Training and Exchange Programme for Professionals. The course was designed after a detailed stakeholder survey that took place last year, and targeted various role players in the agribusiness value chain.

Agricultural statistics

Naomab notes that under the MoU, NUST will undertake the establishment of a continuous intersectoral agri-trade policy dialogue to enhance evidence-based, coordinated and efficient policy development, monitoring and evaluation. Uniformly, NSA will support and advice on methodological standards employed in the collection, processing and validation of secondary administrative records.

According to Alex Shimuafeni, NSA Statistician-General, trade statistics is a catalyst for import substitution as Namibia imported goods worth N$109 billion last year. Boosting local manufacturing and job creation is of critical importance, therefore, agriculture trade statistics can thus ensure job security.

He noted that the agriculture sector 9% to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country in 2020 which amounted to N$15.9 billion. This justifies why Namibia need an Agricultural Trade Policy Institution (ATPI).

“This collaboration is testimony that NSA does not collect statistics for its own but for stakeholders for evidence-based policy and decision making. I am looking forward to the development of an Agricultural Statistical Management System (ASMS) that the two institutions will develop,” he said.

It is through a system like this that better planning and coordination can be achieved countrywide. Shimuafeni is confident that they will be able to develop their own ASMS, a system similar to the National Housing Information System that NSA is currently finalising together with the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development.

With the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, the establishment of the ATPI and the signing of the MoU could not have come at a better time, he concluded.

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The champagne’s on ice – Hamata

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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The champagne’s on ice – Hamata Limba Mupetami



WINDHOEK

Local football pundit Isack Hamata said Brave Warriors and Mamelodi Sundowns forward Peter Shalulile has what it takes to win an award on Sunday at the Premier Soccer League (PSL) Awards set to take place in South Africa.

Shalulile has been nominated in three categories: The PSL footballer of the season, DStv player's player of the season and the Nedbank Cup player of the tournament.

These nominations don’t come easy as the Namibian worked extremely hard to keep in shape and form to compete at the highest level.

“All I can say is that he has done enough to earn a podium finish. Nomination for me is already a victory, but if he wins player of the season, which I pray he does, then that will be a victory for Namibia.

“It will be a demonstration of what we can deliver as a country if given the opportunity and if we get our ducks in a row. All the best to him. Our fingers are crossed and the champagne is on ice already,” Hamata said.

Consistency

Another pundit and former footballer Ronnie Kanalelo said Shalulile’s performance has been consistent, “with a good goal scoring ratio per match overall, a team player with a good goal assist. So, I'm sure he has done enough to scoop all the awards”.

As it stands, Shalulile is the second top scorer of the league, with 13 goals. SuperSport United’s Bradley Grobler leads the golden boot list with 16 goals, while Maritzburg United’s Thabiso Kutumela is in third with 12 points.

The top-flight 2020/21 domestic season concludes on Saturday to accommodate teams who have CAF commitments. Shalulile’s Sundowns have already won the league unbeaten, with their remarkable 2020/21 campaign concluding on Saturday against Cape Town City.

Masilingi, Mboma eye gold in Prague

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Masilingi, Mboma eye gold in PragueOpportunity of a lifetime Namibian star athletes Beatrice Masilingi and Christine Mboma’s coach Henk Botha said the team arrived safely in Prague, Czech Republic, and is set for the first meet on Monday. Limba Mupetami







WINDHOEK

Local coach Henk Botha says young sprint sensations Beatrice Masilingi and Christine Mboma will have their first meet on Monday at the Josef Odlozil Memorial event at the Juliska Stadium in Prague.

The 18-year-old Masilingi will compete in the 100 and 200m, whereas her age-mate Mboma will compete in the 200m.

The two athletes are using this competition as preparations for next month’s prestigious Tokyo Olympic Games.

“We are doing well and the training is going well as well,” Botha said.

He added that there is a possibility that the two athletes will be invited to compete at the Rome Diamond League on 10 June.

This season's third Diamond League event will take place in Florence in Italy. Usually the event is held in Rome, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the venue has changed.

Amongst the best

The Diamond League will see top athletes vying for competitive points to book a spot at the Diamond League final in Zurich.

The two Namibians will have the opportunity to brush shoulders with top female sprinters from across the world.

The two recently also took part at the Athletics Gauteng North track and field event in South Africa, where Masilingi won the women’s 200 m race in a time of 22.28 seconds, while Mboma ended second in a time of 22.73 seconds. Mboma, however, won the 400m in 50.10 seconds.

Tokyo 2020 chief says Games '100%' on

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Tokyo 2020 chief says Games '100%' on 50 days to go Overseas fans have already been barred, and a decision on whether to allow domestic spectators is expected after Tokyo's Covid-19 state of emergency ends on 20 June. Nampa/AFP







The Tokyo Olympics are "100%" certain to go ahead, the chief organiser said yesterday, but warned that a major Covid-19 outbreak mid-Games could slam the doors shut on fans.

Tokyo 2020 president Seiko Hashimoto made the comments exactly 50 days before the pandemic-postponed Olympics, which remain plagued by public opposition.

"I believe that the possibility of these Games going on is 100% that we will do this," Hashimoto told BBC Sport, adding that fans could be locked out during the Games.

"The biggest challenge will be how we can control and manage the flow of people," she said.

"If an outbreak should happen during the Games time that amounts to a crisis or an emergency situation, then I believe we must be prepared to have these Games without any spectators."

‘Fully ready’

Despite the lingering uncertainty, organisers marked 50 days to the 23 July opening ceremony by revealing details of the medal ceremonies, including podiums made with recycled plastic. They also released the victory music for the gold-medallists.

"We have 50 days left. I feel like I can hear the sound of the athletes' footsteps heading to Tokyo," Hashimoto said at the ceremony in the Ariake arena, a Games venue.

"We're fully ready and prepared with infection-prevention measures, so please feel safe and reassured coming to Japan," she added.

"And for Japan to feel safe in welcoming you, I ask you, all the athletes, to be responsible with your actions, to follow the rules."

Japan has seen a smaller Covid-19 outbreak than many countries, with just over 13 000 deaths. Around 3% of the population has been fully vaccinated.

But organisers face persistent domestic opposition, with around 80% of people in national polls backing a further delay or cancellation.

Genocide and reparations: Chief Kutako would be proud

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Genocide and reparations: Chief Kutako would be proud In April, the government, through a decision by President Hage Geingob, started construction of a shrine in honour of Chief Hosea Katjikururume Kutako at his homestead of Toasis, Aminius, in order to accord dignity for his achievements as a consequential Namibian. Chief Kutako fought heroically against the brutal German Schutztruppe in 1904-1908 and was wounded in the process. He was a brave warrior and survivor of the first genocide of the 20th century committed by Germany against the Herero and Nama communities of our land.

He went on to lead the disfigured Herero community as a unifying chief and nationalist, with the twin focus of rebuilding the Herero people after the genocide and leading the fight for the national question of independence.

Chief Kutako, a petitioner to the United Nations, understood fully that the burning question of genocide was not only one of the Herero community - it was also a national question and needed to be treated and appreciated fully in that dimension. When Chief Kuaima Riruako consensually sought a resolution from the Namibian Parliament in 2006 to locate the genocide as a national question, as some of us had wanted, it was in continuity of what Chief Kutako would have preferred.

It deserves mention that our special envoy on the Herero/Nama genocide, Dr Zed Ngavirue, who was appointed in 2015 by President Geingob, is an outstanding Namibian from our affected community and was among the young men who assisted Chief Kutako with the drafting of letters and correspondence in order to advance the cause of independence.

The work of Chief Kutako and his inclusive and unifying vision for Namibians influenced greatly the path of the liberation struggle and its titans, including Sam Nujoma, Geingob, Peter Hitjitevi Katjavivi, Hifikepunye Pohamba, Mosé Penaani Tjitendero, Hidipo Hamutenya, Moses Mague Garoeb and Theo-Ben Gurirab, to list but a few.

Three things

For over 100 years - 113 years to be near exact - we wanted three things from Germany:

1. Acceptance that the gruesome atrocities committed against us constituted genocide.

2. An apology.

3. Reparations.

What did we get after 116 years as an affected community? 1. Germany conceded that the untold violence against the Herero and Nama communities was genocide. 2. Germany commenced the process of a formal apology as was pronounced by its foreign minister Heiko Maas on 28 May, and reported across the globe as a development of great moral and historical significance for Namibians and the affected communities. 3. Germany offered 1.1 billion Euros/N$18 billion to be deployed for the reconstruction of the affected communities.

Chief Kutako was a wise pragmatic idealist, a stubborn man of principle, but of wisdom, clarity and vision, who understood what he wanted and didn’t want. As descendants of the victims of the genocide, we should fully appreciate what it is that we are for and against. Are we against or for Germany accepting that it committed genocide? Are we against the apology by Germany? We are definitely for Germany accepting that it committed genocide against us. We are definitely for an apology. We got what we wanted for the past 113 years.

We simply can’t afford to be agitators who are against everything and nothing, even when our moral interests and - to a certain degree - our material interests are to be covered. Yes, there are some of us in our affected community who are wealthy landowners and materially covered. For some of us, the refurbishment of schools, infrastructure and electrification in our affected communities can wait another 100 years because our children are schooling abroad and we are in material comforts, now. Our children are secured in intra-generational wealth. But for the many who are drowning in poverty after the brutality of dispossession and the genocide, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Before we think about ourselves, we should think about them.

Yes, there are those who never miss an opportunity to miss an opportunity. But we should not miss this opportunity. Yes, figures are important. But our dignity is not for sale to the highest bidder and figures and numbers cannot repair our scars.

What would Kutako do?

As a member of this affected community, I have to ask myself the question: What is it that Chief Kutako would have done under the circumstances? He would be proud and he would appreciate fully the moral significance of our collective victory, led ably by one of his skilled sons in the affected community, ambassador Ngavirue. Chief Kutako would also be proud of the fact that it is a government of an independent Namibia under Geingob which secured the G.A.R; above all, a moral victory, which ought to appeal to our conscience and our unity as a people.

The Marxist theorist and leftist militant Rosa Luxemburg says: “Those who do not move do not notice their chains”. We have been chained by the genocide as affected communities and Namibians. Still, we should move forward to break the chains of an emotive question that has enslaved us. With the declaration, which will never be perfect, we have moved forward and commenced the difficult process of freeing ourselves from the chains of the genocide. Yes, we cannot forget the genocide. But we have to learn to live with it.

Our path as affected communities on the contentious question of genocide has reached a point of no return. We should embrace the spirit of the declaration and began the important work of moral healing and rebuilding of our affected communities.

Hilux posts its highest total sales in 2021

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Hilux posts its highest total sales in 20213 700 units in May Toyota Hilux sold more than one million units in South Africa (SA) and has been the segment leader for 48 of the 50-plus years it’s been in SA. The Hilux’s mass appeal cannot be denied, and this is supported by the fact that it’s a top seller in the Single, Extra and Double Cab body types. Leon Theron, Vice President of Sales: Toyota The latest news is that the Hilux has once again topped the sales chart in the domestic market, posting a total of 3 700 units in May the highest monthly aggregate by any model this year.

The Hilux, together with the Hiace (1 331), spearheaded Toyota’s strong show of 5 336 sales in the Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) staking a market share of 44.7%. “The Hilux’s mass appeal cannot be denied, and this is supported by the fact that it’s a top seller in the Single, Extra and Double Cab body types. Hilux caters to customers who are interested in both leisure (Double Cab) and small business (Single Cab) vehicles, as well as anything in-between (Extra Cab),” says Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors.

Out of Toyota’s aggregate sales of 9 882 (25.8% market share), a remarkable 4 316 translating to a 17.9% market share were passenger units. Some of the star performers in the segment included Fortuner (872), Urban Cruiser (717), Starlet (651), Corolla Quest (614) and Agya (517).

Toyota’s luxury arm Lexus continues to lead the company’s strategy towards the adoption of new energy vehicles. For almost every Lexus model (other than LX and LC) sold in the country, there is a hybrid variant available. In addition, Lexus has two hybrid-exclusive model ranges the newly-minted IS and the premium compact UX SUV. Lexus sold a total of 55 vehicles in May, with 22% being hybrid models a clear indicator that, like its Toyota stablemate, Lexus is on a serious path to carbon neutrality.

Trucks

On the truck front, Hino sold a total of 187 units of which 98 (19% market share in Medium Commercial Vehicles) were 300-Series and 63 were 500-Series (13% share in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle segment) models.

To keep Toyota, Hino and Lexus vehicles in good running condition, a total of 124 027 models were serviced last month while no less 1.4 million part pieces were supplied to domestic dealers, with a further 314 000 shipped outside of the country.

According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA): “Overall, out of the total reported industry sales of 38 337 vehicles, an estimated 33 642 units, or 87.8%, represented dealer sales, an estimated 8.2% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry, 2% to industry corporate fleets and 2% to government sales. The May 2021 new passenger car market at 24 122 units registered an increase of 15 156 cars, or a gain of 169%, compared to the 8 966 new cars sold in May 2020. The car rental industry accounted for 11.4% of car sales in May 2021.”

“The incredible loyalty shown by our customers over more than half a century has enabled us to achieve an outstanding share of the local market. We are thankful to our fleet owners and rental companies for their continued support in these trying economic times. We are also grateful to our Dealer Network, as well as all Toyota staff, for their sterling efforts in making Toyota such a competitive brand,” Theron concluded. - MOTORPRESS

Keeping it real

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Keeping it real There are notable moves to be celebrated in the Namibian art and entertainment arena this week - from Namibia’s multi-award-winning stylist Reinhard Mahalie being featured on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 list for 2021 to Namibian writer Remy Ngamije being shortlisted for the 2021 AKO Caine Prize for his short story ‘The Giver of Nicknames’. All these nods are testament to how everything you dream of and work towards is attainable with the right drive and hustle.

It’s the month of June so I would also like to wish a happy pride month to the beautiful LGBTQ+ community. May you love freely and fully always, and I hope everyone has a wonderful and celebratory month.

michael@namibiansun.com

Drag Night at Café Prestige this weekend

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Drag Night at Café Prestige this weekend MICHAEL KAYUNDE



WINDHOEK

Rodelio Lewis, Chaulken McNab and Roberto Meneguzzo have teamed up with Lize Ehlers to host Drag Night at Café Prestige this weekend.

The show will take place for two consecutive evenings – tonight and tomorrow night - with the meet and greet starting at 18:00 while the actual show is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 on both days.

“Drag Night is an evening of drag culture, performance, drop dead gorgeous make-up, hair and fashion, but mostly focusing on inclusivity and LGBTQI+ awareness,” Ehlers said, adding that Drag Night is an event that sees lip sync and live singing co-existing with intense choreography.

Drag Night was launched at the February Love Yourself campaign. With the event organisers having hosted sold out shows in the last few months, Ehlers mentioned that due to Covid-19 regulations, they wanted to offer an opportunity for more people to experience drag culture by offering two shows.

“Award-winning musician Anthony Knows will be performing with the trio as they recently released an inclusive video titled ‘Vonke’,” Ehlers disclosed.

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Are you the next best African film and TV creative?

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Are you the next best African film and TV creative? Apply to join the MTF Academy Class of 2022! The pan-African initiative is searching for 60 aspiring film and TV creatives from southern Africa, West Africa and East Africa to be part of the Class of 2022. STAFF REPORTER







WINDHOEK

Now approaching its third year, the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academy is thrilled to announce calls for applications for its sought-after film and TV training programme. Applications are open from 1 June to 30 June and are available on the MTF website.

The call is open to all emerging film-makers with either some industry experience or a relevant post-school qualification in film to apply for this exciting opportunity to hone their television and film production skills.

“The MTF Academy is our commitment to the future of our industry and gives young Africans the chance to hone their television and film production skills through a world-class training programme. After two successful years, we’re proud to announce a new call to entry and look forward to meeting the next generation of African film-makers,” Yolisa Phahle, MultiChoice Group CEO of general entertainment and connected video, said.

Unwavering support

Launched in May 2018, the MTF Academy has so far given 120 students the chance to harness their expertise in film and TV, moulding them into skilled industry professionals.

The Class of 2020 set a precedent as the first cohort of students to work during a pandemic. As a result, the programme was extended from 12 to 18 months. This additional time allowed the students to graduate with two qualifications as opposed to one.

Despite adapting to the Covid-19 restrictions, the Class of 2020 had other opportunities to shine: They were active participants during the virtual MTF Masterclass sessions and worked on the global Pledge to Pause PSAs for the United Nations verified campaign. They also got to make short films in their home countries which launched as part of the ‘Colours of Africa’ series airing on Showmax and M-Net AfroCinema pop-up channel as part of the Africa Month campaign in May.

“The Covid-19 pandemic was undoubtedly a difficult challenge both for all involved in keeping the MTF Academy programme going as well as the students. The unwavering support from stakeholders, partners and students has nevertheless been overwhelming. We couldn’t be more excited to have reached our third year as one of the MultiChoice Group’s anchor shared value initiatives directly investing to the next generation of African storytellers,” Cheryl Uys-Allie, director of the MTF initiative, said.

COMPANY NEWS IN BRIEF

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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COMPANY NEWS IN BRIEF SA's Shoprite sells Nigerian business

Shoprite Holdings has sold its Nigerian business to local buyer Ketron Investment, nearly 16 years after the South African retailer opened its first outlet in the country.

Shoprite entered into a share purchase agreement with Ketron, a Nigerian company owned by a group of institutional investors led by property group Persianas, for the disposal of its entire interest in Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited, the companies said.

Shoprite, one of the first South African companies to expand into Nigeria, is changing its model from an ownership to a franchise one after a review of its long-term options in Africa, once touted as the next bright growth spot for retailers.

The supermarket retailer had expanded aggressively in Africa, surpassing rivals such as Pick n Pay and Walmart's majority-owned Massmart to become the continent's leading food retailer with more than 2 800 stores in 15 countries.

But forays into markets including Angola and Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, were marred by currency volatility, double-digit inflation, high import duties and dollar-based rentals. It also exited Kenya and restricted capital allocations to its supermarkets outside South Africa. - Nampa/Reuters

Wage dispute at South Africa's Eskom

South Africa's state-owned power utility Eskom has triggered a dispute process with unions over pay, leaving a government-affiliated mediator to try to forge an agreement and avert potential disruption to power supplies.

A previous wage dispute in 2018 led to electricity supply interruptions and Eskom, which produces the vast majority of the power in Africa's most industrialised nation, has warned the same could happen again.

Wage talks began with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) and Solidarity last month, with unions demanding above-inflation increases.

"Eskom, which relies on taxpayer cash bailouts to maintain its going concern status, has clearly demonstrated these demands are unaffordable," Eskom spokesman Sikonathi Mantshantsha told Reuters.

Eskom said it made a final offer of a 1.5% increase in basic salaries, which unions rejected. "We view that as a declaration of war. Eskom is refusing to bargain," said NUM energy sector coordinator Khangela Baloyi. The offer is below current inflation levels of 4.4%. Unions argue their demands are affordable and workers should not bear the brunt of Eskom's debt burden. - Nampa/Reuters

Savannah in talks to buy Exxon's stake

Africa-focused Savannah Energy said on Wednesday it was in exclusive talks to buy US oil producer Exxon Mobil Corp's interest in two energy assets in Chad and Cameroon.

The British oil producer is proposing to buy a 40% operated interest in the Doba oil project in Chad, and a 40% interest in the Chad-Cameroon oil transportation pipeline.

Exxon did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Savannah Energy, which currently only operates in Nigeria and Niger, did not disclose the financial terms in discussion.

Savannah Energy on Wednesday asked for trading in its shares to be suspended until it publishes details of the proposed deal or confirms that the talks have ended.

The Doba oil project produced gross 33 700 barrels of oil per day (bopd) on average, while the Chad-Cameroon pipeline transported gross 129 200 bopd last year, the British company said.- Nampa/Reuters

Toyota asks suppliers to reduce emissions

Toyota Motor Corp has asked its parts suppliers to reduce carbon emissions, the company said on Wednesday.

Japan's largest carmaker, which plans to be carbon neutral by 2050, has also provided a target to suppliers to achieve carbon neutrality, a Toyota spokeswoman said.

"Carbon neutrality is not something a company can achieve alone, so we asked our suppliers to work together towards achieving it," she said.

The news was first reported by the Nikkei newspaper. Toyota will set an initial target for main auto parts suppliers to cut carbon emissions by 3% this year from the year before, it reported.

Toyota chief Akio Toyoda, in his capacity as head of the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association, said in April that Japan's auto industry can lead the country's push to achieve carbon neutrality. - Nampa/Reuters

GameStop boosts teen interest in investing

While traders were flocking to GameStop earlier this year, the stock was also capturing the imagination of US teenagers, according to a survey from Wells Fargo.

A third of teens say they are learning financial lessons from the internet and social media, according to the survey of 13 to 17-year olds and parents of teenagers.

And almost half of the teens say they are more interested in investing thanks to GameStop, whose shares have surged due to its popularity among members of online investor forums.

The survey follows Fidelity Investments' launch earlier this month of a commission-free brokerage account for 13- to 17-year-olds that allows stock trading on a mobile app, as it looks to attract the next generation of investors.

The survey of 318 teens and 304 parents of teens conducted between April 20 and May 3, found that while 57% of teens say they are learning about finances from their parents and 47% say they are learning from school, 35% cite social media and 34% cite websites.

About 45% of teens said "the GameStop social media situation" boosted their interest in investing with 53% of boys claiming increased interest and 40% of teen girls, according to Wells Fargo. - Nampa/Reuters

Katima turning into dumpsite

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Katima turning into dumpsiteRubbish overflowing in the streets A temporary dumpsite that operated illegally for three years was shut down recently. ELLANIE SMIT







WINDHOEK

The streets of Katima Mulilo are overflowing with rubbish and waste following the closure of its dumpsite the town council operated illegally for three years.

In 2018, the council relocated its old dumpsite to a new, temporary site situated in an industrial area close to the town.

However, at the beginning of last month, the office of the environmental commissioner shut the site down.

This came after the council ignored compliance orders since 2019 ordering the dumpsite’s closure, as it was only meant as a temporary measure until an appropriate site could be approved.

Community spokesperson Dave Harvey told Namibian Sun yesterday that since the closure of the dumpsite, rubbish has been left everywhere and is not collected by the council.

He said residents have tried to engage with the council on a number of issues, including the waste problem, but have not received a response.

Concerns

In a letter dated 14 May, Harvey wrote to the CEO of Katima Mulilo, Raphael Liswaniso, with regard to the community’s grievances.

The letter, written on behalf of 51 residents, requested an urgent meeting to discuss issues such as the inability of the council to control the dumpsite, the implementation of a new dumpsite, potholes and the cleanliness of the town. “No response has been received,” Harvey said.

He added that after the dumpsite was shut down, residents took rubbish to the Bukalo village council’s dumpsite, but were turned away.

The chairperson of the village council, Simataa Mubonda, in a letter dated 20 May, explained that they had deliberated on the matter and decided not to approve the use of their dumpsite due to several factors.

“The current carrying capacity of the landfill at Bukalo Village cannot accommodate the proposed volume of the domestic and garden refuse from the town of Katima Mulilo,” he wrote.

Overflowing

Harvey said the rubbish in the town is currently overflowing to the streets. “It’s everywhere.”

He pointed out that this is not only a health hazard, but also a problem for the business community as tourists do not want to come into town any more.

“There are huge potholes in the streets and sewage is overflowing, but nothing is being done and you get no response from the town council.”

Spokesperson of the environment ministry Romeo Muyunda said it is up to the town council to comply with the order that was issued to them.

“It is up to the ministry to enforce the law and that is where our mandate ends. There is nothing we can do further. It is now for the town council to identify an approved site so that we can issue compliance orders.”

Liswaniso did not respond to questions sent to him, as per his request, by the time of going to press.

AB InBev Namibia – Driving impact and economic growth in local communities

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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AB InBev Namibia – Driving impact and economic growth in local communities AB InBev Namibia, a proud member of the world’s largest brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev, opened its Welwitschia Brewery in Okahandja in 2015 and currently employs 150 motivated employees, 80% of whom are previously disadvantaged Namibians. Michelline Nawatises





AB InBev Namibia prides itself on its over 30-year heritage in Namibia in contributing to the growth and development of the economy. The opening of Welwitschia Brewery has resulted in job creation in the local Okahandja community in the past five years. This has afforded AB InBev Namibia the opportunity to produce some of their quality brands, such as Castle Lite and Carling Black Label, at the brewery. The global brands of this dynamic brewer include Corona, Budweiser and Stella Artois, which are also available in the Namibian market.

Fostering a better world

Speaking about the company’s vision, AB InBev Namibia’s legal and corporate affairs manager [NAME MISSING] said: “Our purpose is to bring people together for a better world, which is why we continue to strive to be the best. AB InBev Namibia is a company of doers and we do not take any shortcuts in ensuring that we strive to be the best. Hence we are constantly raising the bar and are never satisfied with being ‘good enough’. We know that together we can achieve our dream of a better world”.

Basson further emphasised that the brewer’s culture is based on their 10 principles, which centre around their dream of a better world; their people who are their greatest strength; and their culture of ownership, transparency and meritocracy. Furthermore, contributing to the local community is essential to the business.

“Supporting our customers and fellow Namibians through marketing and social responsibility initiatives that have a lasting impact in our communities contributes to our dream of a better world” she highlighted.

In doing so, AB InBev Namibia donated 3 000 litres of hand sanitiser and 30 000 surgical masks amongst 600 trade outlets who were adversely affected by Covid-19 and the resultant alcohol ban.

Further, AB InBev Namibia, in line with its smart drinking goals, is dedicated to reducing the harmful effects of alcohol in the Namibian society. To this end, the Carling Black Label #NoExcuse campaign launched last year to commemorate 16 Days of Activism, and called on Namibian men to act against gender-based violence (GBV). The campaign was executed in partnership with Women’s Action for Development, who afforded training to male employees of AB InBev Namibia on the effects of GBV in society and how they can contribute to the fight. A donation of groceries was also made to a shelter for victims of GBV.

Investing in our people

“We are committed to supporting our local communities through the development of the youth and our own people,” Basson added. AB InBev Namibia, through its //Karas Region Empowerment Trust, granted bursaries to students for the 2020 academic year to the amount of N$582 120. This covered the tuition fees of approximately 30 students hailing from the region.

AB InBev Namibia also provides in-service training to science graduates to enable them to gain practical exposure to the industry and to understand the practical use of their science degrees within the employment market. The appointments are based on the capacity needs of the brewery and selected trainees may be considered for further opportunities at the company where available.

“Looking forward on the next three years, we hope to continue growing our impact on the local communities and the economy to achieve the dream of a better world. Empowering and upskilling our people will remain a priority for AB InBev Namibia - enabling them to make a positive impact in the business as well as in their communities. Moreover, AB InBev Namibia will continue to grow our quality brands to solidify our position in the Namibian market. Cheers to a better world,” Basson concluded.

To learn more about AB InBev and its global contributions, visit ab-inbev.com.

Botswana's economy to grow by 8.3%

June 3, 2021, 3:00 pm

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Botswana's economy to grow by 8.3% Driven by stronger global diamond demand Botswana's economy contracted by 7.9% in 2020 owing to the coronavirus crisis. The recovery is expected to be uneven across sectors, depending on improvement in both the domestic and external environment. IMF Botswana's economy is projected to grow by 8.3% this year, supported by stronger global diamond demand and the easing of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, the International Monetary Fund said on Wednesday.

It added however that the growth outlook was subject to high uncertainty, with downside risks stemming mainly from the evolution of the Covid-19 pandemic, availability and deployment of vaccines, and lower-than-expected diamond revenue.

The economy of the diamond-rich nation contracted by 7.9% in 2020 owing to the coronavirus crisis.

"The Botswana economy is expected to recover in 2021, with growth projected at 8.3%, driven by improvements in the global demand for diamonds, the easing of restrictions on mobility, and the expansionary fiscal stance," the fund said in a statement.

"The recovery is expected to be uneven across sectors, depending on improvement in both the domestic and external environment."

Botswana has had more than 57 500 cases of coronavirus and nearly 850 deaths since the pandemic began, according to a Reuters tally. - Nampa/Reuters