Namibian Sun

JESSE JACKSON KAURAISA

WINDHOEK

One of Namibia’s adored football talents, Razundara ‘Razzie’ Tjikuzu, refuses to give up on his passion and has now embarked on a journey to help the youth.

One of his biggest wishes is to help footballers make wise decisions on and off the pitch - something he had to learn the hard way.

The former Brave Warriors, Werder Bremen and Hansa Rostock midfielder says he is willing to help any club with coaching and mentoring of players.

Tjikuzu, who is currently unemployed, is adamant that he can transfer his skills and what he learned during his playing career in Europe to the youth.

“It has always been my dream to continue with football even after I am done with playing and that is why it will be awesome if someone or a football club accords me the opportunity to mentor their players.

“The truth is that I love football with all my heart and I just refuse to sit and do nothing while I still have the ability to teach and help out upcoming players,” Tjikuzu said.

The former Brave Warriors player believes that he can mentor players off the pitch too.

The player, who admits to having made many mistakes in his past, hopes to help youngsters to make wiser decisions.

“As a person who lived in Europe and who has seen the best and the worst behaviour of footballers, it will also be important if I can just educate the players and make sure that they do the correct things in live.

“It frustrates me when I am seated here with so many ideas and I am not able to share them with others.

“It is for these reasons I am making myself available to any football club or even the Namibia Football Association (NFA) if they need my services,” Tjikuzu said.

Tjikuzu joined the SV Werder Bremen Academy in 1995 at the age of 14 and rose through the ranks to play first-team football in the Bundesliga in 1999 at the age of 19.

The Namibian made 86 senior appearances for his boyhood club before moving to Hansa Rostock, Hamburger SV and MSV Duisburg.

Tjikuzu then moved to Turkey where he had stints with Turkish Super League side Çaykur Rizespor.

He also had spells with Istanbul BB, Trabzonspor, Diyarbakirspor and Kasimpasa S.K before returning to Namibia.

Life after football has not been easy for Tjikuzu, who hopes that the football association can come up with a programme to help former footballers.

“It would be great if the association could think of us and help many of the players who are sitting without jobs to be in the setup or at least have a programme which can make sure they remain relevant.”

Olympic athletes feel financial squeezeFinancial strain continues to hamper sports The sports ministry’s financial woes continue to drown Namibian athletes who have little or no support as they prepare for the upcoming Tokyo Olympic Games.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK

The Namibian Olympic team, consisting of marathon runners Helalia Johannes and Rainhold Tomas, cyclists Vera Looser, Dan Craven, Michelle Vorster and Alex Miller, boxer Jonas Junias, rower Maike Diekmann and track-and-field athletes Christine Mboma and Beatrice Masilingi, have no collective funding to aid their preparations.

Most of the athletes are struggling to make an income; most haven’t competed in races to generate funds due to sports halts all over the world; sponsorship is non-existent and that which is there doesn’t cover much. As it stands Namibian athletes hardly get appearance fees to constitute a living. For some, a full-time job is required to support their pursuits.

Help yourself

Looser, Craven, Vorster and Diekmann are based in Europe, where they train. Some depend on private funding, which sometimes comes from family businesses or from their meagre salaries.

Johannes, Jonas, Diekmann are assisted by the Olympic Solidarity Grant.

The secretary-general of the NNOC, Joan Smit, said they haven’t received any funding from the ministry of sports and thus no funding to support athletes.

She said Namibia has very capable athletes, but there is no support for them. So far, Telecom has pledged a pair of N$3 000 shoes for each of the athletes, after joining the modest token of sponsorship from the vice-president of Namibia, Nangolo Mbumba.

Money is scarce

The sports ministry’s executive director, Audrin Mathe, said they are assisting the athletes with accommodation and transport to and from venues. He did not clarify exactly how much the figure was, only saying that they were still sourcing the funds.

He also said that the athletes would receive attire for the games.

He also spoke about the Paralympic athletes, who will get funding from NamPower. The Paralympic Games will be held right after the Olympics – from 24 August to 5 September.

Mathe added that money is scarce all over the government sector. He urged the private sector to come on board and to help the Olympic team.

Join hands

“I think the private sector is sometimes reluctant to come on board, thinking that the money will be used by the government. So, at the moment we are busy setting up a sports fund for the future, so that the money can go directly there and be used to aid athletes,” he added.

Use your influence

Neither Athletics Namibia, nor the Namibia Sports Commission has been lobbying for sponsorship. A few weeks ago, AN president Erwin Naimwaka was asked by Namibian Sun about the involvement of his office in the progress and goals of Mboma and Masilingi. He said they offered administrative assistance. What this entailed was not elaborated on. Mboma won a gold medal and Masilingi took bronze in that particular race.

Individual sponsors

Johannes has an Olympic grant); Tomas has no funding; Looser is believed to be privately funded; while Craven rides in Nedbank’s colours whenever he competes in Namibia.

Vorster always thanks the Davin Sports Trust on social media. She may have other sponsors for more specific bike requirements.

Junias has an Olympic grant and was at some point seen in the colours of Ohorongo cement.

Miller last year received a boost from Pupkewitz Megatech, Nedbank Namibia and Mannie's Bike Mecca to prepare for the Games. Diekmann has an Olympic grant.

Mboma and Masilingi are supported by their coach. Last week he thanked AN, the NNOC and the Davin Sports Trust for their support in making their European tour possible.

The red badge of courageCommemoration and celebration of Menstrual Health Hygiene Day 14% of girls miss school due to periods.

“We must also ensure they have access to a toilet or place to manage their period at home, work or in school,” - Sheila Roseau, gender specialist

Enzo Amuele

As in previous years, 28 May is a day taken out to commemorate and celebrate menstrual health hygiene.

This year, the celebrations took place at Origo Primary School in Rehoboth under the theme ‘Time for action: Periods during and after the pandemic’.

The Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP), a collaborative initiative between the ministries of health and education with their partners in education and health, was also launched recently.

The collaboration strives to implement the Health Promoting Schools Initiative, which aims to promote conducive teaching and learning and healthy lifestyles among learners by ensuring that school environments are safer, healthier and inclusive for all learners.

One of the partners, GIZ’s Sport for Development in Africa (S4DA), was also present, integrating messages on menstrual health and hygiene into sports activities in a fun and engaging way.

Ayesha Wentworth, who is a clinical psychologist, presented results on menstrual health hygiene in Namibia.

Some of the key results were that 73% of girls have never seen a hygiene kit, while 14% missed school due to periods and 55% do not feel comfortable at school during menstruation.

Sheila Roseau, a well-known gender specialist, development manager and the new United Nations Population Fund for Activities (UNFPA) Namibia country representative, said menstrual health is an integral component to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She further said: “Our intention should be measurable to see the decline in the current realities and to reform the Namibia society of all inequalities”.

According to a speech by the education ministry, supporting children contributes to academic progression, and in the long run, contributes to national and sustainable development and prosperity of our future leaders.

The speech further read that as much as we need to provide sanitary products, discussions about menstruation must be mainstreamed as a normal biological process.

“Menses is a fundamental developmental milestone and vital health sign. Girls and women need information to understand and manage their period with confidence and dignity.

“We must also ensure that girls have access to a toilet or place to manage their period at home, work or in school,” Roseau said.

Star teacher of the week

Makazo Solvent Tezo

Grade eight to 10 History teacher at Acacia High School

“I'm happy to pass down the knowledge that I've gained throughout my teaching life.”

When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

As you know, teaching is a profession and a calling. It was to participate in the grooming and mentorship to young people/learners.

During apartheid, there were teachers who gave me guidance and a sense of direction and even though times were tough, I thought to myself that I would also want to be that person in someone else's life that paths a way for them in hardship.

What is the best part about being a teacher?

The interaction between me and the learners, as they learn from me, so do I from them. I'm happy to pass down the knowledge that I've gained throughout my teaching life. And also to respect my profession and uphold my status as a teacher.

What is something you have learned in your teaching career?

Application of corporal punishment. There was a learner who once told me that it was good to be punished here and there by your teachers to keep discipline in the school grounds, at the same time nurturing the child, but that some colleagues would abuse their right to corporal punishment.

How long have you been a teacher?

I've been an experienced teacher for 20 years now.

What is your favourite place in Namibia and favourite book to read?

The coast has always been one of my favourites, I love the weather patterns. My favourite book to read is The State of Africa by Martin Meredith.

Can you tell us of your journey towards becoming a teacher?

When I joined the Caprivi college of education in 1994 where we were taught how to be teachers, I got my funds from the government directory since there was no funding from NSFAF that time. In 2002, I registered for HED, 2010 I did my Master’s degree and currently I'm busy with my PhD. The journey was not easy, it was a challenge. I would love to take this chance to tell young people never to give up on what they dream of because it might just be a reality one day.

Schools rugby players react on sports ban

The Zone Team went out to find out how the HTS rugby team feels about the new suspension of contact sport amid an alarming increase in Covid-19 cases.

Bobby Kadhikwa

I was very disappointed when the announcement was made that all contact sport was cancelled. We were ready to play the games that we have been preparing for since the holidays. Our coach encouraged us to keep fit and to work out individually. We ended with a practice session without making contact with one another.

Jossy Shilongo

I am honestly very sad that we cannot continue with rugby. It is a big setback in my opinion. I pride myself in my rugby and I do believe it is important for everyone to have an extracurricular activity to keep the blood flowing to your brain. However, I still exercise every day. As a team we are a bit sad but we still motivate one another to keep fit.

Angelo Engelbrecht

When the announcement was made that contact sport would be cancelled it was a big shock and very hard to take in. I had really looked forward to the rugby season and couldn’t wait to start playing against some teams. Yes, it is best for our health that all contact sports have been cancelled but it’s not so good for our morale. We regularly exercise to keep fit and those who have access to a gym take their workouts to the gym.

Antonio Pieters

I just have one question: why did they cancel rugby? It was the only thing that kept us busy and took our mind off school work. Yes, it gives us more time to focus on schoolwork but we also need a break from school. I am very disappointed that contact sports were cancelled.

Kalu Eichab

I am disappointed. It doesn’t feel right. I have been excited for the rugby season since last year. Rugby was there for me since the beginning; it gave me energy for my schoolwork and made me happy. Currently I exercise on my own in the gym and on the field.

Kistings Minyoi

I feel that contact sport should still be allowed because it is the only that keeps us busy. As a student I cannot concentrate enough on my schoolwork. Rugby took my mind off schoolwork and at the end of the day made me concentrate better.

De Lange and Liebenberg win Nedbank Cross-Country NAMPA

Namibia’s African Cross-Country (XC) and 2021 Nedbank Cross-Country champions, Tristan de Lange and Courtney Liebenberg, on Saturday won the Pro Men’s and Women’s races at the 2021 Nedbank RR XC3 at Farm Waldorf in Windhoek.

De Lange won the seven-lap race in one hour, 14 minutes and 39 seconds (01:14:39), to finish with over seven minutes ahead of Xavier Papo (01:21:35) and Denzel de Koe who came third in a time of 01:22:29. Niel Swanepoel finished fourth with a time of 01:31:32.

Liebenberg won the women’s category over five laps in one hour, eight minutes and 24 seconds (01:08:24), finishing just over a minute ahead of compatriot Nicola Fester (1:09:26), while Namibia Nedbank XC national champion, Gabriela Raith came third in a time of 01:10:26. Irene Steyn finished fourth in a time of 01:12:03.

The sub-veteran men’s category was won by Louis Prins, while Kolja von Wentzel finished second and Michael Falk completed the top three positions.

In the veteran men’s category, Hans du Toit was thw winner, while Philip Steyn and Maresch Vernon finished second and third respectively.

In the marathon men’s event, Christopher du Plessis finished first, followed by Pierre Lambert in second and Marco Augustyn in third.

Christiane Beulker won the women’s marathon category, while Bianca Janse van Vuuren came second and Lena Dolle third.

The master men’s category was won by Greg Chase, while Stefan Bohlke and Stefan van Doorn came second and third respectively.

Showjumper Alison seeks fundingNamibia’s top horsewoman eyes Jakarta Kate Alison is looking for funding to compete in the FEI Jumping World Challenge final in Jakarta, Indonesia.

LIMBA MUPETAMI

WINDHOEK

Namibian rider Kate Alison has qualified to participate in the FEI Jumping World Challenge final to be hosted in Jakarta.

However, she needs funding to be able to travel to Jakarta to compete from 18 to 22 November.

Vast experience

Alison qualified with four clear rounds from leg 1 and 2 in CAT A in 2020. She is a well-respected, competitive rider who has the skills, horsemanship and experience to make Namibia proud. Furthermore, she also holds the position as athletes’ representative at the Namibian Equestrian Federation (NEF).

“In 2019/2020, I was the overall winner in Namibia and also of our region, Zone 7, which consists of Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, Kenya and Botswana. Just looking at 2020, my score was extremely competitive, placing me fifth overall from all the zones.

“I will not be taking my wonderful Namibian-bred stallion, Seeis Shelton, with me as FEI competition rules stipulate that the qualifying athletes draw local horses on which we will compete. All competitors will therefore ride unknown horses.

“The opportunity to represent Namibia, during such uncertain times, is an opportunity I’m holding thumbs will come to fruition.”

About the competition

Only 20 riders qualify for the FEI Jumping World Challenge from 10 regional zones.

The 2021 competitors are from 2019 and 2020 combined, so it was even more difficult to secure a spot for the 2021 final.

The FEI Jumping World Challenge Final is always held outdoors and on borrowed horses.

The FEI event is is held around the world. An exact replica of a set jumping course is created in order for people to compete against others internationally.

The tournament consists of a welcoming competition, qualifying competition, a farewell competition for those athletes who don’t qualify for the final, and the final competition for the top 10 athletes.

What money will be used for

The money raised will be used to cover Alison’s travelling costs to and from Jakarta, accommodation, travel insurance, sports attire and Covid tests.

Contact Alison directly should you be willing to assist her with a sponsorship: cell 081 236 2631 or email athletes@namef.org.naIt .

Ta tamanekelwa uulunga woshiyenditho ESTER KAMATI

OTJIWARONGO

Omunamimvo 26 a tumbulwa kedhina kutya oye Uatjiri Mootu okwa taalela iipotha yathika puitano yomuyonena konima sho a yaka oshiyenditho mOkahandja mEtiyali lya piti.

Opolisi oye mu tulile miipandeko moKombat mEtitatu.

Ohauto yoFord Ranger yombaki yiikoto iyali yo 4x4 oya yakwa posasiyona yomahooli mOkahandja konima sho mwene gwayo a yi mostola a dhigi iipatululo mohauto.

Mootu okwa yi mohauto ndjoka yongushu yoN$400 000 nokuya ontuku nayo.

Okwa yi mOtavi moka a nwetha omahooli nokuya ontuku ina futa.

Opolisi moTsumeb oya dhimbulula onomola yohauto ndjoka na oya kambadhala okukankameka omuhingi ihe okwa yi ontuku.

Shoka osha etitha opolisi yi landule Mootu na opwa tulwa einda lyondjila pokati kaTsumeb nOtavi ihe omuhingi okwa pitipo peinda mpoka sha etitha aapolisi mboka ya li po ya landule ohauto ndjoka na okwa ningwa natango einda mokati kondjila poKombat. Omihingi okwa pitipo ihe omatayiela gohauto oga yonuka sha etitha iigandje kopolisi.

Sho opolisi ya kwatako ohauto oya adhamo ongodhi yoiPhone ya yakwa.

Mootu ota tamanekelwa oshipotha shuulunga wohauto, okuhinga keena omukanda, okukala niinima ya yakwa, okuhinga nuuhasha nokundopa okuthikama peinda lyopolisi.

ester@myzone.com.na

Emweno lyomuleli gwoshilongo kombinga yoCovid-19 tali limbilike- Kamwi Ominista nale yuundjolowele okwa wayimine mboka ya holola omalimbililo gawo omolwa emweno olyomutse gwoshilongo kombinga yonkalo yomukithi gwoCorona ndjoka ya taaalela oshilongo ngashiingeyi. OMUTOOLINKUNDANA GWOMENI

Ø Namibia ota lopota iipotha yi vulithe pe 1000 mesiku

Pamaiyuvo gaRichard Kamwi, Geingob ngoka pauyelele wa gandjwa kEgumbo lyEpangelo kwa lopotwa kutya okweeluka okuza koCorona, Kamwi oku wete kutya okwa li e na okukwatela komeho onkalo yomukithi ngoka unene sho a zi muuvu womukithi ngoka.

Geingob ina popitha oshilongo kombinga yomukithi ngoka uule wethimbo ngashiingeyi konima nkene iihulile okupopya omvula ya piti, na okwa gandja oshinakugwanithwa kOminista yuundjolowele Omundohotola Kalumbi Shangula.

Pethimbo ndyoka iipotha yomukithi ngoka oya li po 300 nomaso ogali pevi lela.

Monena Namibia ota lopota iipotha yi vulithe pe 1000 mesiku nomwaalu gwomaso okuza komukithi ngoka otaga londo pombanda noonkondo kehe esiku.

Molyomakaya, Namibia okwa lopota iipotha yomukithi ngoka yi li pe 1 399 nokweta omwaalu gwiipotha ya lopotwa moshilongo po64 205. Shangula, pethimbo a gandja olopota ye kombinga yomukithi ngoka okwa popi kutya omaso taga kwatakanithwa no Covid-19, ogeli po 12 nomaso ngoka ga lopotwa monena moshilongo taga kwatatkanithwa nomukithi ngoka oge li po 993.

Kamwi ngoka a thigipo oshikondo shuundjolowele momvula yo 2015 konima nkene Geingob a ningi omupresidende, okwa popi kutya omwaalu gwiipotha mbyoka otagu limbilike noonkondo na osha pumbiwa omuleli gwoshilongo a popithe oshigwana nokutseyitha omalundululo nomilandu dhoka tadhi vulu okutulwa po kombinga yonkalo ndjoka. Kamwi, ngoka ngashiingeyi e li oshitopolwa shoAfrican Union Taskforce on Covid-19, okwa popi kutya shoka osha li shi na okukala sha ningwa nale.

“Emweno okuzilila kEgumbo lyEpangelo otali limbilikendje. Omolwashike Omupresidende ita ningi iipopiwa ngaashi mbyoka a kala nokuninga nawa omvula ya piti? oonkambadhala ndhoka odha pandulwa miigongi yopaigwana moka nda kala nokukutha ombinga nonando onkalo kaya li ngaashi yi li ngashiingeyi. AaNamibia ohaya pulakene nawa ngele taya popithwa okuza kombelewa onene,” omundohotola ngoka a popi.

Muule owala womasiku 30, Egumbo lyEpangelo olya kanitha aaniilonga ye li puyatano okuza komukithi gwoCorona.

Kamwi okwa popi woo kombinga yoombumbwe yoombete miipangelo oshowo omipepo dhombepo yokufuthilamo ihe okwa popi kutya omauyelele ngoka otaga uvika owala okuza miikundaneki ihe haku za kaanambelewa yoyene.

Kamwi okwa popi kutya olundji ha popi naMinista Shangula, ta popi kutya Shangula ota kambadhala.

Okwa tsikile kutya nonando ewi lyomuleli olya kana pethimbo mpoka onkalo ya nayipala kashi shi owala oshinakugwanithwa shomuleli a popye naakwashigwana.

“Kashi shi oshikando shotango tatu talelwa kuupyakadhi. HIV & Aids oyali tayi dhipaga aantu oyendji ye vulithe mboka taya dhipagwa koCovid-19 na kaya li yi na epango. Otwe shi pondola ngiini? Kasha li owala ominista ihe elelo alihe lyoshilongo, omupresidede, okabinete, aaleli yopamuthigululwakalo, oongeleka oshowo omahangano giikumungu yaakwashigwana. Kashi shi oshinakugwanithwa shomuntu gumwe.”

Omunangeshefa Hilda Basson-Namundjebo okwa shanga kepandja lye lyoFacebook: “Ondi na ohokwe okutseya ngele natango otu na ngaa epangelo moshilongo muka. Aantu otaya ya si pandjele yopombanda, na otu wete owala ominista yimwe oyo tayi tondoka tayi kambadhala okuungaunga nonkalo yoCovid omanga yalwe ya mwena.”

Omukomeho gwoInstitute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), Graham Hopwood, naye okwa holola omaiyuvo ge kutya oshigwana oshi li muumbanda na osha pumbwa ehwepopaleko okuza kepangelo sho sha tala omeho kelelo okutula miilonga omilandu tadhi vulu okutula pevi ondjele yetaandelo lyomukithi ngoka.

Amushanga gwiikumungu ya pamba omupresidende, Dr Alfredo Hengari ina yamukula komapulo ngoka a ningilwa ngele Geingob otaka popitha ngaa oshigwana mbala.

Shangula naye ina yamukula komapulo ngele okwa tegelelwa omalunduluko komilandu dhoka dhili po.

Swakopmund karateka step onto world stageCommunity assisted Two young dedicated karateka represented Namibia at an Olympic qualifier in Paris, France, this past weekend. PULL QUOTE: Louisa Kativa, Swakopmund mayor; “Keanu and Mayvonne are a part of our community and true ambassadors for our town, the region and our country.”

Iréne-Mari van der Walt

Two young karateka from Swakopmund, Mayvonne Swart and Keanu Stuurman, completed an Olympic qualifier in Paris over the weekend.

Their trip to France was made possible by the Swakopmund mayor’s development fund and local donors.

“The Swakopmund municipality gives its full support to youth and sport development. Keanu and Mayvonne are a part of our community and true ambassadors for our town, the region and our country,” said Swakopmund mayor Louisa Kativa.

Fundraising

After Sugnet Smit of The Dome in Swakopmund reached out to a radio audience regarding funds for Keanu’s daily expenditures in Paris, the Swakopmund Rotary Club ensured that an envelope with cash reached The Dome labelled simply: ‘For the Karate Kid’.

The Namibian Karate Association covered the financial costs of the top two chosen athletes but seeing as Mayvonne and Keanu were in third and fourth places, they were roughly N$45 000 short.

Dedication

Keanu Stuurman graduated from Namib High School in Swakopmund and shortly after formed part of The Dome’s Elite Athletic team.

He says his goal for this year is to qualify to represent Namibia at the Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

Stuurman has been dedicated to this sport since the age of seven. He trains under the leadership of Sensei Valdemar Swart, the owner of Shotokan Karate Academy International (SKAI) in Swakopmund. Swart has been Keanu’s trainer since he first started roughly 14 years ago.

He supplements his karate training with fitness training at The Dome Gym.

“We believe that exposure will sharpen his talents for him to reach greater heights,” says Ulla Finkeldey, director at The Dome Gym and Keanu’s personal trainer and mentor.

He shares that his dream has always been to represent Namibian karate on the world stage, but says that success did not come overnight.

His current achievements are an accumulation of 14 years of dedication and training.

Nedbank Rock & Rut mountain bike cross-country series (event 3) at Waldorf

Kevin Lowe, boys U16 winner, was very impressive during his five laps and was by far the closest rider to keep up with Olympic candidate and elite men’s winner Tristan de Lange (7 laps) during Saturday’s Nedbank Rock & Rut cross-country race. Photo Andrew Poolman

Adrian Key (front, U16 runner-up) and Ethan Le Strange (U18 winner) at the front of the chasing groups during Saturday’s Nedbank Rock & Rut cross-country men’s race. Photos Andrew Poolman

Nuwe sportstadion op Keetmanshoop

Mnr. Gerrit Witbooi, die streekraadslid vir die Keetmanshoop-kiesafdeling, het tydens die oorhandiging en inhuldiging van die nuwe Kronlein sportstadion die waarde van die stadion vir jeugbemagtiging en talentontwikkeling beklemtoon. “Die drywers van hierdie projek moes vele uitdagings oorkom, wat ook die voltooiing van die projek vertraag het. Hierdie stadion gaan ’n ongelooflike impak maak en sal nog baie vir die jeug beteken,” het hy voorspel. FOTO ELIZABETH JOSEPH

RehoTech maak sy merk in beroepsopleiding Rehoboth • yolanda@we.com.na

Die eerste termyn van die nuwe beroepsopleidingsentrum op Rehoboth het pas tot ’n einde gekom en aansoeke vir die nuwe inname is tans oop.

Die Rehoboth Instituut van Tegnologie, of RehoTech, het in Februarie vanjaar sy deure geopen.

Volgens mnr. Ricardo van Wyk van die sentrum is hul visie om hoop te skep en om ’n verskil op Rehoboth te maak.

“Ons dorp is bekend vir goeie ambagsmanne en -vroue wat hulself bemagtig. Dit was ’n logiese keuse om op Rehoboth te begin. Hierdeur kan hulle hulself in ’n tegniese beroep bekwaam en met ’n positiewe selfbeeld vir hulself in die toekoms ’n inkomste genereer,” sê hy.

Een van die grootste struikelblokke vir jongmense van Rehoboth is om die arbeidsmark te betree en ’n selfonderhoudende lewe te lei.

“Die gebrek aan opleiding en praktiese ervaring kniehalter ons kinders en daarom is tegniese opleiding in vaardighede een van die beste maniere om hul ekonomiese geleenthede te bied,” sê Van Wyk.

Talle jeugdiges is tegnies of prakties aangelê en oor die algemeen knap met hul hande, en watter beter manier is daar vir opleiding as by RehoTech, die eerste beroepsopleidingsentrum op die dorp.

Volgens hom het die nuwe leerplan van die ministerie van onderwys ’n direkte invloed gehad op die besluit om die sentrum op Rehoboth te begin. Kinders wat nie die nuwe graad 12 (AS-level) wil of kan aanpak nie, het nou direkte toegang tot die sentrum.

“RehoTech het ’n integrale plan om die gemeenskap nie net op te lei nie, maar ook om die ekonomie ’n hupstoot te gee. Dit doen ons deur werk te verskaf aan inwoners van die dorp.

“Al die instrukteurs, administratiewe werkers asook die vakmanne wat die opknappingswerk aan die sentrum doen, is van Rehoboth,” sê Van Wyk trots.

Die kursusse wat op die oomblik aangebied word, sluit in elektries, motorwerktuigkunde, inligtingstegnologie, vroeë kinderontwikkeling, gasvryheid en toerisme, asook kantooradminstrasie.

Al die kursusse is by die Namibiese Kwalifikasie-owerheid (NQA) geakkrediteer en is oor verskillende vlakke vanaf 1 tot 4 opgestel.

Elke jaar ná ’n eksterne evaluering deur die Namibiese Opleidingsowerheid (NTA) verwerf die kandidate ’n nasionale vaardigheidsertifikaat, ook uitgereik deur die NTA.

Die minimum kwalifiserende vereiste is graad 10, 11 of 12. Ouer kandidate moet ouer as 23 jaar wees met vorige werksondervinding.

Alle kursusse beloop N$15 000 per jaar, wat ook in paaiemente afbetaal kan word.

Introducing the new Kia PegasThe space to move Measuring 4 300 mm long, the Pegas is one of the largest vehicles in the A/B-class, yet remains compact enough to easily thread through urban traffic. With great connectivity features and comprehensive safety specification, the Pegas ticks all the boxes while offering maximum value. - Gary Scott, CEO: SA

The new Kia Pegas offers value-seeking families and first-time buyers the perfect combination of technology and space to inspire and enable mobility, progress and freedom.

It seamlessly fulfils their everyday needs while simultaneously creating room for their aspirations. After all, is there any greater reward than the space to move?

Measuring 4 300 mm long, the Pegas is one of the largest vehicles in the A/B-class, yet remains compact enough to easily thread through urban traffic.

Its long (2 570 mm) wheelbase means the Pegas offers ample cabin space for all passengers, front and rear, while its large boot makes it one of the most versatile cars in its class. Manufactured to Kia’s exacting quality standards in China, the new Pegas is offered in five exterior colours: Clear White, Titanium Silver, Blue Stream, Marcato Red and Aurora Black Pearl.

Typically Kia bold in design, a wide, horizontal ‘face’ gives the Pegas a sporty, solid appearance, and incorporates the brand’s famous ‘tiger nose’ grille, a DNA signature common to all Kia vehicles around the world. Smart chrome highlights and 14-inch alloy wheels on the higher specification imbue the sedan with a decidedly upmarket appearance despite its value-focused positioning.

Inside, comfortable seats, room to stretch and clever design details make the Pegas’ interior an inviting place to be.

CENTRE STAGE

Taking centre stage on the contemporary dashboard is a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system incorporating a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, a standard fitment throughout the range (alongside rear park-distance control sensors). The system also boasts Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can be controlled handsfree and safely via switches on the steering wheel.

Depending on the model grade, the Pegas’ interior is trimmed in either smart cloth or high-quality artificial leather, and all variants offer cupholders and a central armrest for the driver.

Further adding to comfort levels, electrically adjustable side mirrors and windows are included on the entire range. The 475-litre boot is the largest in the compact sedan class.

PROVEN TECH

The new Pegas is powered by the latest incarnation of Kia’s 1.4-litre multi-point injection petrol engine, producing 69 kW at 6 000 r/min and maximum torque of 132 Nm at 4 000 r/min. The engine drives the front wheels and is available with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic.

The new Kia Pegas delivers a winning blend of value, roominess, safety and technology to entice both those customers who are in a position to buy their first new car, as well as families looking for maximum value without compromising on quality or comfort.

“With great connectivity features and comprehensive safety specification, the Pegas ticks all the boxes while offering maximum value,” says Gary Scott, CEO of Kia South Africa.

“There’s lots of life in the compact sedan market and the Pegas is poised to draw young families and first-time buyers to the Kia brand,” he says. - MotorPress

Big drug busts over weekend STAFF REPORTER

WINDHOEK

A man (42) and a woman (39) were arrested at a truck port in Swakopmund on Friday after being found in possession of 3 510 grams of cannabis valued at N$175 500.

It is alleged that the two have a clandestine drug laboratory at their house where they manufacture illegal drugs.

In Windhoek, two Namibians and a South African were arrested at a truck port on Friday for being in possession of 14 825 grams of cannabis valued at N$741 250. The suspects are aged 29, 29 and 30.

In another incident at Aroab, a 46-year-old man was arrested on Friday for being in possession of seven Mandrax tablets valued at N$700.

At Oshakati, a 42-year-old man was arrested at a service station on Friday for being in possession of a pangolin skin.

A 19-year-old man was arrested in Okuryangava, Windhoek, on Saturday for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl.

Remaining striking fishermen re-employed LEANDREA LOUW

WALVIS BAY

The 290 fishermen who were fired after a strike more than five years ago are to be employed by Hangana Seafood.

An agreement to this effect was signed on Thursday between Hangana Seafood, the ministry of fisheries and marine resources as well as the ministry of labour, industrial relations and employment creation.

The workers will receive their first salary by the end of the month.

Hangana has started assessing the workers’ health status and skills to see where exactly they will fit in.

“This agreement shows that the industry, unions and the government can work together to create a better future for everyone. Currently, Hangana employs 1 451 people with the additional 290 employees. This brings it to a total of 1 741 – a workforce to reckon with. Our goal is to employ 2 000 people by 2025 and I believe we are on track,” said Herman Theron, Hangana’s managing director.

He explained that continued investment in the industry made it possible for the company to employ the 290 fishermen.

“Hangana is busy with the construction of a factory valued at N$360 million, which in turn will create more jobs. We’ve invested N$100 million in our abalone farm in Lüderitz and are building fish shops. We’ve also been diversifying our services in terms of offering jetty space to other companies in the industry as well as to build a new commercial cold store, which will also employ more people.”

Committed

Fisheries minister Derek Klazen said he committed himself to the re-employment of the unemployed fishermen when he was appointed.

“I am happy to end this saga of the unemployed fishermen today. We cannot have our people on the streets, with no food to put on the table. Hangana has shown that anything is possible,” he said.

According to Klazen, he and the labour minister had worked tirelessly to get the contracts ready.

“The allocation of fishing quotas is done for the year. I am giving the last that’s available to Hangana for the company to employ these workers. This agreement is automatically renewable if the company fulfils all conditions as stipulated in the agreement. If the company keeps our workers, we will continue giving them quotas.”

Klazen said he would engage other fishing companies during his visit to the harbour town. “This is to make sure that all industry players are on the same page in terms of benefits for the workers.”

Conditions met

Labour minister Utoni Nujoma said the agreement had been scrutinised intensively.

“We are pleased that all the basic conditions as stipulated in the Labour Act have been met, as well as the various international agreements that we have signed as a country,” Nujoma said.

He added that the issues the fishermen had been striking over were addressed in the new agreement.

“The employees must also take responsibility. We are living in a competitive world and cannot strike wildly without meeting the basic conditions of negotiations. There are procedures to be followed on how to handle these disputes. If you have opted to do things illegally, do not expected to be treated with gloves.”

Weekend vaccinations set to continueMinistry ready to meet higher demand The health minister says more Covid-19 vaccination sites will be opened if the demand for vaccination increases.

OGONE TLHAGE

WINDHOEK

The ad hoc Covid-19 vaccination held this past weekend is set to continue, should there be sufficient demand, health minister Kalumbi Shangula has said.

The health ministry extended its vaccination drive to Saturday to meet the demand.

Vaccination was conducted at the Mix Settlement near Brakwater and the Otjomuise Clinic, as well as at the Katutura and Windhoek Central hospitals.

“It is not the first time; it was for the demand and to make provision for those who work. It will continue,” Shangula said when asked about the take-up of vaccinations over the weekend.

Shangula added that more vaccination sites could be added, should there be demand for a wider roll-out to include clinics and other health centres throughout the country.

“It depends on the demand; we are ready all the time,” Shangula said.

By Saturday, 86 409 people had received their first doses of Sinopharm or Astra Zeneca vaccine, according to information provided by the ministry of health.

The number of fully vaccinated people stood at 13 384 on 12 June.

Alarm

Meanwhile, Khomas governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua sounded a warning over the weekend over the rapid spread of Covid-19, saying more and more people were now dying.

“It is no secret; people are dying of Covid. The deaths of Covid now have names attached to them; we know who have died,” McLeod-Katjirua said.

“So, we are insisting and we are requesting, simply because we do not want our Namibian people to succumb to Covid-19,” she added.

Company news in brief

Vodafone opts for Samsung in Britain

British telecoms group Vodafone has chosen Samsung Electronics as vendor for 5G network equipment in Britain, the pair said yesterday, a breakthrough for the South Korean company in Europe's telecoms gear market.

The tie-up comes as European mobile operators increasingly consider Samsung in the race to replace China's Huawei as a supplier. Financial terms weren't disclosed.

Britain has already ordered all Huawei equipment to be removed from its 5G network by the end of 2027, echoing a US campaign against Huawei, citing national security risks. Samsung is banking on Europe to maintain growth in its network equipment business, a senior executive told Reuters earlier this month, as 5G rollouts widen around the world.

The European telecoms equipment market is dominated by Nokia, Ericsson and Huawei, but Samsung has entered the picture after it unexpectedly landed a US$6 billion deal with US giant Verizon in September.

Executives from Spain's Telefonica and France's Orange previously told Reuters that they had held talks with the South Korean firm. – Nampa/Reuters

BP joins consortium seeking wind power

British oil major BP will join Norway's Statkraft and Aker Offshore Wind to bid for permits to build offshore wind power projects off Norway, the companies said yesterday.

The consortium in which each partner will have a 33.3% stake plans to bid for offshore wind power projects in the Soerlige Nordsjoe II licensing area in the southern part of the North Sea, one of the two areas opened in Norway.

The area is suitable for bottom-fixed wind power platform and sits on a maritime border with Denmark, providing a potential to export electricity to neighbouring markets.

"Our partnership with Aker and BP will create significant value and contribute towards Europe's energy transition," Statkraft chief executive Christian Rynning-Toennesen said in a statement.

Offshore wind has started to look more economically feasible with costs coming down quicker than expected and as the EU introduces more ambitious targets for cutting carbon dioxide emissions, he added. – Nampa/Reuters

Toshiba's chairman wants to stay on

Toshiba Corp's chairman of the board yesterday pushed back against investor calls for him to resign, blaming its former chief executive for a "confrontational stance" towards shareholders that helped pitch the Japanese company into crisis.

Toshiba has come under fierce global scrutiny after an independent investigation last week revealed management colluded with the Japanese government to put pressure on foreign investors in what one shareholder has called the world's worst corporate scandal in a decade.

Yesterday, Nagayama apologised at a news conference broadcast online and said there were lapses in governance but added he wanted to stay on and help reconstruct management at the conglomerate.

Nagayama also said Toshiba will hold an emergency general meeting to appoint new board members and wants to include two of its foreign directors among a planned four- or five-member committee that will conduct a strategic review.

The crisis at Toshiba has renewed concern about governance in the world's third-largest economy and its openness to foreign investors. – Nampa/Reuters

Ted Baker reports loss for pandemic-hit year

Upmarket British retailer Ted Baker yesterday reported an underlying loss for the pandemic-hit fiscal 2021 and said its first-quarter revenue for the current year fell 20% due to coronavirus restrictions during the period.

The British company, which has had a number of operational and management setbacks over the past two years, reported an underlying pre-tax loss of 59.2 million pounds for the year ended January 30, compared to a 4.8 million pound profit the previous year.

Analysts on average estimated pretax loss of 76 million pounds according to Eikon data from Refinitiv.

While some retailers have benefited from a shift towards athleisure during the pandemic, Ted Baker's annual sales plummeted 44% to 352 million pounds partly due to its focus on formal and occasion wear. E-commerce sales rose 22% to 144.9 million pounds.

The London-listed company, under new boss Rachel Osborne, has been working on winning back customers and investor trust after a string of setbacks that followed the departure of previous chief executive and founder Ray Kelvin following misconduct allegations. He has denied the accusations. – Nampa/Reuters

Where talent is brewed Telling our stories

Jeanette Diergaardt

Hilma Sheehama, Riejhaat Wolhuter and Shona Ngava are back from the talent factory to make waves in the Namibian film industry.

Qualified talent is what we need to tell the Namibian story. The MultiChoice Talent Factory is doing just that: breeding qualified, trained film professionals in the industry.

In October 2019 the journey of Hilma, Riejhaat and Shona started at the MultiChoice Talent Factory based in Zambia. Becoming a MultiChoice Talent Factory graduate, according to Riejhaat, is as easy as signing up and taking a chance. In Shona’s opinion hard work, passion, dedication and discipline are what it takes. According to Shona, studying in a foreign country can be difficult, as one becomes homesick at times. For Hilma, the training course is a hard work and you should be willing to learn a lot of new things.

The three are of the opinion that with a lot more funding the film industry in Namibia could go a long way. “The film industry in Namibia is actually far better than what we think. The only advice I can give is to corporates: they should invest more money in films and know the business behind these creatives in Namibia,” says Riejhaat.

Creating Magic

‘Okegumbo, Kegumbo’ is a short film created by the three of a village girl who lost her job due to Covid-19 and now has to go back home to face the reality of forgetting her culture. The short film can be found on ShowMax. The film has received positive feedback from various people from far as Egypt and South Africa.

“I think people are just happy the film was made in one of the local languages and has a Namibian flavour to it,” says Hilma.

The team is working on more ideas that they have pitched to various people already. More is definitely on the way. About working with the two men, Hilma says, “I would absolutely love to always work with RJ and Shona, I think over the years we have grown to trust and we work really well together. But I would also like to work with other industry professionals and learn from them too.”

The MultiChoice Talent Factory

The academy is an African initiative by Africans. The idea is to empower African storytellers with the right skills and know-how, ranging from theory to getting hands-on experience. From the many applications only 60 are chosen to join the academy. Students are taught about cinematography, editing, audio production and storytelling. Being the first of its kind in Africa, it spans over 13 countries. Academies are based in Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia. The MTF academies are fully accredited. There are intakes every year and the intakes for 2021 are already open.

The Process of Filmmaking

1. Development

The first step is the development of a script, be that an existing script, an adaptation of a book, or a brief story outline. During this process a script idea can be pitched to the director or film producer.

2. Pre-Production

This is the phase where you narrow down the options of the production. It is where all the planning takes place before the camera rolls and sets the overall vision of the project. During pre-production, location scouting takes place, as well as working out a budget and casting the actors.

3. Production

During this phase it is important to keep planning ahead of the daily shoot. The primary aim is to stick to the budget and schedule; this requires constant vigilance. Constant communication is needed between the location office, production company and distributers - everyone involved in making the movie a reality.

4. Principal Photography

This is when the camera rolls. It is nearly always the most expensive phase of film production because of actor, director and set crew salaries, as well as the cost of certain shots, props, and on-set special effects.

5. Wrap

The period immediately after shooting ends. It is when we strike (dismantle) the set and clear the location. Everything must be returned in good order to suppliers and there must be a full set of records of the shoot.

6. Post-Production

This stage starts when principal photography ends, but they may overlap. The bulk of post-production consists of reviewing the footage and assembling the movie – editing.

7. Distribution

Once the film is completed, it must be distributed. This is how producers make their money back and a considerable amount of time and energy will be invested to secure the right distribution deals for their projects. The film will go into the cinema and/or be distributed via various platforms such as Showmax, DStv, and Netflix. In the past, before the internet, distribution of a film was a lot more time-consuming.

A day in the life at MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy in Zambia

Click on the QR Code to have a look what a day in the life of Shona was like during his time in Zambia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myJzfpA2wZw

Kandjeke tears into Okahandja over messy financials

NAMPA

WINDHOEK

Okahandja local authority councillors were bypassed when the municipality presided over transactions amounting to at least N$90 million in 2019, a direct contravention of the Local Authorities Act.

The findings are recorded in the municipality’s 2018/19 financial year report tabled in the National Assembly (NA) for scrutiny by finance minister Ipumbu Shiimi last week.

The laws regulating local authorities state that key decisions such as the sale of land, spending of significant amounts, execution of capital projects or the writing off of debts can only be made through council resolutions approved by the line minister.

The contrary is true for Okahandja, where both the council and minister were circumvented.

During the year under review, the municipality unilaterally wrote off N$52.7 million of unclaimed deposits. The auditors could also not obtain council approval for the increase in provision for bad debts of N$20.9 million.

Additionally, the municipality wrote off a N$3.7 million NaTIS claim.

Shambles

“The auditors could also not obtain proof of council approval for manual correction of bank balance by N$10.6 million,” Kandjeke states.

Okahandja’s accounting woes pile up. It understated its provision for doubtful debts of 120 days or older in the debtors’ age analysis by N$23.9 million.

“The auditors could not obtain a schedule of value-added tax (VAT) that substantiates the receivable balance of N$18 million recognised in the books of accounts receivables; therefore, no reasonable assurance regarding the existence, accuracy and valuation of the VAT receivable balance could be obtained,” Kandjeke says.

Further, it is recorded: “There is the improper accounting treatment of cheques written off at year-end but presented for payment amounting to N$4.3 million that were accounted for as bona fide payments instead of creditors as at year-end.”

He gave the municipality a disclaimer audit opinion, the worst there is.

“The financial statements do not present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the municipality of Okahandja,” he said.

No comment

Contacted on Sunday, acting Okahandja chief executive officer George Mwazi declined to comment on the findings, saying he was new in the portfolio.

For the better part between 2015 and 2019, the beleaguered municipality was a hotbed for political squabbles between its management and the Swapo-dominated council.

So bad were things that the then Johannes ‘Congo’ Hindjou-led council attempted, but failed, to chuck out then CEO Martha Mutilifa.

The council accused Mutilifa of gross insubordination while Mutilifa constantly debunked such accusations, maintaining the council was interfering in her administrative work.

In 2019, former urban development minister Peya Mushelenga stepped in and dissolved the council in a bid to resolve the impasse which robbed the Garden Town’s residents of much-needed services.