Page 210 – Namibia Daily News

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Pupkewitz Foundation Commits N$10 million to Namibia Over 12 months in Landmark 100-Year Pledge

Windhoek, Namibia, 31 July 2025 — As the Pupkewitz Group marks its centenary, the Pupkewitz Foundation is proud to announce a pledge of N$10 million to Namibia over the next 12 months. Signifying N$100,000 for each of the 100 years in business, this gesture reinforces the Foundation’s commitment to national development and community upliftment across the country.

“This pledge reflects a century-old belief at Pupkewitz that business must be a force for good. That with success comes responsibility. That the Group’s purpose goes beyond profit—to people, to community, to country” said Mrs. Meryl Barry, CEO of the Pupkewitz Foundation.

The Foundation’s growth has been deliberate and unwavering. Even in the most trying times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Foundation responded. Despite the economic contraction, the Foundation expanded its support, ensuring it could serve when it mattered most.

The Pupkewitz Foundation’s pledge will be directed toward six key pillars that reflect its values and that seek to deliver real, lasting change:

• Education – Empowering minds and unlocking opportunity

• Health – Supporting access to care and well-being

• Community Care – Strengthening the social fabric of our nation

• Environment – Protecting the natural beauty that sustains us

• Sport – Nurturing talent, unity, and discipline

• Arts & Culture – Celebrating the stories, creativity, and spirit of Namibia

The Pupkewitz Foundation is committed to working hand-in-hand with ministries, civil society organizations and local communities to implement this pledge. It will ensure that projects, programmes and grassroots activities are rolled out effectively, reaching as many communities as possible.

This pledge is made possible by the enduring efforts of the Pupkewitz Group’s operating companies and the trust of every Namibian who chooses to shop with or partner with the Group. Their loyalty fuels a larger purpose—to uplift, to support and to partner with Pupkewitz in building a Namibia where everyone can thrive.

As the Pupkewitz Foundation looks ahead to the next 100 years, its commitment to giving remains entrenched in the Group’s ethos. Because the heart of the Pupkewitz legacy has always been service

July 31, 2025 0 comment

Business Feature

115 Reasons to Believe. 665 Years of loyalty to Celebrate Momentum Metropolitan Namibia Honours 115 Employees for Dedicated Service

written by Namibia Daily News

Momentum Metropolitan Namibia is proud to celebrate 115 of its employees for their long service to the company, collectively representing 665 years of dedication. Employees who have reached 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service were formally recognised for their commitment to excellence and their lasting contribution to the business.

: Framed certificates of service await their recipients at Momentum Metropolitan Namibia’s long service celebration, honouring employees for 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of dedicated contribution to building and protecting the financial dreams of Namibians

With 56 years of presence in the Namibian market, Momentum Metropolitan Namibia continues to build its legacy as a company of proud Namibians serving Namibians. As a trusted provider of life insurance and financial services, the brand has impacted lives across the country by standing beside clients during their most important life moments.

Among those honoured is Hileni Iyambo, a Client Services Administrator based in Oshakati, who marked an exceptional 25 years with the company. She shared

“Marking 25 years with Momentum Metropolitan Namibia is a proud moment for me. Though I work behind the scenes, processing claims, I know my role helps bring clients peace of mind during difficult times. Being part of a team that builds and protects financial dreams has made this journey truly meaningful.”

Mateus Namhila, Metropolitan Sales Manager based in Swakopmund, reached his 15-year milestone this year. He reflected on his journey

“This is truly the best company to work for. I joined Momentum Metropolitan Namibia in 2009, and the exposure I’ve gained over the years has shaped me into the leader I am today. I am grateful for the knowledge I continue to build and hope to retire right here where it all began. It is more than just a workplace; it is a place of growth and opportunity.”

Collin Katjitae, Executive Human Capital at Momentum Metropolitan Namibia, expressed his pride in the collective milestone

: Collin Katjitae, Executive Human Capital at Momentum Metropolitan Namibia

“Behind every year of service is a story of passion growth and belonging. When a company values its people they remain invested and that loyalty becomes part of the legacy we build together.”

While the long service recipients were rightly celebrated, the company also extends its sincere thanks to all 1,011 employees across Namibia. Every individual plays a vital role in delivering Momentum Metropolitan Namibia’s purpose. Whether in leadership or support roles, in offices or in the field, all contribute to building and protecting the financial dreams of Namibians.

Together, this talented and committed workforce represents a powerhouse of 6,917 years of cumulative service. That is nearly seven millennia of knowledge, dedication and care invested into the success of Momentum Metropolitan Namibia and the clients it serves.

A Retention Rate That Reflects Stability and Purpose

With 1,011 employees and an average tenure of approximately 6.8 years, Momentum Metropolitan Namibia surpasses industry norms. In the global financial services and insurance sector, employee retention rates typically range between 85 and 98 percent, with average tenures often under five years.

By comparison, Momentum Metropolitan Namibia demonstrates a high-performing and purpose-driven culture, where people choose to stay, grow and contribute meaningfully over time. This level of continuity strengthens operations, preserves institutional knowledge and ensures consistent client service.

Momentum Metropolitan Namibia attributes its strong retention to a culture founded on respect, development and shared purpose. Across departments and regions, employees are empowered to grow and contribute meaningfully to the company’s long-standing mission.

As the organisation reflects on more than five decades of service to the Namibian people, it remains future-focused, continuing to build a workplace where purpose drives people and people drive progress

July 29, 2025 0 comment

National Technology

Five Namibian Students Set to Shine in Huawei’s Global Program

written by Namibia Daily News

Windhoek, 27 July — A vibrant send-off ceremony was held for five Namibian students selected to participate in the esteemed “Seeds for the Future” program, organized in collaboration with Huawei.

The event took place at Huawei Namibia Headquaters and celebrated the students’ upcoming seven-day training in Shenzhen, China.

The chosen participants—Simasiku Lilungwe Akiem and Uupindi Hilma Mwetandika from NUST, alongside Dongua Alzira Cindykile, Tjiuiju Vepukisa, and Campbell Justin Jerome from UNAM—represent the future of Namibia’s ICT sector.

Emma Theofilus, the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of collaboration and empowerment through education.

She expressed gratitude towards Huawei for their commitment to shaping ICT leaders globally. The minister noted that the “Seeds for the Future” initiative not only nurtures technical skills but also fosters personal growth and innovation among young minds.

Launched in 2008, this program has positively impacted over 15,000 students in more than 140 countries, positioning itself as a vital platform for youth engagement in technology.

As Namibia contributes to this global movement, the students are poised to bring back valuable knowledge and experience that will enhance the country’s technological landscape.

The ceremony concluded with heartfelt wishes for the students’ success and a reminder of their vital role in shaping a brighter future for Namibia.

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Energy Feature National

Namcor Secures Deepsea Mira Rig for Kharas Appraisal Well

written by Namibia Daily News

By John K WaDisho

Windhoek, 29 July — In a groundbreaking announcement for Namibia’s energy sector, Namcor, the national oil company, has revealed that it will collaborate with BW Energy to utilize the Deepsea Mira rig for drilling the Kharas appraisal well.

This well is located on the Kudu licence in the Orange Basin, an area known for its potential natural gas reserves.

Scheduled for the second half of 2025, this drilling operation marks a significant step toward unlocking the potential of the Kudu gas field.

The collaboration also highlights a strategic rig-sharing arrangement aimed at maximizing local expertise and content, thereby strengthening Namibia’s domestic capabilities in energy exploration.

With this venture, Namcor aims to transform the Kudu gas field into a tangible resource that can power the nation with locally sourced energy.

As the country continues to seek sustainable solutions to meet its energy needs, this initiative is poised to enhance Namibia’s self-sufficiency and contribute to its economic growth.

This announcement reinforces Namcor’s commitment to harnessing the country’s natural resources and enhancing local participation in the energy sector, paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future for Namibia.

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Community Feature National

Last EPUPA Payments Scheduled Prior to NamPost Transition

written by Namibia Daily News

By John K WaDisho

Rundu, 29 July — NamPost will assume responsibility for all social welfare grant payments in cash mode, effective October 1 this year, as announced by the Ministry of Finance during the launch of a regional engagement initiative in Rundu.

The Ministry aims to modernize and secure social grant distribution while reducing reliance on third-party agents to prevent delays and high costs associated with cash handling.

Beneficiaries will have multiple payment options, including deposit into private bank accounts, a NamPost savings account, or cash payments at NamPost branches. For those in remote areas without access to branches, mobile vehicles will deliver services.

Deputy Director Darrel Muyendekwa emphasized that the last payments from EPUPA will occur in September 2025, with beneficiaries needing to visit pay points to collect all grants.

Starting in October 2025, beneficiaries must register for new payment modes at NamPost branches, presenting valid identity documents.

A double payment will be issued in November for both November and December grants. The Ministry will continue consultations in every constituency to facilitate a smooth transition for all affected beneficiaries.

July 29, 2025 0 comment

ECONOMICS International

China-U.S. trade talks in Sweden stir global hopes

written by Namibia Daily News

STOCKHOLM, July 29 — The historic Rosenbad building, nestled by the mirror-like waters of Lake Malaren, is drawing international attention this week as China and the United States convene their third round of high-level trade talks.

Held at the office of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, the Stockholm meeting follows previous China-U.S. trade talks in Geneva in May and London in June.

These discussions are part of ongoing efforts to ease bilateral tensions and de-escalate the tariff disputes that have strained the global economy.

Reporters began assembling outside the venue early Monday morning. By the time trade officials arrived around 2 p.m. local time (1200 GMT), over 60 journalists from around the world had gathered.

A Reuters reporter expressed hope for “something concrete — maybe a further tariff delay or a pathway to easing duties.” Prime Minister Kristersson welcomed the event on the social media platform X.

“I look forward to meeting with representatives of the U.S. and the People’s Republic of China on Swedish soil.

Welcome to Sweden!” Since May, both countries have been working to implement the consensus reached during a recent presidential call.

Central to these efforts is the reduction of excessive tariffs and a shared aim to cool down frictions between the world’s two largest economies.

The Stockholm talks mark the third such meeting in three months and came just days before the expiration of a 90-day tariff truce agreed upon by the two sides. The approaching Aug.

12 deadline adds urgency to the dialogue, underscoring both countries’ commitment to resolving their differences through negotiation rather than confrontation.

Describing the Stockholm meeting as a “positive development,” Kristersson noted that its implications go far beyond bilateral trade.

“These discussions significantly impact global trade and the world economy.” Ulf Pehrsson, chairman of the Sweden-China Trade Council, echoed this sentiment.

“Trade wars — there are no winners,” he said. “For many Swedish companies with stakes in both the U.S. and Chinese markets, maintaining open lines of communication is vital.”

He praised the ongoing talks as “steps in the right direction” and stressed that any move to reduce tensions would be welcomed by Swedish businesses.

The third trade talk has captivated international observers. From Geneva to London and now Stockholm, this sustained momentum toward dialogue is widely viewed as critical during a period of economic uncertainty.

Finland’s national broadcaster Yle noted that both sides are striving to keep communication channels open, a gesture seen as potentially beneficial for the broader global trade landscape.

“It is much better to talk than not to talk,” said Philippe Monnier, a Swiss economist and former executive director of the Greater Geneva Berne area, Western Switzerland’s investment promotion agency. “And it is very important to continue talking in a good spirit.”

Jan Knoerich, reader in China and the global political economy at King’s College London, noted that “while it will be difficult to resolve some of the deeper economic and trade differences in the short term, further bilateral talks could help ease tensions and lead to incremental progress in certain areas.”

Analysts agree that meaningful progress will require both sides to meet each other halfway and translate high-level consensus into actionable policies that restore confidence in the China-U.S. trade relationship.

As the negotiations move into what observers are calling “deep waters,” the complexity of the topics increases.

This phase demands frank exchanges, mutual understanding, and a willingness to bridge differences through constructive dialogue.

History has shown that stabilizing China-U.S. trade relations serves the interests of both nations and benefits the world at large, observers noted.

The buzz outside the Rosenbad building has drawn curious onlookers. Among them was a tourist from Australia, who chatted with the press corps. “We’re already feeling the weight of high tariffs. Good luck to you all!” he said. (Xinhua)

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Agriculture Feature National

Hope Farm launched in Namibia to empower women, youth through agriculture

written by Namibia Daily News

USAKOS, July 28– Lena Gauses was all smiles when she received a starter flock of goats and sheep at Hope Farm in Usakos, about 210 km west of the Namibian capital, Windhoek.

The Hope Farm Project, funded jointly by the Swakop Uranium Foundation and Namibia‘s Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Land Reform, is providing a vital lifeline to rural communities, fostering sustainable livelihoods, and creating a new generation of empowered farmers.

The Swakop Uranium Foundation is sponsored by Swakop Uranium, a Namibian-Chinese joint venture. Gauses, 45, grew up on Farm Daweb in Usakos, about 140 km northeast of Swakopmund, capital city of the Erongo Region.

For her, farming is more than just an occupation; it is a return to her roots. “I was born and bred here at this farm. My grandfather used to work here as a laborer,” she told Xinhua.

“And now, after years, the farm has been classified as a resettlement farm.” “I’ve also been part of this resettlement group. In May, we were resettled here, and I’m now farming on the other side of the farm, named Erongo POS,” Gauses said.

(250728) — USAKOS, July 28, 2025 (Xinhua) — Workers vaccinate goats before they are handed over to beneficiary farmers under the Hope Farm Project in Usakos, Namibia, on July 26, 2025. TO GO WITH “Feature: Hope Farm launched in Namibia to empower women, youth through agriculture” (Xinhua/Lin Jing)

“The reason why I’m interested in farming is that previously the elders used to farm here.” With an investment of 3 million Namibian dollars (about 170,000 U.S. dollars), the Hope Farm Project was officially launched on Saturday, July 26.

By the end of 2025, 1,000 goats and sheep are expected to be distributed. At the launch event, 630 animals were handed over to the first cohort of 30 local farmers, each with a herd of 20 ewes and one ram, with the remaining livestock to follow later this year.

In addition to donating 1,000 goats and sheep annually, the project provides systematic support to participating farmers, including training and experience-sharing, vaccination services, veterinary care, and access to marketing channels.

The goal is to help low-income households raise their earnings and lift themselves out of poverty. A key to the project’s sustainability is its innovative revolving model:

after 15 months, participating farmers are expected to return 10 young animals, ensuring that the benefits can be extended to an even wider group in future rounds.

For Gauses, this opportunity is deeply personal. She fondly recalled her grandparents and parents living and working on the very same farm, saying her passion for farming is a deliberate effort to reconnect with her heritage and inspire the next generation.

“I want to go back to our roots to start farming again. Nowadays, the youth are not interested in farming, so I want to encourage them just to be part of it,” Gauses said.

The donation she got from the Swakop Uranium Foundation is going to change a lot of things in her life. “I will create jobs for some people who don’t have jobs.

Then the farming will expand. That’s my big dream, that my farming will expand,” she said. The Hope Farm Project builds upon existing governmental initiatives.

Since 2009, Namibia‘s Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Land Reform has been implementing the Small Stock Distribution and Development in Communal Areas program.

This nationwide revolving initiative aims to empower vulnerable households across all 14 regions by enhancing food and nutrition security and providing a sustainable source of income through the provision of high-quality, locally adapted breeding flocks of goats and sheep.

To date, the program has supported 779 farmers with 15,580 ewes and 779 rams. “We were facing many challenges due to last year’s drought, which depleted our livestock,” Ronald Kahoro, 32, another Hope Farm Project participant in the region, told Xinhua.

He said that while some areas now have pastures due to recent rains, many farmers lack livestock. “So we are happy to receive this boost, and we’ll work hard… to assist other people as well.”

Inge Zaamwani, Namibia‘s minister of agriculture, in her keynote address, praised the Hope Farm Project launch as a crucial step in helping realize national development goals.

“I must commend the project launched by the Swakop Uranium Foundation, because it follows strong principles. Livestock is given to selected farmers not as a handout, but as a tool for building income and creating independence,” she said.

Zaamwani particularly highlighted the project’s focus on women and youth, calling for continued investment in them, not only through resources but also through knowledge, skills, and opportunities.

Meanwhile, representing the Chinese Embassy, Counselor Wei Jinming noted how the initiative mirrors China’s efforts in strengthening its agricultural sector through community-led solutions.

In the concluding remarks of the launch, Percy McCallum, chairperson of the Swakop Uranium Foundation, thanked the partners and communities involved.

“Ultimately, hope will be brought by supporting thousands of emerging farmers and helping build a more inclusive, resilient agricultural economy,” he said.

Agriculture remains a key part of Namibia‘s economy, contributing around 5 percent to the national gross domestic product. About 70 percent of Namibians depend on agricultural activities for their livelihoods.

By Xinhua writers Lin Jing, Musa C Kaseke. (Xinhua)

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Environment Feature National

Namibia unveils plan for world’s largest black rhino sanctuary

written by Namibia Daily News

WINDHOEK, July 29 — Namibian hospitality group Gondwana Collection and ERP Conservation Foundation Namibia on Monday announced a conservation agreement to establish the world’s largest black rhino sanctuary in the Fish River Canyon region of southern Namibia.

Namibia‘s Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has worked closely with the project’s development team.

“This sanctuary is not just about rhinos, it’s about restoring balance to a region that holds immense natural and national value,” said Gys Joubert, managing director of Gondwana Collection Namibia.

“We are proud to contribute to this shared legacy under the leadership of the ministry and alongside ERP.” Gondwana has committed a vast 116,000-hectare portion of its Gondwana Canyon Park to the sanctuary.

In addition to well-established park management systems that promote both ecological integrity and tourism-led conservation, Gondwana also brought with them almost 30 years of experience rewilding the park with native game species, a process they started in 2006.

“We bring the necessary technology and experience to safeguard this keystone species while uplifting surrounding communities through meaningful environmental and social impact projects,” said Tinus Hansen, director of the ERP Conservation Foundation Namibia.

According to Hansen, ERP’s operations team officially arrived at Gondwana Canyon Park on June 21 to begin preparations for the sanctuary.

On Spet. 1, dedicated anti-poaching units will be deployed to protect rhinos and other wildlife as reintroduction efforts begin.

These protection measures will play an important role in the area’s long-term management.

Meanwhile, Gondwana Collection, ERP, and MEFT have extended an open invitation to all stakeholders, both local and international, public and private, to join in this transformative effort to restore Namibia‘s ecological wealth for future generations. (Xinhua)

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Community Current Affairs National

Namibian president concerned about rising suicide rates nationwide

written by Namibia Daily News

WINDHOEK, July 29 — Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Monday expressed concern about the country’s rising suicide rate, calling on communities and civil servants to reflect and respond with greater compassion and vigilance.

Speaking at the official opening of the 15th Eenhana Expo in the Ohangwena Region, the president said the suicide rates “have become worrisome and very sad.”

“I cannot leave this podium without addressing an issue, which is giving me sleepless nights. I call on all residents of Ohangwena to do soul-searching and ask the big question:

What is happening in our society?” she said. Her remarks came days after the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture confirmed the deaths of three teachers in the region.

The ministry described the incidents as a tragic loss for the education sector and called for urgent action to address mental health, financial stress, and systemic challenges faced by teachers.

It announced plans to carry out a situational analysis, supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund, to assess teacher well-being and identify risk factors within the education system.

Namibia grapples with a deepening mental health crisis. Official figures from the Ministry of Health and Social Services show that over 540 suicide deaths and more than 100,000 cases of mental health conditions were recorded nationally in the 2024/2025 financial year.

The scale of the crisis has prompted increased government attention, with calls for multi-sectoral collaboration and community-based responses to address the growing burden of psychological distress across the country. (Xinhua)

July 29, 2025 0 comment

Economics Feature National

Namibia launches 10-year strategy to transform financial sector

written by Namibia Daily News

WINDHOEK, July 29 — Namibia on Monday unveiled a comprehensive financial sector transformation strategy aimed at modernizing the country’s financial system and expanding access to finance over the next decade.

The Namibia Financial Sector Transformation Strategy 2025-2035, launched by the Bank of Namibia (BoN) in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (NAMFISA), outlines reforms in five priority areas:

financial sector development, digital innovation, financial inclusion and literacy, localization of financial services, and skills development. Speaking at the launch, BoN Governor Johannes Gawaxab said the initiative marks a new policy direction for the country’s financial landscape.

“We gather not to celebrate the status quo, but to redefine the role of finance in Namibia,” he said. While the current system is stable and modern, he noted that access remains uneven, particularly in rural and informal sectors.

The strategy, he added, seeks to close those gaps and broaden economic participation. As part of the initiative, the central bank will introduce a national instant payment system in 2026 to enhance digital transaction infrastructure and improve financial accessibility.

Also speaking at the launch, NAMFISA Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Matomola said the authority would intensify efforts to ensure consumer protection, promote fair business practices, and strengthen cybersecurity in the evolving digital finance landscape.

Michael Humavindu, executive director at the Ministry of Finance, said the strategy reflects a national commitment to removing structural barriers within the financial system.

He described the plan as “a declaration of resolve” by the Namibian government. The strategy aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 goals and upcoming sixth National Development Plan.

It was developed following consultations with stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society, and regional partners. (Xinhua)

July 29, 2025 0 comment

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Advertise Here

Pupkewitz Foundation Commits N$10 million to Namibia Over 12 months in Landmark 100-Year Pledge

115 Reasons to Believe. 665 Years of loyalty to Celebrate Momentum Metropolitan Namibia Honours 115 Employees for Dedicated Service

Five Namibian Students Set to Shine in Huawei’s Global Program

Namcor Secures Deepsea Mira Rig for Kharas Appraisal Well

Last EPUPA Payments Scheduled Prior to NamPost Transition

China-U.S. trade talks in Sweden stir global hopes

Hope Farm launched in Namibia to empower women, youth through agriculture

Namibia unveils plan for world’s largest black rhino sanctuary

Namibian president concerned about rising suicide rates nationwide

Namibia launches 10-year strategy to transform financial sector