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Simonis Storm Triumphs at Nedbank Windhoek Pedal Power Race Series Team Time Trials

written by Derdy

By Staff Reporter

Windhoek, Aug. 14 – The energy was palpable as the Simonis Storm men’s and women’s teams showcased their dominance at the recent Nedbank Windhoek Pedal Power Race Series Team Time Trials in Windhoek. The event, which brought together 27 female and 40 male cyclists, witnessed fierce competition as teams battled for supremacy.

In a spectacular display of skill and determination, the Simonis Storm men’s team, featuring talented cyclists Drikus Coetzee, Ingram Cuff, Gerhard Mans, Horst Newmann, and Clinton Hilfiker, clinched victory in the men’s race by completing the challenging 33-kilometre course in an impressive time of 40 minutes and 24 seconds. A commendable effort by the Cymot Men A Team secured them the second position with a time of 43 minutes and 34 seconds. The Cymot team included Kai Pritzen, Christian Janse van Rensburg, Hardus Nel, Gino Chiappini, and Pierre Knoetze. FLM Men secured the third position with a time of 45 minutes and 06 seconds, showcasing their tenacity with a team comprised of Konrad Marais, Vernon Maresch, Des Doman, Marcel Suren, and George Thiele.

The Simonis Storm women’s team, comprised of Anri Krugel, Benita Windsch, Lelani Swart, Anneke Steenkamp, and Maike Bochert, exhibited exceptional teamwork and determination, crossing the finish line with a time of 48 minutes and 56 seconds to clinch the top spot in the ladies race. The MBM Ladies team, featuring Irene Steyn, Risa Dreyer, Silke Bean, Marion Schoenecke, and Belinda van Rhyn, secured the second position with a time of 50 minutes and 35 seconds. The MSL Ladies team, with Genevieve Webber, Nicole Spangenberg, Monique Taylor, and Marcelle Elloff, displayed their prowess, securing the third position with a time of 50 minutes and 48 seconds.

Stephanus Feris, the event organizer, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success and the impressive turnout of cyclists. “The riders’ accumulation of points throughout the year will determine the ultimate series champion,” Feris noted. The anticipation builds for the fifth event, scheduled for August 20th, followed by a thrilling finale at a surprise location in early September.

Selma Kaulinge, Communication and Public Relations Manager of Nedbank Namibia shared her excitement for the nearing conclusion of yet another successful season in the Nedbank Windhoek Pedal Power Race Series. “Our long-standing support of the Namibian cycling community, spanning over 35 years, reflects our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and positively impacting our communities,” Kaulinge stated. She urged road cyclists not to miss the upcoming race in the series, set to take place in Teufelsschlucht this coming Sunday. – Namibia Daily News

August 14, 2023 0 comment

Current Affairs

NHE and Otjozondjupa Regional Council Collaborate to Develop Low-Income Housing in Kalkfeld Settlement

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Kaleb Nghishidivali

OTJIWARONGO, August 12 – The National Housing Enterprise (NHE) and the Otjozondjupa Regional Council have taken a significant step towards addressing housing challenges in the Kalkfeld settlement by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) earlier this week. The agreement, signed at the Otjozondjupa Regional Council’s office in Otjiwarongo, marks the beginning of a partnership to jointly develop more than 90 low-income housing units in the Kalkfeld settlement, located about 80km west of Otjiwarongo.

Drawing from successful informal settlement upgrading designs implemented in Windhoek, a collaboration between the NHE, City of Windhoek, and Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, this project aims to provide affordable housing solutions to individuals in lower income brackets. The housing units will feature limited finishes, allowing homeowners to complete the houses at their own pace and within their financial means, effectively reducing housing loan amounts while still offering decent and secure dwellings.

The NHE’s Chief Executive Officer, Gisbertus Mukulu, and Otjozondjupa’s Chief Regional Officer, Agatha Mweti, were the signatories of the MoU. Notable attendees at the signing included the Governor of the Otjozondjupa region, James Uerikua, as well as the Chairperson of the Regional Council, Marlyn Mbakera, and other senior officials.

Both organizations expressed their enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing their commitment to providing affordable housing solutions and improving living conditions for residents. The partnership is seen as a vital step toward reducing the housing shortage in the region.

Mukulu noted, “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to providing affordable housing solutions to those in need. The project will not only improve living conditions but also empower the residents by giving them an opportunity to participate in the development of their own homes.”

Echoing these sentiments, Mweti stated, “This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to improving the lives of our constituents. We are confident that this project will contribute significantly to reducing the housing shortage in the region.”

With a shared determination to bridge the housing gap and provide accessible housing solutions for the Namibian population, the NHE and Otjozondjupa Regional Council anticipate the success of this initiative and look forward to its positive impact on the Kalkfeld settlement.- Namibia Daily News

August 12, 2023 0 comment

Education

Rundu Mourns the Passing of Popular School Principal

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Staff reporter

RUNDU, August 12 – Lorette van Zyl, a well-known principal of Rundu Afrikaans Private School and a former Kavango netball regional coach, passed away on Wednesday evening at a local hospital in Rundu, located in the Kavango East region.

Affectionately known as Mrs. van Zyl, she was a respected figure in the education and sports community. She had also served as a teacher at Noordgrens Secondary School in the 1990s, where she was admired for her kindness and passion for sports. Her involvement in netball coaching, both at the school level and as a regional coach, left a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of the region.

Born in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa, Lorette and her husband Jakobus van Zyl moved to Namibia in 1991. Jakobus, a retired instructor of Rundu Vocational Training Centre and a renowned boxing coach, played a significant role in developing local boxing talent. Lorette’s dedication to teaching and sports remained steadfast, even after her husband’s retirement.

After deciding to permanently settle in Rundu upon her husband’s retirement, Lorette continued her teaching career until her untimely passing. At 55 years old, she leaves behind her husband, though they did not have biological children.

Lorette’s sudden passing has left a void in the community, where she was widely respected for her contributions to education and sports. Her funeral arrangements will be announced once her family arrives from South Africa.

Her impact on students, athletes, and the Rundu community will be remembered as a testament to her dedication and love for teaching and sports. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew her.- Namibia Daily News.

August 12, 2023 0 comment

National

Okahao commemorates the African Day of Decentralization, Local Governance, and Local Development.

written by Mathias Mupiri

Lylie Happiness

Okahao, Omusati Region: The Ministry of Urban and Rural Development inaugurated its observance of the African Day of Decentralization, Local Governance, and Local Development at Okahao in the Omusati region. Kavango West Region has been selected to host the 2024 Africa Day of Decentralization, Local Governance, and Local Development. The Ministry of Urban and Rural Development launched the Africa Day of Decentralization for the first time in 2014 in Windhoek, and since then, the regions have been selected by means of a draw to host the commemoration.

Omusati Region was selected in 2022 by Kharas Region to host the day on August 10, 2023. The day that was commemorated at Okahao town is under the theme “The Contribution of African Subnational and Local Governments in the Making of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area “. Erastus Uutoni, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development who officiated at the commemoration, said that the day is set aside for Africa to “pause and reflect on the progress that its member states have made and are making in upholding and propagating the values and principles of decentralization, Local governance, and Local development, as well as to take stock of the challenges experienced at the national and continental level, and to best exploit untapped economic prospects locally, continentally, and internationally for shared benefits.” “The African Continental Free Trade Area presents a remarkable opportunity for Namibia to achieve both its national developmental aspirations and also to contribute to the development of our beloved Continent, Africa, and the Free Trade Area (FTA) provides increased opportunities for international and regional trade and investment, value chains, and market access between countries and business sectors for shared benefits.” Said Hon. Uutoni. Mrs. Ndiitah Hipondoka, the Deputy Executive Director in the Ministry of Industrialization, Trade, and SME Development, highlighted that Africa is classified as a developing Continent because there are a lot of products and services imported that cannot be manufactured within the continent. Therefore, the African Continental Free Trade Area aims to address the challenges that impede trade within the continent, such as the procedures involved in the average documentation to trade, which contains 20 different parts, 14 documents, and 200 letter elements, which is a lot to get a product from one country to another within the continent, as well as very high transport and freight costs. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement is the largest free Trade Area in the world after the creation of the World Trade Union. While other continents trade among themselves a lot more, this is not the case in Africa. However,Namibia is in the top 10 intra-African traders and doing well at the moment, but it is aiming to do a lot better. ~Namibia Daily News

August 11, 2023 0 comment

Politics

PDM Demands Transparency on Hyphen Namibia Program

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Kaleb Nghishidivali

Windhoek, 11 August 2023- Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) is urging for transparency and clarity regarding the management of the GH2 Namibia Program, as well as the involvement of the Minister of Energy in the project. The PDM expressed concern over the direct oversight of the program from the State House, deviating from established protocols.

In a statement released yesterday, the PDM, as a champion of transparency and public accountability, emphasized the importance of a transparent decision-making process that is easily understood by the public. The party is keen to understand the scope of its engagement with the GH2 Namibia Program, an initiative that significantly shapes the country’s future.

The party has taken note of James Mnyupe, the advisor, assuming a central role in decision-making authority for the GH2 Namibia Program, a position traditionally held by a government minister. The PDM is seeking a comprehensive explanation from the Office of the Minister of Mines & Energy regarding the process that led to Mnyupe’s empowerment.

Hidipo Hamata, PDM Secretary for Information and Publicity, clarified that the inquiry aims to grasp the rationale behind this shift in authority, without undermining Mnyupe’s expertise. Open dialogue is crucial to ensure that the GH2 Namibia Program achieves its objectives while upholding democratic principles.

Hamata expressed optimism that the Office of the Minister of Mines & Energy would recognize the importance of addressing these concerns and providing insights to allay the apprehensions arising in public discourse.

“The PDM remains committed to Namibia’s welfare and anticipates an open dialogue that addresses concerns and contributes to the success of the GH2 Namibia Program,” said Hamata.

GH2 Commissioner James Mnyupe highlighted that the program’s goal is to position Namibia as a green energy production leader, reducing carbon emissions and fostering economic growth. The initiative envisions integrating renewable resources like green hydrogen into the energy mix, ensuring long-term energy security.

Mnyupe stressed that the Green Hydrogen Program signifies a commitment to sustainability and envisions a greener, more prosperous future. By producing green hydrogen through renewable resources such as wind and solar power, the program aims to curb carbon emissions and combat climate change.

“We believe this program offers an exciting opportunity for professionals across disciplines to collaborate and drive innovation in the green energy sector,” Mnyupe added.

He further emphasized that the program plans to introduce eight executive positions within the Green Hydrogen Program, with more details about the program’s structure to be unveiled in due course.- Namibia Daily News

August 11, 2023 0 comment

Education

Hardap’s Epic Careers Fair Ignites Student Success

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Charmaine Boois

Mariental, August 11, 2023- Making a career choice is often equated to finding a needle in a haystack—a pivotal decision that can shape one’s life trajectory. Recognizing this critical juncture, the Ministry of Education, Arts, and Culture collaboratively orchestrated the Hardap Regional Career Fair alongside the National Union of Namibian Students (NANSO) and the University of Namibia’s Southern Campus (UNAM).

Held at the vibrant Danie Joubert Sports Field, the career fair transformed into a dynamic nexus of wisdom and aspiration. Esteemed speakers from diverse disciplines converged to provide valuable advice and inspiration to students representing various schools. The overarching theme centered on crafting a purposeful career path and the profound significance of such gatherings.

The event garnered a diverse array of participants and featured an impressive lineup of esteemed exhibitors. Notable institutions including UNAM Southern Campus, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), financial giants FNB, Bank Windhoek, and Standard Bank, as well as the Namibian Police (Nampol), united to create an enriching exhibitor experience.

The fair’s corridors buzzed with eager students, drawn towards stands adorned with information, opportunities, and dreams. With their final year of high school on the horizon, these students recognized the career fair as a pivotal platform to glean insights that would shape their future endeavors.

The synergy between academia, industry, and students was tangible. Representatives from various fields and organizations shared their personal journeys, delineating the highs and lows of their professional paths. These narratives not only unveiled potential avenues but also underscored the significance of pursuing one’s passion.

Beyond the physical realm, the impact of the career fair transcended through virtual interaction zones, enabling remote participation. Webinars, interactive workshops, and digital networking avenues broadened the fair’s accessibility, ensuring that geographic constraints did not hinder any student from accessing crucial guidance.

As the sun set on the Hardap Regional Career Fair, the atmosphere brimmed with the promise of a brighter, well-prepared future. Students departed not only armed with brochures but also infused with renewed determination and direction. The event underscored the truth that while career choices may appear daunting, a supportive community and a wealth of information can transmute uncertainty into opportunity.

In a world teeming with possibilities, the Hardap Regional Career Fair stood as a guiding light, illuminating the path to self-discovery and professional fulfillment. As the curtain fell on this chapter, attendees took their places, poised to script their own success stories—narratives that would undoubtedly bear the indelible imprint of a single, transformative event. -Namibia Daily News

August 11, 2023 0 comment

Gender

Empowering Women: Momentum’s Womentum Campaign Ignites Change

written by Derdy

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, Aug. 11 — This August, Momentum Metropolitan Namibia introduces the groundbreaking Womentum campaign, a powerful initiative symbolized by a bold inversion of their signature “M,” reinforcing the #SheOwnsHerSuccess movement. Womentum is dedicated to spotlighting the diverse triumphs of women across financial, personal, and professional domains – an essential message in the face of a persistent global gender pay gap ranging from 10% to 20%.

Throughout history, women have surmounted countless barriers, from ingrained cultural norms to outdated workplace paradigms. These obstacles have sometimes overshadowed their achievements, leading many to downplay their remarkable successes.

Denille, Group Executive: Marketing at Momentum Metropolitan Namibia, passionately emphasizes, “Womentum transcends fleeting trends and hashtags. It encapsulates our resounding call for women to unabashedly celebrate their achievements, regardless of scale or complexity.” She adds, “Women seek equality, not dominance, aspiring to equal rights, opportunities, and recognition. This core belief guides us towards a society that’s harmonious, just, inclusive, and thriving.” At its core, Womentum embodies empowerment, inviting women to shape their narratives of success, fostering inclusivity, and creating an environment that empowers others to recognize their boundless potential.

Reflecting on Namibia’s journey toward gender equity, Denille elaborates on the nation’s transformation since Independence. Pioneering legislation, such as the 1990 constitution and the 1996 Married Persons Equality Act, stand as testimony to Namibia’s dedication to gender fairness. A rising trend in secondary education enrollment among Namibian women signifies a transformative shift. Moreover, Namibia secures an impressive eighth rank in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2023, positioning it among the nations making commendable strides towards gender parity.

Recent progress includes Namibia receiving praise from the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) for adopting its first national action plan on women, peace, and security for 2019-2024. This significant move acts as an additional measure reinforcing women’s rights frameworks.

Namibia’s journey towards gender parity showcases both advancements and challenges. Despite efforts to bridge the gender wage gap, disparities linger, particularly within family income dynamics. Unfortunately, certain societal perceptions still gravitate towards the unsettling notion of women’s perceived subservience. An alarming statistic highlights this issue: a notable segment of the population, including both men and women aged 15-49, consider domestic violence tolerable in specific scenarios.

Denille underscores Momentum’s guiding principles, stating, “Our ethos is inherently aligned with empowerment and inclusion. Recognizing the numerous challenges women face, our conviction remains unshaken: with the right resources, mentorship, and unwavering support, every woman can carve her path to success. We envision a world where each woman is motivated to harness her talents, from business acumen to entrepreneurial prowess.”

Womentum emerges as a beacon, not just celebrating women’s significant milestones but also urging society to confront inherent biases. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating empathy for the multifaceted roles and experiences women navigate, both professionally and personally.

By creating a united ecosystem that acknowledges and addresses the challenges women encounter, Momentum aspires to champion not only women’s triumphs but also the advancement of society as a whole. In conclusion, Denille invites the public to join them in celebrating the achievements of every woman and collaboratively strive towards a more inclusive and progressive society.

August 11, 2023 0 comment

Energy

From Oil to Green Hydrogen: Namibia and Angola Pave the Way for Sustainable Development

written by Derdy

By Staff Reporter

LUANDA, Aug. 11 — Namibia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Tom Alweendo, is set to take the stage as a keynote speaker at the much-anticipated Angola Oil & Gas 2023 Conference & Exhibition this September, marking a significant highlight for the industry.

Energy Capital and Power (ECP) proudly announces Minister Tom Alweendo’s participation in the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2023 Conference & Exhibition, scheduled for September 13-14 in Luanda, under the theme ‘Energy Security, Decarbonization, and Sustainable Development.’

Minister Alweendo’s address will delve into Namibia’s recent achievements in the oil, gas, and green hydrogen sectors, emphasizing the strengthened cooperation with Angola to accelerate both countries’ development trajectories.

Namibia’s impressive advancements in the oil and gas domain, underscored by significant discoveries at Venus-1X, Graff-1X, Jonker-1X, La Rona-1X, and Lesedi-1X prospects, present alluring prospects for investors and project developers. Coupled with favourable fiscal policies, the country is rapidly emerging as a top-tier hydrocarbon destination in Africa. As its energy market expands, Namibia’s learning curve from oil and gas leaders like Angola, the continent’s largest oil producer, becomes invaluable.

Beyond oil and gas, Namibia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy is ambitiously advancing green hydrogen projects, opening doors for regional and global stakeholders. Collaborative efforts with partners like Germany aim to establish a green hydrogen hub within Namibia. However, substantial investments remain essential to ensure sustained growth and success.

Angola, too, is taking strides toward large-scale green hydrogen facilities, with plans to export its inaugural green hydrogen cargo in 2024. Bilateral collaboration between Angola and Namibia in the green hydrogen sector offers the potential for shared knowledge and resources, fostering a robust and interconnected hydrogen economy.

Devi Paulsen-Abbott, CEO of ECP, emphasizes the critical role of a collaborative energy approach in fortifying energy security within the Southern African region, attracting fresh investment, and establishing Africa as an innovation hub. The anticipation for Minister Tom Alweendo’s presence at this event is palpable, reflecting the positive momentum in this sector.

Last year, Namibia and Angola solidified their commitment to enhanced cooperation in the petroleum and natural gas sectors through a memorandum of understanding. At AOG 2023, Minister Alweendo will provide deeper insights into the promising opportunities for bilateral collaboration between these two forward-looking nations.

August 11, 2023 0 comment

National

President Geingob Hosts Farewell for Top European Diplomat, Antila

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, August 10- Sinikka Antila, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation, bid farewell in a visit to President Hage Geingob, expressing commendation for his steadfast leadership within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Antila assured continued EU support for SADC, highlighting the peace efforts in Mozambique.

During the meeting, Ambassador Antila conveyed the EU’s readiness to back the implementing agency for the critical and sustainable raw materials agreement, as well as the development of Green Hydrogen through watermouth spoken development.

Praising Namibia’s constitutional democracy, press freedom, and human rights, Ambassador Antila presented President Ursula von der Leyen’s invitation for President Geingob to attend the EU-Namibia Business Forum.

President Geingob reciprocated the sentiments, expressing appreciation for the European Union’s support to SADC and Namibia. Emphasizing unity, he called for coordinated national progress and harmonious alignment of efforts for the nation’s greater benefit. President Geingob remained optimistic about Namibia’s future prospects.

The farewell visit marked a moment of mutual respect and shared aspirations, reflecting the cordial relationship between the European Union and Namibia. ~Namibia Daily News

August 10, 2023 0 comment

Agriculture

Namibia Graciously Receives Agricultural Donation from Brazil

written by Mathias Mupiri

By Kaleb Nghishidivali

Windhoek, 10 Augudy 2023. Namibia has been the recipient of a generous agricultural donation from the Federative Republic of Brazil, aimed at fortifying the country’s agricultural sector. Expressing profound gratitude on behalf of Namibia, Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Forestry, Carl Scheltwein, lauded the Brazilian Government and its people for their impactful contribution.

The donation, valued at N$2.2 million, stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between Brazil and Namibia, which has flourished since before Namibia’s independence and continues to strengthen. Aligned with Namibia’s national development goals, the donation is set to empower the agriculture sector, reduce vulnerability, and enhance food and nutrition security at both community and national levels.

Minister Scheltwein emphasized the significance of this contribution in advancing Namibia’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly addressing Goal (1) – No Poverty and Goal (2) – Zero Hunger. He outlined the multifaceted ways in which the donated funds would be utilized by beneficiary communities, including fostering local food production, improving nutrition, enhancing livelihoods, promoting education, and contributing to national food security objectives.

Highlighting Namibia’s strides towards food self-sufficiency, the Minister noted the surplus position in beef and fish production, as well as the commendable 80% local maize production rate. While acknowledging the need for improvement in millet and wheat production, he celebrated the milestone of several horticultural products crossing the 50% local production mark.

Minister Scheltwein extended gratitude to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, for prioritizing agriculture and food business sectors as pivotal areas for investment, poverty reduction, and job creation. He also recognized the value of South-South Cooperation and economic integration.

Further appreciation was expressed for Dr. George Fedha, Country Director of the World Food Programme, and Mrs. Ericah Shafudah, Deputy Country Director, for their dedicated efforts and technical support in realizing Namibia’s aspirations for food and nutrition security.

In conclusion, the Minister expressed optimism that this donation marks a significant stride towards bolstering Namibia’s agriculture sector and achieving self-sufficiency in food production. -Namibia Daily News

August 10, 2023 0 comment

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Advertise Here

Simonis Storm Triumphs at Nedbank Windhoek Pedal Power Race Series Team Time Trials

NHE and Otjozondjupa Regional Council Collaborate to Develop Low-Income Housing in Kalkfeld Settlement

Rundu Mourns the Passing of Popular School Principal

Okahao commemorates the African Day of Decentralization, Local Governance, and Local Development.

PDM Demands Transparency on Hyphen Namibia Program

Hardap’s Epic Careers Fair Ignites Student Success

Empowering Women: Momentum’s Womentum Campaign Ignites Change

From Oil to Green Hydrogen: Namibia and Angola Pave the Way for Sustainable Development

President Geingob Hosts Farewell for Top European Diplomat, Antila

Namibia Graciously Receives Agricultural Donation from Brazil