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Bank Windhoek Relay 2023: A Successful Event Promoting Fitness and Charity

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 17 — The Bank Windhoek Relay, held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, saw 55 teams of four enthusiastic participants come together for a day of fitness and charitable giving. With the theme “Join the Relay Revolution,” this annual event aims to promote teamwork and healthy lifestyles.

The teams competed in walking, running, and cycling categories, with both mixed men’s and women’s groups. Each team member had to complete a five-kilometre (km) run or walk, contributing to the overall distance of 20 km.

In the Mixed Walkers category, the Speedfreaks claimed first place with a time of 2:01:15, followed by Sanlam All Stars and Faster Than Snails, who finished with combined times of 2:03:23 and 2:15:23, respectively. The CAAM Girlies took the top spot in the Ladies’ Walkers category, completing the course in 2:16:20. They were followed by Megatech Walkers 1 (2:29:09) and Not Fast Just Furious (2:44:48) in second and third place, respectively. The Men’s Walkers category had a single participant.

In the Mixed Runners category, Transformers secured first place with an impressive time of 1:29:13. Running on Empty and Cool Runnings finished in second and third place with times of 1:29:28 and 1:29:49, respectively. In the Ladies’ Runners category, Wannabee Runners crossed the finish line at 1:49:07, followed closely by Moms That Run at 1:50:49. The Annabelles claimed the third spot with a time of 1:53:22. In the Men’s Runners category, Transcendence took first place with an impressive time of 1:05:20, followed by Megatech Runners 2 (1:05:53) and The Intangibles (1:28:20) in second and third place, respectively.

All funds raised during the Bank Windhoek Relay will be donated to charity by the Bank. – Namibia Daily News

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Doek Literary Awards Gains Momentum with Bank Windhoek’s Ongoing Support

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 17 — Bank Windhoek reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the arts as the official sponsor of the second Bank Windhoek Doek Literary Awards. Jacquiline Pack, the Bank’s Executive Officer for Marketing and Corporate Communication Services, made the announcement in Windhoek on Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Pack expressed the Bank’s ongoing support for the awards, which have totalled N$400,000 to date.

Reflecting Bank Windhoek’s active role in the arts, Pack emphasized the utilization of the Bank’s extensive national presence through branches, social media platforms, and website to reach wider audiences and encourage submissions from talented individuals across the country.

The Doek Literary Awards, recognizing Namibian talent in writing (fiction and nonfiction), poetry, and visual arts, were established by the Doek! Literary Magazine (Doek!), an online literary publication founded in Namibia in 2019. Rémy Ngamije, the co-founder of the magazine, described the awards as a “literary tradition that Bank Windhoek helped kickstart.” Ngamije expressed gratitude for the Bank’s support, which has enabled the celebration of authentically Namibian stories and their broader reach.

The Bank Windhoek Doek Literary Awards hold great prestige within the arts community. Namafu Amutse, the 2021 Visual Arts Category winner, shared how the support and interest in her work have increased, leading her to exhibit in cities like London and Dubai. Her artwork was also featured in Lolwe, a Kenyan-based literary magazine, making her the only Namibian visual artist published in Lolwe.

To be eligible for the 2023 Doek! Literary Awards, entrants must be Namibian, whether residing in the country or in the diaspora, and submit their artwork in at least one of the four categories: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and visual arts. Published entries automatically qualify for the awards. A shortlist of 12 artists, three from each category, will be selected, with different prizes awarded to each finalist. The winners in each category will receive the grand prize of N$5,000. The awards will consider publications from the two previous editions of the Doek! as well as the upcoming two editions, providing two additional opportunities for entry.

The Bank Windhoek Doek Literary Awards will be held in November, preceded by engagement activities aimed at widespread information sharing to reach as many people as possible. – Namibia Daily News

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Namibia’s Schools Netball League Kicks Off with Capricorn Group’s Ongoing Support

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 17 — The 2023 Capricorn Group Schools Netball League kicked off on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, with representatives from participating schools and the Namibia Schools Sports Union (NSSU) in attendance. Since 2019, Capricorn Group has taken over the league’s sponsorship, and they have confirmed their ongoing support and commitment.

Marlize Horn, Group Executive: Brand & Corporate Affairs from Capricorn Group, expressed pride in their long-standing contribution to netball’s promotion and development in Namibia. They believe that sports, including netball, help the youth develop character, teamwork, commitment, and hard work. With enthusiasm, they launched the 2023 season of the Capricorn Group Schools Netball League, which saw a significant number of teams from across Namibia participating. Capricorn Group reaffirmed their dedication to supporting sports development, particularly women’s sports.

A total of 69 teams from eight regions, including Khomas, Karas, Hardap, Otjizondjupa, Kunene, Otjikoto, Omaheke, and Erongo, will compete in the league. Matches will take place in Stampriet, Rehoboth, Outjo, Otjiwarongo, Swakopmund, and Windhoek. The league features 690 players from 24 schools, including 11 public schools and 13 private schools. With six different age categories ranging from Under 12 to Under 19, teams will vie for the title of the 2023 Capricorn Group Schools Netball League national champions.

Mrs Liezel Garbers, Chairperson of the Capricorn Group Schools Netball League, highlighted the importance of sports in the youth’s physical, psychological, and social well-being. She expressed excitement for the start of the 2023 season and anticipated thrilling matches.

The league is officially recognized by the Namibian School Sport Union (NSSU) as the national schools’ netball league for A-teams.

Here are the scheduled match dates:

  • Round 1: May 19-20, 2023
  • Round 2: June 2-3, 2023
  • Round 3: July 28-29, 2023
  • Round 4: August 11-12, 2023
  • Round 5: August 18-19, 2023
  • Round 6 (Finals): August 25-26, 2023

 

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Feature: Communities battle human-wildlife conflict in Namibia

WINDHOEK, May 17 — Tuhafeni Erastus, a subsistence farmer in the Omusati region in north-central Namibia, recalled a recent occasion when marauding elephants invaded her field in the evening time, destroying the rain-fed pearl millet crops.

“I prayed that elephants would spare me a few crops. But my hope for better yields toward harvest time in May this year was shattered,” Erastus said Tuesday.

Dwellers in a far-flung village are counting losses to human-wildlife conflict, which remains a persistent problem in Namibia, where wild animals such as elephants, lions, jackals, and leopards live near communities.

“I invested so much to plough and toil the land. With all crops damaged, there are no returns for us as a family,” she added.

Over the past five years, communities outside the conservancies suffered significant losses to wildlife. Between 2018 and 2022, wild animals destroyed crops covering 97.75 hectares of land in communities outside conservancies in the north-central Omusati, Ohangwena, and Oshikoto regions, according to Rehabeam Erckie, deputy director for Wildlife and National Parks in the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism.

Locals also cite livestock, mainly cattle, donkeys, goats, horses, and sheep, being killed or injured by wildlife, including predators such as lions, leopards and hyenas.

Traditional methods, such as chasing predators away with a stick, no longer work because they may result in fatalities. Government records show that since 2019, 54 people have been injured and 33 others killed due to human-wildlife conflict.

“We live in constant fear. Today are the crops, and you wonder when your loved one is next,” Erastus said.

Despite the challenges faced, the farmers said they are not giving up. In addition to building stronger fences, they are exploring approaches to counter losses.

“Perhaps to start a small vegetable garden inside the spacious houses to supplement or compensate for crop losses,” Mateus Shivute, another subsistence farmer in Tsandi Constituency in Omusati region.

Meanwhile, the ministry has developed a variety of measures and strategies to mitigate the impact of human-wildlife conflict. These include managing the increasing amount of wildlife across the country, putting down problem animals, and providing water to game and communities.

“We also built protective fences and further increased water points and troughs for the elephants to reduce the human-wildlife conflict,” Erckie said.

The ministry also implements the policy on human-wildlife conflict management, which makes provision to offset farmers for verified losses to wildlife.

Since 2009, the government has spent about 41.8 million Namibian dollars (about 2.2 million U.S. dollars) as compensation for human-wildlife conflict-related matters.

Experts also met to discuss this at the recently held human-wildlife conflict conference in Windhoek, the capital of Namibia.

“We have since come up with mitigation plans to address this, such as setting up water points,” Erckie said.

The ministry also enforces policies on wildlife protection and undertakes robust education about the importance of wildlife and conservation. (Xinhua)

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Namibia’s Queer Community Dances in the Face of Legal Battles: Celebrating Radical Joy

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 17 — Amid a rollercoaster of legal battles and mixed outcomes, Namibia’s queer community and activists find solace in celebrating a radical joy. Drag Night at The Loft for You, a popular venue in Windhoek sets the stage for a vibrant gathering of elated revellers from diverse backgrounds. Against a backdrop of rainbow flags and captivating performances, activist Omar van Reenen takes the spotlight to emphasize the significance of their presence and the fight for freedom. Drag artistry, historically intertwined with subversive queer politics, continues to serve as a platform for activism and a joyful subversion of gender norms.

Drag as a Political Statement: Rodelio Lewis, the founder and CEO of Drag Night Namibia, highlights the inherently political nature of drag. The performers use satire and take their craft seriously, using each stage appearance as a powerful political statement challenging heteropatriarchal power systems. In Namibia, where the LGBTQ community’s fight for civil rights has intensified, drag events like Drag Night serve as an important outlet for activism and a celebration of the queer experience.

Legal Challenges and the Queer Movement: Namibia’s small yet dedicated civil rights movement, primarily led by youth, has rallied around legal battles concerning LGBTQ rights. The article highlights two pivotal Supreme Court hearings: one addressing the recognition of same-sex marriages conducted abroad and the other focusing on the parental rights of same-sex families. The outcomes of these cases hold immense implications for the future of queer Namibians and their families.

The Power of Community and Celebration: Drag Night and similar inclusive spaces play a crucial role in the larger movement for equality and inclusivity. As attendees, particularly those actively engaged in activism, gather in these safe spaces, they find solace, connection, and moments of happiness. Daniel Digashu, a litigant in a marriage recognition case, emphasizes the importance of such events, providing a much-needed break from the challenging fight for LGBTQ rights.

The Verdicts and Their Impact: While the Supreme Court ruling on parental rights and citizenship of a child of a same-sex couple resulted in a disappointing loss for the queer rights movement, the recent ruling in favour of recognizing same-sex marriages conducted abroad brings hope and progress. This landmark verdict represents a significant win for LGBTQ rights in Namibia, highlighting the ongoing efforts to achieve equality and inclusivity.

Conclusion: Namibia’s queer community continues to navigate a complex landscape of legal victories and setbacks. Despite the challenges, they find strength in celebrating a radical joy and fostering a sense of community. Drag events like Drag Night serve as a powerful platform for activism, providing a space to challenge societal norms while spreading love and acceptance. As the fight for LGBTQ rights in Namibia continues, these moments of celebration become even more meaningful, reminding everyone that the pursuit of happiness and equality is worth every effort. – Namibia Daily News

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Namibia’s LGBTQ+ Community Celebrates as Supreme Court Validates Same-Sex Marriages

By Benjamin Wickham

WINDHOEK, May 17 — In a groundbreaking ruling, Namibia’s Supreme Court has recognized same-sex marriages contracted abroad between Namibian citizens and their foreign spouses. This decision marks a significant milestone in a country where homosexuality remains illegal.

The Supreme Court’s ruling overturns a previous decision by the High Court, which had refused to acknowledge same-sex marriages conducted outside of Namibia. The case was brought forward by two Namibian nationals who sought legal recourse after the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration denied permits to their same-sex foreign spouses, whom they had married in other countries.

The court ruling stated, “This Court found that the approach of the Ministry to exclude spouses, including the appellants, in a validly concluded same-sex marriage… infringes both the interrelated rights to dignity and equality of the appellants.”

Annette Seiler, married to German national Anita Seiler-Lilles, and Namibian citizen Johann Potgieter, married to his South African husband Matsobane Daniel Digashu, were the individuals who initiated the case. Their marriages were respectively solemnized in Germany and South Africa.

Namibia has witnessed a series of legal battles concerning the rights of same-sex couples to marry, become parents, and immigrate. Homosexuality remains illegal in Namibia, as an archaic 1927 sodomy law, inherited from the country’s period under South African rule, continues to be enforced but rarely used.

South Africa, known for its liberal post-apartheid constitution, stands as the sole African nation that permits gay marriage, having legalized it in 2006.

In March of this year, the same Supreme Court made headlines when it overturned a lower court’s decision to grant citizenship to a four-year-old son of a gay couple. The child, born in neighbouring South Africa through surrogacy, was denied citizenship by the lower court before the Supreme Court intervened.

Namibia’s recognition of same-sex marriages conducted abroad represents a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the country. It reflects the ongoing progress and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community as they strive for equality, acceptance, and legal protections in Namibia. – Namibia Daily News

May 17, 2023 0 comment
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Development Bank of Namibia Initiates Venture Capital Fund to Support SMEs

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 16 — The Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) is currently working towards the establishment of a Venture Capital Fund (Fund) as part of the national SME Financing Strategy. This initiative recognizes the significant role of SMEs in the Namibian economy and aims to enhance access to funding and capital for SMEs.

The primary objective of the Fund is to invest in identified SMEs that demonstrate strong growth potential but face challenges in securing loans or acquiring additional capital.

As an equity investor, the Fund will provide funding to established SMEs in exchange for equity. The invested capital will be utilized by the SMEs for growth requirements and operational capital. The Fund will generate returns through the appreciation of its investments in these SMEs.

To ensure effective governance, the Fund will be established as a trust under the Trust Moneys Protection Act 34 of 1934 and registered as an independent special purpose vehicle (SPV) in compliance with the Regulations of the Pension Funds Act 24 of 1956. The Fund will be overseen by a board of trustees, with a majority of independent members. The process of recruiting trustees will commence soon through an independent recruitment consultancy.

The Fund will adhere to relevant registration processes and requirements, including the regulations of the Master of the High Court and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (NAMFISA).

Jerome Mutumba, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication at DBN, expressed optimism regarding the Fund’s potential to catalyze transformation within Namibia’s SME sector. He emphasized that increased exposure to equity funding has the capacity to reverse prevailing trends and strengthen the SME sector.

DBN has previously introduced the Collateral Guarantee Scheme and spearheaded the National Mentoring and Coaching Programme as part of its efforts to support SMEs. The Fund represents the third and final component of the comprehensive SME Financing Strategy. – Namibia Daily News

May 16, 2023 0 comment
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The Capricorn Foundation Strengthens Commitment to Education Transformation

By Staff Reporter

WINDHOEK, May 16 — The Capricorn Foundation has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering positive change in the education sector through its ongoing support of the EduVision program. This initiative, which aids 19 marginalized public schools nationwide, has a profound impact on over 10,000 learners and 350 teachers by addressing various challenges that hinder the performance and quality of education in rural schools. The dedicated project team travels a staggering 7,000 kilometres per month, visiting all 19 schools to ensure the efficient functioning of the program. They engage regularly with teachers and learners, providing necessary training and support whenever required.

Since 2020, the Capricorn Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of the EduVision project, having contributed N$1,380,000 to date, including a commitment of N$540,000 for this year. The invaluable support from stakeholders, such as the Capricorn Foundation, empowers EduVision to alleviate academic disparities and bridge the gap between urban and remote schools in Namibia, granting equal opportunities for rural education.

“Education stands as one of the primary focal points for the Capricorn Foundation. As Connectors of Positive Change, partnering with EduVision to support remote and marginalized schools is pivotal in improving the quality of education and providing rural Namibian children with the same access to learning opportunities as their urban counterparts. Since 2020, we have taken pride in our partnership with EduVision, granting rural school learners and teachers access to quality education. We firmly believe that investing in education yields the best interest,” affirmed Marlize Horn, Executive Officer of the Capricorn Foundation.

The EduVision Project facilitates access to an “extended classroom” for rural and marginalized schools, emphasizing inclusive digital learning and interactive platforms such as smartboards, recorded lessons, and live online classes conducted by experienced teachers. These efforts empower learners and assist in their digital transformation.

EduVision Online Learning (EOL), a Section 21 Company launched in 2018, plays a significant role in teaching Mathematics, Physical Science, Chemistry, Economics, and Biology. As the project evolves, EduVision continuously seeks ways to better serve learners and enhance their academic performance. Recently, the project introduced new lessons, including recorded Grade 1 lessons with necessary teaching aids, currently on trial at three schools in the Ohangwena region, and Grade 11 English lessons of high quality and standard available for project schools to watch.

The project originated at Tsumkwe Secondary School in the Otjozondjupa region and has since expanded its support to schools throughout the country, including Waterberg JSS, Okakarara SS, Gam SS, Cornelius Goreseb SS (Khorixas), Himarwa Iithete SSS, Kandjimi Murangi SS (Nkurenkuru), Leevi Hakusembe SS (Rundu), Epukiro Post 3 SS, Schlip Primary School, Pioneer (Schlip), PI Groenewaldt, C//Oaseb, St Therese SS (Tses), Oshaango Combined School, Epembe SS, Elundu Combined School, and Ioma Combined School.

“The impact of their sponsorship has been profound. Thanks to the Capricorn Foundation’s financial support, we can equip these remote schools with the necessary infrastructure, including internet connectivity and learning resources. Their contribution has transformed classrooms into vibrant hubs of learning, enabling students to explore new horizons and acquire knowledge that will shape their future. Furthermore, their sponsorship has allowed us to train dedicated teachers who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students. Under their guidance, students receive a high-quality education that empowers them to pursue their dreams and unlock their full potential. The Foundation’s support not only improves academic outcomes but also instils hope and confidence in these students, inspiring them to aspire to a brighter future,” expressed Frikkie Louw from EduVision. – Namibia Daily News

May 16, 2023 0 comment
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Doctor Victor and The Rasta Rebels Set Windhoek on Fire with Legendary Concert

By Staff Reporter

Windhoek, May 16 — Windhoek Country Club and Resort hosted an unforgettable performance on Saturday night as Doctor Victor and The Rasta Rebels graced the stage. The highly anticipated event, organized by BigEventsNamibia, showcased an impressive lineup of supporting acts including the talented all-female band, Essense, the remarkable Gyzie the One-Man Band, and the electrifying DJ WAXA.

The night commenced with an exhilarating set from DJ WAXA, whose expertly curated playlist had the crowd on their feet. Essense, the all-female band, took the stage next and captivated the audience with their exceptional vocals and dynamic stage presence.

Subsequently, Dr Victor and The Rasta Rebels took the spotlight, igniting the crowd with their first performance. The enthralled audience enthusiastically joined in, dancing and jamming to the band’s infectious beats. As anticipation mounted for Doctor Victor’s second performance, Gyzie continued to mesmerize the audience, keeping the energy high with his impressive one-man-band act. Finally, the moment everyone had been eagerly awaiting arrived – Doctor Victor and The Rasta Rebels returned to the stage for their headline performance.

The legendary South African musician astounded the audience with not one, but two incredible performances, concluding the night with unforgettable hits such as “Gimme Hope Joanna,” “I Love to Truck,” “If You Wanna Be Happy,” and many more. The crowd sang along to every word, dancing and swaying to the infectious beats.

BigEventsNamibia expressed profound gratitude to all the sponsors who contributed to making the event possible, including Windhoek Country Club, Namibian Broadcasting Company, FlyNamibia, and LEFA. The success of the event stands as a testament to Namibia’s vibrant music scene.

Overall, Doctor Victor and The Rasta Rebels delivered an undeniably unforgettable performance, leaving the audience yearning for more. It was an extraordinary night, destined to be etched in the history books as one of Namibia’s greatest live concerts. – Namibia Daily News

May 16, 2023 0 comment
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The Evolution of the Namibian Music Industry: From Local Talent to Global Recognition

WINDHOEK, May 15 — The Namibian music industry has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception, embracing diverse genres and witnessing the emergence of talented artists who have captivated both local and international audiences. This growth and development can be attributed to several key factors that have shaped the industry over the years.

Technological advancements have played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the Namibian music landscape. The introduction of digital recording and distribution platforms has provided artists with greater accessibility and ease in producing and sharing their music. This has opened doors for Namibian musicians to showcase their talent on a global scale, enabling them to reach a broader audience beyond their local fan base.

In a recent interview with unwrap.online, Fresh FM radio personality NSK expressed his rejuvenated enthusiasm for local music. NSK confessed that the music had started to sound monotonous to him until he discovered fresh sounds from artists like Mabuzza and Exit who dared to do something different. He highlighted the shift in focus from the art itself to “influencing” and chasing clout, emphasizing the importance of music that resonates with the soul rather than merely following trends.

NSK also highlighted a few rising stars within the Namibian music scene who he believes deserve more recognition. He praised the talents of the Collective Singers and Karishma, acknowledging the latter’s unique vibe that connects with the younger generation. NSK shared the sentiments of Namibian music enthusiasts who are requesting radio play from established acts such as Mega, Oteya, Lioness, DJ Vuyo, Kalux, Yeezir, DJ Siya, Waters, Top Cheri, DJ Spuzza, and ChesterHousePrince, applauding them for consistently delivering catchy tunes and anthems.

As the industry continues to evolve, artists themselves have been greatly impacted. The music scene has provided a platform for musicians to express their creativity, connect with fans, and build a dedicated following. This growth has allowed emerging talents to make their mark, both locally and internationally, showcasing their skills and contributing to the industry’s vibrant landscape.

Dazzle, a radio personality and music analyst from Radio Energy, shared his appreciation for the growth of the Namibian music industry alongside Western and popular African sounds. Dazzle applauded musicians for their dedication to producing quality sounds, music videos, and captivating performances. While live performances are still relatively limited, he expressed a desire to see more artists embrace this aspect, as it adds a unique flair to their original songs.

Dazzle also highlighted his top picks for 2023, including Azaria, Ixa, Waters, Yeezir, Azmo, Karishma, and Adora. He noted that artists such as DJ Spuzza and the Slaughterhouse Gang, Azmo, Yeezir, Adora, Ethnix, DJ Castro, Nally, Zikii, Lioness, ChesterHousePrince, and the Musketeers have been receiving significant airplay.

While the Namibian music industry has experienced notable growth and success, challenges persist. Issues such as piracy, limited funding opportunities, and restricted access to international markets continue to hinder the industry’s full potential. However, Namibian artists remain resilient, contributing their creativity and talent to the global music scene, and pushing boundaries to overcome these challenges.

The future looks promising for the Namibian music industry as it continues to evolve, with artists embracing innovation and striving for excellence. With a growing fan base and a wave of fresh talent, the industry is poised to make an even greater impact on the local and international music landscape.

Source: unwrap.online

May 15, 2023 0 comment
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