Windhoek Observer

Niël Terblanché The Namibian Defence Force (NDF) celebrated its 34th anniversary on 21 June 2024 at the Lt Gen Dimo Hamaambo Garrison in Grootfontein. The event, which commemorated the establishment and achievements of the NDF, was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Frans Kapofi. Kapofi while addressing dignitaries and soldiers assembled on parade, paid tribute to the NDF’s remarkable journey since its inception in 1990, following Namibia’s independence. He honoured the memory of the late Lieutenant General Jerobeam Dimo Hamaambo, the NDF’s first Chief of Defence, who played a crucial role in uniting former combatants of…

Niël Terblanché Dr George Simataa, the Secretary to the Cabinet, has clarified the qualifying criteria for receiving drought relief, highlighting the need for improved communication from public servants to ensure those in need benefit from government initiatives. Speaking at the Public Sector Information Sharing Session in Opuwolast week, Simataa stated that households with a combined income of N$3 200 per month or less are eligible for drought relief assistance. Simataa pointed out a substantial lack of information dissemination regarding the Drought Relief Programme, which has led to many rural communities not benefiting from the programme despite being eligible. He attributed…

Niël Terblanché In a historic and momentous judgment delivered on Friday, a panel of Namibian High Court Judges declared the common law offences of sodomy and whatever else is deemed as unnatural sexual offences between men, unconstitutional. The conclusion was reached by High Court justices Nate Ndauendapo, Shafimana Ueitele, and Claudia Claasen and the ruling is being celebrated as a major victory for the LGBTQ+ community in Namibia, signifying a vital step towards equality and justice. The case, brought forward by Friedel Laurentius Dausab against the Minister of Justice and other key government officials, challenged the constitutionality of laws that…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The /Khomanin Landless People's Association has raised concerns over the adequacy of recently allocated land, asserting that 8 000 hectares fall short of addressing their longstanding issues of landlessness and access to ancestral lands. The association’s secretary, Immanuel Aochomub, made these remarks during a community meeting convened in the Dolam neighbourhood in Windhoek last week. At the meeting, the community voiced their frustrations, emphasising the need for fair consultation and representation in decisions affecting their land and cultural heritage. "We are thankful for the land, but without sounding ungrateful, our call was to have access to our ancestral…

Martin Endjala Female offenders incarcerated in the Windhoek Correctional Facility (WCF) received emotional support in the form of daily communication with loved ones. Commissioner Leonard Mahundu, the central regional commander of the Namibia Correctional Service (NCS), made this announcement last week. This comes after the NCS, in collaboration with Telio Communications Namibia, launched a communication system last week. The system aims to ensure that inmates maintain communication with their families and friends while incarcerated. “Telio communication systems will allow inmates to maintain essential connections with their families and friends. These relationships provide crucial emotional support, helping inmates preserve a sense…

Hertta-maria Amutenja President Nangolo Mbumba has raised concerns about global inequality and the inefficiency of international institutions. He said this during a meeting with the President of the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Dennis Francis, last week in Windhoek. According to Mbumba, there is a systematic bias that favours powerful nations. “There is definitely an indication of a conspiracy to have certain human beings, countries, and continents that should not be allowed to reach the level of others and that they cannot be equals,” Mbumba said. Reflecting on his tenure as finance minister, Mbumba expressed scepticism about…

Ester Mbathera Telecom Namibia has acknowledged that some customers recently experienced technical difficulties with both our broadband and mobile services (TN mobile). The company’s acting spokesperson Ndapewa Neshila said the company understands the frustration this can cause and apologises for any inconvenience. “The technical issues have been resolved, however, some sporadic disruptions may still occur. We encourage customers who experience any issues to contact our Customer Care Center on 11000 for assistance,” she said. Neshila further explained that the company is engaged in several initiatives to improve our network and bridge the digital divide. “We recognize the challenges of connecting…

Niël Terblanché In a bilateral agreement signed on Friday, Namibia and Zambia have committed to the establishment of a One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at the Katima Mulilo Border Post. This key agreement is set to streamline border procedures, enhance trade, and strengthen security between the two neighbouring nations. The signing ceremony took place in Katima Mulilo and was attended by key representatives from both countries. Namibia's delegation was led by the Zambezi Regional Governor, Lawrence Sampofu, while Zambia was represented by the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga. The agreement is a substantial milestone in the longstanding relationship…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe UNAM is currently reviewing its policies and procedures for students wishing to engage in political activism on campus. Simon Namesho, the university's spokesperson, said this last week in response to inquiries about whether the institution has modified its policies on political activism at the various campuses. The Student Representative Council at the institute’s Oshakati Campus invited students to join any social clubs of their choice, including the Swapo Party Youth League. “The university has not changed its position. The directive remains a temporary measure to allow the university to review its relevant policies and procedures. This review aims…

Martin Endjala Freelance journalist Frans Koolike, who announced that he aims to stand as an independent candidate for President in the November elections, has vowed to revolutionise and transform Namibia. Koolike announced his campaign as an independent candidate last week. “I am standing to redefine the parameters of political leadership and transform the livelihoods of our people," he said. He joins the likes of Ally Angula and social activist Rosa Namises. Koolike is also a leadership consultant. He said he decided to run for president because the Swapo government became embattled and engulfed in a series of corruption allegations. He…