Windhoek Observer – Page 717 – Windhoek Observer

08 Mar

Gambling and gaming earns N$9.3 million

National News

Ministry of Environment and Tourism earned N$9.3 million in 2022/2023 in 2022/2023 financial year from gaming and gambling activities. The ministry plans in the 2024/2025-2026/2027 financial years to secure approval for staff structure and budget in order to operationalize the Gambling Board of Namibia and Lotteries Board of Namibia. Tourism contribution to national GDP is estimated to reach a total N$46.8 billion during 2024/2025 – 2026/2027 financial years, according to the ministry. A total number of 1600 of applications for Environmental Clearance Certificates were received, of which 946 Environmental Clearance Certificates were issued for various activities. 150 sites were inspected…

08 Mar

Labour disputes see 48% settlement rate

National News

The Ministry of Labour, Industrial relations and Employment Creation, achieved 48% of the targeted 67% of the prevention and settlement of industrial disputes, and workplace protection target in 2023. The ministry said a total of 4917 cases were handled through labour dispute resolution mechanism of which 2336 (48%) were resolved and 2 580 were still pending due to postponements. Conciliation remains the preferred method of resolving disputes, with 1 765 (76%) of the disputes resolved through conciliation, while 571 (24%) were resolved through arbitration, according to the ministry. The Employment Equity Commission received a total of 1 043 reports of…

08 Mar

Namibia takes one step closer to National Qualifications Standards Policy

National NewsNamibia takes one step closer to National Qualifications Standards Policy

Niël Terblanché Namibia is on the cusp of adopting a national policy on qualifications standards for higher education institutions. The National Policy on Qualifications Standards Validation Workshop, a culmination of a comprehensive nationwide consultation process, was officially opened in Windhoek, signalling a crucial phase in the development of this landmark policy. Dr. Alfred van Kent, the Executive Director of the Ministry of Higher Education, Innovation, and Technology, voiced his optimism at the workshop, expressing hope that the policy would be implemented before the end of the 2024-2025 financial year. He said the workshop represents a key moment in Namibia’s education…

08 Mar

APRM Country Review Report lauds Namibia for governance achievements

National NewsAPRM Country Review Report lauds Namibia for governance achievements

Niël Terblanché South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who served as the Chairperson of the African Peer Review Forum from 2020 to 2022, has proudly presented the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) Country Review Report for Namibia, following the nation’s first Peer Review at the 31st Summit of the APRM Forum of Heads of State and Government on February 4th, 2022. The report, accompanied by a comprehensive National Programme of Action, marks a significant step in Namibia’s journey towards enhanced governance and socio-economic development. Ramaphosa said that since joining the APRM in 2017, Namibia has demonstrated unwavering commitment and substantial progress…

08 Mar

Namibian fishermen call for justice

National News

Niël Terblanché A group of Namibian fishing industry workers have come forward with personal testimonies about the profound impact the notorious Fishrot corruption scandal has had on their lives. The Fishrot corruption scandal, which came to light following investigations into illicit dealings between several former Namibian government officials and representatives of the Icelandic fishing company Samherji, has had far-reaching consequences. The scandal centred around the exchange of lucrative fishing quotas for payments, severely impacting local companies like Namsov Fishing Enterprises, which saw their quotas slashed or eliminated from 2014 onwards. This led to the loss of at least 1,000 jobs,…

08 Mar

Unequal distribution of healthcare facilities raises concerns in Namibia

MainUnequal distribution of healthcare facilities raises concerns in Namibia

Hertta-Maria Amutenja In a recent report by the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), it has been highlighted that access to healthcare in Namibia is unevenly distributed across the country, with only three regions boasting sufficient healthcare facilities. According to the report, the Country Review Mission (CRM) delved into various aspects, shedding light on disparities in healthcare and sanitation. The report notes that regions like Khomas, Oshana, and Zambezi have state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. However, the majority of Namibians, especially in rural areas, face challenges accessing adequate healthcare. With 431 public healthcare facilities, including 27 hospitals, the report reveals that the Windhoek…

08 Mar

Commitment strengthens the pillars of democracy in Namibia

Editorial

Niël Terblanché As Namibia embarks on yet another significant chapter in its democratic journey, the 2024 electoral processes, including the General Registration of Voters (GRV) and the Presidential and National Assembly elections, the nation's commitment to democratic principles must be the ultimate focus. The Electoral Commission of Namibia's (ECN) launch of the Electoral Calendar, Democracy Building, Awareness Campaign, and Service Charter in Windhoek marks a crucial moment, underlining an integrated effort to modernize and refine electoral systems. Yet, this moment also invites the nation to reflect critically on the health of democracy in Namibia, assessing both its strengths and the…

08 Mar

The fugitive Nico Rabebe was apprehended

National News

Niël Terblanché The nationwide manhunt for 30-year-old Nico Rabebe, a former Bank Windhoek employee accused of an audacious N$200 million theft, concluded with his arrest in Opuwo yesterday. Rabebe’s run from the law ended quietly at his girlfriend’s residence, where, in a surprising twist, he elected to turn himself in to investigators of the Namibian Police. Kunene Police Regional Commander, Commissioner James Nderura, confirmed the arrest took place early yesterday morning at about 07:00. The fugitive instructed his girlfriend to inform the police of his desire to surrender. This unexpected move brought an end to a saga that captivated the…

08 Mar

CoW approves new township development

National NewsCoW approves new township development

Martin Endjala The City of Windhoek Municipal Council has last week approved the establishment of a new township on Portion 317 of Rocky Crest The new township development will be known as Rocky Crest Extension 8. The Mayor of Windhoek, Queen Kamati said, the move is aimed at addressing the escalating demand for urban housing and related amenities in the city. The proposed extension measures about 25 hectares and consists of 227 erven. It is situated to the south of the existing Rocky Crest township, along the eastern boundary of Otjomuise Road, and the northwestern boundary of Bernt Carlson Road.…

08 Mar

Tsumkwe community calls for educational expansion

National NewsTsumkwe community calls for educational expansion

Niël Terblanché In the remote settlement of Tsumkwe, a growing plea for educational reform and expansion echoes through its communities. Residents are calling for the establishment of a technical and vocational training centre, alongside the construction of more schools to accommodate the burgeoning youth population. These requests, initially presented to the Ministry of Higher Education, Innovation, and Technology two years ago, seem to have yet to prompt the desired action, leaving the community in a state of desperation. The community’s determination is evident in the proactive steps taken by the local community development committee, which has already earmarked land for…