Windhoek Observer

Niël Terblanché The ministry of agriculture’s directorate of veterinary services (DVS) has quietly lifted a long-standing restriction on livestock products entering Namibia’s foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) free zone. A public notice issued last week by acting chief veterinary officer Dr Johannes Shoopala stated that dried meat from cloven-hoofed animals can now cross the veterinary cordon fence, commonly known as the red line, without a permit.  This is allowed only if all portions of the meat are cooked and free of blood.  Shoopala said boiling the meat remains the safest method of preparation. “Raw meat that is not produced under Commodity-Based Trade…

Niël Terblanché Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has delivered on what he called a step towards rural economic independence by handing over four newly drilled boreholes that will supply safe drinking water to twenty-three villages in Epembe Constituency. Speaking at the Onamundindi installation on Saturday, Ngurare said the project reflects the 8th Administration’s commitment to extending essential services beyond urban areas. “Economic independence means that people in rural areas should have the same access to essential services as those in urban centres. That includes water, road infrastructure, and connectivity. We are witnessing progress toward that goal,” he said. He encouraged residents,…

Poco-Key Mberiuana Union membership is not just a legacy of Namibia’s past—it is a living force for jus:ce, dignity, and economic empowerment today. As Namibia continues to confront inequality, unemployment, and the pressures of a globalised economy, the role of trade unions remains as vital as ever. It can be argued that the founda:ons of the Namibian organised labour movements were the spark that ignited the flames of the libera:on movement in this country. The existence of labour movements, that were inclusive of black workers, can be traced back to as early as 1924, where the first recorded organised indigenous…

Justicia Shipena While tensions in the Middle East threaten global oil supply and price stability, Namibia’s fuel security is not under immediate threat.  This is according to Ben Nangombe, executive director of the ministry of industries, mines and energy, who said Namibia can still access petroleum products from alternative markets. “The Persian or Arab Gulf region is one of the most important sources of refined petroleum products,” Nangombe told the Windhoek Observer.  “However, other equally important markets for refined petroleum products exist elsewhere. The country remains able to source oil products from alternative international markets, although potentially at higher costs.”…

Allexer Namundjembo Works and transport minister Veiko Nekundi says renovations at the Karibib National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) centre are scheduled for completion by mid-August.  He told parliament on Thursday that the timeline is designed to reduce disruption while ensuring the upgraded facility meets national service standards. “In terms of alternative arrangements, the alternative arrangements have been implemented,” Nekundi said.  Nekundi stated that they have deployed a mobile Vehicle Testing Station since 19 May to conduct roadworthiness testing on specific days.  “The deployment schedule has been carefully coordinated between Karibib and Rehoboth to maximise service accessibility,” he said. Written learner’s…

Niël Terblanché Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare officially opened the 2025 Olufuko Annual Cultural Festival on Friday, pledging that the government will revitalise, preserve, and promote indigenous knowledge systems across Namibia. Speaking at the event in Outapi, Ngurare said Article 19 of the Constitution obliges the state to protect culture, and that commitment is now being reflected in national policy. “Through the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture, the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development, and the National Heritage Council, we are documenting languages, guarding heritage sites, and empowering traditional leaders,” he said. Ngurare urged those in attendance to continue championing…