Blog

Allexer Namundjembo The Namibian College of Open Learning (Namcol) experienced a decline in tertiary and vocational programme enrolments during the 2023/2024 financial year. This was mainly due to the discontinuation of certain courses and the end of the 2023 relief scheme that had allowed students to enrol without full upfront payment. Despite this drop, Namcol recorded a solid financial recovery and steady growth in secondary education enrolment. According to its 2023/2024 annual report, the institution achieved a surplus of N$7.2 million, reversing a deficit of over N$21 million from the previous year. The improvement was driven by stronger cost management,…

Justicia Shipena President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that any attempt to seize power through unconstitutional means in Madagascar undermines democracy and regional stability. Namibia has expressed concern over the ongoing political crisis in Madagascar. Madagascar’s crisis escalated this week when a senior army colonel announced that the military had taken control after parliament voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina.  Crowds celebrated in the capital, Antananarivo, following the military’s declaration. The announcement by colonel Michael Randrianirina came soon after parliament’s vote on Tuesday.  Nandi-Ndaitwah said such actions “run counter to the values and obligations that bind SADC member states” and threaten…

Moses Magadza  The second regional engagement meeting on adolescents’ access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) began on Tuesday, calling for stronger regional action to improve SRHR services for adolescents across East and Southern Africa. Held under the theme “Step Up 4 Adolescents SRHR Access: Collaborating for Equitable SRHR in East and Southern Africa”, the two-day gathering has drawn policymakers, youth advocates, parliamentarians, health experts, and civil society organisations from more than 12 countries. The chief executive officer of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC), Farai Machinga, was the guest of honour.  He called for urgent, coordinated…

Renthia Kaimbi Walvis Bay is mourning the passing of businessman John Savva, whose death has drawn tributes from across Namibia. Savva was celebrated for his business success and generosity but his life also touched a key chapter in Namibia’s history, the reintegration of Walvis Bay. He came to Namibia from Cyprus 59 years ago with little but determination and a dream, often working as a barman to build a future.  Through decades of hard work, he became a pillar of the Walvis Bay community, creating generational wealth through ventures in property development, including the Afrodite Beach project, the Venus Supermarket,…

Renthia Kaimbi The Namibia Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) in Arandis will carry out renovations to the town’s community hall and sports stadium following a N$1.3 million donation from Rössing Uranium Limited. The mining company made the announcement last Thursday during a ceremony attended by local councillors, community members, and stakeholders. Councillor Rita Hoëses said the project represents a collective commitment to improving the lives of Arandis residents and reflects strong community partnership. She said the renovations are a symbol of hope and progress for the town. Hoëses commended Rössing Uranium’s corporate social responsibility, saying the investment will strengthen…

Renthia Kaimbi The Swakopmund Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to education through its annual School Donation Initiative, which has set aside N$200 000 for schools in 2025. At a handover ceremony on Wednesday, Swakopmund deputy mayor Suamma Kautondokwa presented the first donation, marking the start of this year’s rollout. Kautondokwa said the N$10 000 contribution reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every child learns and grows in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. She emphasised that education is the foundation of a prosperous and sustainable community. The initiative supports both public and private primary and secondary schools within the…