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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…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Namibian Police (Nampol) confiscated illegal drugs worth over N$106 million and arrested 3,264 suspects between January 2023 and December 2024. The figures were released as the country marked the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on Thursday. In 2023, police recorded drug seizures valued at N$49.3 million.  This amount increased to N$56.6 million in 2024. The seized substances included cannabis, mandrax, cocaine, crack cocaine, MDMA, LSD, methcathinone, ecstasy, and crystal meth. Cannabis made up most of the confiscations. In 2023, police seized cannabis worth over N$40.3 million (4,031,556.87 kg), and in 2024, cannabis worth N$44.2…

Allexer Namundjembo The High Court has ordered Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) member Petrina Nghipudilo yaShiindi to pay N$10,000 towards the legal costs of air marshal Martin Pinehas, within 24 months. The payment forms part of a settlement agreement in a defamation lawsuit filed by Pinehas after yaShiindi claimed on social media that he was plotting to assassinate IPC leader Panduleni Itula.  The allegations were made in a TikTok video posted on 27 November 2024, during the presidential and National Assembly elections. Pinehas denied the claims, calling them false, dangerous, and damaging to his reputation as a senior military officer. …