Blog

Niël Terblanché The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) is in the final stages of appointing a contractor for the much-awaited renovation of the iconic Ritterburg office building in Swakopmund. The MEFT’s spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda said in a statement that the ministry is close to completing the tender process, with renovation works expected to start between April and May, aiming for completion by August or September 2024. The Ritterburg Building, a historic monument listed under the Heritage Council of Namibia, has fallen into a state of disrepair over the years. "Securing the necessary resources for this renovation has been…

Niël Terblanché The town of Usakos in the Erongo Region has launched an ambitious youth employment intervention programme to curb the scourge of youth unemployment. The initiative, spearheaded by Usakos Mayor, Irene Simeon-Kurtz, aims to provide the town's youth with essential funding for various vocational training programmes aimed at addressing persistent educational and unemployment challenges. The programme emerges against a backdrop where a significant majority of young individuals entering the labour market each year find themselves trapped in a cycle of unemployment, with more than 70 percent remaining outside of employment, education, and training systems. "Our multi-sectoral action plan is…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Namibia Media Professionals’ Union (NAMPU) Acting Secretary General Jemima Beukes, says the union has welcomed the reinstatement of New Era Newspaper Managing Director Johnathan Beukes, following his suspension in September 2023, and returned to work yesterday. However, the media union is not satisfied with the fact that despite Beukes going to work, the charges that got him suspended have still not been dropped and he is still facing a disciplinary hearing. “We commend the decision by the New Era leadership to heed our calls for his return, affirming the importance of a free and robust press in our…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has bestowed Oshakati Intermediate Hospital with a noteworthy donation of medical equipment valued at N$388 146. This philanthropic gesture aims to fortify government-driven healthcare initiatives. The contribution encompasses cutting-edge medical equipment, from patient monitors and oximeters to stretcher trolleys, spine boards, neck collars, and other vital essentials. The donation is poised to substantially augment the hospital's diagnostic, treatment, and patient care capabilities. The MVA's Chief Executive Officer, Rosalia Martins-Hausiku reiterated the Fund's dedication to advancing medical services at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital. "Healthcare is a cornerstone of societal well-being, and the MVA Fund…

Niël Terblanché In the wake of a contentious letter spreading through social media channels, Tom Alweendo, Namibia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, has raised serious doubts regarding the document’s authenticity. The controversial letter, alleging high-level corruption within the Petroleum Directorate which serves the critical role of licensing of oil and gas exploration, was purportedly penned by one Louis Beauvais, claiming to represent shareholders of TotalEnergies and addressed to Patrick Pouyanne, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the same enterprise. “The letter in question lacks credibility. TotalEnergies has not acknowledged its receipt, nor is there any knowledge of the alleged…

Niël Terblanché The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) has expressed its concern regarding the lack of transparency and accountability in Namibia’s mining sector. Graham Hopwood, the Director of the IPPR, stressed the urgent need for more openness in the sector, especially in areas like corporate social responsibility, employment practices, and tax payments to the government. Hopwood spoke at a two-day alternative mining indaba in Windhoek and his remarks come at a time when the mining industry, one of Namibia’s main economic pillars, faces challenges in maintaining transparent operations. The IPPR has been vocal about the potential risks of corruption…