National News

Allexer Namundjembo The Namibian Police intensified its fight against the ever-growing drug problem, with more and more illegal substances being detected at border posts. This has prompted urgent action to tackle drug trafficking, possession, and abuse, which continue to endanger the nation, particularly its youth. In an interview with the Windhoek Observer, Nampol’s spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi reaffirmed the force’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes, declaring that the police are “ever ready” to tackle this escalating issue. “We have always fought against drug trafficking, possession, dealing, and usage of these substances,” she said. Shikwambi revealed alarming statistics for November…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation (MIRCO) has stated that it is awaiting the outcome of an investigation by the relevant authorities into the death of the son of Namibia’s ambassador to Cuba, Samuel Goagoseb. The case involves allegations that the ambassador’s son, Enrico Nerongo, fatally stabbed his younger brother during an altercation at the diplomatic residence in Havana. Bertha Amakali, director of information and research at MIRCO, confirmed that the ministry’s actions regarding the incident would be guided by the investigation's findings and in line with ministerial policies and procedures. “The ministry’s action in relation to…

Martin Endjala One robbery suspect was shot on Tuesday and four more were arrested after members of the Windhoek City Police reacted swiftly to reports of a break-in at a house in Khomasdal. The police then arrested the suspects in Grysblock on Florence Nightingale Street, at the four-way stop, between Papa G's Chicken and a car wash. The Namibian Police spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi confirmed this on Tuesday. The suspects face charges of housebreaking with intent to steal and theft, according to a preliminary report. The incident occurred at around 11h57 in Hofsanger Street, Khomasdal. The five suspects allegedly…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja As the festive season approaches, many people are using their year-end bonuses and savings to fulfil their dream of owning a car. For some, it is about gaining independence, while others simply want to be mobile and make travel during the holidays more convenient. However, the excitement of buying a second-hand car can quickly turn into a nightmare. Hidden issues, inflated prices, and vague regulations often leave consumers frustrated and feeling cheated. Windhoek resident Maria Haufiku knows this all too well. Haufiku says she started her journey to car ownership with high expectations. “I was excited to get…

Martin Endjala Heavy windstorms last Wednesday left several houses in the Eengodi and Omuthiya constituencies without roofs. People in Onamushi, Onyavia, Ongaka and Okambuguthe villages were badly affected by the strong winds. Mwawendange Petersen, a priest at the House of Healing International Ministry in the Ongaka area, told the Windhoek Observer on Monday that the roof sheets were blown off and lying around the ground, along with poles and trees that were uprooted by the windstorm. “At this stage, it is hard to tell or put the exact number of houses or people affected because other areas in the Oshikoto…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja Labour unions, media advocates, and stakeholders widely celebrate the Namibia Media Professionals Union's (NAMPU) official trade union registration as a significant step towards strengthening workers' rights in Namibia's media industry. NAMPU received its certificate of recognition from the Office of the Labour Commissioner on Monday, 16 December 2024, after a four-year campaign for formal recognition. The media ombudsman, John Nakuta, hailed the development as a landmark moment for media workers. “It is really good news to hear that NAMPU has finally been registered officially as one of the many trade unions in the country. For that reason, I…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Okahao State Hospital in the Omusati Region has been grappling with a critical shortage of essential medical supplies. Patients seeking medical care have been left stranded without critical items such as health passports, tonsil medication, and amoxicillin syrup, sparking growing concerns over the deteriorating state of healthcare services in the area. The Windhoek Observer visited the hospital on Sunday and witnessed that the essential items were indeed out of stock. Due to a lack of medical passports, patients received handwritten documents to record their medical information. “This is frustrating. I came here for my child’s medication, and…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Netball Namibia’s president, Rebekka Goagoses has called on local authorities to prioritise the construction of proper sports facilities or repurpose warehouses and community spaces into sports venues, particularly those that can accommodate netball. Goagoses made the appeal during the closing ceremony of the Africa Netball Cup 2024, held at the Dome in Swakopmund from 9 to 14 December. “For this, I call on our local authorities to prioritise the construction of proper sports facilities. Let us turn our warehouses and community spaces into venues that nurture our athletes and prepare them for international competition,” she said. The tournament…

Niël Terblanché Swakopmund is gearing up for a festive season filled with joy, safety and security. A special detachment of the Namibian Police’s Special Reserve Force arrived in the holiday town on Sunday and their mission is to enforce law and order throughout the bustling festive period, ensuring a safe and tranquil environment for both residents and visitors. Linda Mupupa, the spokesperson of the municipality, reiterated the council's support for the endeavour. “As part of its commitment to a safe and secure environment, the town council sponsored N$147 027 to accommodate and provide meals for the Special Reserve Force members,”…

Martin Endjala The Namibian United Party (UNP) has described the just-concluded 2024 Presidential and National Assembly elections as illegitimate. In a statement issued recently, UNP chief servant, Amos Likuwa criticised the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), saying it had no valid reason to create a chaotic voting process given the time and resources at its disposal. “Fellow Namibians, the ECN’s actions are undeniable, unbelievable, indescribable and unacceptable,” he said. Likuwa claimed that the ECN was acting against the interests of many Namibians, denying and grossly violating citizens' rights throughout the nation. “The only question that lingers in my mind is…