Opinions

In its 1976 political programme the Swapo Party of Namibia notes two economies that existed in parallel in colonial Namibia. “Wealthy white-owned economy based on the extensive extraction of varied natural resources” and “a separate subsistence economy enveloping the majority of the African population who are forced to live in Bantustans.” “The two economies have been consciously designed in accordance with the social interests of the white settler group and international monopoly capitalism.” Yours Truly Ideological cannot but note the observation of, by and in the Swapo 1976 Political Programme of the two economies existing side by side, most notably…

Josef Kefas Sheehama President Trump's executive orders serve as a wake-up call for African leaders, demanding that they put public service and economic development ahead of foreign aid and begging. The time has come for them to learn from these directives. To make sure that everyone feels appreciated and respected, every sovereign country should put in place an inclusive and equitable system. Trumponomics and Double-Edged Sword President Trump must be credible and relevant in his actions against world leaders. It is true that America has been feeding African nations for a long time despite the fact that they have rich…

Wayambekange N Hamufenhu Namibia is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and natural resources. From the sprawling desert landscapes of Namib to the lush wildlife in the northeast, the nation’s natural affluence is an integral part of its identity and economy. However, the threat of climate change is beginning to cast a dark shadow over this fragile bio-network. The impacts are already evident and pose a severe threat to the sustainability of the country’s environment, economy, and future. As a largely arid country, Namibia’s reliance on its natural resources, especially water, agriculture, and wildlife, is undeniable. The rising temperatures…

The mantra of President-elect Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah (NNN) is “business unusual.” Yours Truly Ideologically, cannot but ask the pertinent and daunting question, as indeed all, including our celebrated policy analysts in their respective orientations, should ask: what is “business unusual,” and unusual from what? What has been the "business as usual" for NNN's predecessors and their administrations, of which she has been an integral part at every step of the way, in one capacity or another? From which, a la her mantra, is she determined to depart? Is it in terms of the Swapo Party ideological foundation on which all her…

PAUL T. SHIPALE André du Pisani, emeritus professor of politics at the University of Namibia, wrote an article with the headline: “Politics as a Site of Extraction” that appeared in one of the daily newspapers on Friday, 24 January 2025. In that article, du Pisani says the SWAPO Party’s manifesto outlines laudable and necessary priorities such as; economic growth,  development of agriculture, natural resources beneficiation; energy and infrastructure as well as youth empowerment, but despite the President-elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, emphasis that the manifesto would be consistently and fully implemented, he thinks none of these priorities will be realized as the…

Sakaria Johannes In recent days, we have seen the United States, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, make significant decisions that challenge the status quo of foreign aid to Africa. One of the most notable actions was the Trump administration’s decision to cut financial assistance to certain African countries. While this move was met with controversy and criticism, I believe it carries with it a deeper message for Africa; a message that, if embraced, could pave the way for a more prosperous and self-sufficient continent. For too long, African nations have been reliant on foreign aid. While international support…

Wayambekange N Hamufenhu As Namibia sets its sights on achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) “access to clean water and sanitation for all” by 2030, questions arise regarding the country’s progress in reaching this ambitious target, particularly in terms of sanitation. While Namibia has made notable strides in improving water access, sanitation remains a pressing challenge. With just five years left until the target year, it is essential to critically assess the current situation, the progress made, and the path ahead to determine if Namibia can achieve SDG 6 on sanitation. So far, Namibia has made significant advancements in…

 Sheldon Husselmann We know it really matters HOW Hyphen delivers green hydrogen for Namibia. It is critical that we acknowledge and position our project in its overall context – balancing the positive socio-economic impacts it will bring to the country and its people, whilst identifying and minimising its environmental impact. We will do this through continuing to work directly with local communities and through very selective siting of infrastructure within the vast project area. Namibia’s position in the world  Globally, there is a strong commitment to transition towards a low-carbon future in a manner that is equitable and tailored to…