Opinions

Lazarus Jacobs In his farewell speech at the inauguration of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba reflected on Namibia’s long journey:   "It has been a long journey filled with trials and tribulations, but just as our struggle for independence… has paid dividends, likewise the struggle for gender justice, spearheaded by the brave women of Namibia and their allies across the international community."   Shortly after, President Nandi-Ndaitwah made history as Namibia’s first female head of state. Recognizing the significance of this moment, she appointed Lucia Witbooi as the nation’s first female vice president—making Namibia the only country in…

PAUL T. SHIPALE In one of my articles published online in the Windhoek Observer on Tuesday, 18 March 2025, I attempted to advise President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to adopt a three-pronged strategy in order to achieve economic transformation. In that article I said the key priorities should be: 1- Restructuring and reducing the Cabinet to enhance operational efficiency and accountability; 2-Prioritizing quality over quantity by selecting competent, results-driven individuals for leadership positions and 3- Eliminating bureaucratic inefficiencies to ensure that decision-making and implementation processes are streamlined.  President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah wasted no time in stamping her authority on the country’s Executive branch…

Kae Matundu-Tjiparuro As the ancient and recycled reunite and meet the not-so-very-old as well as complete freshmen and women in the National Assembly, Yours Truly Ideologically cannot but muse about this mixed bag the 8th Parliament of the Republic of Namibia is.  As well as wondering what the input and output of this eclectic mix will be, for most, a political potpourri can and/or shall be Because ideologically the august house cannot be said to be so august, besides for the ideological grandstanding a few of the newcomers may put up. Other than that, little can be said about the…

Mutindi Jacobs In today's complex and evolving society, the role of law reform is more crucial than ever. It is especially important in Namibia, a country that evolved from a colonial and apartheid dispensation and still carries the weight of outdated and unjust laws that hinder social progress and economic development. As we strive for a more equitable and just society, it is essential that we all become law reformers, advocating for changes that promote positive transformation in the legal system and benefit society as a whole. What is a law reformer? A law reformer is an individual or organization…

Nrupesh Soni Windhoek, Namibia – When 31-year-old Dr. Esperance Luvindao was appointed as Namibia’s Minister of Health, the country saw more than just a political announcement. It became an immediate flashpoint—a real-time test case in how societies today handle young leaders who carry with them the unavoidable baggage of their digital pasts. Within hours of her appointment, Namibian social media exploded. Conversations quickly moved from her professional credentials (impressive, by any standard) to her private life, digital history, and rumored political connections. Even former First Lady Monica Geingos had to publicly deny having any hand in Luvindao’s appointment—a denial, however,…

Josef Kefas Sheehama Given the current state of trade tensions, the executive orders imposed by the United States of America's (USA) new administration are a wake-up call for the global community because they serve as a clear reminder that maintaining economic stability and growth in today's interconnected world requires cooperation and respect for one another in trade policies. The United States' 20% tariff on Chinese imports, which was imposed under the pretext of the fentanyl problem, will lead to supply chain instability and disrupt international trade. The trade war, which challenged international economic standards and put pressure on ties with…

Sakaria Johannes As Namibia celebrates 35 years of independence, it is a time for reflection on what independence truly means and how far we have come since the dawn of freedom. For many Namibians, independence signifies the end of colonial rule, the promise of a better future, and the vision of equality and freedom. However, despite the triumphs of liberation, we must critically assess the state of our nation today. Are we truly free? What have we achieved since we gained our independence, and are we living the dream our forefathers fought for? What Have We Achieved So Far? While…