Political parties clash with ECN over ballot observation costs

Political parties clash with ECN over ballot observation costs

Allexer Namundjembo  The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) says it will not cover travel expenses for political parties and stakeholders who wish to observe the printing of ballot papers.  The observation is for the ballots of the 2025 regional and local elections, set for next month.  All registered political parties, organisations, and associations are invited to observe the ballot paper production at their own expense. ECN said this decision was first communicated during the political parties liaison committee meeting on 3 September 2025 and reaffirmed during another PLC meeting on 14 October 2025. ECN chief electoral officer Peter Shaama said…
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Previously rejected venture takes over Naute pipeline tender 

Previously rejected venture takes over Naute pipeline tender 

Justicia Shipena A consortium that was previously rejected has now been awarded the Naute–Keetmanshoop Water Pipeline Replacement and Ancillary Works tender.  The newly appointed Public Procurement Review Panel upheld the decision to grant the contract to Adaptive Building Land Construction CC in partnership with China State Engineering Corporation (Southern Africa) (Pty) Ltd Namibia. Two months ago, Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah appointed 15 members to the Public Procurement Review Panel for a three-year term that began on 1 October 2025 and ended on 30 September 2028. The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) confirmed that the N$191 million contract was approved…
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Namcol reports decline in tertiary intake

Namcol reports decline in tertiary intake

Allexer Namundjembo The Namibian College of Open Learning (Namcol) experienced a decline in tertiary and vocational programme enrolments during the 2023/2024 financial year. This was mainly due to the discontinuation of certain courses and the end of the 2023 relief scheme that had allowed students to enrol without full upfront payment. Despite this drop, Namcol recorded a solid financial recovery and steady growth in secondary education enrolment. According to its 2023/2024 annual report, the institution achieved a surplus of N$7.2 million, reversing a deficit of over N$21 million from the previous year. The improvement was driven by stronger cost management,…
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NNN decries threats to regional stability amidst power grab in Madagascar

NNN decries threats to regional stability amidst power grab in Madagascar

Justicia Shipena President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that any attempt to seize power through unconstitutional means in Madagascar undermines democracy and regional stability. Namibia has expressed concern over the ongoing political crisis in Madagascar. Madagascar’s crisis escalated this week when a senior army colonel announced that the military had taken control after parliament voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina.  Crowds celebrated in the capital, Antananarivo, following the military’s declaration. The announcement by colonel Michael Randrianirina came soon after parliament’s vote on Tuesday.  Nandi-Ndaitwah said such actions “run counter to the values and obligations that bind SADC member states” and threaten…
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African leaders push for adolescent SRHR access

African leaders push for adolescent SRHR access

Moses Magadza  The second regional engagement meeting on adolescents’ access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) began on Tuesday, calling for stronger regional action to improve SRHR services for adolescents across East and Southern Africa. Held under the theme “Step Up 4 Adolescents SRHR Access: Collaborating for Equitable SRHR in East and Southern Africa”, the two-day gathering has drawn policymakers, youth advocates, parliamentarians, health experts, and civil society organisations from more than 12 countries. The chief executive officer of the Zimbabwe National Family Planning Council (ZNFPC), Farai Machinga, was the guest of honour.  He called for urgent, coordinated…
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OBSERVER COASTAL | Walvis Bay mourns Savva

OBSERVER COASTAL | Walvis Bay mourns Savva

Renthia Kaimbi Walvis Bay is mourning the passing of businessman John Savva, whose death has drawn tributes from across Namibia. Savva was celebrated for his business success and generosity but his life also touched a key chapter in Namibia’s history, the reintegration of Walvis Bay. He came to Namibia from Cyprus 59 years ago with little but determination and a dream, often working as a barman to build a future.  Through decades of hard work, he became a pillar of the Walvis Bay community, creating generational wealth through ventures in property development, including the Afrodite Beach project, the Venus Supermarket,…
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THE TIDE LINE | A farewell to Namibia’s Favourite uncle

The coastal air feels heavier this week. Walvis Bay, usually abuzz with salt, seagulls, and the rhythm of commerce, has fallen a little quieter. The news of the passing of John Savva, or as everyone knew him, Uncle Savva, has rippled across the Namibian coastline with the weight of disbelief and sorrow. It feels, quite simply, like the town has lost a heartbeat. Yes, death is life’s unbroken promise to us all. But there are those rare souls whose presence feels eternal, whose laughter fills rooms, whose kindness steadies communities, and whose integrity anchors generations. Uncle Savva was one of…
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OBSERVER COASTAL| Rössing to renovate Arandis hall and stadium

OBSERVER COASTAL| Rössing to renovate Arandis hall and stadium

Renthia Kaimbi The Namibia Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) in Arandis will carry out renovations to the town’s community hall and sports stadium following a N$1.3 million donation from Rössing Uranium Limited. The mining company made the announcement last Thursday during a ceremony attended by local councillors, community members, and stakeholders. Councillor Rita Hoëses said the project represents a collective commitment to improving the lives of Arandis residents and reflects strong community partnership. She said the renovations are a symbol of hope and progress for the town. Hoëses commended Rössing Uranium’s corporate social responsibility, saying the investment will strengthen…
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OBSERVER COASTAL | Swakopmund municipality commits N$200k to education drive

OBSERVER COASTAL | Swakopmund municipality commits N$200k to education drive

Renthia Kaimbi The Swakopmund Municipality has reaffirmed its commitment to education through its annual School Donation Initiative, which has set aside N$200 000 for schools in 2025. At a handover ceremony on Wednesday, Swakopmund deputy mayor Suamma Kautondokwa presented the first donation, marking the start of this year’s rollout. Kautondokwa said the N$10 000 contribution reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every child learns and grows in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment. She emphasised that education is the foundation of a prosperous and sustainable community. The initiative supports both public and private primary and secondary schools within the…
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Central bank revises Inflation projections downwards

Central bank revises Inflation projections downwards

Chamwe Kaira The Bank of Namibia (BoN) has lowered its inflation forecasts for 2025 and 2026 by 0.2 percentage points to 3.6% and 4%, respectively, from its previous projection. BoN governor Johannes !Gawaxab said the revision reflects a stronger exchange rate and a lower oil price outlook.  “Risks to the forecast remain exchange rate volatility and potential upticks in administered and oil prices,” he said. Annual inflation averaged 3.6% during the first eight months of 2025, compared to 4.6% during the same period last year.  !Gawaxab said the decline was mainly due to lower prices in housing and alcoholic beverages…
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