Windhoek Observer

Patience Makwele Presidential advisor and head of the Upstream Petroleum Unit Kornelia Shilunga says placing the upstream petroleum unit under the Presidency is meant to build public confidence that the oil and gas sector is managed with seriousness, integrity and transparency. Shilunga said the structure creates direct oversight and accountability. “By anchoring the unit in the presidency, there is a direct line of oversight and accountability. It is our hope that this measure enhances public confidence that the sector is being managed with the seriousness, integrity and transparency that it demands,” she said at a media training on the upstream…

Allexer Namundjebo  Mixed reactions have emerged over the government’s decision not to grant a state funeral to former member of parliament and former Otjozondjupa governor James Uerikua. Political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah said the issue is sensitive and complex.  He said state and official funerals follow set rules and are not based only on positions held. “While the late James Uerikua served in important roles, including as governor and in a key parliamentary position, the final decision depends on set criteria and the discretion of the President,” he told the Windhoek Observer.  Kamwanyah said public opinion is likely to differ. “Some…

Allexer Namundjembo  Zambezi governor Dorothy Kabula has called on the Ministry of Works and Transport to prioritise the development of Mpacha Airport. Kabula stated that the budget had allocated funds for the airport, but work had yet to commence.  She said its location makes it suitable to be upgraded to an international airport. “This airport was budgeted, but up to now nothing has happened. This airport was supposed to cut the distance. Instead of one going to Windhoek to access the international airport, that can cut the distance,” she said during a debriefing on the government’s response to flooding in…

Renthia Kaimbi The minister of international relations and trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, has concluded a weeklong working visit to China. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen economic ties and promote Namibia as an investment destination. Ashipala-Musavyi held talks and business forums in Shenzhen, Guangzhou and Beijing. She met Chinese government officials, including ministers of commerce and foreign affairs, and engaged with potential investors. At roundtable events in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, Ashipala-Musavyi outlined trade and investment opportunities in Namibia. Chinese enterprises showed interest during the engagements. “Bilateral trade reached approximately 132.68 billion Chinese yuan (about N$342.3 billion) in 2025,” she…