Blog – Page 11 – Windhoek Observer

30 Oct

THE TIDE LINE | Police score a win in the battle against drugs

Featured, Opinions

The Namibian Police deserve full credit for their swift and effective action in apprehending a 38-year-old woman at Walvis Bay this week in connection with drug trafficking. Acting on intelligence, officers raided a residence in the Nampost residential area, recovering 1 070 Mandrax tablets valued at N$128 400. While this arrest is only one in a series of drug-related busts along Namibia’s coastline, it is nonetheless significant. It reflects diligent policing, improved intelligence gathering, and inter-unit coordination. At a time when drug abuse continues to infiltrate communities, this successful operation reminds citizens that law enforcement is still in the fight…

30 Oct

Paving the road to a safer, smarter Namibia: The role of tech in transport modernisation

Opinions

Reuben Williams Namibia stands at a critical juncture. As the nation pursues its vision of economic growth and greater social development, the efficiency and reliability of its transport sector are non-negotiable. An outdated system can be a drag on productivity and a threat to public safety. But technology offers a clear and immediate solution. By embracing digital innovation and establishing a clear regulatory framework, Namibia can transition from a legacy transport model to a dynamic, safe, and reliable ecosystem. The imperative for digital transformation The traditional public transport system in our cities, while essential, often struggles with consistency, transparency, and…

30 Oct

The art of the comeback: Leadership lessons from Singapore

Featured, Opinions

Mufaro Nesongano Something that has always amazed me is the remarkable comeback after a setback. As human beings, we tend to celebrate success stories more, for few people wish to be associated with failure. Yet those who have experienced moments of loss and disappointment know that the greatest growth often comes from the hardest seasons of life. Recently, I watched a documentary exploring what made Singapore the great nation it is today. It served as a powerful reminder that real progress is often born from adversity and thoughtful leadership. At independence in 1965, Singapore had very limited natural resources, deep…

30 Oct

China supports Namibia’s push for value addition

National News

Justicia Shipena The Chinese ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping, says China supports Namibia’s goal of industrialisation and value addition. Speaking at his second press meeting of the year at the Chinese Embassy in Windhoek on Wednesday, Weiping said China understands Namibia’s economic aspirations. Four months ago, speaker of the National Assembly Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila said China can support Namibia in adding value to its natural resources. “On value addition, China fully understands Namibia’s aspiration for industrialisation, modernisation, and value addition, which is very important for your economy. I think as time goes by, you may see more Chinese companies heading in…

30 Oct

Cran invites feedback on new telecom tariffs

National News

Allexer Namundjembo The public has 14 days to submit written comments on new spectrum licence applications and tariff proposals published by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) in the latest government gazette, no. 8766, dated 23 October 2025. Cran invited public input on two major spectrum licence applications from Loc 8 Mobile (Pty) Ltd and Blue Telecommunications (Pty) Ltd under the Communications Act of 2009. Loc 8 Mobile, a 100% Namibian-owned company, has applied for a licence in the 3350–3400 MHz band with a 50 MHz bandwidth (TDD) to provide mobile services in the Otjozondjupa, Kunene, Oshikoto, Omaheke, Ohangwena…

30 Oct

Grindrod strengthens trade corridors with Walvis Bay investment

Observer Money

Chamwe Kaira Grindrod Logistics has opened a new warehouse facility at the Port of Walvis Bay to boost cargo handling and strengthen Namibia’s trade corridors. The warehouse is located near berths 7 and 8 and is designed for efficient cargo movement via conveyor, rail, and road. The 4 000-square-metre weatherproof facility, built on Grindrod’s existing 50 000-square-metre premises, meets all safety, health, environment and quality (SHEQ) standards set by the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport). The development marks a major collaboration between Grindrod and Namport to enhance port efficiency and position Walvis Bay as a reliable regional trade gateway. Frans Visser,…

30 Oct

Letshego appoints new CFO

Observer Money

Staff Writer Letshego Holdings Namibia Limited (LHN) has appointed Willem Pretorius as its new chief financial officer, effective 27 October 2025, the company announced in a notice on the Namibian Stock Exchange (NSX). Pretorius, a Chartered Accountant (Namibia), has over 11 years of experience in the banking and financial services sector. He holds qualifications in accounting from Northwest University and the University of South Africa and completed his articles with Ernst & Young Namibia before qualifying as a CA in 2014. He has held several key roles at Letshego Bank Namibia, including acting CFO, head of treasury, and finance controller.…

30 Oct

MTC brings first mobile home to Divundu

Observer Money

Staff Writer Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) has expanded its service reach by opening three new Mobile Homes, marking the first for Divundu and the second for both Rundu and Katima Mulilo. The outlets are set to open to the public in the first week of November. MTC chief commercial officer Octivius Kahiya said the move forms part of the company’s expansion strategy to improve access to its services across the country. “Strategic to business, the decision to open these new mobile homes is to allow more citizens to have easy access to the crucial MTC services. The populace of Divundu…

30 Oct

Bank Windhoek retains top spot in vehicle financing

Observer Money

Staff Writer Bank Windhoek has retained its position as the market leader in vehicle financing for the fourth consecutive year. The announcement was made by the bank’s chief financial officer, Zenaune Kamberipa, during the Bank Windhoek Vehicle and Asset Finance (VAF) Selekt Sales Awards. In the sales categories, JP Geldenhuys from Pupkewitz Toyota was named top salesperson of the year for new vehicles, with Stefan Botes from Gobabis Toyota taking silver. Jhandre Nel and Genivo Mouton of Indongo Auto shared bronze. For used vehicles, Kobus Prins of Zeda Cars won gold, followed by Roux Jeffery of Pupkewitz Toyota with silver…

30 Oct

Africa’s circular economy gains momentum

Observer Money

Staff Writer On the outskirts of Addis Ababa, 30-year-old Behailu Seboka, founder of Askema Engineering, manufactures brake pads from discarded slaughterhouse materials. What began as a university project now employs 268 people and serves 6 400 customers across Ethiopia. “With the right support, we can prove that the circular economy is not only good for the environment but also for business,” he said. Askema Engineering, an exhibitor at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), shows how African innovation, supported by policy and investment, can become an industrial and export-ready asset. Across the continent, companies like…