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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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Senior executives buy more shares at FirstRand and Choppies

Senior executives buy more shares at FirstRand and Choppies

Chamwe Kaira  Recent disclosures on the Namibia and Botswana stock exchanges show that senior executives at FirstRand Namibia Limited and Choppies Enterprises Limited have increased their shareholdings through market transactions and incentive schemes. At FirstRand Namibia Limited, two directors made separate on-market share purchases this week.  Emla Trust, a family trust linked to director Emile van Zyl, bought 12 136 ordinary shares at N$52.20 per share, amounting to about N$637 782.57. The trust is associated with van Zyl, who serves as both trustee and beneficiary.  The transaction took place on 13 October 2025 after obtaining the required clearance to trade.…
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Agra expects profit to increase by 59%

Agra expects profit to increase by 59%

Chamwe Kaira  Agra Limited has told shareholders that the company’s profit after tax, basic earnings per share, and headline earnings per share for the year ended July 31, 2025, are expected to increase by between 53% and 59% compared to the prior period.  “This improvement follows a challenging prior year, shaped by strategic investments in expanding Agra’s footprint and upgrades to retail branches, as well as the impact of a prolonged drought. These investments are now bearing fruit, contributing to improved operational efficiency,” the company said. Agra stated that the improved rainfall across the country has provided essential relief to…
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BoN warns of prolonged diamond downturn

BoN warns of prolonged diamond downturn

Allexer Namundjembo The diamond industry continues to struggle as global prices decline amid weaker consumer demand and growing competition from lab-grown diamonds.  High inventory levels in major markets have added further pressure on the sector. According to the latest monetary policy presentation by Bank of Namibia (BoN) governor Johannes !Gawaxab on Wednesday, the natural diamond sector has been declining since 2022 and the downward trend is expected to continue in the coming years. The Paul Zimnisky Diamond Index shows prices have been falling steadily over the past three years.  !Gawaxab said the slump is being caused by both structural and…
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