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Mbumba receives Cuba’s highest accolade

Mbumba receives Cuba’s highest accolade

Niël Terblanché President Nangolo Mbumba's state visit to Cuba not only reinforced the historical bonds of friendship and solidarity but also paved the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation. Mbumba, who is in Cuba on a two-day working visit, received Cuba’s highest accolade, the prestigious National Order of José Martí, which is named after Cuba’s national hero and revolutionary fighter. The Cuban head of state, President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermúdez bestowed the honour on Mbumba at a special ceremony in Havana on Tuesday. While receiving the accolade, Mbumba assured President Bermúdez and the Cuban people of Namibia’s continued support towards the island…
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Locals make up 12.8 % of occupancy at NWR establishments for festive season

Locals make up 12.8 % of occupancy at NWR establishments for festive season

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Locals make up 12.8% of visitors who booked to stay at Namibia Wildlife Resort (NWR) establishments across the country for the festive season. This was confirmed by the NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala in an interview with the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday. ‘’South Africans and German tourists follow, with South Africans showing particular interest in fishing activities along Namibia’s coastal areas. We are, however, on a trajectory to entice local tourism. It is my hope and hope that we reach that goal,’’ he said. Ashipala said the company has observed a surge in bookings for December 2024 and January…
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NAMFISA’s Matomola joins leadership of global insurance regulatory body

NAMFISA’s Matomola joins leadership of global insurance regulatory body

Niël Terblanché Kenneth Simataa Matomola, the chief executive officer of the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (NAMFISA), has been appointed to the Executive Committee (EXCO) of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS). Matomol’s appointment was announced during the IAIS Annual General Meeting held on 5 December in Cape Town, South Africa. Victoria Raimond, spokesperson for NAMFISA, reiterated the implication of the IAIS as a global standard-setting body. "The IAIS represents over 200 jurisdictions and accounts for 97% of the world’s insurance premiums. Its mission is to promote effective and globally consistent supervision of the insurance industry, ensuring fair, safe,…
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LEWCOR scores a century with new articulated dump truck

LEWCOR scores a century with new articulated dump truck

Niël Terblanché The LEWCOR Group has cemented its position as a key player in Namibia’s mining and construction industries with the addition of the 100th articulated dump truck ADT to its fleet. LEWCOR’s chief executive officer, Helmuth Lewis, said the addition of the ADT is a demonstration of the company’s dedication to innovation, economic contribution, and the betterment of Namibia’s future. “This milestone emphasizes the company’s 36-year legacy of contributing to Namibia’s economic development through cutting-edge equipment and operational excellence,” Lewis said. Articulated Dump Trucks, known for their superior traction and stability, are critical to Namibia's challenging terrains, facilitating the…
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Calls mount for Telecom board, CEO accountability

Calls mount for Telecom board, CEO accountability

NIËL TERBLANCHÉ Calls to hold Telecom leadership accountable are mounting after the recent cyber attack on the company’s data infrastructure. Many citizens took to social media calling for the CEO to bear ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safety of customer data and the board for its fiduciary duty to ensure the organization is managing risks effectively. “The management and board must be held accountable for the way they dealt with this disaster, which by their own admission happened three weeks ago and they did not even bother notifying the affected customers,” said Namene Kalili a business development and management innovation…
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Holidaymakers urged to create lasting memories

Holidaymakers urged to create lasting memories

Niël Terblanché Walvis Bay is geared up to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a safe, clean, and exciting festive season. Mayor Trevino Forbes has encouraged the community to reflect on the challenges of the past year while embracing the spirit of togetherness and renewal that Christmas brings. In a special festive season message, Forbes praised the resilience and unity of Walvis Bay’s residents, describing 2024 as a year that tested the town’s collective strength. “Neighbours supported one another, local businesses found innovative ways to serve their customers, and countless acts of kindness reminded us of the good in humanity. It…
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IPC’s move to shut down media draws mixed reactions

IPC’s move to shut down media draws mixed reactions

Stefanus Nashama The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has decided to withhold media comments about the electoral process until 30 January 2025. This move has elicited mixed reactions from political analysts, the media, and party members. Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), supports the decision. Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), defended the decision, saying it aligns with the party’s focus on presenting its legal arguments in court. Hopwood stressed the importance of prioritising the legal process over public commentary. “Given that the case before the…
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Ovaherero Nama chiefs’ assembly rejects planned genocide roadshows

Ovaherero Nama chiefs’ assembly rejects planned genocide roadshows

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Chiefs’ Assembly of Okandjoze has rejected the Namibian government’s planned roadshows to provide feedback on the Joint Declaration (JD) negotiated with Germany regarding the 1904–1908 genocide against the Ovaherero, Ovambanderu, and Nama communities. The roadshows, set to begin today, 18 December, aim to inform affected communities about the bilateral agreement, which has sparked widespread criticism and rejection. In a media statement issued on Tuesday, the Assembly accused the government of sidelining affected communities and attempting to secure acceptance for the controversial agreement. “We as the Chiefs’ Assembly distance ourselves and our communities from the envisaged JD roadshows…
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Nampol intensifies fight against drug trafficking

Nampol intensifies fight against drug trafficking

Allexer Namundjembo The Namibian Police intensified its fight against the ever-growing drug problem, with more and more illegal substances being detected at border posts. This has prompted urgent action to tackle drug trafficking, possession, and abuse, which continue to endanger the nation, particularly its youth. In an interview with the Windhoek Observer, Nampol’s spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi reaffirmed the force’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes, declaring that the police are “ever ready” to tackle this escalating issue. “We have always fought against drug trafficking, possession, dealing, and usage of these substances,” she said. Shikwambi revealed alarming statistics for November…
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Extradition plans unclear in ambassador’s son’s stabbing case

Extradition plans unclear in ambassador’s son’s stabbing case

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation (MIRCO) has stated that it is awaiting the outcome of an investigation by the relevant authorities into the death of the son of Namibia’s ambassador to Cuba, Samuel Goagoseb. The case involves allegations that the ambassador’s son, Enrico Nerongo, fatally stabbed his younger brother during an altercation at the diplomatic residence in Havana. Bertha Amakali, director of information and research at MIRCO, confirmed that the ministry’s actions regarding the incident would be guided by the investigation's findings and in line with ministerial policies and procedures. “The ministry’s action in relation to…
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