Featured – Page 2 – Windhoek Observer

07 Nov

The rise of BRICS and Namibia’s geopolitical strategy as the Naval HQ, logistical hub and gateway for SADC landlocked countries

ObserverFeatured, Opinions

Paul T Shipale Bo Mbindwane, a South African-based socio-political researcher, with a focus on geopolitical risk management and national security, wrote an article titled; “Namibia and South Africa – Partners in History, Allies in the Future,” which appeared in the Windhoek Observer on 28 October 2024. In that article, Mbindwane says it is time to re-elevate Namibia’s role, strengthen its partnerships, and leverage a unique geographical bond to safeguard its future as that of neighbouring South Africa with whom it has a shared legacy and a shared destiny. Both nations’ fates and futures are geographically intertwined: sharing a land border…

03 Nov

Leading the charge in Women’s Football

ObserverFeatured, Sports

Katima Mulilo-born Candy Namataa Kulatau has carved an impressive path in Namibian sports, rising from a young football enthusiast to a leading figure in women's football and refereeing. Speaking about her journey, Kulatau shared insights into her career and the challenges she has faced. "I handle regional affairs as a regional convenor for athletics, NSSU, and as the Regional Chairperson for the Zambezi Women’s Football League," she explained. Despite her many responsibilities, refereeing has been her true passion. "Of all the responsibilities, I had chosen to referee as my favourite path." Her love for sports started early. “As I was…

29 Oct

New divorce law criminalises publication of case details

ObserverFeatured, National News

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Namibia's newly introduced Dissolution of Marriages Act, 2024 (Act No. 10 of 2024) now makes it a crime to publish details of divorce cases, with only a few exceptions. Gazetted on 24 October, the Act allows publication only for legal research, law reports, or when the court specifically grants permission. It is unclear whether the media is also restricted from reporting on these cases. The law is aimed at reducing the trauma associated with divorce, particularly for the individuals involved and their children. It encourages a "do-it-yourself" method for divorce proceedings, promoting privacy and easing the emotional burden…

29 Oct

Absent MPs stalls mid-year budget review again

ObserverFeatured, National News

Allexer Namundjembo The much-anticipated midterm budget review has been delayed once more as National Assembly Speaker, Professor Peter Katjavivi had to adjourn Tuesday’s parliamentary session due to a lack of quorum. This is the second consecutive adjournment after Deputy Speaker Loide Kasingo postponed Monday's sitting for the same reason. Only 47 members were present, along with three non-voting members of parliament, for the session, falling short of the quorum required to proceed. Political analyst Graham Hopwood explained that coordination between party whips and the Speaker's office is essential to ensuring the smooth functioning of the National Assembly. “Members of parliament…

27 Oct

Namibia and South Africa – Partners in History, Allies in the Future

ObserverFeatured, OpinionsNamibia and South Africa’s bond, Namibia’s history, Robben Island

Bo Mbindwane As Namibia moves toward elections, it’s a critical moment to recognize not only the nation’s historical legacy but also its potential future. A strikingly important yet often overlooked aspect of Namibia’s past is its experience under apartheid—a story as profound and painful as that of neighboring South Africa. Like Nelson Mandela, Namibian leaders sacrificed their freedom on Robben Island for decades to dismantle an oppressive system, striving for independence and equality for all Namibians. But while South Africa’s apartheid struggle is rightly honored on the world stage, Namibia’s history is frequently marginalized, often omitted from discussions about global…

25 Oct

Dr. Julita-Kitwe Mbangula is shaping the future of women in medicine

ObserverFeaturedDr. Julita-Kitwe Mbangula

Dr. Julita-Kitwe Mbangula, Miss Supranational Namibia 2022, is a trailblazer in women’s empowerment and the founder of The Hermosa Mimosa Affair. Beyond her beauty and grace, she is recognized for her dedication to uplifting young women in the medical field. This weekend, on 27 October, she will host an all-female gathering in Windhoek, aimed at connecting aspiring medical students and interns with experienced female leaders in the profession. Windhoek Observer had the opportunity to engage with Dr. Mbangula to learn more about her inspiring journey and the impact of her work. WO: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind…

23 Oct

NSC dismisses allegations of interference in NFA affairs

ObserverFeatured, SportsKava Sport Magazine, Namibia Sports Commission

Allexer Namundjembo The Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) has refuted recent claims by Kava Sport Magazine on social media regarding its alleged responsibility for the challenges facing the Namibia Football Association (NFA). In a press statement issued Monday, the commission’s spokesperson, Givean Samulandela, described the claims as unfounded, stating that they misrepresent the roles and mandates of the NSC. “It is crucial to note that the NFA operates as an autonomous body accountable to its members and adheres to regulations set forth by both local and international governing bodies such as COSAFA, CAF, and FIFA. The NFA is committed to fostering…

20 Oct

Brave Warriors assemble for Chan qualifiers

ObserverFeatured, Sports

The co-coaches of Namibia’s CHAN team, have announced the selection of a 36-player squad to commence preparations for the upcoming CHAN (Championship of African Nations) qualifiers against Lesotho. The squad, comprised of players from various leagues across Namibia, will convene at the NFA Technical Centre on Monday, 21 October 2024. Namibia will travel to Lesotho for the first leg of the CHAN preliminary round on 25-27 October with the return leg scheduled for 1-3 November 2024. The winner of the tie will face Angola in the second round for a place in the CHAN finals, which will be held in…

16 Oct

Donated equipment enhances fight against poaching in Namibia

ObserverFeatured, National NewsWildlife Protection Management Project

Niël Terblanché The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism (MEFT) received 22 patrol vehicles and IT equipment valued at N$20 million as part of the Integrated Wildlife Protection Management Project’s (IWPP) efforts to enhance Namibia’s conservation efforts. Funded by the German Government through the KfW Development Bank, this support which was officially handed over on Wednesday, comes at a critical time as Namibia continues to combat increasing incidents of wildlife poaching, which poses a severe threat to rhinos and elephants. Pohamba Shifeta, the Minister of Environment expressed gratitude for Germany’s long-standing commitment to conservation in Namibia. “This equipment will significantly…

13 Oct

Air Botswana delays planned flights between Windhoek and Gaborone

ObserverFeatured, Observer MoneyAir Connect Namibia

Niël Terblanché Air Connect Namibia has announced that due to unforeseen circumstances, this route launch has been delayed, with a new commencement date that will be communicated at a later stage. In September Air Connect Namibia announced that Air Botswana would begin flights connecting Gaborone to Hosea Kutako International Airport, with continuing service to Durban’s King Shaka International Airport in South Africa as of 1 October. Bisey /Uirab, the chairperson of Air Connect Namibia and chief executive officer of the Namibia Airports Company, expressed the airline's regret for the postponement. Air Connect Namibia is a collaboration between NAC, Gondwana Collection,…