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Governor warns against rising tribal tensions in Khorixas

Governor warns against rising tribal tensions in Khorixas

Niël Terblanché Kunene Regional Governor, Marius Sheya issued a stern warning over escalating tribal tensions between the Damara and Nama communities in the Khorixas area, specifically within Ward 9. The discord, rooted in disputes over ancestral land claims and the allocation of plots at a local resettlement farm, threatens to deepen the divides within this communal area. Sheya’s caution comes amid increasing bitterness and hostility voiced through local radio stations, a trend he urged to cease immediately to prevent the situation from spiralling into outright conflict. Sheya stressed the urgent need for local leadership intervention to address the matter comprehensively…
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More than 4,000 police investigations are still incomplete

More than 4,000 police investigations are still incomplete

Hertta-Maria Amutenja Namibia has a staggering total of number 4377 incomplete police investigations across all 14 regions, with Khomas harbouring a daunting 2736 ongoing cases. Other affected regions include Erongo (70), Hardap (109), Kharas (74), Kavango East (132), Kavango West (36), Kunene (57), Ohangwena (210), Omaheke (92), Omusati (128), Oshana (319), Oshikoto (148), Otjozondjupa (222), and Zambezi (44). In a recent session of the National Assembly, Popular Democratic Movement member Reggie Diergaardt inquired about the challenges faced by various police stations in completing investigations. Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security, Albert Kawana, in response to the inquiries, said…
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Debt is exasperating Aroab water crisis

Debt is exasperating Aroab water crisis

Martin Endjala Residents of Aroab in //Karas Region are up in arms over a water shortage that has plagued them for at least three years. The villagers are blaming the Aroab Village Council for failing to address the water shortage in the area. The situation has been ongoing for the past three years, and it is said to have gotten worse, as residents often stay without water during the afternoon and sometimes for days on end. Keetmanshoop Rural Constituency Councillor, Willem Labuschagne, informed Windhoek Observer last week that due to the shortage of water, residents are forced to share. He…
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Environmental concerns halt uranium exploration on vital aquifer

Environmental concerns halt uranium exploration on vital aquifer

Niël Terblanché The Minister of Agriculture, Water, and Land Reform (MAWLR), Calle Schlettwein, has taken a firm stance against the continuation of exploration drilling activities by Headspring Investments, a subsidiary of Russia’s atomic agency to protect one of Namibia’s critical water resources, the Stampriet Aquifer. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the potential exposure of the aquifer to radioactive materials and the adequacy of environmental impact assessments. The controversy surfaced following inquiries by UPM President Jan van Wyk in Parliament, questioning the legality of Headspring Investments’ operations in the region. Schlettwein clarified that the company’s drilling permits, initially granted…
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Mbumba’s role in the reintegration of Walvis Bay celebrated

Mbumba’s role in the reintegration of Walvis Bay celebrated

Niël Terblanché On the first day of March every year, Namibians mark the 30th anniversary of Walvis Bay's reintegration into the country. A key figure behind this momentous occasion was Dr Nangolo Mbumba, Namibia's fourth president. His instrumental role in the successful return of Walvis Bay, along with twelve small offshore islands, to Namibian sovereignty is a testament to his dedication and diplomatic acumen. Walvis Bay, Namibia's principal port and a critical economic hub, was integrated into Namibia between February 28 and March 1, 1994, a few years after the country declared its independence from South African rule on March…
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Namibia wants to attract investors with corporate tax reduction

Namibia wants to attract investors with corporate tax reduction

Martin Endjala Local economic analysts are of the view that the announced reduction in corporate tax rate by the Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises, Iipumbu Shiimi, during the tabling of the National Budget in the National Assembly on Wednesday, will make Namibia more attractive to investors. According to a Simonis Storm Securities report the reduction of the corporate tax rate from 31 percent, to 28 percent, is a noteworthy move that will align Namibia’s tax rates with regional and global standards. The reduction is expected to make Namibia a preferred investment destination that will attract both domestic and foreign…
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National Budget: A balancing act

National Budget: A balancing act

Niël Terblanché As Namibia navigates the path towards economic recovery and sustainable development, the National Budget represents a strategic effort to leverage the country’s improved economic outlook for the benefit of all Namibians. Ipumbu Shiimi, the Namibian Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises, tabled the National Budget for the next fiscal year in Parliament yesterday. The budget marks a crucial moment in the country’s economic management amidst global uncertainties and a recovering domestic economy. Shiimi announced a comprehensive financial plan that aims to stimulate domestic demand, boost infrastructure development, and ensure fiscal sustainability while addressing the immediate needs of the…
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National Budget prioritises social welfare

National Budget prioritises social welfare

Niël Terblanché In a move aimed at bolstering social welfare and economic stability, Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi announced an increase of N$200 in the Old Age Grant and the Disability Grant from N$1,400 to N$1,600 per month The increase will become effective on 1 April 2024. He made the announcement during the tabling of the National Budget, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the living standards of its most vulnerable citizens. Shiimi acknowledged the aspirations of the late President for a considerable uplift in the Old Age Grant. “We fully recognize the dream of our departed President for a significant…
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Time for Moses generation has expired – Ally Angula

Time for Moses generation has expired – Ally Angula

Stefanus Nashama Ally Anugla, the hopeful independent presidential candidate in the 2024 presidential and national assembly elections, says the fight for the ‘Moses generation’ has ended, and it is time for the ‘Joshua generation’ to fight for land proprietorship and economic emancipation. Speaking at the announcement of the alliance in support of the independent candidate yesterday in Windhoek, Angula said the Namibian society is abnormal when old people are still deciding for the future. “Enough is enough. God has generations. Our forefathers went to fight for the land when they were young,” she said. Angula said the Joshua generation should…
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Geingos pays touching tribute to her late husband

Geingos pays touching tribute to her late husband

Hertta-Maria Amutenja In a sombre memorial held at Independence Stadium, former First Lady, Monica Geingos delivered a poignant tribute to her late husband, former President Hage Geingob, encapsulating the profound impact of his life and the unexpected turn of events leading to his death. “His passing was traumatising and unexpected. He was eager to retire and had such plans. And true to his words, he didn’t overstay. In the last few months, he spoke often about ensuring a smooth transition. And even though he left too early, the transition was smooth; it just wasn’t the one he expected,” she remarked.…
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