National News

The stock of international reserves increased by 8.4% month to month to N$54.9 billion at the end of December, relative to N$50.6 billion in November, the Bank of Namibia revealed. The central bank said the increase was attributable to higher commercial bank inflows as a result diamond sales and customer foreign currency placements (CFC’s). The foreign reserves translated into 4.6 months of import cover. Growth in M2 (money supply) rose to 10.7% at the end of December relative to a growth of 10.3% in November. The rise in M2 growth stemmed from an increase in domestic claims, during the period…

Niël Terblanché The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) is in the final stages of appointing a contractor for the much-awaited renovation of the iconic Ritterburg office building in Swakopmund. The MEFT’s spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda said in a statement that the ministry is close to completing the tender process, with renovation works expected to start between April and May, aiming for completion by August or September 2024. The Ritterburg Building, a historic monument listed under the Heritage Council of Namibia, has fallen into a state of disrepair over the years. "Securing the necessary resources for this renovation has been…

Niël Terblanché The town of Usakos in the Erongo Region has launched an ambitious youth employment intervention programme to curb the scourge of youth unemployment. The initiative, spearheaded by Usakos Mayor, Irene Simeon-Kurtz, aims to provide the town's youth with essential funding for various vocational training programmes aimed at addressing persistent educational and unemployment challenges. The programme emerges against a backdrop where a significant majority of young individuals entering the labour market each year find themselves trapped in a cycle of unemployment, with more than 70 percent remaining outside of employment, education, and training systems. "Our multi-sectoral action plan is…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Namibia Media Professionals’ Union (NAMPU) Acting Secretary General Jemima Beukes, says the union has welcomed the reinstatement of New Era Newspaper Managing Director Johnathan Beukes, following his suspension in September 2023, and returned to work yesterday. However, the media union is not satisfied with the fact that despite Beukes going to work, the charges that got him suspended have still not been dropped and he is still facing a disciplinary hearing. “We commend the decision by the New Era leadership to heed our calls for his return, affirming the importance of a free and robust press in our…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund has bestowed Oshakati Intermediate Hospital with a noteworthy donation of medical equipment valued at N$388 146. This philanthropic gesture aims to fortify government-driven healthcare initiatives. The contribution encompasses cutting-edge medical equipment, from patient monitors and oximeters to stretcher trolleys, spine boards, neck collars, and other vital essentials. The donation is poised to substantially augment the hospital's diagnostic, treatment, and patient care capabilities. The MVA's Chief Executive Officer, Rosalia Martins-Hausiku reiterated the Fund's dedication to advancing medical services at Oshakati Intermediate Hospital. "Healthcare is a cornerstone of societal well-being, and the MVA Fund…