National News

More than 15 000 women are living with HIV in the Omusati Region

More than 15 000 women are living with HIV in the Omusati Region

Hertta-Maria Amutenja A concerning number of approximately 15,192 women aged 20 to 49 are living with HIV (WLHIV) in the Omusati Region, as of the end of September 2023. This was revealed by Dr Ester Muinjangue, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Services, during the inauguration of National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. The campaign, launched this week, focuses on intensifying efforts to combat cervical cancer. Dr. Muinjangue stressed the urgency of increasing awareness and screening for this disease. She officially commenced National Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and screening campaigns in the Omusati Region, noting the significant global impact of cervical…
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ACC recommits to combat corruption in public sector

ACC recommits to combat corruption in public sector

Stefanus Nashama The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), in collaboration with Technical Assistance and Information Exchange (TAIEX), this week commenced with the second framework of a workshop to provide expert and practical support to deal with corruption risk in the public sector. Speaking at the opening of the workshop in Windhoek, ACC Executive Director, Tylvas Shilongo, said the workshop underscores shared commitment to finding solutions, exchanging insights, and exploring new possibilities to combat corruption risk. Since the Commission intends to establish a comprehensive framework at the national level to conduct corruption risk management within public entities, Shilongo stressed the workshop would provide…
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Swapo supports One-China Policy amidst escalating China Taiwan Tensions

Swapo supports One-China Policy amidst escalating China Taiwan Tensions

Hertta-Maria Amutenja In an affirmation of the One-China Policy amidst escalating China-Taiwan tensions, SWAPO has reiterated its steadfast commitment. The party, through its Secretary General Sophia Shaningwa, underlined its recognition of Taiwan as an integral part of the People's Republic of China, aligning with principles of multipolarity, togetherness, and cooperation. She said Namibia solidifies its commitment to the One-China Policy, emphasizing the bond with China and the "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." Furthermore, Shaningwa asserts Namibia's commitment to trust, mutual respect, and non-interference in each other's domestic affairs. “Our organisation and its bilateral relations are premised on multipolarity, togetherness and cooperation, the…
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Swakopmund has 22,000 residents without proper housing

Swakopmund has 22,000 residents without proper housing

Niël Terblanché In a determined move to tackle the housing crisis, the Swakopmund municipality has announced the donation of 379 erven to families living in the DRC informal settlement, marking a crucial step in the coastal town's efforts to provide housing to over 22,000 residents on waiting lists. This groundbreaking initiative was revealed last week, focusing on the DRC settlement's extensions 27, 29, and 30. The town council of Swakopmund, after careful consideration, identified the beneficiaries of these plots on serviced land, aiming to assist first-time homeowners. In documentation provided by the Swakopmund Municipality, the local authority confirmed that the…
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Ohangwena Regional Council cannot account for missing N$200,000

Ohangwena Regional Council cannot account for missing N$200,000

Stefanus Nashama The Ohangwena Regional Council is embroiled in a financial mystery involving the disappearance of a N$200,000 donation from the Road Fund Administration (RFA). Despite the transaction's documentation, the Council has yet to pinpoint the missing funds' whereabouts. Fillip Shilongo, the Chief Regional Officer of the Ohangwena Regional Council, stated that the funds were earmarked for purchasing food for flood victims. However, it was later revealed that the money was allegedly transferred to a different company without the Council's consent or approval. Shilongo expressed the Council's perplexity over the missing funds. “As we speak, the whereabouts of the N$200,000…
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Several Hardap schools operate without key personnel

Several Hardap schools operate without key personnel

Hertta-Maria Amutenja In a shocking revelation during the official opening of the Regional Stakeholders Conference in the Hardap Region this week, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Technology, and Innovation Nathalia /Goagoses, addressed a critical issue plaguing the educational landscape. With a resounding call for action, /Goagoses highlighted that 11 schools in the region are currently without principals, and an additional 28 lack Heads of Departments. During her address, /Goagoses emphasized the pivotal role leadership plays in shaping the educational environment. She urged the Regional Director and the education team to fill these vacant positions, stressing the importance of accountability and…
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TransNamib set to secure N$2.6 billion loan for railway expansion and modernization

TransNamib set to secure N$2.6 billion loan for railway expansion and modernization

Niël Terblanché TransNamib, the national rail operator, is on the brink of acquiring a colossal N$2.6 billion loan that will significantly bolster Namibia’s rail infrastructure. The Acting Chief Executive Officer of TransNamib, Webster Gonzo, announced the imminent agreement with the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the Development Bank of Namibia. He added that the financial infusion marks a crucial moment in the modernization and expansion of the country’s railway system. Gonzo elaborated on the intricate processes involved in securing such a substantial loan. “We have reached the final stages of the prerequisites for this funding. Key to this phase…
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Pilot’s swift action averts tragedy on Namibian coast

Pilot’s swift action averts tragedy on Namibian coast

Niël Terblanché A potential aviation tragedy was skilfully avoided on Monday morning when an experienced pilot, flying a light aircraft along the Namibian coast, executed an emergency landing on the B2 Road between Swakopmund and Langstrand. The incident, which could have ended in disaster, saw all passengers emerge unscathed thanks to the pilot’s quick reflexes and expertise. The Cessna 210, with five people on board, was ascending to its cruising altitude after departing from Swakopmund Aerodrome when it encountered sudden engine trouble. Hafeni Mweshixwa, a senior aircraft accident investigator at the Directorate of Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigations, reported that…
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Namibia records 22 new leprosy cases

Namibia records 22 new leprosy cases

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Minister of Health and Social Services, Kalumbi Shangula has revealed that the country reported 22 new leprosy cases in September 2023. Speaking at the commemoration of World Leprosy Day in Katima Mulilo, Shangula urging collective action to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with the disease. Shangula disclosed the breakdown of the cases, emphasising the urgency of addressing the situation. He announced that seven cases were identified in the Zambezi Region, 11 in the Kavango Region, three in the Oshana Region, and one in the Omusati Region. This data underscores the persistent challenge posed by leprosy in…
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US Embassy moves to its new premises in Klein Windhoek

US Embassy moves to its new premises in Klein Windhoek

Stefanus Nashama In a significant development marking the evolution of relations between the United States of America and Namibia, the United States of America recently moved its embassy operations to its newly constructed site in Klein Windhoek. Tiffany Miller, the Public Affairs Officer and Spokesperson for the US Embassy in Windhoek announced this transition, signifying the closure of the embassy's previous location and the commencement of operations at the new diplomatic facility. Miller said that the move to the new site in Windhoek represents not just a physical shift but also symbolizes the future trajectory of collaboration between the United…
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