Opinions

Sakaria Johannes Namibia’s legal system, rooted in Roman-Dutch law, remains one of the most enduring legacies of colonialism. While political independence was achieved in 1990, the law that governs land ownership, labour relations, and family definitions largely predates independence and was never designed to address African social realities. This raises an unavoidable question: does Roman-Dutch law still serve Namibia’s developmental and social needs, or does it quietly preserve historical injustice under the guise of legal continuity? Roman-Dutch law offers undeniable strengths. It provides legal certainty, institutional stability, and a judiciary that commands respect both locally and internationally. These features have…

Kae Matundu - Tjiparuro “We are too few to be poor” is and has been one of the famous catchphrases of the president of the eighth administration of the Republic of Namibia.  Yours Truly Ideologically indeed, this catchphrase has been given serious reflection, wondering if it ever has or shall have any practical and consequential meaning or if it is just another popular rhetoric by a politician?  One, for that matter, without any hint of ideological conviction. For, indeed, unless backed by some serious ideological conviction and inclination, as much as ambition, such shall remain no more than just another…

PAUL T. SHIPALE (with inputs by Folito Nghitongovali Diawara Gaspar) In a defining address that has recalibrated the nation’s governance priorities, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah declared the era of excuses over. Opening the new judicial year, she delivered a stark verdict on public service, saying there is no room for failure. This was not merely a speech; it was a strategic blueprint, positioning a strong legal framework and an efficient judiciary as the indispensable engines of national performance. The timing could not be more critical. With magistrates grappling with caseloads of up to 63 cases simultaneously, public trust is under strain.…

Ndeya Iita  As engineers, we are trained to think in systems. We analyse problems, design solutions, test assumptions, and measure outcomes. We value clarity, evidence, and continuous improvement.  From this professional lens, one conclusion becomes unavoidable: Namibia would benefit greatly if its ministers and public officials became regular writers. Engineering teaches us that complex systems fail when communication is weak. The government is one of the most complex systems in any country, involving people, policies, institutions, budgets, and infrastructure. Yet too often, decisions appear disconnected from clear explanations, data, or long-term logic. Writing can help close this gap. When leaders…