Opinions – Page 11

10 Sep

Powering Africa’s growth: The untapped potential of SME insurance for economic prosperity

info_e12wt4csOpinionsSmall and Medium Enterprises

Sam Kauapirura At the heart of Africa's economic landscape lies a vibrant tapestry of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), each contributing to the continent's dynamic growth and innovation. These businesses, often operating with limited resources, are the lifeblood of our economies, fostering job creation, innovation, and economic stability. However, SMEs are frequently exposed to a myriad of risks that can impede their progress. Here, the solution is clear—SME insurance. SME insurance offers a suite of tailored insurance products designed to safeguard small and medium-sized businesses from financial setbacks caused by unforeseen events. These policies encompass a wide range of perils,…

08 Sep

A possible re-run for Presidency after November elections

info_e12wt4csOpinionsrerun of the presidential race

Stefanus Nashama As Namibia approaches the 27 November elections, the question for a rerun of the presidential race is critical. This is possible since more votes might be split amongst political parties and independent candidates- those who stood on their own. The establishment of political parties such as the Independent Patriots for Change, IPC (a threat not only to SWAPO but other opposition political parties) and Affirmative Repositioning, AR, and independent candidates have brought yet another new political concept to the Namibian political system. SWAPO was more on a safer chance of winning elections without the existence of IPC and…

08 Sep

The ignorance of young people towards politics: A call for active participation

info_e12wt4csOpinions

Sakaria Johannes In Namibia, young people make up most of the population. With their numbers, energy, and potential, they have the power to shape the future of the nation. Yet, a large portion of the youth remains disconnected from politics, viewing it as irrelevant or distant. This disengagement poses a serious threat not only to their future but also to Namibia's democratic system and its development. What is Politics? Aristotle, often referred to as the "Father of Political Science,” defined politics as the process by which people determine how to live together in a community and achieve the common good.…

05 Sep

MANIFESTOS AND THE BOILING ‘POT’ WITH LONG KNIVES OUT

info_e12wt4csOpinions

Paul Shipale The opinion piece by Sibuku Malumbano in New Era Newspaper, 2nd September 2024, argued for political parties to offer the public accurate information about their party’s policies, a clear vision and political objectives to allow voters to make informed decisions instead of political sloganeering as a tool for campaigning. Teboho Bojabotsheha, from Vaal University of Technology in South Africa, says that Babbie and Mouton (2004:495) point out that discourse analysis is a complex process that is better suited to those who are interested in theorising about life. In the context of this article, I am interested in theorising…

05 Sep

The Significance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution for Africa

info_e12wt4csOpinionsFourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

Tomas Nashongo Africa, with its vast and diverse population, continues to grapple with challenges such as poverty, which many can trace back to historical factors like colonialism and current issues related to governance and stability. However, in recent years, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) has emerged as a transformative force, offering the continent a unique chance to confront these challenges and stimulate economic growth. The 4IR is defined by the integration of advanced technologies, including robotics, artificial intelligence (AI). This blend of technologies holds the promise of transforming entire industries in Africa. For instance, robotics could help address labor shortages,…

05 Sep

UN cybercrime treaty enables threatening state intrusion

info_e12wt4csOpinionsUN convention on cybercrime

Flawed treaty will provide cover for installing a highly problematic law in Namibia Frederico Links Alarm has reverberated around the world following the adoption of the draft UN convention on cybercrime in early August 2024 by the Ad Hoc Committee of the UN General Assembly specifically created to draft such a treaty. What is fueling the alarm within the global human rights community is the fact that the draft convention, which is set to be adopted by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) over coming months, has been adopted without addressing critical flaws in the treaty text that threatens to further…

05 Sep

Choosing best perfectionist of capitalism, and the continuous exploitation of workers

info_e12wt4csOpinionsNational Assembly and Presidential Elections

Kae Matundu-Tjiparuro In anticipation of the forthcoming National Assembly and Presidential Elections this November, there has been a cry about the lack of manifestos by most of the political parties, and/or the late production thereof. Yours Truly Ideologically instead has been thinking this has been much ado about nothing. Because election after election political parties have been coming forth with manifestos. Most of which, for all intents and purposes, have remained unfulfilled for those that has never had the opportunity to implement them because of failing to grab the reigns of governance. For those which has been in governance all…

03 Sep

The changing weather patterns ahead of the summer crop season in Namibia

info_e12wt4csOpinionsLa Niña, Southern Africa Climate Outlook Forum

As we approach October 2024, Namibian farmers and farm workers are gearing up for the start of the summer crop season. This period marks the beginning of land preparation and planting activities for staple crops such as maize, pearl millet (mahangu), sorghum, groundnuts, and other legumes. Much like our counterparts in Southern Africa, the timing of these activities in Namibia is heavily influenced by rainfall patterns. In Namibia, the onset of the rainy season typically begins in late October to early November. The central and northern regions, which are the main agricultural hubs, are the first to receive rain. However,…

03 Sep

Reporting on Gender-Based Violence: Ethical Considerations for African Journalists

info_e12wt4csOpinionsViolence Against Persons Prohibition

Yemisi Akinbobola Welcome to September, a month that often marks a time of reflection and renewed commitment. With just 12-weeks before the 16 Days of Activism commences on 25 November, it is crucial for us as media practitioners to remember the role we play in reporting on gender-based violence, particularly when it involves minors. Our work carries immense weight, and how we handle these stories can either foster change or perpetuate harm. In Nigeria, where Kano remains the only state yet to pass the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, the need for responsible, ethical journalism is more pressing than…

03 Sep

SMEs as catalysts for Namibia’s green industrial future

info_e12wt4csOpinionsSmall and Medium-sized Enterprises

Dino Ballotti Namibia is at a critical point in its journey towards becoming a green industrialised nation. This transition presents a unique opportunity for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to assume a central role. As we fully embrace renewable energy and sustainable development, SMEs are uniquely positioned to drive innovation, form strategic partnerships, and propel economic growth. Why SMEs are the Key Players Frequently referred to as the lifeblood of an economy, SMEs are poised to become key architects of Namibia’s green future amid the country’s transition to a sustainable economy. The agility allows scalable businesses to quickly adapt to…