WINDHOEK, Oct. 9 — Namibia‘s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) and McDermott International, a global engineering and construction services company for the energy industry, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance local expertise in the upstream oil and gas sector. PETROFUND, in a joint statement on Thursday, said the collaboration will align with international standards to provide Namibian students, job seekers, and service providers access to training, mentorship, and employment opportunities. “Our partnership with McDermott supports PETROFUND’s mandate to build the capacity of Namibia‘s workforce and service providers to participate in the emerging opportunities within the country’s upstream oil and gas industry,” said PETROFUND Chief Executive Officer Nillian Mulemi. According to Mulemi, capacity-building collaborations with international service companies promote the exchange of global best practices and technical expertise with local talent. “This MoU furthers our commitment to developing local content and building a sustainable oil and gas workforce in Namibia. By investing in the next generation of Namibian talent, we help prepare them to lead future projects as Namibia emerges as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape,” said Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s senior vice president for subsea and floating facilities. According to the two parties, the initiative supports both the growth of Namibia‘s oil and gas industry and its broader economic development goals, ensuring Namibians are well-positioned to participate in and benefit from progress across the energy value chain. In recent years, Namibia has become one of Africa’s most promising new oil frontiers, attracting global attention after several major offshore discoveries by international energy firms. (Xinhua) Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email WINDHOEK, Oct. 9 — Namibia‘s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) and McDermott International, a global engineering and construction services company for the energy industry, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance local expertise in the upstream oil and gas sector. PETROFUND, in a joint statement on Thursday, said the collaboration will align with international standards to provide Namibian students, job seekers, and service providers access to training, mentorship, and employment opportunities. “Our partnership with McDermott supports PETROFUND’s mandate to build the capacity of Namibia‘s workforce and service providers to participate in the emerging opportunities within the country’s upstream oil and gas industry,” said PETROFUND Chief Executive Officer Nillian Mulemi. According to Mulemi, capacity-building collaborations with international service companies promote the exchange of global best practices and technical expertise with local talent. “This MoU furthers our commitment to developing local content and building a sustainable oil and gas workforce in Namibia. By investing in the next generation of Namibian talent, we help prepare them to lead future projects as Namibia emerges as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape,” said Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s senior vice president for subsea and floating facilities. According to the two parties, the initiative supports both the growth of Namibia‘s oil and gas industry and its broader economic development goals, ensuring Namibians are well-positioned to participate in and benefit from progress across the energy value chain. In recent years, Namibia has become one of Africa’s most promising new oil frontiers, attracting global attention after several major offshore discoveries by international energy firms. (Xinhua) Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email

San Francisco, Oct. 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SAN FRANCISCO, CA October 09, 2025 - - A sweeping wave of technological breakthroughs and regulatory shifts is accelerating the global energy transition, reshaping how governments, investors, and industries are approaching decarbonization and sustainability. New intelligence from EarlyBirds highlights how rapid advancements in renewable energy and storage technologies, combined with tightening environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks, are setting the pace for the next decade of climate and industrial transformation. From the deployment of hydrogen transport and large-scale battery systems to the expansion of space-based solar power and the resurgence of carbon pricing policies, momentum across the energy ecosystem suggests that the long-anticipated convergence of innovation, investment, and regulation is finally taking form. The developments observed during the first week of October 2025 paint a picture of a world moving swiftly toward technological maturity in renewable systems, even as it faces the policy and market complexities of scaling them. In Norway, a country long regarded as a global leader in electric vehicle adoption, new advances in nationwide charging infrastructure are providing a benchmark for seamless integration between mobility systems and renewable energy grids. The country's model demonstrates how well-planned infrastructure can accelerate decarbonization in transport while strengthening energy resilience. In the storage domain, Sineng Electric's turnkey battery systems are emerging as vital tools for stabilizing renewable energy supply, enabling diverse applications ranging from grid-scale deployment to localized microgrid support. The commissioning of Europe's largest battery energy storage system, a 200 MW installation by ENGIE and Sungrow in Belgium, underscores how storage technology has evolved from experimental pilot projects into a mature and bankable asset class supporting the continent's renewable integration goals. Hydrogen continues to gain prominence as both an industrial feedstock and a scalable clean fuel. Duke Energy's launch of the United States' first fully integrated green hydrogen system in Florida represents a landmark project that combines production, storage, and power generation. The initiative demonstrates the viability of hydrogen as a dispatchable energy source capable of reinforcing grid stability and reducing dependence on fossil generation. In Asia, Isuzu and Toyota's deployment of hydrogen buses marks a decisive moment in clean public transportation, while new hydrogen refueling infrastructure in North America is addressing one of the sector's most persistent adoption barriers. Complementing hydrogen's rise, innovation in geothermal energy is proving that renewable baseload power can be both reliable and cost-efficient. XGS Energy's 3,000-hour geothermal trial in California achieved sustained output and seamless grid integration, suggesting that geothermal energy could play a much larger role in the global energy mix. Hybrid projects that combine hydrogen, geothermal, and battery storage, such as those now being built in the western United States, point to an era of complementary renewable ecosystems that work together to meet round-the-clock demand. Solar technology, meanwhile, is pushing into new frontiers. Scientists from the University of Delaware and Taizhou University recently shattered the long-standing efficiency ceiling for silicon solar cells, achieving conversion rates above 50 percent. This leap could dramatically lower the cost of solar energy and double the output from the same surface area. Japan's national investment program in ultra-thin perovskite cells, alongside Namibia's approval of a 3 gigawatt solar and hydrogen complex, underscores how major economies are turning laboratory breakthroughs into industrial-scale programs. Beyond Earth, the first commercial collaborations in space-based solar power, led by Space Solar, Thales Alenia Space, and Aetherflux, are exploring continuous orbital energy collection and laser transmission to Earth. If proven viable, such systems could eliminate the intermittency challenge entirely and redefine the logistics of global energy distribution. On the investment front, capital deployment into clean energy and storage assets continues to climb, signaling growing market confidence in the economics of decarbonization. A $700 million joint venture between Larsen & Toubro and ACWA Power in Uzbekistan is set to deliver 1 gigawatt of combined solar generation and storage capacity, establishing Central Asia as a new player in renewable expansion. In Australia, ACCIONA's $140 million acquisition of the East Rockingham Waste-to-Energy facility reinforces the circular economy trend, turning waste streams into valuable energy resources. In the United States, Enlight Renewable Energy's $340 million Roadrunner solar and storage project near Tucson is backed by tax equity investors, reflecting the increasing alignment between sustainable finance and infrastructure growth. Even smaller firms such as Vivakor, investing $23 million in clean energy technologies, illustrate how diversified capital participation is sustaining sectoral momentum across scales. While innovation accelerates, the regulatory landscape is tightening. Governments are now moving beyond voluntary ESG reporting toward binding climate compliance. Australia's proposal to reintroduce carbon pricing and impose a tax on coal exports represents a decisive return to fiscal mechanisms for emission control. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency's plan to phase out organics from landfills by 2040 is a significant measure against methane emissions and a potential catalyst for a new generation of circular waste solutions. Internationally, the International Maritime Organization's forthcoming Net-Zero Framework will impose new emissions targets across global shipping, reshaping fuel supply chains and vessel design strategies. Europe's environmental authorities have also renewed calls for deeper decarbonization, signaling stricter oversight of corporate climate disclosures and carbon accounting. Together, these developments define a global inflection point in sustainability. Technological innovation is meeting regulatory ambition in a way that transforms compliance from an administrative function into a competitive advantage. Organizations able to anticipate policy changes and integrate advanced technologies - from AI-driven energy optimization to next-generation battery chemistries - will be best positioned to capture emerging markets and investor confidence. Conversely, industries slow to adapt face escalating operational costs, supply chain disruptions, and reputational risks as regulators and consumers demand measurable environmental progress. According to EarlyBirds' analysts, the synergy between innovation and regulation will increasingly determine leadership in the energy transition. Nations and companies that align research, industrial deployment, and policy coherence are poised to dominate the green economy. As renewable systems become more efficient and interconnected, the boundaries between compliance, investment, and innovation are dissolving, creating a new ecosystem where technological agility equals resilience. The first week of October 2025 encapsulates this transformation: governments tightening environmental policy, investors scaling clean energy commitments, and innovators surpassing long-held scientific limits. Together, these forces are rewriting the fundamentals of global energy economics. What was once a fragmented movement of isolated technologies and climate pledges is now coalescing into a unified, data-driven transition. The result is a race not just to decarbonize, but to reinvent how the world powers its future - continuously, sustainably, and intelligently. ### For more information about EarlyBirds, contact the company here: EarlyBirds Mr Kris Poria [email protected] EarlyBirds USA Inc., 548 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94104 USA CONTACT: Mr Kris Poria

 President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for the removal of barriers hindering trade in cement and charcoal between Namibia and Botswana, saying that enhanced cross-border trade in these sectors could create jobs, boost exports, and strengthen regional integration under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Speaking during the Second Session of the Namibia–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Windhoek, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia places great importance on bilateral trade with Botswana, particularly in industries that support both countries’ rural and industrial economies. “In this context, Namibia also attached great importance to our bilateral trade including trade in cement and charcoal. The Commission should look into the impediments surrounding trade in these products for mutual benefit,” she said. The President noted progress since the inaugural BNC in 2022, including the establishment of the One Stop Border Post at Trans-Kalahari/Mamuno, the introduction of 24-hour border operations, and the use of national identity cards for cross-border travel. She said these measures have significantly reduced transport costs and improved trade efficiency. She also commended ongoing collaboration on the Trans-Kalahari Railway feasibility study, which aims to connect Botswana’s mineral-rich regions to Namibia’s ports, strengthening trade and logistics within the region. “These achievements exemplify our shared commitment to regional integration, economic development, and people-to-people exchanges, as envisioned in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)’s strategic industrialisation and economic diversification agendas,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. On economic matters, the President outlined Namibia’s development priorities under the Eighth Administration, including agriculture, youth empowerment, energy, and logistics, noting their alignment with Botswana’s Economic Transformation Programme. She also praised the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) for its continued role in supplying Namibia with livestock vaccines, emphasising the importance of agricultural cooperation for food security and regional self-reliance. “I mention this, as context for our shared ambitions, and to demonstrate that the thought-processes in Windhoek and in Gaborone are not far from each other,” she said. President Nandi-Ndaitwah and Botswana’s President Duma Boko witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in key sectors. The agreements cover areas such as corrections and prisons management, energy resource development, police and security cooperation, and employment and labour relations. Both countries also agreed to collaborate in health services, cultural exchange, and science, technology and innovation. In addition, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed to allow for the gainful employment of spouses and dependents of diplomatic and consular staff, promoting stronger social and professional ties between the two nations. The post Namibia, Botswana move to resolve cement and charcoal trade barriers first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for the removal of barriers hindering trade in cement and charcoal between Namibia and Botswana, saying that enhanced cross-border trade in these sectors could create jobs, boost exports, and strengthen regional integration under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Speaking during the Second Session of the Namibia–Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Windhoek, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said Namibia places great importance on bilateral trade with Botswana, particularly in industries that support both countries’ rural and industrial economies. “In this context, Namibia also attached great importance to our bilateral trade including trade in cement and charcoal. The Commission should look into the impediments surrounding trade in these products for mutual benefit,” she said. The President noted progress since the inaugural BNC in 2022, including the establishment of the One Stop Border Post at Trans-Kalahari/Mamuno, the introduction of 24-hour border operations, and the use of national identity cards for cross-border travel. She said these measures have significantly reduced transport costs and improved trade efficiency. She also commended ongoing collaboration on the Trans-Kalahari Railway feasibility study, which aims to connect Botswana’s mineral-rich regions to Namibia’s ports, strengthening trade and logistics within the region. “These achievements exemplify our shared commitment to regional integration, economic development, and people-to-people exchanges, as envisioned in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)’s strategic industrialisation and economic diversification agendas,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. On economic matters, the President outlined Namibia’s development priorities under the Eighth Administration, including agriculture, youth empowerment, energy, and logistics, noting their alignment with Botswana’s Economic Transformation Programme. She also praised the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) for its continued role in supplying Namibia with livestock vaccines, emphasising the importance of agricultural cooperation for food security and regional self-reliance. “I mention this, as context for our shared ambitions, and to demonstrate that the thought-processes in Windhoek and in Gaborone are not far from each other,” she said. President Nandi-Ndaitwah and Botswana’s President Duma Boko witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in key sectors. The agreements cover areas such as corrections and prisons management, energy resource development, police and security cooperation, and employment and labour relations. Both countries also agreed to collaborate in health services, cultural exchange, and science, technology and innovation. In addition, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed to allow for the gainful employment of spouses and dependents of diplomatic and consular staff, promoting stronger social and professional ties between the two nations. The post Namibia, Botswana move to resolve cement and charcoal trade barriers first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News.

 By Prime Shaapopi As Namibia charts its path toward a more just and equitable society one urgent question arises: Should the country introduce a National Insurance Tax to fund universal healthcare for all citizens? And this should not be an economic or fiscal debate. It should be a further questioning of what kind of Namibia do we want to build? Who deserves access to healthcare? How do we sustainably finance a health system that leaves no one behind, including healthcare workers who often operate under resource constraints? And more importantly how do we ensure all healthcare professionals (workers) are employed without the question of diluting national budget? Since independence, Namibia has made notable progress in healthcare. The government spends approximately 9% of GDP on health among the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating strong commitment to public health.   One can opine that public hospitals and clinics has now reached many remote communities yet stark inequalities remain. Rural areas often suffer from staff shortages, outdated equipment and unreliable access to medicine. Meanwhile private healthcare although world-class is accessible only to a privileged few, meaning for many Namibians one serious illness could result in financial catastrophe especially with out-of-pocket spending remaining alarmingly high. What is even more concerning is that even the most basic and universal medical needs like childbirth have become increasingly unaffordable for many families. Bringing new life into the world, once considered a deeply communal and accessible experience, now carries a heavy financial burden. Costs for maternal care, hospital stays and delivery continue to rise, often pushing families into debt. This not only undermines the principle of equitable healthcare but raises serious questions about how a society values the health and dignity of its people especially women and children. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep vulnerabilities in the system by stretching the system to the breaking point, highlighting inefficiencies and the consequences of unequal access. It showed that health emergencies do not discriminate by income or geography, making the case for universal coverage even more urgent. Across the country thousands still die of preventable diseases and the rise of non-communicable diseases like cancer, diabetes and hypertension demands more structured and long-term care models. A National Insurance Tax is a dedicated, ring-fenced social contribution usually paid by both employees and employers to fund healthcare for all. It is not merely a tax; it is a solidarity mechanism, a social contract that says, “Your health is my concern.” For Namibia, this could mark a shift towards inclusive growth, where healthcare is not a privilege but a right. This would allow all citizens, regardless of income to access basic healthcare. It would reduce reliance on out-of-pocket payments which are the most regressive form of health financing. Instead of relying on volatile donor aid or shifting budget allocations, Namibia could create a resilient healthcare fund. Healthy populations make for strong economies and a system that ensures early diagnosis, treatment and preventive care can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity and avoid costly late-stage interventions. Moreover, if citizens see their contributions directly funding quality healthcare, it could help rebuild public trust in government institutions, something Namibia and many other African nations desperately need. Namibia’s current moment of reflection also presents a chance to reimagine what a resilient and future-ready healthcare system could look like. In a recent interview with the Evening Review host Toivo Ndjebela, Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao emphasized that health education is just as important as the clinical or practical aspects of care. She argued that rethinking healthcare delivery must include making health education a bedrock of the system, empowering communities with knowledge, prevention and long-term behavioural change. According to the Minister, expanding hospital infrastructure and increasing access to essential facilities must go hand-in-hand with public education and awareness campaigns. This dual approach can reduce the burden on emergency care, promote early interventions and foster a culture of health ownership among citizens especially in underserved regions. The National Insurance Tax, if implemented, could become the financial backbone for such a holistic transformation. Namibia doesn’t have to reinvent the wheel to start from scratch. Many developed countries like UK, Germany, France, Japan etc successfully fund healthcare through national insurance systems. These systems aren’t perfect, but they work and prove that universal healthcare is achievable through shared financing and political will. Now the further question is: Why not in Namibia? Namibia can learn from these countries by adopting what works and avoiding what doesn’t. Central to any successful implementation will be the role of the tax authority. In Namibia, that responsibility falls to the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA). In countries like the UK, tax authorities collect and manage health contributions, integrating tax and social policy. NamRA could play a similar role in Namibia, collecting health contributions via the existing PAYE system, ensuring compliance among employers and coordinating with the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Commission to ensure funds are used effectively.  Of course, this would require robust systems and transparency, but it is entirely possible considering how efficient and effective NamRA has been since Sam Shivute took over as Commissioner in April 2021 making such a transformation not just possible but practical. Namibia is entering a new era of political and institutional renewal. The election of the country’s first female president and a more vibrant accountable Parliament suggest a maturing democracy one capable of bold policy reforms. A National Insurance Tax could become a cornerstone of Namibia’s Vision 2030. Of course, the road will be challenging considering high unemployment and a large informal sector reduce the tax base. New deductions from salaries might be met with scepticism unless the benefits are tangible. The system must just be corruption-proof, transparent and gradually implemented with clear and concise public communication. But these are just challenges not reasons to delay but reasons to plan decisively and inclusively. Maybe let this be the beginning of a new conversation for her excellency the President, her cabinet, Parliament and NamRA, to reimagine a future where no one is birthed or dies because they could not afford treatment. The health of a nation is not a luxury; it is a right and the time to act is now. * Prime Shaapopi is a Namibian Chartered Accountant with interest in taxation. These are his personal views. The post Is it time for Namibia to introduce a National Insurance Tax for universal healthcare? first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News. By Prime Shaapopi As Namibia charts its path toward a more just and equitable society one urgent question arises: Should the country introduce a National Insurance Tax to fund universal healthcare for all citizens? And this should not be an economic or fiscal debate. It should be a further questioning of what kind of Namibia do we want to build? Who deserves access to healthcare? How do we sustainably finance a health system that leaves no one behind, including healthcare workers who often operate under resource constraints? And more importantly how do we ensure all healthcare professionals (workers) are employed without the question of diluting national budget? Since independence, Namibia has made notable progress in healthcare. The government spends approximately 9% of GDP on health among the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating strong commitment to public health.   One can opine that public hospitals and clinics has now reached many remote communities yet stark inequalities remain. Rural areas often suffer from staff shortages, outdated equipment and unreliable access to medicine. Meanwhile private healthcare although world-class is accessible only to a privileged few, meaning for many Namibians one serious illness could result in financial catastrophe especially with out-of-pocket spending remaining alarmingly high. What is even more concerning is that even the most basic and universal medical needs like childbirth have become increasingly unaffordable for many families. Bringing new life into the world, once considered a deeply communal and accessible experience, now carries a heavy financial burden. Costs for maternal care, hospital stays and delivery continue to rise, often pushing families into debt. This not only undermines the principle of equitable healthcare but raises serious questions about how a society values the health and dignity of its people especially women and children. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed deep vulnerabilities in the system by stretching the system to the breaking point, highlighting inefficiencies and the consequences of unequal access. It showed that health emergencies do not discriminate by income or geography, making the case for universal coverage even more urgent. Across the country thousands still die of preventable diseases and the rise of non-communicable diseases like cancer, diabetes and hypertension demands more structured and long-term care models. A National Insurance Tax is a dedicated, ring-fenced social contribution usually paid by both employees and employers to fund healthcare for all. It is not merely a tax; it is a solidarity mechanism, a social contract that says, “Your health is my concern.” For Namibia, this could mark a shift towards inclusive growth, where healthcare is not a privilege but a right. This would allow all citizens, regardless of income to access basic healthcare. It would reduce reliance on out-of-pocket payments which are the most regressive form of health financing. Instead of relying on volatile donor aid or shifting budget allocations, Namibia could create a resilient healthcare fund. Healthy populations make for strong economies and a system that ensures early diagnosis, treatment and preventive care can reduce absenteeism, improve productivity and avoid costly late-stage interventions. Moreover, if citizens see their contributions directly funding quality healthcare, it could help rebuild public trust in government institutions, something Namibia and many other African nations desperately need. Namibia’s current moment of reflection also presents a chance to reimagine what a resilient and future-ready healthcare system could look like. In a recent interview with the Evening Review host Toivo Ndjebela, Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao emphasized that health education is just as important as the clinical or practical aspects of care. She argued that rethinking healthcare delivery must include making health education a bedrock of the system, empowering communities with knowledge, prevention and long-term behavioural change. According to the Minister, expanding hospital infrastructure and increasing access to essential facilities must go hand-in-hand with public education and awareness campaigns. This dual approach can reduce the burden on emergency care, promote early interventions and foster a culture of health ownership among citizens especially in underserved regions. The National Insurance Tax, if implemented, could become the financial backbone for such a holistic transformation. Namibia doesn’t have to reinvent the wheel to start from scratch. Many developed countries like UK, Germany, France, Japan etc successfully fund healthcare through national insurance systems. These systems aren’t perfect, but they work and prove that universal healthcare is achievable through shared financing and political will. Now the further question is: Why not in Namibia? Namibia can learn from these countries by adopting what works and avoiding what doesn’t. Central to any successful implementation will be the role of the tax authority. In Namibia, that responsibility falls to the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA). In countries like the UK, tax authorities collect and manage health contributions, integrating tax and social policy. NamRA could play a similar role in Namibia, collecting health contributions via the existing PAYE system, ensuring compliance among employers and coordinating with the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Commission to ensure funds are used effectively.  Of course, this would require robust systems and transparency, but it is entirely possible considering how efficient and effective NamRA has been since Sam Shivute took over as Commissioner in April 2021 making such a transformation not just possible but practical. Namibia is entering a new era of political and institutional renewal. The election of the country’s first female president and a more vibrant accountable Parliament suggest a maturing democracy one capable of bold policy reforms. A National Insurance Tax could become a cornerstone of Namibia’s Vision 2030. Of course, the road will be challenging considering high unemployment and a large informal sector reduce the tax base. New deductions from salaries might be met with scepticism unless the benefits are tangible. The system must just be corruption-proof, transparent and gradually implemented with clear and concise public communication. But these are just challenges not reasons to delay but reasons to plan decisively and inclusively. Maybe let this be the beginning of a new conversation for her excellency the President, her cabinet, Parliament and NamRA, to reimagine a future where no one is birthed or dies because they could not afford treatment. The health of a nation is not a luxury; it is a right and the time to act is now. * Prime Shaapopi is a Namibian Chartered Accountant with interest in taxation. These are his personal views. The post Is it time for Namibia to introduce a National Insurance Tax for universal healthcare? first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News.

Disgruntled members of the Sorris Sorris community at Khorixas presented a petition to parliamentary standing committee on natural resources chairperson Toubie Aupindi at the Parliament Gardens in Windhoek on Thursday afternoon. In the petition, that was read by Gwyneth //Garoes, the delegation criticises Doro !Nawas and Uibasen conservancies and tourism company Ultimate Safaris for instituting High Court proceedings to oppose the reopening of Goantagab mine in the Sorris Sorris conservancy. The court case was heard on Wednesday and a ruling on the matter is expected on Friday afternoon. The petitioners says they are dismayed that the three applicants, who have no legal standing in the affairs of Sorris Sorris, were using the country’s court system to perpetuate a cycle of poverty in their area. “We are convinced that Ultimate Safaris and the Doro !Nawas and Uibasen conservancies have no legal standing in the affairs of the Dâure Daman Traditional authority, where the mines are situated,”//Garoes said. She said there are about 200 unemployed young people in their community who need jobs at the Goantagab mine but they are being denied by the court application by people who do not have the plight of the marginalised people in the community at heart. “In fact by opposing the opening of the mine, situated in a predominantly mining area, and refusing to co-exist, these people are perpetuating an unending cycle of poverty in our area. “Although the tourist operators are bringing in foreign income, it has no tangible benefits for the locals in terms of employment and infrastructure development. In fact, we have evidence that tourist operators import 90% of their employees from other areas,” she said. “We would like the authorities to ensure that the needs of the community are not neglected for the sake of big money corporations and that mining and tourism should co-exist in the area,” she said. Accepting the petition, Aupindi, who was flanked by former environment minister Pohamba Shifeta, said while the matter is subjudice because it is in court, the committee does not condone the suffering of the people. He said mining and tourism ventures should exists especially in the Erongo and Kunene regions where they already co-exist. “Sorris Sorris is a conservancy on its own with its own mandate and can make its own decisions,” he said. – [email protected] The post Sorris Sorris petitions environment committee appeared first on The Namibian. Disgruntled members of the Sorris Sorris community at Khorixas presented a petition to parliamentary standing committee on natural resources chairperson Toubie Aupindi at the Parliament Gardens in Windhoek on Thursday afternoon. In the petition, that was read by Gwyneth //Garoes, the delegation criticises Doro !Nawas and Uibasen conservancies and tourism company Ultimate Safaris for instituting High Court proceedings to oppose the reopening of Goantagab mine in the Sorris Sorris conservancy. The court case was heard on Wednesday and a ruling on the matter is expected on Friday afternoon. The petitioners says they are dismayed that the three applicants, who have no legal standing in the affairs of Sorris Sorris, were using the country’s court system to perpetuate a cycle of poverty in their area. “We are convinced that Ultimate Safaris and the Doro !Nawas and Uibasen conservancies have no legal standing in the affairs of the Dâure Daman Traditional authority, where the mines are situated,”//Garoes said. She said there are about 200 unemployed young people in their community who need jobs at the Goantagab mine but they are being denied by the court application by people who do not have the plight of the marginalised people in the community at heart. “In fact by opposing the opening of the mine, situated in a predominantly mining area, and refusing to co-exist, these people are perpetuating an unending cycle of poverty in our area. “Although the tourist operators are bringing in foreign income, it has no tangible benefits for the locals in terms of employment and infrastructure development. In fact, we have evidence that tourist operators import 90% of their employees from other areas,” she said. “We would like the authorities to ensure that the needs of the community are not neglected for the sake of big money corporations and that mining and tourism should co-exist in the area,” she said. Accepting the petition, Aupindi, who was flanked by former environment minister Pohamba Shifeta, said while the matter is subjudice because it is in court, the committee does not condone the suffering of the people. He said mining and tourism ventures should exists especially in the Erongo and Kunene regions where they already co-exist. “Sorris Sorris is a conservancy on its own with its own mandate and can make its own decisions,” he said. – [email protected] The post Sorris Sorris petitions environment committee appeared first on The Namibian.

Allexer Namundjembo The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has assured residents of the newly declared Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy in the Oshikoto region that they can continue collecting salt as usual.  The ministry dismissed public claims that the conservancy’s new status would restrict traditional practices or indicate a land sale. Ministry spokesperson Ndeshipanda Hamunyela told the Windhoek Observer that the area’s declaration changes nothing about community access.  “People will continue to collect salt as usual. There are no restrictions from the ministry or from the conservancy itself due to the area’s new status,” she said. Hamunyela explained that registering an area as a conservancy gives the community the right to manage it and benefit from wildlife and tourism, without transferring ownership to the government.  “The status of the land remains unchanged; it does not become a national or game park,” she emphasised. She also dismissed rumours that the area had been sold, describing such claims as “incorrect and misleading”. The Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy, located in the Omuntele Constituency, was officially declared under the Nature Conservation Ordinance of 1975 and published in a government gazette on 17 September 2025.  It spans about 132 651 hectares, stretching from the Etosha National Park fence through villages such as Okalonga, Etopelyombidhi, Etambo, and Epumbu. Last month, environment and tourism minister Indileni Daniel said the declaration marks a milestone for community-based conservation in Namibia, empowering residents to manage and benefit from natural resources sustainably. Namibia’s conservancy model, introduced in the late 1990s, grants rural communities legal rights to manage wildlife and tourism ventures on communal lands.  There are now more than 86 registered conservancies nationwide, covering over 20% of the country’s land area and generating millions annually through ecotourism, trophy hunting, and conservation-related jobs. The Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy joins this growing network, aiming to balance environmental protection with economic opportunity for its people. Allexer Namundjembo The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has assured residents of the newly declared Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy in the Oshikoto region that they can continue collecting salt as usual.  The ministry dismissed public claims that the conservancy’s new status would restrict traditional practices or indicate a land sale. Ministry spokesperson Ndeshipanda Hamunyela told the Windhoek Observer that the area’s declaration changes nothing about community access.  “People will continue to collect salt as usual. There are no restrictions from the ministry or from the conservancy itself due to the area’s new status,” she said. Hamunyela explained that registering an area as a conservancy gives the community the right to manage it and benefit from wildlife and tourism, without transferring ownership to the government.  “The status of the land remains unchanged; it does not become a national or game park,” she emphasised. She also dismissed rumours that the area had been sold, describing such claims as “incorrect and misleading”. The Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy, located in the Omuntele Constituency, was officially declared under the Nature Conservation Ordinance of 1975 and published in a government gazette on 17 September 2025.  It spans about 132 651 hectares, stretching from the Etosha National Park fence through villages such as Okalonga, Etopelyombidhi, Etambo, and Epumbu. Last month, environment and tourism minister Indileni Daniel said the declaration marks a milestone for community-based conservation in Namibia, empowering residents to manage and benefit from natural resources sustainably. Namibia’s conservancy model, introduced in the late 1990s, grants rural communities legal rights to manage wildlife and tourism ventures on communal lands.  There are now more than 86 registered conservancies nationwide, covering over 20% of the country’s land area and generating millions annually through ecotourism, trophy hunting, and conservation-related jobs. The Etosha Lyomongwa Conservancy joins this growing network, aiming to balance environmental protection with economic opportunity for its people.

Justicia Shipena Seven years after its introduction, the National Equitable Economic Empowerment Framework (Neeef) remains incomplete, leaving Namibia’s ambition to tackle deep-rooted inequality hanging in the balance.  The framework, which has been under development since 2018 and aims to address the country’s persistent socioeconomic disparities and inequalities rooted in past discriminatory laws, has yet to be finalised. Despite being described last week as “at an advanced stage” by the Law Reform and Development Commission (LRDC), Neeef has been stuck in development for years.  During a meeting with prime minister Elijah Ngurare, the LRDC said the framework is close to completion. Ngurare urged the commission to accelerate its finalisation and implementation. The slow progress continues to raise questions about the government’s commitment to economic transformation.  Social justice activist Lloyd Bock said the prolonged delay shows a lack of urgency in addressing inequality.  “When we look at youth unemployment, the economic crisis, and the lasting effects of apartheid, we must ask how serious the government is about balancing the playing field. Seven years is too long for a country of three million people facing such high unemployment. This policy could have already helped address some of these issues,” he said. Bock said empowerment efforts should focus on the grassroots rather than benefiting those already economically privileged.  He noted that ownership in major companies remains concentrated in white hands.  “Most shareholders in companies are still white people, and this is exactly what the framework was meant to address. The slow pace shows how unserious we are about tackling these injustices,” he told the Windhoek Observer. He also critiqued the consultation process, saying ordinary Namibians were not meaningfully involved in shaping the policy. Bock argued that Namibia lacks a proper public consultation policy, weakening public participation in national policy development. Another activist, Julius Natangwe, echoed similar views, saying the delay casts doubt on the government’s seriousness about reducing economic disparities.  “While changes in administration may have contributed to delays, the continued absence of the framework reflects a lack of urgency in tackling deep-rooted injustices,” he said. Call for wage disclosure law Natangwe said wage transparency remains one of the most urgent reforms needed to address inequality.  “We need a law that compels employers to give employees access to payroll information. Many people doing the same job are paid differently, sometimes because they are women or because they are black or white. That does not help the process of closing the gap,” he said. He said disparities are visible in both the private and public sectors, especially within financial institutions.  “Right now, salaries are treated as confidential, and even if someone finds out, they cannot raise it without being questioned about where they got the information. A payroll access law would change that,” he said. Despite his criticism, Natangwe said there is hope that the new administration and parliament could accelerate progress.  “The new administration has not been in office for even a year, so maybe we should give them the benefit of the doubt. With a more energetic parliament, perhaps things will start to move,” he said. Back in 2018, the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) revealed that over 70% of productive agricultural land remained in the hands of previously advantaged Namibians, mainly whites.  At the time, critics opposed the Neeef because of a clause requiring white-owned businesses to sell a 25% stake to previously disadvantaged black Namibians. The clause has since been scrapped. The late president Hage Geingob in 2019 expressed disappointment that wealthy Namibians were reluctant to share with the poor to help address inequality.  He had said despite the government’s “softer and friendly approach” through initiatives such as Neef, hostility toward the policy persisted. In 2018, the government reserved N$700 000 for its implementation.  Balancing empowerment and investment Political analyst Sam Kauapirura stated that the government is currently grappling with striking a balance between promoting empowerment and upholding investor trust.  He said the current administration’s focus on foreign investment in oil and green hydrogen has made it cautious about empowerment measures that could be viewed as unfriendly to investors.  “I don’t really expect a serious commitment. That framework has gone through various reviews, and every time there seemed to be political will, questions around foreign direct investment came up. This government is driving the oil and clean hydrogen agenda, which is 100% foreign investment dependent and sensitive. So this framework would have to balance the interests, aspirations, and fears of those key industries,” he said. Kauapirura said this tension explains the repeated delays.  “Every time the business community expresses fears and concerns, the grounds shift and amendments are suggested. Now, with these key industries of the future, those interests would have to be balanced,” he said.  He added that while the government may continue to promote transformation, local beneficiation, and local content, it is likely to water down ownership provisions.  It will probably emphasise training locals, employment equity, investment in emerging enterprises, and uplifting the SME sector. But the ownership pillar is expected to be watered down significantly for that legislation to survive,” he said. “Improving equitable distribution of wealth in Namibia is crucial because high inequality hinders wealth creation for all, stifles long-term growth, and worsens the triple burden of poverty, unemployment, and inequality,” said economist Josef Sheehama.  Sheehama said Namibia needs coordinated policies that expand financial inclusion, create jobs, and strengthen education, while fighting corruption in order to attract investment.  He added that Namibia continues to rank among the most unequal countries in the world. In August last year, the Rand Merchant Bank ranked Namibia as the second most unequal country globally, with an inequality index score of 59.1. The World Bank also confirmed Namibia’s position as the second most unequal country in the world. “To achieve economic equilibrium, wealth must include inheritance and asset income,” he said. He called on authorities to develop measurable indicators to track progress, including business ownership, workforce parity, and skills development. “It is not just a question of morality; it is an investment in the political, social, and economic prosperity of all Namibians,” Sheehama said.  Justicia Shipena Seven years after its introduction, the National Equitable Economic Empowerment Framework (Neeef) remains incomplete, leaving Namibia’s ambition to tackle deep-rooted inequality hanging in the balance.  The framework, which has been under development since 2018 and aims to address the country’s persistent socioeconomic disparities and inequalities rooted in past discriminatory laws, has yet to be finalised. Despite being described last week as “at an advanced stage” by the Law Reform and Development Commission (LRDC), Neeef has been stuck in development for years.  During a meeting with prime minister Elijah Ngurare, the LRDC said the framework is close to completion. Ngurare urged the commission to accelerate its finalisation and implementation. The slow progress continues to raise questions about the government’s commitment to economic transformation.  Social justice activist Lloyd Bock said the prolonged delay shows a lack of urgency in addressing inequality.  “When we look at youth unemployment, the economic crisis, and the lasting effects of apartheid, we must ask how serious the government is about balancing the playing field. Seven years is too long for a country of three million people facing such high unemployment. This policy could have already helped address some of these issues,” he said. Bock said empowerment efforts should focus on the grassroots rather than benefiting those already economically privileged.  He noted that ownership in major companies remains concentrated in white hands.  “Most shareholders in companies are still white people, and this is exactly what the framework was meant to address. The slow pace shows how unserious we are about tackling these injustices,” he told the Windhoek Observer. He also critiqued the consultation process, saying ordinary Namibians were not meaningfully involved in shaping the policy. Bock argued that Namibia lacks a proper public consultation policy, weakening public participation in national policy development. Another activist, Julius Natangwe, echoed similar views, saying the delay casts doubt on the government’s seriousness about reducing economic disparities.  “While changes in administration may have contributed to delays, the continued absence of the framework reflects a lack of urgency in tackling deep-rooted injustices,” he said. Call for wage disclosure law Natangwe said wage transparency remains one of the most urgent reforms needed to address inequality.  “We need a law that compels employers to give employees access to payroll information. Many people doing the same job are paid differently, sometimes because they are women or because they are black or white. That does not help the process of closing the gap,” he said. He said disparities are visible in both the private and public sectors, especially within financial institutions.  “Right now, salaries are treated as confidential, and even if someone finds out, they cannot raise it without being questioned about where they got the information. A payroll access law would change that,” he said. Despite his criticism, Natangwe said there is hope that the new administration and parliament could accelerate progress.  “The new administration has not been in office for even a year, so maybe we should give them the benefit of the doubt. With a more energetic parliament, perhaps things will start to move,” he said. Back in 2018, the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) revealed that over 70% of productive agricultural land remained in the hands of previously advantaged Namibians, mainly whites.  At the time, critics opposed the Neeef because of a clause requiring white-owned businesses to sell a 25% stake to previously disadvantaged black Namibians. The clause has since been scrapped. The late president Hage Geingob in 2019 expressed disappointment that wealthy Namibians were reluctant to share with the poor to help address inequality.  He had said despite the government’s “softer and friendly approach” through initiatives such as Neef, hostility toward the policy persisted. In 2018, the government reserved N$700 000 for its implementation.  Balancing empowerment and investment Political analyst Sam Kauapirura stated that the government is currently grappling with striking a balance between promoting empowerment and upholding investor trust.  He said the current administration’s focus on foreign investment in oil and green hydrogen has made it cautious about empowerment measures that could be viewed as unfriendly to investors.  “I don’t really expect a serious commitment. That framework has gone through various reviews, and every time there seemed to be political will, questions around foreign direct investment came up. This government is driving the oil and clean hydrogen agenda, which is 100% foreign investment dependent and sensitive. So this framework would have to balance the interests, aspirations, and fears of those key industries,” he said. Kauapirura said this tension explains the repeated delays.  “Every time the business community expresses fears and concerns, the grounds shift and amendments are suggested. Now, with these key industries of the future, those interests would have to be balanced,” he said.  He added that while the government may continue to promote transformation, local beneficiation, and local content, it is likely to water down ownership provisions.  It will probably emphasise training locals, employment equity, investment in emerging enterprises, and uplifting the SME sector. But the ownership pillar is expected to be watered down significantly for that legislation to survive,” he said. “Improving equitable distribution of wealth in Namibia is crucial because high inequality hinders wealth creation for all, stifles long-term growth, and worsens the triple burden of poverty, unemployment, and inequality,” said economist Josef Sheehama.  Sheehama said Namibia needs coordinated policies that expand financial inclusion, create jobs, and strengthen education, while fighting corruption in order to attract investment.  He added that Namibia continues to rank among the most unequal countries in the world. In August last year, the Rand Merchant Bank ranked Namibia as the second most unequal country globally, with an inequality index score of 59.1. The World Bank also confirmed Namibia’s position as the second most unequal country in the world. “To achieve economic equilibrium, wealth must include inheritance and asset income,” he said. He called on authorities to develop measurable indicators to track progress, including business ownership, workforce parity, and skills development. “It is not just a question of morality; it is an investment in the political, social, and economic prosperity of all Namibians,” Sheehama said. 

Oceans, Vol. 6, Pages 66: Winter Bloom Dynamics and Molecular Analysis of Benthic Sediments for the Toxic Dinoflagellate, Dinophysis acuminata, at Torquay Canal, Rehoboth Bay, Delaware, USA Oceans doi: 10.3390/oceans6040066 Authors: Amanda Kathryn Pappas Tahera Attarwala Gulnihal Ozbay The increased presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) is a concern for many aquatic environments, especially with the increasing effects of climate change. Members of the dinoflagellate genus Dinophysis have been shown to produce toxins that can cause Diarrheic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) in humans who consume infected shellfish. The advancing oyster aquaculture industry in Delaware will require the development of management practices and monitoring HAB species to protect environmental and human health. Temperature, nutrients, and prey abundance can be drivers of Dinophysis blooms. D. acuminata has been historically identified at high concentrations (>200,000 cells L−1) in water samples from Rehoboth Bay, DE, USA. However, the reach of spring blooms and how far they extend to aquaculture sites have not been determined. This study monitored an emergent HABs threat of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate, Dinophysis acuminata, by assessing a transect during the first recorded winter bloom in Torquay Canal and analyzing concentrations of chemical nutrients of combined nitrate and nitrite, and orthophosphate. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis between cell density (cells L−1) and environmental variables across all sites was conducted to determine significant relationships between water temperature, Chl-a concentration, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), combined nitrate and nitrite concentrations (NOx), and orthophosphate concentrations (PO43−). Genetic techniques and PCR were utilized to determine the presence of Dinophysis using genus-specific primers to monitor cell density or abundance within the sediments during winter months. There were no significant correlations between environmental variables, and nutrient concentrations did not exceed EPA regulations. Molecular analyses of benthic sediments detected Dinophysis spp., offering insight into potential bloom origins. Overall, there is limited ecological data on Dinophysis acuminata in Rehoboth Bay, DE, USA. The results of this study will help strengthen resources for monitoring HAB species and understanding potential risks to oyster aquaculture in Delaware. Oceans, Vol. 6, Pages 66: Winter Bloom Dynamics and Molecular Analysis of Benthic Sediments for the Toxic Dinoflagellate, Dinophysis acuminata, at Torquay Canal, Rehoboth Bay, Delaware, USA Oceans doi: 10.3390/oceans6040066 Authors: Amanda Kathryn Pappas Tahera Attarwala Gulnihal Ozbay The increased presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) is a concern for many aquatic environments, especially with the increasing effects of climate change. Members of the dinoflagellate genus Dinophysis have been shown to produce toxins that can cause Diarrheic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) in humans who consume infected shellfish. The advancing oyster aquaculture industry in Delaware will require the development of management practices and monitoring HAB species to protect environmental and human health. Temperature, nutrients, and prey abundance can be drivers of Dinophysis blooms. D. acuminata has been historically identified at high concentrations (>200,000 cells L−1) in water samples from Rehoboth Bay, DE, USA. However, the reach of spring blooms and how far they extend to aquaculture sites have not been determined. This study monitored an emergent HABs threat of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate, Dinophysis acuminata, by assessing a transect during the first recorded winter bloom in Torquay Canal and analyzing concentrations of chemical nutrients of combined nitrate and nitrite, and orthophosphate. Pearson correlation coefficient analysis between cell density (cells L−1) and environmental variables across all sites was conducted to determine significant relationships between water temperature, Chl-a concentration, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), combined nitrate and nitrite concentrations (NOx), and orthophosphate concentrations (PO43−). Genetic techniques and PCR were utilized to determine the presence of Dinophysis using genus-specific primers to monitor cell density or abundance within the sediments during winter months. There were no significant correlations between environmental variables, and nutrient concentrations did not exceed EPA regulations. Molecular analyses of benthic sediments detected Dinophysis spp., offering insight into potential bloom origins. Overall, there is limited ecological data on Dinophysis acuminata in Rehoboth Bay, DE, USA. The results of this study will help strengthen resources for monitoring HAB species and understanding potential risks to oyster aquaculture in Delaware.

 The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) will conclude its nationwide drive to promote equitable, investment-led development across all regions with a final regional outreach mission to Otjiwarongo and Outjo from 12 to 14 October 2025. The initiative forms part of the NIPDB’s broader effort to expand investment opportunities, strengthen public-private collaboration, and align regional economic potential with the country’s national development goals under the National Development Plan 6 (NDP6). NIPDB Senior Manager for Marketing, Branding and Communications, Catherine Shipushu, said the outreach programme began in the //Kharas and Hardap regions and has since covered Kunene, Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Omaheke and Erongo. “To promote equitable regional participation in investment-led development, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) embarked on a nationwide regional outreach programme that started in //Kharas, Hardap, continued to Kunene, Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Omaheke and Erongo with Otjozondjupa region as our final stop,” Shipushu said. During the visit, the NIPDB will meet regional leaders, local businesses and young entrepreneurs to identify investment prospects and address challenges faced by investors. The board will also establish the Otjozondjupa Regional Investment Committee (RIC), tasked with identifying investor-ready projects and promoting sustainable regional growth. Similar committees have already been launched in Omaheke and Kavango West. As part of the programme, NIPDB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nangula Nelulu Uaandja, will lead the Oxungi Youth Dialogue, engaging young people on opportunities in emerging sectors and supporting the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to reduce youth unemployment. “These sessions enable the NIPDB to understand the constraints faced by investors, and thereafter engage the relevant government offices, ministries and agencies to ensure they are resolved. This is part of the NIPDB’s mandate to effectively support investors, improve the ease of doing business and ensure that Namibia remains a competitive investment destination,” Shipushu said. The post Otjozondjupa hosts final leg of NIPDB’s nationwide investment drive first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News. The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) will conclude its nationwide drive to promote equitable, investment-led development across all regions with a final regional outreach mission to Otjiwarongo and Outjo from 12 to 14 October 2025. The initiative forms part of the NIPDB’s broader effort to expand investment opportunities, strengthen public-private collaboration, and align regional economic potential with the country’s national development goals under the National Development Plan 6 (NDP6). NIPDB Senior Manager for Marketing, Branding and Communications, Catherine Shipushu, said the outreach programme began in the //Kharas and Hardap regions and has since covered Kunene, Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Omaheke and Erongo. “To promote equitable regional participation in investment-led development, the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) embarked on a nationwide regional outreach programme that started in //Kharas, Hardap, continued to Kunene, Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West, Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana, Oshikoto, Omaheke and Erongo with Otjozondjupa region as our final stop,” Shipushu said. During the visit, the NIPDB will meet regional leaders, local businesses and young entrepreneurs to identify investment prospects and address challenges faced by investors. The board will also establish the Otjozondjupa Regional Investment Committee (RIC), tasked with identifying investor-ready projects and promoting sustainable regional growth. Similar committees have already been launched in Omaheke and Kavango West. As part of the programme, NIPDB Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nangula Nelulu Uaandja, will lead the Oxungi Youth Dialogue, engaging young people on opportunities in emerging sectors and supporting the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to reduce youth unemployment. “These sessions enable the NIPDB to understand the constraints faced by investors, and thereafter engage the relevant government offices, ministries and agencies to ensure they are resolved. This is part of the NIPDB’s mandate to effectively support investors, improve the ease of doing business and ensure that Namibia remains a competitive investment destination,” Shipushu said. The post Otjozondjupa hosts final leg of NIPDB’s nationwide investment drive first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News.

 President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah speaking at the Agri-Outlook Conference, Windhoek Country Club Resort, 8 October 2025 ____________________________________________________________ Allow me at the onset to appreciate the invitation extended to me by the Farmers Unions to officiate at the Agri-Outlook Conference 2025. This year’s conference is held under the theme ‘Harvesting the Future’. This theme is forward-looking, calling upon us to not only envision the future of agriculture but to actively shape it. I applaud all four unions, namely the Namibia Emerging Commercial Farmers Union, Namibia National Farmers Union, Previously Disadvantaged National Farmers Union, and the Namibia Agricultural Union, for their collaboration and for setting up a befitting programme focusing on key thematic areas which align with the aspirations of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), the developmental roadmap for the eighth administration. These thematic areas are:
• Inclusive and sustainable transformation growth in the livestock economy
• Value addition and market access in the northern communal areas
• Capacity building and youth: farmers’ mainstreaming
• Technology and innovation in agriculture
• Sustainable agriculture Today, agriculture stands at the cusp of great opportunity in Namibia. The eighth administration has prioritised agriculture as one of its seven priority areas in NDP6, as well as the Swapo Party Manifesto Implementation Plan, both of which highlight the importance of the agricultural sector and propose tangible interventions to improve production, as well as assistance to farmers and secondary producers.  This decision was intentional, as we recognise that agriculture is directly linked to development. Most countries in the world have developed through agricultural transformation, and that is what we want to see in Namibia, cognisant of our climatic conditions. It is also not by chance that agriculture doubles as one of the eight critical economic enablers. Agriculture is essential for industrialisation, job creation and food security. Our founding president, Sam Nujoma, taught us that a nation that cannot feed itself cannot be respected. Therefore, we value the input and enabling ability of agriculture not only to feed our nation, grow our economy and make us self-reliant, but also to position Namibia as a respected member of the global village. Agriculture is also a source of foreign currency through the export of agricultural products such as beef, grapes, vegetables and other high-value commodities. Earlier this year, I had the privilege to visit the green schemes in Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West and Omusati regions. I was greatly encouraged by the potential and opportunity for us to feed the nation from the produce of these green schemes. Yes, many challenges remain and more support is needed for them to reach full production. However, the optimism in the sector is fuelling the potential for setting up industries through processing plants. The challenges before us in the agriculture sector – such as climate change, soil degradation, and consumer demands – define how we grow, distribute and consume food.  In the face of these challenges lie the seeds to transform our agriculture sector. In order to harvest the future, we must reimagine agriculture as a smart, sustainable and inclusive engine of development by embracing climate-resilient practices, investing in innovation and agri-tech, supporting smallholder farmers, and building value chains that are both equitable and efficient. The Agri-Outlook Conference brings together farmers from all corners of the country – communal, emerging and commercial – including supporting organisations and local and international agricultural experts. The primary goal is to share knowledge and plan how to improve Namibian farmers’ productivity and profitability to contribute to livelihoods, food security and the Gross Domestic Product of the country. The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of Namibia’s socio-economic development, providing rural income and ensuring food security. About 70% of the Namibian population derives their livelihoods directly from the livestock and crop value chains.  All people of the world depend on agriculture for their survival. This highlights the importance of attaining adequate basic agricultural inputs for increased production, thereby improving the sector’s economic competitiveness and sustaining the entire value chain. As mentioned, the agricultural sector serves as a catalyst for the manufacturing industry and a significant source of foreign earnings. However, over the years, the sector has experienced volatility caused by a combination of changing climatic conditions and inadequate investment. Despite being the largest employer in Namibia, the agricultural workforce is ageing, with signs that the youth are lacking interest in agriculture-related jobs. Although the food and nutrition security situation has improved over the past decades, some level of undernourishment persists. It is imperative that a conducive environment be created for agriculture through connectivity, creativity and access to finance, for the sector to serve its purpose. I wish to reiterate that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for agriculture to thrive, and we deeply value initiatives such as engagement within and with all stakeholders on all our priority areas and critical economic enablers. May the discussions held at the Agri-Outlook Conference 2025 on policy, investments and practice be a catalyst for bold action in securing our future for generations to come. Statement-By-Her-Excellency-Dr-Netumbo-Nandi-Ndaitwah-at-the-Agri-Outlook-Conference-Windhoek-8-October-2025Download The post Statement by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah:Namibia Poised to ‘Harvest the Future’ Through Sustainable Agriculture appeared first on The Namibian. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah speaking at the Agri-Outlook Conference, Windhoek Country Club Resort, 8 October 2025 ____________________________________________________________ Allow me at the onset to appreciate the invitation extended to me by the Farmers Unions to officiate at the Agri-Outlook Conference 2025. This year’s conference is held under the theme ‘Harvesting the Future’. This theme is forward-looking, calling upon us to not only envision the future of agriculture but to actively shape it. I applaud all four unions, namely the Namibia Emerging Commercial Farmers Union, Namibia National Farmers Union, Previously Disadvantaged National Farmers Union, and the Namibia Agricultural Union, for their collaboration and for setting up a befitting programme focusing on key thematic areas which align with the aspirations of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), the developmental roadmap for the eighth administration. These thematic areas are:
• Inclusive and sustainable transformation growth in the livestock economy
• Value addition and market access in the northern communal areas
• Capacity building and youth: farmers’ mainstreaming
• Technology and innovation in agriculture
• Sustainable agriculture Today, agriculture stands at the cusp of great opportunity in Namibia. The eighth administration has prioritised agriculture as one of its seven priority areas in NDP6, as well as the Swapo Party Manifesto Implementation Plan, both of which highlight the importance of the agricultural sector and propose tangible interventions to improve production, as well as assistance to farmers and secondary producers.  This decision was intentional, as we recognise that agriculture is directly linked to development. Most countries in the world have developed through agricultural transformation, and that is what we want to see in Namibia, cognisant of our climatic conditions. It is also not by chance that agriculture doubles as one of the eight critical economic enablers. Agriculture is essential for industrialisation, job creation and food security. Our founding president, Sam Nujoma, taught us that a nation that cannot feed itself cannot be respected. Therefore, we value the input and enabling ability of agriculture not only to feed our nation, grow our economy and make us self-reliant, but also to position Namibia as a respected member of the global village. Agriculture is also a source of foreign currency through the export of agricultural products such as beef, grapes, vegetables and other high-value commodities. Earlier this year, I had the privilege to visit the green schemes in Zambezi, Kavango East, Kavango West and Omusati regions. I was greatly encouraged by the potential and opportunity for us to feed the nation from the produce of these green schemes. Yes, many challenges remain and more support is needed for them to reach full production. However, the optimism in the sector is fuelling the potential for setting up industries through processing plants. The challenges before us in the agriculture sector – such as climate change, soil degradation, and consumer demands – define how we grow, distribute and consume food.  In the face of these challenges lie the seeds to transform our agriculture sector. In order to harvest the future, we must reimagine agriculture as a smart, sustainable and inclusive engine of development by embracing climate-resilient practices, investing in innovation and agri-tech, supporting smallholder farmers, and building value chains that are both equitable and efficient. The Agri-Outlook Conference brings together farmers from all corners of the country – communal, emerging and commercial – including supporting organisations and local and international agricultural experts. The primary goal is to share knowledge and plan how to improve Namibian farmers’ productivity and profitability to contribute to livelihoods, food security and the Gross Domestic Product of the country. The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of Namibia’s socio-economic development, providing rural income and ensuring food security. About 70% of the Namibian population derives their livelihoods directly from the livestock and crop value chains.  All people of the world depend on agriculture for their survival. This highlights the importance of attaining adequate basic agricultural inputs for increased production, thereby improving the sector’s economic competitiveness and sustaining the entire value chain. As mentioned, the agricultural sector serves as a catalyst for the manufacturing industry and a significant source of foreign earnings. However, over the years, the sector has experienced volatility caused by a combination of changing climatic conditions and inadequate investment. Despite being the largest employer in Namibia, the agricultural workforce is ageing, with signs that the youth are lacking interest in agriculture-related jobs. Although the food and nutrition security situation has improved over the past decades, some level of undernourishment persists. It is imperative that a conducive environment be created for agriculture through connectivity, creativity and access to finance, for the sector to serve its purpose. I wish to reiterate that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for agriculture to thrive, and we deeply value initiatives such as engagement within and with all stakeholders on all our priority areas and critical economic enablers. May the discussions held at the Agri-Outlook Conference 2025 on policy, investments and practice be a catalyst for bold action in securing our future for generations to come. Statement-By-Her-Excellency-Dr-Netumbo-Nandi-Ndaitwah-at-the-Agri-Outlook-Conference-Windhoek-8-October-2025Download The post Statement by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah:Namibia Poised to ‘Harvest the Future’ Through Sustainable Agriculture appeared first on The Namibian.

 Staff Reporter VISUALLY impaired anti-GBV campaigner Kleopas Petrus, who departed from Iihwali Village in the Oshikoto Region at 06:00 today, arrived in Oshakati around 15:00, having endured the scorching sun as he covered a distance of approximately 50 kilometres on foot. Petrus aims to raise awareness about the scourge of gender-based violence, youth unemployment, and the plight of people living with disabilities. Escorted by traffic officers, Petrus carried a doll representing child victims of GBV. The post Petrus endures scorching sun to raise GBV awareness appeared first on Informanté. Staff Reporter VISUALLY impaired anti-GBV campaigner Kleopas Petrus, who departed from Iihwali Village in the Oshikoto Region at 06:00 today, arrived in Oshakati around 15:00, having endured the scorching sun as he covered a distance of approximately 50 kilometres on foot. Petrus aims to raise awareness about the scourge of gender-based violence, youth unemployment, and the plight of people living with disabilities. Escorted by traffic officers, Petrus carried a doll representing child victims of GBV. The post Petrus endures scorching sun to raise GBV awareness appeared first on Informanté.

HOUSTON and WINDHOEK, Namibia, Oct. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — McDermott and Namibia’s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) jointly announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on academic and industrial training initiatives in Namibia’s upstream oil and gas sector. 
 The collaboration will align with international standards to provide Namibian students, job seekers and service providers access to training, mentorship and employment opportunities. The upskilling and knowledge transfer aspect of the agreement is designed to equip the local workforce with the skills needed for technical roles such as engineering, fabrication, operations and project management to unlock the country’s offshore energy potential. “This MOU furthers our commitment to developing local content and building a sustainable oil and gas workforce in Namibia,” said Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s Senior Vice President, Subsea and Floating Facilities. “By investing in the next generation of Namibian talent, we help prepare them to lead future projects as Namibia emerges as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape.” “Our partnership with McDermott supports PETROFUND’s mandate to build the capacity of Namibia’s workforce and service providers to participate in the emerging opportunities within the country’s upstream oil and gas industry,” said Nillian Mulemi, PETROFUND Chief Executive Officer. “Capacity-building collaborations with international service companies promote the exchange of global best practices and technical expertise with local talent, thereby positioning Namibia’s workforce and service providers to play active roles across the full value chain of the upstream industry, while driving and sustaining economic growth in the country.” This initiative supports both the growth of Namibia’s oil and gas industry and its broader economic development goals, ensuring Namibians are well-positioned to participate in and benefit from progress across the energy value chain. About McDermott
McDermott is a premier, fully integrated provider of engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry. Our customers trust our technology-driven approach engineered to responsibly harness and transform global energy resources into the products the world needs. From concept to commissioning, McDermott’s innovative expertise and capabilities advance the next generation of global energy infrastructure, empowering a brighter, more sustainable future for us all. Operating in over 30 countries, McDermott’s locally focused and globally-integrated resources include more than 30,000 employees, a diversified fleet of speciality marine construction vessels and fabrication facilities around the world. To learn more, visit www.mcdermott.com. About PETROFUND
The Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) is a statutory body of the Government of the Republic of Namibia, established in 1992 to enhance capacity within the country’s upstream petroleum sector. PETROFUND builds capacity through training, institutional development, scholarships and the promotion of science, engineering and technology. The establishment of PETROFUND aligns with the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act of 1991. Additionally, PETROFUND is funded by oil exploration companies granted exploration rights in Namibia through agreements with the Namibian Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy. To learn more, visit www.petrofund.org Forward-Looking Statements
McDermott cautions that statements in this communication which are forward-looking and provide other than historical information involve risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. Those statements are made by using various underlying assumptions and are subject to numerous risks, contingencies and uncertainties, including, among others: adverse changes in the markets in which we operate or credit or capital markets; our inability to successfully execute on contracts in backlog; changes in project design or schedules; the availability of qualified personnel; changes in the terms, scope or timing of contracts, contract cancellations, change orders and other modifications and actions by our customers and other business counterparties; changes in industry norms; actions by lenders, other creditors, customers and other business counterparties of McDermott and adverse outcomes in legal or other dispute resolution proceedings. If one or more of these risks materialise, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. This communication reflects the views of McDermott’s management as of the date hereof. Except to the extent required by applicable law, McDermott undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Contacts:

McDermott International
Global Media Relations
Reba Reid
+1 281 588 5636
[email protected] PETROFUND
Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Division
Shoki Kandjimi
+264 817524536
[email protected] 
  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mcdermott-and-petrofund-partner-to-advance-namibias-energy-talent-pipeline-302578478.html SOURCE McDermott International, Ltd The post McDermott and PETROFUND Partner to Advance Namibia’s Energy Talent Pipeline appeared first on The Malaysian Reserve. HOUSTON and WINDHOEK, Namibia, Oct. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — McDermott and Namibia’s Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) jointly announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on academic and industrial training initiatives in Namibia’s upstream oil and gas sector. 
 The collaboration will align with international standards to provide Namibian students, job seekers and service providers access to training, mentorship and employment opportunities. The upskilling and knowledge transfer aspect of the agreement is designed to equip the local workforce with the skills needed for technical roles such as engineering, fabrication, operations and project management to unlock the country’s offshore energy potential. “This MOU furthers our commitment to developing local content and building a sustainable oil and gas workforce in Namibia,” said Mahesh Swaminathan, McDermott’s Senior Vice President, Subsea and Floating Facilities. “By investing in the next generation of Namibian talent, we help prepare them to lead future projects as Namibia emerges as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape.” “Our partnership with McDermott supports PETROFUND’s mandate to build the capacity of Namibia’s workforce and service providers to participate in the emerging opportunities within the country’s upstream oil and gas industry,” said Nillian Mulemi, PETROFUND Chief Executive Officer. “Capacity-building collaborations with international service companies promote the exchange of global best practices and technical expertise with local talent, thereby positioning Namibia’s workforce and service providers to play active roles across the full value chain of the upstream industry, while driving and sustaining economic growth in the country.” This initiative supports both the growth of Namibia’s oil and gas industry and its broader economic development goals, ensuring Namibians are well-positioned to participate in and benefit from progress across the energy value chain. About McDermott
McDermott is a premier, fully integrated provider of engineering and construction solutions to the energy industry. Our customers trust our technology-driven approach engineered to responsibly harness and transform global energy resources into the products the world needs. From concept to commissioning, McDermott’s innovative expertise and capabilities advance the next generation of global energy infrastructure, empowering a brighter, more sustainable future for us all. Operating in over 30 countries, McDermott’s locally focused and globally-integrated resources include more than 30,000 employees, a diversified fleet of speciality marine construction vessels and fabrication facilities around the world. To learn more, visit www.mcdermott.com. About PETROFUND
The Petroleum Training and Education Fund (PETROFUND) is a statutory body of the Government of the Republic of Namibia, established in 1992 to enhance capacity within the country’s upstream petroleum sector. PETROFUND builds capacity through training, institutional development, scholarships and the promotion of science, engineering and technology. The establishment of PETROFUND aligns with the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act of 1991. Additionally, PETROFUND is funded by oil exploration companies granted exploration rights in Namibia through agreements with the Namibian Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy. To learn more, visit www.petrofund.org Forward-Looking Statements
McDermott cautions that statements in this communication which are forward-looking and provide other than historical information involve risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. Those statements are made by using various underlying assumptions and are subject to numerous risks, contingencies and uncertainties, including, among others: adverse changes in the markets in which we operate or credit or capital markets; our inability to successfully execute on contracts in backlog; changes in project design or schedules; the availability of qualified personnel; changes in the terms, scope or timing of contracts, contract cancellations, change orders and other modifications and actions by our customers and other business counterparties; changes in industry norms; actions by lenders, other creditors, customers and other business counterparties of McDermott and adverse outcomes in legal or other dispute resolution proceedings. If one or more of these risks materialise, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. This communication reflects the views of McDermott’s management as of the date hereof. Except to the extent required by applicable law, McDermott undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Contacts:

McDermott International
Global Media Relations
Reba Reid
+1 281 588 5636
[email protected] PETROFUND
Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Division
Shoki Kandjimi
+264 817524536
[email protected] 
 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mcdermott-and-petrofund-partner-to-advance-namibias-energy-talent-pipeline-302578478.html SOURCE McDermott International, Ltd The post McDermott and PETROFUND Partner to Advance Namibia’s Energy Talent Pipeline appeared first on The Malaysian Reserve.

 This grant proposal aims to secure funding for a project that will enhance energy access for rural small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Namibia through the implementation of solar energy solutions. The project recognizes the critical role that energy plays in economic development, particularly for SMEs, which are vital for job creation and community resilience.... [Read More] The post A Sample Grant Proposal on “Solar Entrepreneurs of Namibia: Clean Energy for Rural SMEs” first appeared on fundsforNGOs - Grants and Resources for Sustainability. This grant proposal aims to secure funding for a project that will enhance energy access for rural small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Namibia through the implementation of solar energy solutions. The project recognizes the critical role that energy plays in economic development, particularly for SMEs, which are vital for job creation and community resilience.... [Read More] The post A Sample Grant Proposal on “Solar Entrepreneurs of Namibia: Clean Energy for Rural SMEs” first appeared on fundsforNGOs - Grants and Resources for Sustainability.

Namibia Braces for Long-Term Effects on Tourism as Etosha National Park Deals with Extensive Wildfire Damage, Slowing Down Economic Recovery: Know More  Namibia is facing a significant challenge to its tourism sector as the aftermath of a devastating wildfire continues to unfold at Etosha National Park. The fire has scorched over a third of the park’s land, causing extensive damage to its ecosystem and wildlife, and leaving a lasting impact on the country’s tourism revival efforts. With Etosha being one of the nation’s most vital tourist destinations, the damage to the park threatens to slow the momentum of Namibia’s economic recovery. The long-term effects are expected to include a decline in visitor numbers, delays in conservation efforts, and prolonged environmental restoration. As the country works to recover from both the immediate and ongoing effects of this disaster, the wildfire serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by protected areas in the face of climate change. A catastrophic wildfire has swept across Namibia’s Etosha National Park, burning through over a third of its vast landscape and posing a significant threat to the country’s tourism revival. While firefighting teams have successfully contained the blaze, the damage inflicted on the park and its subsequent impact on Namibia’s tourism industry are expected to be long-lasting. Recovery is anticipated to take several years, with a potential decline in visitor numbers during the healing process. Etosha National Park, established in 1907, covers about 20,000 square kilometers and serves as a critical refuge for Namibia’s wildlife. The park is home to some of the continent’s most iconic species, including lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and zebras, making it a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure tourists. As the primary driver of Namibia’s tourism economy, Etosha has been a vital economic asset, supporting not only tourism but also conservation efforts and the livelihoods of local communities. The wildfire, which ravaged around 38% of the park’s territory, has left a lasting mark on the environment. Satellite imagery and official reports indicate extensive damage to the park’s flora and fauna. While the precise scale of the devastation is still being assessed, large sections of the park’s lush grasslands have been decimated, and several animals have tragically perished in the fire. The inferno has caused irreparable damage to the park’s ecosystem, disrupting the natural harmony that made it such an extraordinary wildlife haven. Despite the enormity of the damage, there is cautious optimism for the park’s restoration. Recovery efforts, while expected to be gradual, could see Etosha return to its former state over the next two to three years. The surviving wildlife and ongoing conservation initiatives are crucial to the park’s future, although it will take time for the environment to fully recover from the devastating effects of the fire. Before the wildfire, Namibia’s tourism sector had been on a steady upward trajectory, gradually recovering from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent report from Simonis Storm Securities revealed that hotel occupancy rates hit 67.55% in August, marking the highest level since 2019. This increase in occupancy rates reflected a growing interest from international tourists, signaling that Namibia’s tourism sector was rebounding. Tourism, which contributed 6.9% to the country’s GDP in 2022, is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy. However, with Etosha being one of the country’s most popular attractions, the wildfire is likely to hinder the growth of visitor numbers in the short term. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, but its rapid spread prompted an immediate response from the Namibian government, which deployed hundreds of personnel to combat the flames. By late Monday, the main blaze within the park was under control, but smaller fires have continued to flare up in the surrounding regions, worsened by dry conditions and strong winds. The firefighting teams remain on high alert as they work to contain these outbreaks. The road to recovery for Etosha will involve extensive efforts, including replanting programs, wildlife monitoring, and infrastructure repairs. These measures are critical to restoring the park’s appeal as a premier tourist destination. However, experts warn that the psychological impact of the wildfire’s destruction, highlighted by widespread media coverage of scorched landscapes, may leave a lasting impression on potential visitors. Rebuilding the park’s reputation will require concerted efforts to showcase the resilience of the environment and its wildlife. As Namibia works to restore the park, the fire serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Africa’s protected areas in the face of climate change. Etosha, like many other wildlife sanctuaries across the continent, is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related events such as wildfires, droughts, and extreme weather. The ability of these ecosystems to adapt and recover will depend on the implementation of innovative conservation strategies and increased environmental awareness. Although the future of Etosha may seem uncertain, Namibia’s commitment to restoring the park’s natural beauty remains unwavering. With time, effort, and global support, the park is expected to regain its status as one of Africa’s most sought-after wildlife destinations. The wildfire, while devastating, has also reinforced the importance of sustainable conservation practices and the need to safeguard these irreplaceable ecosystems for future generations of travelers and wildlife enthusiasts. Namibia’s tourism recovery faces a setback as the extensive wildfire damage to Etosha National Park threatens long-term effects on visitor numbers and the environment, slowing down the nation’s economic rebound. As Etosha National Park embarks on its long recovery, there is hope that it will once again stand as a symbol of Namibia’s incredible biodiversity, continuing to inspire and attract visitors from around the world who are eager to witness the majesty of African wildlife. The post Namibia Braces for Long-Term Effects on Tourism as Etosha National Park Deals with Extensive Wildfire Damage, Slowing Down Economic Recovery: Know More appeared first on Travel And Tour World. Namibia Braces for Long-Term Effects on Tourism as Etosha National Park Deals with Extensive Wildfire Damage, Slowing Down Economic Recovery: Know More Namibia is facing a significant challenge to its tourism sector as the aftermath of a devastating wildfire continues to unfold at Etosha National Park. The fire has scorched over a third of the park’s land, causing extensive damage to its ecosystem and wildlife, and leaving a lasting impact on the country’s tourism revival efforts. With Etosha being one of the nation’s most vital tourist destinations, the damage to the park threatens to slow the momentum of Namibia’s economic recovery. The long-term effects are expected to include a decline in visitor numbers, delays in conservation efforts, and prolonged environmental restoration. As the country works to recover from both the immediate and ongoing effects of this disaster, the wildfire serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by protected areas in the face of climate change. A catastrophic wildfire has swept across Namibia’s Etosha National Park, burning through over a third of its vast landscape and posing a significant threat to the country’s tourism revival. While firefighting teams have successfully contained the blaze, the damage inflicted on the park and its subsequent impact on Namibia’s tourism industry are expected to be long-lasting. Recovery is anticipated to take several years, with a potential decline in visitor numbers during the healing process. Etosha National Park, established in 1907, covers about 20,000 square kilometers and serves as a critical refuge for Namibia’s wildlife. The park is home to some of the continent’s most iconic species, including lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and zebras, making it a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure tourists. As the primary driver of Namibia’s tourism economy, Etosha has been a vital economic asset, supporting not only tourism but also conservation efforts and the livelihoods of local communities. The wildfire, which ravaged around 38% of the park’s territory, has left a lasting mark on the environment. Satellite imagery and official reports indicate extensive damage to the park’s flora and fauna. While the precise scale of the devastation is still being assessed, large sections of the park’s lush grasslands have been decimated, and several animals have tragically perished in the fire. The inferno has caused irreparable damage to the park’s ecosystem, disrupting the natural harmony that made it such an extraordinary wildlife haven. Despite the enormity of the damage, there is cautious optimism for the park’s restoration. Recovery efforts, while expected to be gradual, could see Etosha return to its former state over the next two to three years. The surviving wildlife and ongoing conservation initiatives are crucial to the park’s future, although it will take time for the environment to fully recover from the devastating effects of the fire. Before the wildfire, Namibia’s tourism sector had been on a steady upward trajectory, gradually recovering from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent report from Simonis Storm Securities revealed that hotel occupancy rates hit 67.55% in August, marking the highest level since 2019. This increase in occupancy rates reflected a growing interest from international tourists, signaling that Namibia’s tourism sector was rebounding. Tourism, which contributed 6.9% to the country’s GDP in 2022, is a cornerstone of Namibia’s economy. However, with Etosha being one of the country’s most popular attractions, the wildfire is likely to hinder the growth of visitor numbers in the short term. The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation, but its rapid spread prompted an immediate response from the Namibian government, which deployed hundreds of personnel to combat the flames. By late Monday, the main blaze within the park was under control, but smaller fires have continued to flare up in the surrounding regions, worsened by dry conditions and strong winds. The firefighting teams remain on high alert as they work to contain these outbreaks. The road to recovery for Etosha will involve extensive efforts, including replanting programs, wildlife monitoring, and infrastructure repairs. These measures are critical to restoring the park’s appeal as a premier tourist destination. However, experts warn that the psychological impact of the wildfire’s destruction, highlighted by widespread media coverage of scorched landscapes, may leave a lasting impression on potential visitors. Rebuilding the park’s reputation will require concerted efforts to showcase the resilience of the environment and its wildlife. As Namibia works to restore the park, the fire serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Africa’s protected areas in the face of climate change. Etosha, like many other wildlife sanctuaries across the continent, is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related events such as wildfires, droughts, and extreme weather. The ability of these ecosystems to adapt and recover will depend on the implementation of innovative conservation strategies and increased environmental awareness. Although the future of Etosha may seem uncertain, Namibia’s commitment to restoring the park’s natural beauty remains unwavering. With time, effort, and global support, the park is expected to regain its status as one of Africa’s most sought-after wildlife destinations. The wildfire, while devastating, has also reinforced the importance of sustainable conservation practices and the need to safeguard these irreplaceable ecosystems for future generations of travelers and wildlife enthusiasts. Namibia’s tourism recovery faces a setback as the extensive wildfire damage to Etosha National Park threatens long-term effects on visitor numbers and the environment, slowing down the nation’s economic rebound. As Etosha National Park embarks on its long recovery, there is hope that it will once again stand as a symbol of Namibia’s incredible biodiversity, continuing to inspire and attract visitors from around the world who are eager to witness the majesty of African wildlife. The post Namibia Braces for Long-Term Effects on Tourism as Etosha National Park Deals with Extensive Wildfire Damage, Slowing Down Economic Recovery: Know More appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

 The expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is expected to weaken Namibia’s export diversification and reduce investment incentives in value-added industries, Simonis Storm has warned. The U.S. trade framework officially expired on 30 September, ending 25 years of duty-free access for goods exported from sub-Saharan African countries to the United States. Simonis Storm Junior Economist Almandro Jansen said the loss of U.S. trade preferences will make it harder for Namibian sectors such as fish processing, beef, beverages and manufactured goods to compete globally. “For Namibia, the direct exposure under AGOA has historically been modest, given that its U.S.-bound exports are concentrated in uranium, non-monetary gold, copper and diamonds — commodities that already attract low MFN duties,” Jansen said. He noted that AGOA’s expiry marks a major shift in Africa–U.S. trade relations, with far-reaching implications for export growth, industrialisation and regional strategy. “Its lapse removes these preferences, subjecting African goods to most-favoured-nation (MFN) tariffs and, in some cases, additional U.S. sector-specific duties,” he said. Jansen said that while Namibia’s export mix cushions it from immediate tariff exposure, the long-term risk lies in slower diversification and declining investor confidence. “Without AGOA, new manufacturing and processing ventures targeting the U.S. market are likely to slow. This reduces Namibia’s incentives to channel investment into higher-value exports, at a time when broadening beyond raw minerals is a strategic imperative,” he said. Across the continent, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) projects that the loss of AGOA could cut African exports to the U.S. by nearly 9%, with the largest impact on countries that had used the scheme to move up the value chain. “The uncertainty around U.S. trade policy — magnified by the simultaneous imposition of new tariffs on China, Mexico and Canada — adds to the volatility of global value chains,” Jansen said. He added that the end of AGOA serves both as a warning and an opportunity for Namibia. “The warning lies in dependence on unilateral trade preferences that can vanish overnight, while the opportunity lies in accelerating local value addition, expanding agro-processing and leveraging Walvis Bay’s logistics hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” Jansen said. “Namibia’s ability to capture greater value will depend less on preferential access to distant markets and more on building resilient regional value chains, improving industrial competitiveness and aligning with Africa’s broader trade integration agenda,” he added.

THE Namibia Green Hydrogen Programme has bid farewell to its founding head, James Mnyupe, who has been at the forefront of positioning Namibia as a ...

 Public votes are in; SA’s birders have chosen their Bird of the Year.   South Africa (6 October 2025) – After opening public votes for the very first time, BirdLife has crowned its Bird of the Year (BOTY), and it’s one that deserves the spotlight – the Black Harrier. If you’ve been lucky enough to see one slice across the sky, you’ll have an idea of why people call it one of our most elegant raptors. Known locally as the witkruisvleivalk (Afrikaans), mmankgodi-wa-dihlaba (Sesotho), and umamhlangenomnyama (isiZulu), it’s a strikingly beautiful bird! It dons coal-black feathers, a bold white rump, a striped tail, and fierce yellow eyes. Sadly, it’s also endangered, with only about 1,000 to 2,000 left in the world, most of them right here in South Africa. Photo Credit: Overberg Renosterveld Trust You’re most likely to spot a Black Harrier in the fynbos and Karoo of the Western Cape, but they’re also wanderers. Depending on the season, they can turn up as far afield as Lesotho or Namibia, following the rains and the prey that comes with them. They’re remarkable hunters with fine-tuned abilities to find their catch fast. They fly low and smooth over fields, keeping a sharp eye for rodents, birds, or even the odd reptile. A special facial ruff around their eyes (it’s almost like built-in sonar) helps them hone in on the tiniest rustle in the grass. “The conservation of this magnificent raptor has been overseen for several years by the members of the Black Harrier Task Force, who have greatly increased knowledge and understanding of the Black Harrier,” shares BirdLife. By choosing the Black Harrier, SA’s birders have put one of our rarest birds of prey front and centre. The fact that few remain is a concern, and every bit of awareness can tip the scales in their favour. The public vote was close. BirdLife says that honorary mentions are due to the Bearded Vulture and Botha’s Lark, who are both getting plenty of love in the voting stage, but BOTY 2026 belongs to the harrier. Sources: Linked above Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories: Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. The post Meet South Africa’s Bird of the Year for 2026! appeared first on Good Things Guy. Public votes are in; SA’s birders have chosen their Bird of the Year.   South Africa (6 October 2025) – After opening public votes for the very first time, BirdLife has crowned its Bird of the Year (BOTY), and it’s one that deserves the spotlight – the Black Harrier. If you’ve been lucky enough to see one slice across the sky, you’ll have an idea of why people call it one of our most elegant raptors. Known locally as the witkruisvleivalk (Afrikaans), mmankgodi-wa-dihlaba (Sesotho), and umamhlangenomnyama (isiZulu), it’s a strikingly beautiful bird! It dons coal-black feathers, a bold white rump, a striped tail, and fierce yellow eyes. Sadly, it’s also endangered, with only about 1,000 to 2,000 left in the world, most of them right here in South Africa. Photo Credit: Overberg Renosterveld Trust You’re most likely to spot a Black Harrier in the fynbos and Karoo of the Western Cape, but they’re also wanderers. Depending on the season, they can turn up as far afield as Lesotho or Namibia, following the rains and the prey that comes with them. They’re remarkable hunters with fine-tuned abilities to find their catch fast. They fly low and smooth over fields, keeping a sharp eye for rodents, birds, or even the odd reptile. A special facial ruff around their eyes (it’s almost like built-in sonar) helps them hone in on the tiniest rustle in the grass. “The conservation of this magnificent raptor has been overseen for several years by the members of the Black Harrier Task Force, who have greatly increased knowledge and understanding of the Black Harrier,” shares BirdLife. By choosing the Black Harrier, SA’s birders have put one of our rarest birds of prey front and centre. The fact that few remain is a concern, and every bit of awareness can tip the scales in their favour. The public vote was close. BirdLife says that honorary mentions are due to the Bearded Vulture and Botha’s Lark, who are both getting plenty of love in the voting stage, but BOTY 2026 belongs to the harrier. Sources: Linked above Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories: Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. The post Meet South Africa’s Bird of the Year for 2026! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

 By Fenni Nghikevali

It is the year 2025. Women lead nations, organisations, communities and classrooms. Yet, somehow, female leadership still feels like a rarity, an exception, a milestone! We still hear the phrase “the first woman to…” far too often. We still marvel when a woman occupies the highest seat. The presence of women in leadership continues to be treated as a moment of celebration rather than a normal state of progress. And until that changes, leadership itself remains incomplete. Progress has been made but it seems the perception has not caught up. The presence of women in leadership is still treated as a milestone, not a norm.  The question is no longer whether women can lead.  History, competence, and experience have answered that.  The question is: “When will we stop treating Female Leadership as remarkable?” The real work is to normalize female leadership and to move from admiration to acceptance, and from symbolism to substance. Redefining Leadership The goal is not merely to increase the number of women in leadership roles, but rather to redefine and reshape what leadership itself means. True progress will come from a world that welcomes the full spectrum of leadership styles, in other words, masculine, feminine, and everything in between. Leadership should not demand that women abandon their natural strengths to be taken seriously. It should evolve to recognize that compassion, intuition, and collaboration are not opposites of strength, they are extensions of it. Research continues to reveal that women in leadership are judged more harshly, interrupted more often, and held to higher standards of performance. A confident male leader is seen as assertive; a confident female leader is sometimes called aggressive. A compassionate male leader is praised for emotional intelligence; a compassionate woman is sometimes labeled as too soft. When leadership reflects diversity, it becomes richer, more grounded, and more effective.  This redefinition benefits everyone. When women rise, organizations gain perspective, families gain role models, and societies gain balance. In this redefinition, leadership becomes less about who sits at the head of the table, and more about how that table is built, who is invited to it, and whether every voice is heard once seated. The Face of Leadership Still Isn’t Female Enough For generations, leadership has been defined through a narrow lens of authority, dominance, and decisiveness, traits historically associated with masculinity. For centuries, this narrow definition shaped what “a leader” looks and sounds like. When women step into that space, they are often viewed as exceptions to the rule. The expectation still lingers that female leaders must either “toughen up” or “soften down” to be accepted. Completing the Story We are no longer living in a time when female leadership is a novelty. Yet, perception lags behind reality. Too often, women leaders are still described in terms of rarity rather than capability. We must create systems that not only allow women to lead but allow them to lead authentically. Spaces where their voices are not an interruption to the conversation, but a natural part of it. When that happens, we will not have more women leading, we will have a world finally led by the fullness of its potential. To move forward, we must build systems that do not merely allow women to lead but empower them to lead authentically. That means workplaces where leadership is measured not by conformity, but by contribution.  Therefore, mentorship, sponsorship, and visibility matter. Representation matters. But more than that, normality matters. When a young girl sees women leading with confidence and integrity across all fields, not as rare exceptions but as everyday examples, her vision of leadership expands. She learns that leadership does not require her to emulate someone else’s voice; it only asks that she use her own. Redefining leadership is about dismantling the silent assumptions that make their presence seem extraordinary. It is about ensuring that the word leader no longer requires a gendered prefix. A world that fully embraces female leadership is not one that celebrates women for stepping into leadership.  It is a world where empathy and excellence coexist, where vision is not limited by gender, and where leadership is seen not as a title to be earned by a few, but a responsibility shared by many. When that day comes, leadership will finally reflect the fullness of human potential. We will not have more women leading.  On the contrary, we will have a world complete in its leadership. Female Leadership is not charity. It is strategy. *Fenni Nghikevali is a Leadership Advocate who has been recognised as an Honoree in Leadership Excellence by the African Achievers Award, in recognition of transformational impact and leadership. She is a Chartered Accountant, Governance Enthusiast, Business Consulting Owner, Strategic Ambassador, Public Speaker and Executive Mentor to emerging leaders. This article is written in her personal capacity and is not representative of any institution. For inquiries, contact her at [email protected]. The post Female leadership still feels like an exception! first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News. By Fenni Nghikevali

It is the year 2025. Women lead nations, organisations, communities and classrooms. Yet, somehow, female leadership still feels like a rarity, an exception, a milestone! We still hear the phrase “the first woman to…” far too often. We still marvel when a woman occupies the highest seat. The presence of women in leadership continues to be treated as a moment of celebration rather than a normal state of progress. And until that changes, leadership itself remains incomplete. Progress has been made but it seems the perception has not caught up. The presence of women in leadership is still treated as a milestone, not a norm.  The question is no longer whether women can lead.  History, competence, and experience have answered that.  The question is: “When will we stop treating Female Leadership as remarkable?” The real work is to normalize female leadership and to move from admiration to acceptance, and from symbolism to substance. Redefining Leadership The goal is not merely to increase the number of women in leadership roles, but rather to redefine and reshape what leadership itself means. True progress will come from a world that welcomes the full spectrum of leadership styles, in other words, masculine, feminine, and everything in between. Leadership should not demand that women abandon their natural strengths to be taken seriously. It should evolve to recognize that compassion, intuition, and collaboration are not opposites of strength, they are extensions of it. Research continues to reveal that women in leadership are judged more harshly, interrupted more often, and held to higher standards of performance. A confident male leader is seen as assertive; a confident female leader is sometimes called aggressive. A compassionate male leader is praised for emotional intelligence; a compassionate woman is sometimes labeled as too soft. When leadership reflects diversity, it becomes richer, more grounded, and more effective.  This redefinition benefits everyone. When women rise, organizations gain perspective, families gain role models, and societies gain balance. In this redefinition, leadership becomes less about who sits at the head of the table, and more about how that table is built, who is invited to it, and whether every voice is heard once seated. The Face of Leadership Still Isn’t Female Enough For generations, leadership has been defined through a narrow lens of authority, dominance, and decisiveness, traits historically associated with masculinity. For centuries, this narrow definition shaped what “a leader” looks and sounds like. When women step into that space, they are often viewed as exceptions to the rule. The expectation still lingers that female leaders must either “toughen up” or “soften down” to be accepted. Completing the Story We are no longer living in a time when female leadership is a novelty. Yet, perception lags behind reality. Too often, women leaders are still described in terms of rarity rather than capability. We must create systems that not only allow women to lead but allow them to lead authentically. Spaces where their voices are not an interruption to the conversation, but a natural part of it. When that happens, we will not have more women leading, we will have a world finally led by the fullness of its potential. To move forward, we must build systems that do not merely allow women to lead but empower them to lead authentically. That means workplaces where leadership is measured not by conformity, but by contribution.  Therefore, mentorship, sponsorship, and visibility matter. Representation matters. But more than that, normality matters. When a young girl sees women leading with confidence and integrity across all fields, not as rare exceptions but as everyday examples, her vision of leadership expands. She learns that leadership does not require her to emulate someone else’s voice; it only asks that she use her own. Redefining leadership is about dismantling the silent assumptions that make their presence seem extraordinary. It is about ensuring that the word leader no longer requires a gendered prefix. A world that fully embraces female leadership is not one that celebrates women for stepping into leadership.  It is a world where empathy and excellence coexist, where vision is not limited by gender, and where leadership is seen not as a title to be earned by a few, but a responsibility shared by many. When that day comes, leadership will finally reflect the fullness of human potential. We will not have more women leading.  On the contrary, we will have a world complete in its leadership. Female Leadership is not charity. It is strategy. *Fenni Nghikevali is a Leadership Advocate who has been recognised as an Honoree in Leadership Excellence by the African Achievers Award, in recognition of transformational impact and leadership. She is a Chartered Accountant, Governance Enthusiast, Business Consulting Owner, Strategic Ambassador, Public Speaker and Executive Mentor to emerging leaders. This article is written in her personal capacity and is not representative of any institution. For inquiries, contact her at [email protected]. The post Female leadership still feels like an exception! first appeared on The Brief | Namibia's Leading Business & Financial News.

Background Environmental degradation, which is the deterioration of ecological quality due to increased unsustainable economic activities, is a global concern that poses a threat to humanity. Like many African countries, Namibia is severely affected by environmental degradation, an arid, lower-middle-income country in sub-Saharan Africa with 16 percent land covered by desert. Therefore, understanding the dynamics between financial development, institutional quality, and environmental quality. Methods This study examines the impact of financial development and institutional quality on environmental quality in Namibia, using time series data spanning the period from 1990 and 2023. The study used ARDL approach to examine the short and long run relationship. Results The findings show that institutional quality increases environmental degradation, aligning with the notion that climate change is not a result of only economic activities, but also a result of weak institutions. However, financial sector development often supports novel and sophisticated investment products and preserves the environment. Conclusion Therefore, this study recommended that Namibia make collaborative efforts to implement effective regulations to strengthen the role of institutions and support financial innovation to address environmental degradation. Additionally, encouragement of environmental, societal, and governance (ESG) led business investments is needed. Background Environmental degradation, which is the deterioration of ecological quality due to increased unsustainable economic activities, is a global concern that poses a threat to humanity. Like many African countries, Namibia is severely affected by environmental degradation, an arid, lower-middle-income country in sub-Saharan Africa with 16 percent land covered by desert. Therefore, understanding the dynamics between financial development, institutional quality, and environmental quality. Methods This study examines the impact of financial development and institutional quality on environmental quality in Namibia, using time series data spanning the period from 1990 and 2023. The study used ARDL approach to examine the short and long run relationship. Results The findings show that institutional quality increases environmental degradation, aligning with the notion that climate change is not a result of only economic activities, but also a result of weak institutions. However, financial sector development often supports novel and sophisticated investment products and preserves the environment. Conclusion Therefore, this study recommended that Namibia make collaborative efforts to implement effective regulations to strengthen the role of institutions and support financial innovation to address environmental degradation. Additionally, encouragement of environmental, societal, and governance (ESG) led business investments is needed.

TRAGEDIES HAPPEN. The recent wildfire that engulfed Etosha National Park and communal land beyond Namibia’s world-famous tourist attraction is the worst in recent memory. The fires at Etosha have exposed the poor management of our natural resources. Uncontrolled veldfires are common in the Kavango, Otjozondjupa and Zambezi regions. There those tragedies hardly get attention. May the Etosha fire provide an impetus for the government to implement proactive measures aimed at preventing such tragedies from happening ever again. It makes no sense that we market Namibia globally as a great nature conservation country and then have our lack of preparedness so glaringly exposed when disaster strikes. The post Cry, Beloved Etosha appeared first on The Namibian. TRAGEDIES HAPPEN. The recent wildfire that engulfed Etosha National Park and communal land beyond Namibia’s world-famous tourist attraction is the worst in recent memory. The fires at Etosha have exposed the poor management of our natural resources. Uncontrolled veldfires are common in the Kavango, Otjozondjupa and Zambezi regions. There those tragedies hardly get attention. May the Etosha fire provide an impetus for the government to implement proactive measures aimed at preventing such tragedies from happening ever again. It makes no sense that we market Namibia globally as a great nature conservation country and then have our lack of preparedness so glaringly exposed when disaster strikes. The post Cry, Beloved Etosha appeared first on The Namibian.

 Timo Neisho Namibian developers are building impressive technical solutions that could modernise government services and boost our digital economy. Instead of embracing these innovations, our procurement framework forces them into bureaucratic mazes designed for buying office supplies, not fostering technological advancement. The problem starts with a shockingly low threshold: any technical solution worth more than N$15 000 must go through competitive tender processes. That’s barely enough to buy a decent laptop, yet it’s the ceiling for direct procurement without formal competition. Above this minimal amount, even the most innovative, purpose-built solution must compete against generic alternatives in processes designed for “readily available goods” rather than bespoke innovations. Consider this scenario: A local developer creates software that perfectly addresses a ministry’s data management challenges.
Implementation costs N$50 000, reasonable for custom software. Under current rules, that developer cannot simply demonstrate the solution and negotiate a direct contract. Instead, the ministry must advertise for quotations, inviting competitors who may offer inferior, off-the-shelf products at lower prices. The original innovator, despite solving the exact problem, faces uncertainty about whether their tailored solution will survive a process that prioritises cost over innovation.
This isn’t just theoretical. DEEPER ISSUES The Public Procurement Act allows direct procurement only in narrow circumstances: when goods can be supplied by one source only, for interoperability with existing systems, or when a supplier has unique qualifications. But these exceptions require documented justifications that public entities are often reluctant to make, fearing later scrutiny.
The regulatory architecture reveals deeper issues. The 2015 Act created central oversight through the Central Procurement Board and Procurement Policy Unit, improving transparency and reducing corruption. However, implementation has struggled with capacity constraints and rigid adherence to competitive processes that work well for commodity purchases but poorly for innovation procurement. Solutions costing between N$15 000 and N$2 million face Request for Quotations processes. Above N$2 million, they encounter even more complex tender requirements. At every level, the system treats innovation as an exception rather than an opportunity. This matters because technical solutions rarely fit neat procurement categories. Innovators offer integrated packages combining software, hardware, professional services, and ongoing refinement. The procurement framework’s focus on predefined specifications and standardised evaluation criteria struggles with solutions that create value through customisation and iterative improvement. SMART SOLUTIONS International practice shows better approaches. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries use innovation procurement procedures that allow competitive calls for solutions rather than fully specified products. Innovation partnerships enable staged procurement where government selects partners to co-develop solutions. Outcome-based specifications let bidders propose innovative means to meet functional requirements rather than rigid technical specifications. Namibia could adopt similar reforms without sacrificing transparency or value for money. Practical steps include introducing “innovation procurement” procedures in regulations that permit competitive calls for solutions while maintaining fair competition. The Central Procurement Board could run structured “calls for solutions” with transparent evaluation criteria focused on outcomes rather than specifications. Pilot innovation partnerships could demonstrate how the government can co-develop solutions with local providers while maintaining competitive selection processes. Accelerating e-procurement would help innovators identify opportunities faster and reduce administrative barriers. THE CHALLENGE The current system’s unintended consequences extend beyond individual procurement decisions. Promising developers may redirect their efforts toward international markets or abandon innovation for easier commodity businesses. The government misses opportunities to modernise services while the local tech ecosystem loses momentum.
This isn’t about weakening procurement oversight or returning to discretionary purchasing. Strong procurement systems can embrace innovation while maintaining transparency and preventing corruption. The challenge is creating pathways for innovative solutions within structured, accountable processes. The solution requires modest regulatory changes backed by clear guidance to procurement officers.
With pilot projects demonstrating successful innovation procurement, Namibia could transform its approach within months rather than years. THE CHOICE The government faces a choice: maintain a system designed for predictable purchases while innovation happens elsewhere, or adapt procurement to become a tool for technological advancement and economic development. The current framework, focused on preventing past problems, risks creating new ones by stifling the very innovation needed for Namibia’s digital future. The country’s entrepreneurial talent deserves procurement policies that reward problem-solving rather than penalise it. That means raising thresholds for direct procurement of innovative solutions, creating structured pathways for custom development, and training procurement officers to evaluate outcomes rather than just specifications. A smart procurement policy can simultaneously protect public resources and catalyse innovation. It’s time for Namibia’s framework to do both. – Timo Neisho is an information technology practitioner with over 15 years of experience in software development, enterprise systems and digitalisation. The views expressed in this article are entirely his own. Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy – 
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 Any country that produces little of its own essential drugs leaves itself vulnerable to supply disruptions, currency fluctuations, and foreign pricing pressures. Namibia is no exception. As someone with five years of experience in primary healthcare, I believe the government should do more through policy incentives, subsidies, and strategic partnerships to safeguard our few local pharmaceutical institutions. A long-term strategy to rebuild pharmaceutical capacity in our country is essential. Our health sector is under severe strain. Shortages of nurses, social workers, doctors, and specialists continue to cripple service delivery. Namibia’s health network includes over 1 400 outreach points, more than 290 state clinics, 43 health centres, 30 district hospitals, four intermediate hospitals, one national referral hospital, and just two mental health institutions. The country has a serious lack of doctors and nurses available per patient at these institutions, yet many trained professionals remain unemployed. Former health minister Kalumbi Shangula has acknowledged the scale of the crisis, telling the parliament that 11 742 new positions have been approved over the next six years at a cost of N$4.5 billion. However, only N$150 million has been allocated for the 2025/26 financial year, enough to recruit just 435 staff members. This is far from sufficient. The low life expectancy in Namibia reflects the chronic underfunding of our health sector. Vacancies in the ministry of health must be addressed urgently, not gradually over six years. Tuberculosis (TB) remains of major concern. Namibia, with a population of just over three million people, currently ranks 11th worldwide in TB incidence, with 468 cases per 100 000 people. TB kills more people globally than Covid-19, and Namibia cannot afford to keep suffering from this preventable disease. Likewise, the recent measles outbreak in the Kunene region underlines gaps in immunisation coverage. Outbreaks are costly to manage, and our expanded programme on immunisation must be strengthened to prevent future crises. Most Namibians – about 85% – rely on public health services. They are not asking for luxuries, but for accessible clinics, adequate medicine stocks, shorter waiting periods, and an end to preventable deaths. I commend the leadership of current health minister Esperance Luvindao, who has taken steps to remove inefficiency and strengthen procurement systems. With continued focus, Namibia can build a more resilient, transparent, and self-reliant healthcare system. – Alfeus Hamundja Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy – 
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The recent fire that struck Etosha National Park has devastated Namibia’s wildlife, burning approximately 38% of the park and destroying critical habitats for its iconic species. This catastrophic event has sparked urgent conservation and tourism recovery efforts as Namibia works to protect its biodiversity and restore the park’s role as a key tourist attraction. The damage to the park not only threatens the local ecosystem but also risks a significant economic downturn in the tourism sector, which relies heavily on Etosha’s appeal. As the nation grapples with this challenge, the focus is now on long-term restoration strategies to bring the park back to its former glory. How Much Was Burned? In the case of Etosha, the information is in the range of %38 of the entire park burned. With the help of satellite technology, it has been confirmed that the wildfires have burned most of the park. Cape Town, once covered in grass, has been reduced to a void of dust and ash. It is unknown the exact number of animals that have been burned in the wildfires, but officials have confirmed the loss of countless wild animals to the flames of the wildfire and far more complex to the biodiversity of the park. The sights and sounds of wildlife and natural landscapes have proven to unite and restore The full recovery of a park will definitely take a long time. Experts predict that eventually with focused recovery efforts to restore wildlife and natural landscapes will unite the park in a positive way. While the terrain is challenging and will demand significant time and resources to restore to full functioning wildlife, there is reason to believe that the recovery can begin to get the park back to functioning to preserve the heritage of ruthless wildlife. The Impact on the Recovery of Tourism in Namibia The Damage is done. Recovery of the park will take time, but it is believed that the wildlife will restore the strength of the tourism industry in Namibia. Etosha will return to wildlife and natural landscapes. The natural attractions and country landscapes will be the reason to restore the tourism to the country. Namibian Government Response and Continued Initiatives Namibia has issued a rapid response to the emergency by positioning hundreds of soldiers and firefighters to combat the wildfire. By late Monday evening, the primary fire had been contained, but stubborn smaller fires continued to impact surrounding regions, especially Omusati and Oshana. Strong winds and dry circumstances have made these smaller wildfires very difficult to extinguish. Restoration efforts on the park will address re-vegetation and wildlife population monitoring, as well as repairs to park infrastructure. These efforts will be critical to the continuing tourist viability of Etosha. Still, they will have to manage perceptions as the extensive media coverage of the burned areas will impact the psychological recovery of the park. While there will be a negative impact on the park’s reputation, Etosha will rebound, although it will take time. The recent wildfire in Etosha National Park has devastated Namibia’s wildlife, scorching approximately 38% of the park and destroying vital habitats. This destruction has sparked urgent conservation and tourism recovery efforts as the nation works to restore the park’s biodiversity and safeguard its status as a major tourist destination. The focus now lies on long-term strategies to heal the park and revive its critical role in Namibia’s economy. A Wake Up Call for Conservation Efforts Wildfires are a global issue, and Africa is no exception, especially with Etosha National Park facing such difficulties. Adjusting to climate change is a necessity when trying to protect natural areas. The Etosha fire is a call to implement sustainable practices that include climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Reminder for Conservationists While restoring Etosha, Namibia is realizing that natural heritage protection is a “running with the bulls” effort. To keep the area as “safe” and economically beneficial to Namibia, partnerships with the government, conservations, and the wildlife tourism sector will need to be built and maintained.
Optimism amidst Destruction Despite the destruction the fire has caused, like the phoenix, Etosha will rise again. The area has extensive wildlife resources and is a world class tourism destination that arranges safaris to see the animals, and with the local and global wildlife resources that include the community and world wildlife resources, Etosha will rise again.The steps to restoring Etosha’s biodiversity and completing the necessary infrastructure will take time and patience, and will inevitably turn out positive. For Namibia’s tourism industry, the value of Etosha increases. Namibia will continue to be a frontrunner in the world in biodiversity and sustainable tourism. Future travelers will be able to come to Etosha and see the national park’s magnificent wildlife. Namibia and Etosha will continue shining. Subscribe to our Newsletters Follow Travel And Tour World in Google News 

 The City of Windhoek on Friday announced electricity tariffs of 3.9%. The djustment is effective 1 August. The City of Windhoek informs residents that, in line with the Electricity Act, 2007 and as approved by the Electricity Control Board, electricity tariffs have been adjusted by an average of 3.9% for the 2025/2026 financial year. This adjustment, the municipality said, is necessary to maintain a secure, reliable and high-quality electricity supply for all residents. “While we strive to keep electricity affordable, these changes are vital to ensure that our infrastructure can meet the growing needs of our community,” reads the statement. The municipality stated that electricity is an essential service, and this step will help it continue supporting Windhoek’s social and economic development in a sustainable and caring manner. The post City of Windhoek hikes electricity tariff by 3.9% appeared first on The Namibian. The City of Windhoek on Friday announced electricity tariffs of 3.9%. The djustment is effective 1 August. The City of Windhoek informs residents that, in line with the Electricity Act, 2007 and as approved by the Electricity Control Board, electricity tariffs have been adjusted by an average of 3.9% for the 2025/2026 financial year. This adjustment, the municipality said, is necessary to maintain a secure, reliable and high-quality electricity supply for all residents. “While we strive to keep electricity affordable, these changes are vital to ensure that our infrastructure can meet the growing needs of our community,” reads the statement. The municipality stated that electricity is an essential service, and this step will help it continue supporting Windhoek’s social and economic development in a sustainable and caring manner. The post City of Windhoek hikes electricity tariff by 3.9% appeared first on The Namibian.

Namibia: Aids day warning · Contributor | Human Security 04.12.2003. Tagged under Human Security Namibia · Namibia: National Society for Human Rights ... Namibia: Aids day warning · Contributor | Human Security 04.12.2003. Tagged under Human Security Namibia · Namibia: National Society for Human Rights ...