President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that the country cannot claim meaningful progress on human rights when gender-based-violence (GBV) continues to threaten the safety of women across the country. In a message marking International Human Rights Day and Namibian Women’s Day on Wednesday, Nandi-Ndaitwah said GBV is a violation of human dignity and a betrayal of the values upheld by freedom fighters. “Women deserve safety, respect, and the full protection of the law in an independent Namibia,” she said. The president said GBV contradicts the country’s human rights commitments, adding that women’s empowerment and human rights are not separate ideas but intertwined principles. Nandi-Ndaitwah said women hold influential positions across corporate and political spheres, shaping the direction of the nation. From boardrooms to Cabinet rooms, from entrepreneurs to lawmakers, she said women are driving innovation, shaping policy and influencing national agendas. “Their leadership has proven the struggle for equality is ongoing and progress depends on ensuring that women lead, participate and thrive in every space where decisions are made,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. She noted that free primary and secondary education, as well as free tertiary planned for next year and investments in accessible healthcare are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to uphold human dignity. “Challenges like youth unemployment, child labour, and the protection of vulnerable people demand collective action,” the president said. She called on the nation to defend human rights in their everyday practices and not just in principles. The post Namibia cannot honour human rights when violence persists, says president Nandi-Ndaitwah appeared first on The Namibian. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that the country cannot claim meaningful progress on human rights when gender-based-violence (GBV) continues to threaten the safety of women across the country. In a message marking International Human Rights Day and Namibian Women’s Day on Wednesday, Nandi-Ndaitwah said GBV is a violation of human dignity and a betrayal of the values upheld by freedom fighters. “Women deserve safety, respect, and the full protection of the law in an independent Namibia,” she said. The president said GBV contradicts the country’s human rights commitments, adding that women’s empowerment and human rights are not separate ideas but intertwined principles. Nandi-Ndaitwah said women hold influential positions across corporate and political spheres, shaping the direction of the nation. From boardrooms to Cabinet rooms, from entrepreneurs to lawmakers, she said women are driving innovation, shaping policy and influencing national agendas. “Their leadership has proven the struggle for equality is ongoing and progress depends on ensuring that women lead, participate and thrive in every space where decisions are made,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. She noted that free primary and secondary education, as well as free tertiary planned for next year and investments in accessible healthcare are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to uphold human dignity. “Challenges like youth unemployment, child labour, and the protection of vulnerable people demand collective action,” the president said. She called on the nation to defend human rights in their everyday practices and not just in principles. The post Namibia cannot honour human rights when violence persists, says president Nandi-Ndaitwah appeared first on The Namibian.

Khomas regional governor Sam Nujoma on Wednesday called for a national commitment to human rights and the protection of women and girls from online abuse. Nujoma made the call on Wednesday during the observance of International Human Rights Day, which coincided with Namibian Women’s Day. The event, organised by the Khomas Regional Council, was held at the Old Location Cemetery. Nujoma said the commemorative day carried “deep humility and pride”, noting its dual significance in honouring both global human rights and the historic resistance of Namibian women. Regarding the theme for the event, ‘United to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ Nujoma emphasised that it underscored the urgent need to confront emerging forms of injustice. “In our time, the digital sphere has become a new frontier of human rights,” he said, stressing that digital violence, harassment, abuse, and exploitation violate the dignity of women and girls just as much as physical violence. Meanwhile, the governor emphasised that Namibian Women’s Day recalls the Windhoek massacre and honours the women who resisted the forced relocation of black Namibians from the Old Location to Katutura in 1959 by the apartheid colonial administration. “That relocation was a deliberate act of dispossession, designed to fracture communities and entrench inequality. “The massacre ignited courage, compelling Namibians to take up arms against the apartheid regime, and it was women who stood at the forefront of that defiance,” he said. Nujoma highlighted the progress of women in leadership, noting the historic milestone of electing a woman president, vice-president and speaker of parliament, one of the highest rates of parliamentary representation for women. However, he warned that inequality remains entrenched in the capital. “The contrasts between Katutura and Hochland or Pioneerspark remain stark reminders of colonial legacies,” he said, adding that “True liberation demands not only political freedom but also social and economic justice.” He urged Namibians to recommit themselves “to the unfinished work of liberation. Together we can build a Namibia where human rights are lived realities, and where the spirit of Namibian women continues to illuminate the path toward freedom, equality, and progress.” The post Governor Nujoma calls for human rights protection in the digital sphere appeared first on The Namibian. Khomas regional governor Sam Nujoma on Wednesday called for a national commitment to human rights and the protection of women and girls from online abuse. Nujoma made the call on Wednesday during the observance of International Human Rights Day, which coincided with Namibian Women’s Day. The event, organised by the Khomas Regional Council, was held at the Old Location Cemetery. Nujoma said the commemorative day carried “deep humility and pride”, noting its dual significance in honouring both global human rights and the historic resistance of Namibian women. Regarding the theme for the event, ‘United to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,’ Nujoma emphasised that it underscored the urgent need to confront emerging forms of injustice. “In our time, the digital sphere has become a new frontier of human rights,” he said, stressing that digital violence, harassment, abuse, and exploitation violate the dignity of women and girls just as much as physical violence. Meanwhile, the governor emphasised that Namibian Women’s Day recalls the Windhoek massacre and honours the women who resisted the forced relocation of black Namibians from the Old Location to Katutura in 1959 by the apartheid colonial administration. “That relocation was a deliberate act of dispossession, designed to fracture communities and entrench inequality. “The massacre ignited courage, compelling Namibians to take up arms against the apartheid regime, and it was women who stood at the forefront of that defiance,” he said. Nujoma highlighted the progress of women in leadership, noting the historic milestone of electing a woman president, vice-president and speaker of parliament, one of the highest rates of parliamentary representation for women. However, he warned that inequality remains entrenched in the capital. “The contrasts between Katutura and Hochland or Pioneerspark remain stark reminders of colonial legacies,” he said, adding that “True liberation demands not only political freedom but also social and economic justice.” He urged Namibians to recommit themselves “to the unfinished work of liberation. Together we can build a Namibia where human rights are lived realities, and where the spirit of Namibian women continues to illuminate the path toward freedom, equality, and progress.” The post Governor Nujoma calls for human rights protection in the digital sphere appeared first on The Namibian.

 The loan from AFDB’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa will support front-end engineering design studies for the 7.5GW of renewables, 3GW of electrolysis, and desalination infrastructure that will make up Hyphen Hydrogen Energy’s flagship project. Having already awarded FEED and EPC contracts to China National Chemical Engineering Company subsidiary CC7, Hyphen CEO Marco Raffinetti said the loan would support the $10bn project in reaching FID. “The African Development Bank’s approval of this pre-investment facility represents a strong vote of confidence in Hyphen’s project and in the broad ambitions of Namibia to develop one of the world’s most transformative green hydrogen projects,” he said. Hyphen’s project is planned to be built on 4,000km2 of concessioned land within the Tsau Khaeb National Park, and could bring online one million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of green ammonia production by the end of 2028. 80km from the electrolysis installation, Agra Point will host a desalination and ammonia synthesis plant, with terminal infrastructure to support exports. Hyphen says it plans to provide excess power and desalinated water to local communities. From 2030, the company intends to double the project’s capacity. AFDB Country Manager for Namibia, Moono Mupotola, said the project could demonstrate Africa’s capacity to “lead the global energy transition”, create jobs, and “build prosperity”. “By supporting these essential pre-investment activities, we are unlocking billions in project financing,” added AFDB’s Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. “This is a strategic, high-impact development project.” It is slated as the first element of the Namibian government’s planned Southern Corridor Development Initiative, which aims to produce 3 mtpa of green hydrogen. The loan from AFDB’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa will support front-end engineering design studies for the 7.5GW of renewables, 3GW of electrolysis, and desalination infrastructure that will make up Hyphen Hydrogen Energy’s flagship project. Having already awarded FEED and EPC contracts to China National Chemical Engineering Company subsidiary CC7, Hyphen CEO Marco Raffinetti said the loan would support the $10bn project in reaching FID. “The African Development Bank’s approval of this pre-investment facility represents a strong vote of confidence in Hyphen’s project and in the broad ambitions of Namibia to develop one of the world’s most transformative green hydrogen projects,” he said. Hyphen’s project is planned to be built on 4,000km2 of concessioned land within the Tsau Khaeb National Park, and could bring online one million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of green ammonia production by the end of 2028. 80km from the electrolysis installation, Agra Point will host a desalination and ammonia synthesis plant, with terminal infrastructure to support exports. Hyphen says it plans to provide excess power and desalinated water to local communities. From 2030, the company intends to double the project’s capacity. AFDB Country Manager for Namibia, Moono Mupotola, said the project could demonstrate Africa’s capacity to “lead the global energy transition”, create jobs, and “build prosperity”. “By supporting these essential pre-investment activities, we are unlocking billions in project financing,” added AFDB’s Director for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. “This is a strategic, high-impact development project.” It is slated as the first element of the Namibian government’s planned Southern Corridor Development Initiative, which aims to produce 3 mtpa of green hydrogen.

Windhoek Welcomes Tourists Back to Goreangab Dam Park with Improved Facilities and Access  The Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in Windhoek, Namibia, is set to reopen on 10 December 2025 after completing essential upgrades. Located in the north-western suburbs of the capital, the park has been closed since late July for urgent repairs to sewage pipelines following water-contamination concerns at the Goreangab Dam. With these repairs now finished, Windhoek’s beloved urban park is reopening its doors to the public, offering a refreshed outdoor retreat for locals and tourists to enjoy. The park’s reopening is expected to play a key role in boosting the tourism and leisure sectors in Windhoek, aligning with the city’s broader efforts to enhance urban green spaces for both residents and visitors. The park, celebrated for its peaceful lakeside setting, expansive picnic areas, and picturesque views, is a popular destination for both social gatherings and solitary reflection. Its convenient location and updated amenities are expected to further cement its status as one of the city’s most treasured outdoor spaces. A Popular Destination for Locals and Tourists The Goreangab Dam Recreation Park has long been a favorite spot for both residents of Windhoek and international visitors. The park offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal spot for family picnics, outdoor activities, and quiet reflection. The park is known for its well-maintained braai (barbecue) areas, shaded seating, and expansive grassy fields, providing a perfect setting for gatherings and relaxation. Its tranquil environment, coupled with sweeping vistas of the Goreangab Dam, makes it a photographer’s paradise and an inviting space for nature lovers. For visitors to Windhoek, the park provides an easily accessible and serene escape from the bustle of city life. Located just a short drive from the city center, it offers a refreshing alternative to the urban environment, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and scenic location to unwind. Visitors can also explore the St James Walkway, enjoy leisurely strolls by the dam, or take part in birdwatching, a popular activity at the park. Strategic Upgrades to Enhance Visitor Experience The upgrades carried out during the park’s closure are designed to enhance both the safety and enjoyment of visitors. One of the primary goals of the refurbishment was to address water quality concerns and improve the park’s infrastructure. This investment reflects Windhoek’s commitment to providing residents and tourists with high-quality recreational spaces, ensuring that they remain a vibrant and safe part of the city’s urban landscape. While much of the park’s existing amenities have been maintained, the new upgrades focus on improving accessibility and supporting long-term sustainability. The improvements to the sewage and waste management systems will ensure the park’s environmental integrity, while modernized facilities will help accommodate growing visitor numbers. These enhancements will help the park meet international standards for public leisure spaces, further elevating its appeal to both locals and international tourists. Impact on Local Economy and Tourism The reopening of Goreangab Dam Recreation Park is also expected to positively impact local businesses and tourism services in Windhoek. As the city’s tourism sector continues to grow, outdoor spaces like the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park play a key role in attracting visitors. The influx of both domestic and international tourists to the park will drive demand for services such as local tours, accommodation, food, and transport. The government’s focus on enhancing public amenities, including the park’s accessibility and visitor services, is part of a broader strategy to make Windhoek a more attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers. By investing in well-managed, high-quality urban parks, the city is fostering a sustainable model of tourism that benefits both visitors and the local population. For tourism professionals, the park’s reopening signals the potential for expanding the offerings in Windhoek, creating opportunities for partnerships with hotels, tour companies, and local enterprises to provide more enriching experiences for tourists. The park also serves as a model for other African cities looking to balance urban development with the preservation of natural spaces. Promoting Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Practices In addition to being a destination for recreation, Goreangab Dam Recreation Park aligns with broader sustainability efforts in Namibia. The park serves as an example of how tourism and conservation can work together to create lasting benefits for both the environment and local communities. The government’s investment in maintaining and improving the park’s infrastructure supports sustainable tourism, which focuses on minimizing the environmental footprint while maximizing the social and economic benefits of tourism. Windhoek is continuing to develop its eco-tourism offerings, with the park serving as a key site for wildlife observation, environmental education, and green tourism experiences. With its renewed focus on sustainability, the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature while supporting Namibia’s commitment to responsible tourism practices. What to Expect During Your Visit Visitors to the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in the coming months can expect a rejuvenated experience with enhanced facilities. While the park’s key attractions remain, such as the stunning views of the dam and its well-maintained green spaces, the new infrastructure will make the park even more inviting. The park’s temporary pathway through the western parking area, although unpaved, will allow access to the St James Walkway, and the eastern parking area is expected to remain fully functional, providing visitors with ample parking space during peak periods. Conclusion The reopening of Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in Windhoek marks an exciting development in the city’s efforts to enhance its tourism offerings while preserving natural spaces for public enjoyment. With its renewed focus on infrastructure, sustainability, and visitor experience, the park is set to become an even more vital part of Windhoek’s tourism landscape. For both residents and visitors, the park offers a tranquil oasis that brings together leisure, nature, and community in a way that reflects Namibia’s commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable tourism destinations. The post Windhoek Welcomes Tourists Back to Goreangab Dam Park with Improved Facilities and Access appeared first on Travel And Tour World. Windhoek Welcomes Tourists Back to Goreangab Dam Park with Improved Facilities and Access The Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in Windhoek, Namibia, is set to reopen on 10 December 2025 after completing essential upgrades. Located in the north-western suburbs of the capital, the park has been closed since late July for urgent repairs to sewage pipelines following water-contamination concerns at the Goreangab Dam. With these repairs now finished, Windhoek’s beloved urban park is reopening its doors to the public, offering a refreshed outdoor retreat for locals and tourists to enjoy. The park’s reopening is expected to play a key role in boosting the tourism and leisure sectors in Windhoek, aligning with the city’s broader efforts to enhance urban green spaces for both residents and visitors. The park, celebrated for its peaceful lakeside setting, expansive picnic areas, and picturesque views, is a popular destination for both social gatherings and solitary reflection. Its convenient location and updated amenities are expected to further cement its status as one of the city’s most treasured outdoor spaces. A Popular Destination for Locals and Tourists The Goreangab Dam Recreation Park has long been a favorite spot for both residents of Windhoek and international visitors. The park offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal spot for family picnics, outdoor activities, and quiet reflection. The park is known for its well-maintained braai (barbecue) areas, shaded seating, and expansive grassy fields, providing a perfect setting for gatherings and relaxation. Its tranquil environment, coupled with sweeping vistas of the Goreangab Dam, makes it a photographer’s paradise and an inviting space for nature lovers. For visitors to Windhoek, the park provides an easily accessible and serene escape from the bustle of city life. Located just a short drive from the city center, it offers a refreshing alternative to the urban environment, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and scenic location to unwind. Visitors can also explore the St James Walkway, enjoy leisurely strolls by the dam, or take part in birdwatching, a popular activity at the park. Strategic Upgrades to Enhance Visitor Experience The upgrades carried out during the park’s closure are designed to enhance both the safety and enjoyment of visitors. One of the primary goals of the refurbishment was to address water quality concerns and improve the park’s infrastructure. This investment reflects Windhoek’s commitment to providing residents and tourists with high-quality recreational spaces, ensuring that they remain a vibrant and safe part of the city’s urban landscape. While much of the park’s existing amenities have been maintained, the new upgrades focus on improving accessibility and supporting long-term sustainability. The improvements to the sewage and waste management systems will ensure the park’s environmental integrity, while modernized facilities will help accommodate growing visitor numbers. These enhancements will help the park meet international standards for public leisure spaces, further elevating its appeal to both locals and international tourists. Impact on Local Economy and Tourism The reopening of Goreangab Dam Recreation Park is also expected to positively impact local businesses and tourism services in Windhoek. As the city’s tourism sector continues to grow, outdoor spaces like the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park play a key role in attracting visitors. The influx of both domestic and international tourists to the park will drive demand for services such as local tours, accommodation, food, and transport. The government’s focus on enhancing public amenities, including the park’s accessibility and visitor services, is part of a broader strategy to make Windhoek a more attractive destination for both business and leisure travelers. By investing in well-managed, high-quality urban parks, the city is fostering a sustainable model of tourism that benefits both visitors and the local population. For tourism professionals, the park’s reopening signals the potential for expanding the offerings in Windhoek, creating opportunities for partnerships with hotels, tour companies, and local enterprises to provide more enriching experiences for tourists. The park also serves as a model for other African cities looking to balance urban development with the preservation of natural spaces. Promoting Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Practices In addition to being a destination for recreation, Goreangab Dam Recreation Park aligns with broader sustainability efforts in Namibia. The park serves as an example of how tourism and conservation can work together to create lasting benefits for both the environment and local communities. The government’s investment in maintaining and improving the park’s infrastructure supports sustainable tourism, which focuses on minimizing the environmental footprint while maximizing the social and economic benefits of tourism. Windhoek is continuing to develop its eco-tourism offerings, with the park serving as a key site for wildlife observation, environmental education, and green tourism experiences. With its renewed focus on sustainability, the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature while supporting Namibia’s commitment to responsible tourism practices. What to Expect During Your Visit Visitors to the Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in the coming months can expect a rejuvenated experience with enhanced facilities. While the park’s key attractions remain, such as the stunning views of the dam and its well-maintained green spaces, the new infrastructure will make the park even more inviting. The park’s temporary pathway through the western parking area, although unpaved, will allow access to the St James Walkway, and the eastern parking area is expected to remain fully functional, providing visitors with ample parking space during peak periods. Conclusion The reopening of Goreangab Dam Recreation Park in Windhoek marks an exciting development in the city’s efforts to enhance its tourism offerings while preserving natural spaces for public enjoyment. With its renewed focus on infrastructure, sustainability, and visitor experience, the park is set to become an even more vital part of Windhoek’s tourism landscape. For both residents and visitors, the park offers a tranquil oasis that brings together leisure, nature, and community in a way that reflects Namibia’s commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable tourism destinations. The post Windhoek Welcomes Tourists Back to Goreangab Dam Park with Improved Facilities and Access appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Zambezi is Africa’s fourth longest river, flowing through six countries: Angola, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, where it becomes the largest river to flow into the Indian Ocean. The entire length of the river is referred to as the Zambezi Valley region and it carries with it a rich history of movement, conquest and commerce. Great Britain colonised Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe; Germany colonised Namibia. The beginning and the end of the Zambezi, in Angola and Mozambique, were Portuguese colonies. Malyn Newitt is a historian of Portuguese colonialism in Africa and has written numerous books on the subject, and one on the Zambezi in particular. We asked him about this history. When and how did the Portuguese encounter the Zambezi? The Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish permanent relations with the peoples of sub-Saharan Africa. After the explorer Vasco da Gama’s successful return voyage from Europe to India (1497-1499) the Portuguese heard about the gold trade being carried on in the ports of the Zambezi River. By the middle of the 1500s they were trading there, from their bases on the coast of modern Mozambique. From Sofala and Mozambique Island, they sent agents to the gold trading fairs inland.  The Zambezi is the dark blue line. MellonDor, CC BY-SA Between 1569 and 1575 a Portuguese military expedition tried to conquer the gold producing regions of what became known as Mashonaland (today part of Zimbabwe). This failed, but permanent settlements were made in the Zambezi valley from which Portuguese control was gradually extended over the river up to the Cahora Bassa gorge in modern Mozambique. Portuguese adventurers, with their locally recruited private armies, began to control large semi-feudal land holdings known as prazos. These reached their greatest extent in the mid-1600s.  Africa’s river basins. GRID-Arendal, CC BY-NC-SA During the 1700s and early 1800s the area of Portuguese control was limited to the Zambezi valley. Here the elite of Afro-Portuguese prazo holders traded gold and slaves. The first half of the 1800s saw drought, the migrations of the Nguni (spurred by Zulu-led wars in southern Africa) and the continuing slave trade. During these disturbed conditions, Afro-Portuguese warlords raised private armies and extended their control up the river. They went as far as Kariba (on the border between modern Zambia and Zimbabwe) and through much of the escarpment country north and south of the river. This eventually brought them into conflict with Britain, whose agents were expanding their activities from South Africa. It resulted in an 1891 agreement which drew the frontiers in and around the Zambezi valley which still exist today. Who are the people who live along the river? The people who have inhabited the length of the Zambezi valley have often been generically referred to as Tonga. For the most part they’ve organised their lives in small, lineage-based settlements. Their economy is based on crop growing and occupations relating to trade and navigation on the river. Because of the lack of any centralised political organisation, the valley communities were often dominated by the powerful kingdoms on the north and south of the river. This might involve raiding and enslavement or simply paying tribute to the kings. On the upper reaches of the river in Zambia, populations became subject to the large Barotse kingdom in the 1800s.  The Zambezi where Zambia and Zimbabwe meet. Diego Delso, CC BY-SA On the lower river many of the people came under the overlordship of prazos. They worked as carriers, artisans, boatmen and soldiers. Because of the extensive gold and ivory trade, a fine tradition of goldsmith work developed and men became skilled elephant hunters. Throughout history, valley communities have often been loosely organised around spirit shrines with mediums. These are very influential in providing stability and direction for people’s lives. How did the Portuguese understand these cultures? For 400 years the Portuguese controlled the lower reaches of the Zambezi, in Mozambique. They wrote many accounts of the people of the region which show a complex interaction. Portugal’s administration and system of land law controlled matters at the apex of society, but could not control African culture.  An old Portuguese map of the region. Discott, CC BY-NC-SA The Portuguese were few in number and intermarried to some extent with the local population. This produced a hybrid Afro-Portuguese society in which everyday life was carried on according to African traditional practice. Agriculture, transport, artisan crafts, mining and warfare reflected local traditions. Although the Portuguese tried to introduce Christianity, it failed to attract many people away from the spirit cults. It became diluted with local religious ideas. The Portuguese built square, European-style houses in the river ports and on the estates along the river. But most of the population retained the traditional African hut design. Afro-Portuguese were often literate but literacy did not penetrate far and the Portuguese language never replaced the local languages. How did silver play a role in all this? Late in the 1500s the Portuguese became obsessed with the idea that there were silver mines in Africa comparable to those discovered by the Spanish in the New World. Considerable effort was made to locate these mines in Angola and in the Zambezi valley. Read more: The incredible journey of two princes from Mozambique whose lives were upended by the slave trade Military expeditions were dispatched and skilled miners were sent from Europe to test the ores that had allegedly been discovered. Attempts to find the mines throughout the 1600s helped to sustain Portuguese interest in the Zambezi settlements. No silver was ever discovered – not surprisingly, as there is no silver in southern Africa. Can you bring us up to today? What impact has development had on the river? Until the 1900s the Zambezi defied most attempts at development. The river was difficult to navigate – too shallow in the dry season, too dangerous during the floods. These fluctuations determine the pattern of migrations and agricultural production. Moreover, as the river passed through a series of gorges which blocked navigation it was only on its upper reaches, beyond the Victoria Falls, on the borders of Zimbabwe and Zambia, that it was able to act as a major highway. And the river constituted a major obstacle to any contact between people north and south of it. The first bridge was only built in 1905, to carry the railway from South Africa to the copper belt. In the 1930s, British engineers built a second rail bridge across the lower Zambezi. But the first road bridge was only built in 1934, at Chirundu at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. This at last linked the areas north and south of the river. Meanwhile the floods of the Zambezi came to be contained by the building of the Kariba Dam (opened in 1959) and the Cahora Bassa Dam (1974). As a result much of the Zambezi below the Victoria Falls has altered drastically and been turned into a succession of large inland seas.  The Victoria Falls. Diego Delso, CC BY-NC-SA Large sectors of the population have been forcibly removed and the floods no longer keep sea water from invading the delta. Meanwhile water extraction for irrigation, and increasingly frequent droughts, have endangered the river’s very existence. The Zambezi has become an example of what happens when the natural resources of a great river have been thoughtlessly over-exploited.  Malyn Newitt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. The Zambezi is Africa’s fourth longest river, flowing through six countries: Angola, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, where it becomes the largest river to flow into the Indian Ocean. The entire length of the river is referred to as the Zambezi Valley region and it carries with it a rich history of movement, conquest and commerce. Great Britain colonised Zambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe; Germany colonised Namibia. The beginning and the end of the Zambezi, in Angola and Mozambique, were Portuguese colonies. Malyn Newitt is a historian of Portuguese colonialism in Africa and has written numerous books on the subject, and one on the Zambezi in particular. We asked him about this history. When and how did the Portuguese encounter the Zambezi? The Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish permanent relations with the peoples of sub-Saharan Africa. After the explorer Vasco da Gama’s successful return voyage from Europe to India (1497-1499) the Portuguese heard about the gold trade being carried on in the ports of the Zambezi River. By the middle of the 1500s they were trading there, from their bases on the coast of modern Mozambique. From Sofala and Mozambique Island, they sent agents to the gold trading fairs inland. The Zambezi is the dark blue line. MellonDor, CC BY-SA Between 1569 and 1575 a Portuguese military expedition tried to conquer the gold producing regions of what became known as Mashonaland (today part of Zimbabwe). This failed, but permanent settlements were made in the Zambezi valley from which Portuguese control was gradually extended over the river up to the Cahora Bassa gorge in modern Mozambique. Portuguese adventurers, with their locally recruited private armies, began to control large semi-feudal land holdings known as prazos. These reached their greatest extent in the mid-1600s. Africa’s river basins. GRID-Arendal, CC BY-NC-SA During the 1700s and early 1800s the area of Portuguese control was limited to the Zambezi valley. Here the elite of Afro-Portuguese prazo holders traded gold and slaves. The first half of the 1800s saw drought, the migrations of the Nguni (spurred by Zulu-led wars in southern Africa) and the continuing slave trade. During these disturbed conditions, Afro-Portuguese warlords raised private armies and extended their control up the river. They went as far as Kariba (on the border between modern Zambia and Zimbabwe) and through much of the escarpment country north and south of the river. This eventually brought them into conflict with Britain, whose agents were expanding their activities from South Africa. It resulted in an 1891 agreement which drew the frontiers in and around the Zambezi valley which still exist today. Who are the people who live along the river? The people who have inhabited the length of the Zambezi valley have often been generically referred to as Tonga. For the most part they’ve organised their lives in small, lineage-based settlements. Their economy is based on crop growing and occupations relating to trade and navigation on the river. Because of the lack of any centralised political organisation, the valley communities were often dominated by the powerful kingdoms on the north and south of the river. This might involve raiding and enslavement or simply paying tribute to the kings. On the upper reaches of the river in Zambia, populations became subject to the large Barotse kingdom in the 1800s. The Zambezi where Zambia and Zimbabwe meet. Diego Delso, CC BY-SA On the lower river many of the people came under the overlordship of prazos. They worked as carriers, artisans, boatmen and soldiers. Because of the extensive gold and ivory trade, a fine tradition of goldsmith work developed and men became skilled elephant hunters. Throughout history, valley communities have often been loosely organised around spirit shrines with mediums. These are very influential in providing stability and direction for people’s lives. How did the Portuguese understand these cultures? For 400 years the Portuguese controlled the lower reaches of the Zambezi, in Mozambique. They wrote many accounts of the people of the region which show a complex interaction. Portugal’s administration and system of land law controlled matters at the apex of society, but could not control African culture. An old Portuguese map of the region. Discott, CC BY-NC-SA The Portuguese were few in number and intermarried to some extent with the local population. This produced a hybrid Afro-Portuguese society in which everyday life was carried on according to African traditional practice. Agriculture, transport, artisan crafts, mining and warfare reflected local traditions. Although the Portuguese tried to introduce Christianity, it failed to attract many people away from the spirit cults. It became diluted with local religious ideas. The Portuguese built square, European-style houses in the river ports and on the estates along the river. But most of the population retained the traditional African hut design. Afro-Portuguese were often literate but literacy did not penetrate far and the Portuguese language never replaced the local languages. How did silver play a role in all this? Late in the 1500s the Portuguese became obsessed with the idea that there were silver mines in Africa comparable to those discovered by the Spanish in the New World. Considerable effort was made to locate these mines in Angola and in the Zambezi valley. Read more: The incredible journey of two princes from Mozambique whose lives were upended by the slave trade Military expeditions were dispatched and skilled miners were sent from Europe to test the ores that had allegedly been discovered. Attempts to find the mines throughout the 1600s helped to sustain Portuguese interest in the Zambezi settlements. No silver was ever discovered – not surprisingly, as there is no silver in southern Africa. Can you bring us up to today? What impact has development had on the river? Until the 1900s the Zambezi defied most attempts at development. The river was difficult to navigate – too shallow in the dry season, too dangerous during the floods. These fluctuations determine the pattern of migrations and agricultural production. Moreover, as the river passed through a series of gorges which blocked navigation it was only on its upper reaches, beyond the Victoria Falls, on the borders of Zimbabwe and Zambia, that it was able to act as a major highway. And the river constituted a major obstacle to any contact between people north and south of it. The first bridge was only built in 1905, to carry the railway from South Africa to the copper belt. In the 1930s, British engineers built a second rail bridge across the lower Zambezi. But the first road bridge was only built in 1934, at Chirundu at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. This at last linked the areas north and south of the river. Meanwhile the floods of the Zambezi came to be contained by the building of the Kariba Dam (opened in 1959) and the Cahora Bassa Dam (1974). As a result much of the Zambezi below the Victoria Falls has altered drastically and been turned into a succession of large inland seas. The Victoria Falls. Diego Delso, CC BY-NC-SA Large sectors of the population have been forcibly removed and the floods no longer keep sea water from invading the delta. Meanwhile water extraction for irrigation, and increasingly frequent droughts, have endangered the river’s very existence. The Zambezi has become an example of what happens when the natural resources of a great river have been thoughtlessly over-exploited. Malyn Newitt does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

 South Africa's vision to make the G20 deliberations and outcomes resonate with the rest of the continent has resulted in strategic visibility for Africa. The themes of the year-long presidency - solidarity, equality and sustainability - framed South Africa's leadership around wider issues of development and inclusivity. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was a continuous central theme throughout South Africa's 2025 presidency, appearing in many statements, ministerial meetings, working groups and Africa-focused side meetings. The final declaration issued by the G20, read out by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the end of the Leaders' Summit, linked G20 trade and investment cooperation directly to AfCFTA implementation. It acknowledged that regional economic integration, including the AfCFTA, is a key enabler of economic growth, resilience, investment and development. The declaration noted a "G20 Africa Cooperation Agenda on Trade and Investment" promoted by the South African presidency. This is a voluntary and non-binding initiative that is not legally enforceable but provides a roadmap for cooperation and investment. The aim is to mobilise investment into Africa's productive sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and critical minerals and into infrastructure, with an emphasis on regional infrastructure. The agenda, which includes many existing initiatives, will be overseen by the African Union (AU) and African Development Bank. Africa had an additional voice at the table through the membership of the African Union, this year represented by Angola's president as the current chair of the bloc. The AU's first summit was in 2024 under Brazil's presidency. South Africa has long pressed for the reform of global financial institutions, greater representation of the Global South, and recognition of Africa's economic weight. It was a founding member of the G20 in 1999, chosen on the basis of it being the most sophisticated and diversified economy on the continent. It has, over the past few years, pushed for AU membership to enhance the continent's voice. The lobbying was successful and in 2023, at the G20 summit in India, the AU was granted permanent membership. Among the representatives of 42 countries and institutions that attended the Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg were many presidents from other African countries, including Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Egypt, Namibia and Ethiopia. Ramaphosa met many of them on the sidelines of the main event and in other forums to ensure the G20 legacy is aligned to African development aspirations, the government said. Nigeria hosted a G20 Africa Outreach Meeting on Industrialisation and Agriculture, the first G20 meeting outside South Africa during the year. Common issues for Africa The AfCTA is a central thread that has run through discussions that touched on many of the projects and initiatives announced by and around the G20, covering many other common issues affecting the whole continent. These include industrialisation, climate funding, debt sustainability and the reform of global financial institutions, which aims to ease the burden on African countries and promote growth and development. South Africa established cross-cutting G20 task forces on issues that matter for Africa such as inclusive economic growth, food security and artificial intelligence. Inequality was a key theme at the event. South Africa commissioned an Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality, chaired by Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz, which produced the G20's first-ever report on global inequality. South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe are among the most unequal countries in the world and the Stiglitz report found that global inequality is worsening, with the wealthiest 1% capturing 41% of all new wealth between 2020 and 2024, and the bottom 50% only 1%. The Africa Engagement Framework is another continental initiative driven under the G20. A multi-year initiative, it is intended to deepen and institutionalise G20 support for Africa's economic and financial development. This also underpins the essence of the AfCFTA. The goal of this legacy initiative is to align G20 financial and economic support with African development priorities - not just on a project-by-project basis, but through coordinated, systemic engagement. It was officially endorsed by G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in October 2025, and South Africa has committed to coordinating and resourcing the initiative until 2030. A complementary initiative, the G20 Compact with Africa, founded in 2017, entered its second phase (2025-2033) at the Johannesburg event and new financing was pledged to mobilise investment in Africa and support structural and business climate reforms. Member countries in Africa must meet reform criteria in order to benefit from it. Zambia and Angola are the newest members, while the World Bank and the African Development Bank act as coordinators and facilitators. Legacy projects Industrialisation was another key platform, focusing largely on critical minerals. South Africa advanced a critical minerals initiative that emphasises value addition, beneficiation, and inclusive supply chains, rather than just extraction. The G20 Critical Minerals Framework emanated from the South African process. It is a voluntary blueprint for international cooperation and provides a template for African countries to follow in pursuing opportunities related to critical minerals. The Ubuntu Legacy Initiative is yet another Africa-focused legacy project to catalyse cross-border infrastructure development, including a toolkit produced by the African Development Bank. Climate issues were a large part of the final G20 leaders' declaration. Issues raised were the need to scale up climate finance, build capacity and transfer technology to developing countries, which would help African nations access more concessional, climate-focused funding. South Africa elevated disaster resilience (especially climate-induced natural disasters) to a leadership issue in the G20, arguing strongly that vulnerable countries (many in Africa) need more support. The summit's final declaration committed the G20 to investing in disaster finance mechanisms such as insurance, risk pools, catastrophe bonds and contingent credit to help countries facing increasing climate-related disasters. It also reaffirmed support for "just transition pathways", which will help African countries to move to low-carbon sustainable models. The initiatives discussed, committed to and drawn up under South Africa's G20 presidency all ensured that Africa's own issues, needs and projects were placed centre stage.

 South Africa's vision to make the G20 deliberations and outcomes resonate with the rest of the continent has resulted in strategic visibility for Africa. The themes of the year-long presidency - solidarity, equality and sustainability - framed South Africa's leadership around wider issues of development and inclusivity. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was a continuous central theme throughout South Africa's 2025 presidency, appearing in many statements, ministerial meetings, working groups and Africa-focused side meetings. The final declaration issued by the G20, read out by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the end of the Leaders' Summit, linked G20 trade and investment cooperation directly to AfCFTA implementation. It acknowledged that regional economic integration, including the AfCFTA, is a key enabler of economic growth, resilience, investment and development. The declaration noted a "G20 Africa Cooperation Agenda on Trade and Investment" promoted by the South African presidency. This is a voluntary and non-binding initiative that is not legally enforceable but provides a roadmap for cooperation and investment. The aim is to mobilise investment into Africa's productive sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and critical minerals and into infrastructure, with an emphasis on regional infrastructure. The agenda, which includes many existing initiatives, will be overseen by the African Union (AU) and African Development Bank. Africa had an additional voice at the table through the membership of the African Union, this year represented by Angola's president as the current chair of the bloc. The AU's first summit was in 2024 under Brazil's presidency. South Africa has long pressed for the reform of global financial institutions, greater representation of the Global South, and recognition of Africa's economic weight. It was a founding member of the G20 in 1999, chosen on the basis of it being the most sophisticated and diversified economy on the continent. It has, over the past few years, pushed for AU membership to enhance the continent's voice. The lobbying was successful and in 2023, at the G20 summit in India, the AU was granted permanent membership. Among the representatives of 42 countries and institutions that attended the Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg were many presidents from other African countries, including Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Egypt, Namibia and Ethiopia. Ramaphosa met many of them on the sidelines of the main event and in other forums to ensure the G20 legacy is aligned to African development aspirations, the government said. Nigeria hosted a G20 Africa Outreach Meeting on Industrialisation and Agriculture, the first G20 meeting outside South Africa during the year. Common issues for Africa The AfCTA is a central thread that has run through discussions that touched on many of the projects and initiatives announced by and around the G20, covering many other common issues affecting the whole continent. These include industrialisation, climate funding, debt sustainability and the reform of global financial institutions, which aims to ease the burden on African countries and promote growth and development. South Africa established cross-cutting G20 task forces on issues that matter for Africa such as inclusive economic growth, food security and artificial intelligence. Inequality was a key theme at the event. South Africa commissioned an Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality, chaired by Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz, which produced the G20's first-ever report on global inequality. South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe are among the most unequal countries in the world and the Stiglitz report found that global inequality is worsening, with the wealthiest 1% capturing 41% of all new wealth between 2020 and 2024, and the bottom 50% only 1%. The Africa Engagement Framework is another continental initiative driven under the G20. A multi-year initiative, it is intended to deepen and institutionalise G20 support for Africa's economic and financial development. This also underpins the essence of the AfCFTA. The goal of this legacy initiative is to align G20 financial and economic support with African development priorities - not just on a project-by-project basis, but through coordinated, systemic engagement. It was officially endorsed by G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in October 2025, and South Africa has committed to coordinating and resourcing the initiative until 2030. A complementary initiative, the G20 Compact with Africa, founded in 2017, entered its second phase (2025-2033) at the Johannesburg event and new financing was pledged to mobilise investment in Africa and support structural and business climate reforms. Member countries in Africa must meet reform criteria in order to benefit from it. Zambia and Angola are the newest members, while the World Bank and the African Development Bank act as coordinators and facilitators. Legacy projects Industrialisation was another key platform, focusing largely on critical minerals. South Africa advanced a critical minerals initiative that emphasises value addition, beneficiation, and inclusive supply chains, rather than just extraction. The G20 Critical Minerals Framework emanated from the South African process. It is a voluntary blueprint for international cooperation and provides a template for African countries to follow in pursuing opportunities related to critical minerals. The Ubuntu Legacy Initiative is yet another Africa-focused legacy project to catalyse cross-border infrastructure development, including a toolkit produced by the African Development Bank. Climate issues were a large part of the final G20 leaders' declaration. Issues raised were the need to scale up climate finance, build capacity and transfer technology to developing countries, which would help African nations access more concessional, climate-focused funding. South Africa elevated disaster resilience (especially climate-induced natural disasters) to a leadership issue in the G20, arguing strongly that vulnerable countries (many in Africa) need more support. The summit's final declaration committed the G20 to investing in disaster finance mechanisms such as insurance, risk pools, catastrophe bonds and contingent credit to help countries facing increasing climate-related disasters. It also reaffirmed support for "just transition pathways", which will help African countries to move to low-carbon sustainable models. The initiatives discussed, committed to and drawn up under South Africa's G20 presidency all ensured that Africa's own issues, needs and projects were placed centre stage.

 Dr Moses Magadza in eTHEKWINI, South Africa THE SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) President, Mr Randrianasoloniaiko Siteny Thierry, who is also the Speaker of Parliament of Madagascar, has called for renewed political will, deeper regional integration and accelerated approval of the Protocol on the SADC Parliament.
He made the call at the official opening the 58th Plenary Assembly in Durban on Sunday.He commended the Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, Ms Thoko Didiza, for hosting the plenary.
He also thanked the National Council of Provinces and South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile for their support. Mr Siteny used his first plenary assembly as SADC PF president to rally member states behind the long-awaited transformation of the forum into a fully fledged SADC Parliament. “We especially remember with pride the events of the 38th Ordinary SADC Summit in Windhoek, Namibia, in August 2018, where His Excellency Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa eloquently and unequivocally expressed the imperative of establishing a SADC Parliament that can amplify the people’s voice, enhance democratic oversight and shape the future of our integration,” he said.
“We continue to count on South Africa’s unwavering support to secure the approval and ratification of the Protocol on the SADC Parliament … We humbly appeal to Your Excellency to serve as our ambassador among your esteemed colleagues, championing the approval of the SADC Parliament by August 2026.”
He highlighted the forum’s expanding influence in good governance, democratic consolidation and people-centred regional integration, as well as the forum’s model laws, enhanced oversight tools and strengthened inter-parliamentary cooperation. “The SADC PF has consistently demonstrated its value as a strategic platform for fostering inter-parliamentary cooperation and laying a robust foundation for enhanced citizen engagement in the regional integration agenda,” he added. “I am proud to affirm that the institution has embraced modern management systems underpinned by strong corporate governance principles, positioning the forum as a credible and professional body, well-placed to evolve into a fully fledged SADC Parliament.”
Mr Siteny said the 58th Plenary Assembly provided a moment for sober reflection and strategic repositioning.
“The session allows us to assess our progress transparently, to learn from our past with humility and to shape our regional integration agenda with determination.” The plenary assembly, he added, remained central to shaping the region’s democratic future. “It is here that we deliberate, create partnerships, reflect and renew our shared resolve to deepen democracy, strengthen governance and advance the well-being of our people,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to steering the forum with unity and purpose. “May this plenary assembly strengthen our unity, sharpen our vision and renew our resolve to build a more peaceful, prosperous and integrated SADC region.”
The 58th Plenary Assembly was running under the theme “The Impact of Climate Change in the SADC Region and the Role of Parliaments in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation”. The post SADC PF President calls for renewed momentum towards a fully fledged regional parliament appeared first on herald. The post SADC PF President calls for renewed momentum towards a fully fledged regional parliament appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation. Dr Moses Magadza in eTHEKWINI, South Africa THE SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) President, Mr Randrianasoloniaiko Siteny Thierry, who is also the Speaker of Parliament of Madagascar, has called for renewed political will, deeper regional integration and accelerated approval of the Protocol on the SADC Parliament.
He made the call at the official opening the 58th Plenary Assembly in Durban on Sunday.He commended the Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, Ms Thoko Didiza, for hosting the plenary.
He also thanked the National Council of Provinces and South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile for their support. Mr Siteny used his first plenary assembly as SADC PF president to rally member states behind the long-awaited transformation of the forum into a fully fledged SADC Parliament. “We especially remember with pride the events of the 38th Ordinary SADC Summit in Windhoek, Namibia, in August 2018, where His Excellency Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa eloquently and unequivocally expressed the imperative of establishing a SADC Parliament that can amplify the people’s voice, enhance democratic oversight and shape the future of our integration,” he said.
“We continue to count on South Africa’s unwavering support to secure the approval and ratification of the Protocol on the SADC Parliament … We humbly appeal to Your Excellency to serve as our ambassador among your esteemed colleagues, championing the approval of the SADC Parliament by August 2026.”
He highlighted the forum’s expanding influence in good governance, democratic consolidation and people-centred regional integration, as well as the forum’s model laws, enhanced oversight tools and strengthened inter-parliamentary cooperation. “The SADC PF has consistently demonstrated its value as a strategic platform for fostering inter-parliamentary cooperation and laying a robust foundation for enhanced citizen engagement in the regional integration agenda,” he added. “I am proud to affirm that the institution has embraced modern management systems underpinned by strong corporate governance principles, positioning the forum as a credible and professional body, well-placed to evolve into a fully fledged SADC Parliament.”
Mr Siteny said the 58th Plenary Assembly provided a moment for sober reflection and strategic repositioning.
“The session allows us to assess our progress transparently, to learn from our past with humility and to shape our regional integration agenda with determination.” The plenary assembly, he added, remained central to shaping the region’s democratic future. “It is here that we deliberate, create partnerships, reflect and renew our shared resolve to deepen democracy, strengthen governance and advance the well-being of our people,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to steering the forum with unity and purpose. “May this plenary assembly strengthen our unity, sharpen our vision and renew our resolve to build a more peaceful, prosperous and integrated SADC region.”
The 58th Plenary Assembly was running under the theme “The Impact of Climate Change in the SADC Region and the Role of Parliaments in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation”. The post SADC PF President calls for renewed momentum towards a fully fledged regional parliament appeared first on herald. The post SADC PF President calls for renewed momentum towards a fully fledged regional parliament appeared first on Zimbabwe Situation.

WINDHOEK - Namibia on Tuesday launched a new adaptive agriculture initiative to strengthen the resilience of drought-affected farming communities and improve food security across five regions. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Windhoek,... WINDHOEK - Namibia on Tuesday launched a new adaptive agriculture initiative to strengthen the resilience of drought-affected farming communities and improve food security across five regions. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Windhoek,...

 Namibia’s health profile in the year under review is a study in contradiction. Life expectancy rose from 47 to 56 years. But the conditions that shape daily survival remain brittle, underfunded and uneven. Health minister Esperance Luvindao has pushed for reforms and clearer policy direction. Her intent is not in doubt. The system itself is the problem. It is slow, fractured and incapable of matching the scale of the crisis it faces. A life expectancy of 56 is not a milestone. The global average is 73. The Sub-Saharan African average is 62. Namibia is sitting seventeen years behind the world and eight years behind its peers. Clinics are understaffed. Infrastructure is thin. Large parts of the population are trapped behind structural barriers that make healthcare an aspiration, not a right. Malnutrition exposes this failure with brutal clarity. A quarter of Namibian children under five are stunted. More than 1 100 malnutrition-related deaths were recorded this year. The World Food Programme links the surge to drought and erratic rainfall, which have cut crop yields, raised food prices and deepened household scarcity. Food insecurity has reached 1.15 million people — almost 40 % of the population. The state’s drought relief plan targets 360 000 households. That leaves more than 750 000 people facing the same crisis with no direct support. Khomas, Otjozondjupa, Omusati, Ohangwena, Kunene, Kavango West and Kavango East sit on the frontline. By June 2025, 776 000 Namibians are expected to remain in crisis. There are isolated gains. In Omaheke, under Pijoo Nganate, targeted feeding and clinic referrals reduced malnutrition rates by 20 %. These results matter, but they do not offset the national failure. The health system is keeping people alive longer, but not better. Years have been added to life without securing the basic conditions that make those years stable. Policy statements grow thicker. Clinics remain thin. Hunger spreads. A 56-year life expectancy in 2025 is not an achievement. It is an indictment. * Briefly is a weekly column that is opinionated and analytical. It sifts through the noise to make sense of the numbers, trends and headlines shaping business and the economy with insight, wit and just enough scepticism to keep things interesting. THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ARE NOT OUR OWN, we simply relay them as part of the conversation.

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 support@earlybirds.io 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. – matthew@namibian.com.na 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. – matthew@namibian.com.na 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
RReid@McDermott.com PETROFUND
Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Division
Shoki Kandjimi
+264 817524536
skandjimi@namcor.com.na 
  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
RReid@McDermott.com PETROFUND
Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Division
Shoki Kandjimi
+264 817524536
skandjimi@namcor.com.na 
 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.