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Government Information

Bulletin
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Republic of Namibia December 2009

Make Namibia a winning nation –


Pohamba
P resident Hifikepunye Pohamba, in his
New Year’s message to the nation,
called on Namibians to stand together
high commodity prices. The government has,
therefore, put measures in place to mitigate
the impact of the global economic crisis and the
devastating effects of the floods on people in
Namibia.
to make the country a winning nation, a Continues on page 4

Iyambo honoured for


place where all Namibians can enjoy the
fruits of independence and realise their
fullest potential.

The President urged Namibians to work together


for the social and economic well-being of the
country and the Namibian people by addressing
contribution to fisheries
the existing inequalities in the distribution of By Foibe Fillipus
the country’s wealth. “It is a matter of concern

FREE
N
that Namibia has an unenviable distinction amibia’s Minister of Fisheries and Iyambo the first individual recipient of the award.
as the country with the most skewed income Marine Resources, Dr. Abraham Iyambo The medal is awarded every two years to a person
distribution in the world. We, therefore, must became the first ever individual recipient of on organization that has served with distinction
change this status quo,” Pohamba said in his the Margarita Lizárraga Medal of the United in the application of the Code of Conduct of
message broadcasted on 31 December 2009 on Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation Responsible Fisheries. The award is named after
the NBC TV. when the award was handed over to him by Ms. Margarita Lizárraga, a Senior Fisheries Liaison
the Director General of the FAO, Dr. Jacques Officer in recognition of her productive work in the
Addressing the skewed income distribution in Diouf on 18 November 2009 in Rome, Italy. field of fisheries for almost 40 years.
the country calls for a multi-pronged approach
in a multi-sectoral manner, Pohamba said, The award was bestowed on Dr. Iyambo
adding that it required cooperation in the area in recognition of his national, regional and
of land redistribution, broad-based economic international leadership with distinction
empowerment, skills formation and availability in the application of the Code of Conduct
of capital for Namibia’s small and medium size of Responsible Fisheries through the
enterprises to grow and become sustainable. implementation of responsible fisheries science,
policies and management. His contribution
Pohamba said social justice in the Namibian
1
in negotiations leading to the Reykjavik
society can only be created by narrowing Declaration, the establishment of the Benguela
the gap between the rich and the poor. He, Current Large Marine Ecosystem Project, the
therefore, called on the private sector to join Benguela Environment Fisheries Interaction
the government in finding practical, durable and Training Programme and the South East
and sustainable solutions to this challenge Atlantic Fisheries Organisation was taken
facing the Namibian nation. into consideration in nominating him for the
Margarita Lizárraga Medal. Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister, Dr. Abraham
Reflecting on 2009, President Pohamba said Iyambo and FAO Director General, Dr. Jacques Diouf
captured shortly after Dr Iyambo received the Margarita
2009 was a challenging year, punctuated by the Since the inception of the award in 1997, it has Lizárraga Medal in Rome in November 2009. Photo:
global economic crisis, natural disasters and been awarded to five organizations, making Dr. Foibe Fillippus
Continues on page 5
IN ThIs Issue

Mama Amathila Regional News from Cabinet


greets Ovatue, contributions Chambers
Ovatjimba

Page 12 – 14 P16 – 20 P21 - 24


Government Information Bulletin December 2009

From the Desk of the Minister Contents


The Government Information
Make Namibia a winning nation...Pohamba......................... 1
Bulletin wants to sincerely
congratulate H. E. President Iyambo honoured for contribution to fisheries.................... 1
Hifikepuny Pohamba on
his overwhelming victory From the desk of the Minister............................................... 2
in the 2009 Presidential
elections. We are delighted Elections entrenched Namibia’s democracy......................... 3
that you will hold the reigns
Kaapanda addresses youth on nationhood.......................... 4
of Namibia for the next five
years, leading the country Namibia commemorates Africa Statistics Day...................... 5
towards attaining our vision
of becoming a knowledgeable Civil Registration is a human rights issue............................ 6
society by 2030.
With the last chapter not yet Witbooi, a man of vision and conviction…Pohamba............. 7
Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Minister of
Information and Communication written on the outcome of the
We need to know what is under our soil.............................. 8
Technology 2009 National Assembly elections
pending the court case by nine Namibia applauds Congo for generosity and solidarity........ 8
opposition parties, the Namibian electorate has to be congratulated
for behaving in a mature and peaceful manner prior, during and after HIV/AIDS destabilise fragile economies.............................. 9
the elections. This is testimony to the fact that Namibians value the
existing peace and stability in the country, which is necessary to ensure The HaiIIom have Seringkop to call home........................... 10
the socio-economic development of the Land of the Brave. Well done,
Namibia Environmental Act made easy................................ 10
Namibians!
Our sincere congratulations go to Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister,
Kalahari constituency gets an office.................................... 11
Dr. Abraham Iyambo, for being honoured by the Food and Agricultural
Organisation for his national, regional and international leadership in Light at the edge of the tunnel signals
sustainable fisheries management. May the Margarita Lizarraga Award
motivate you to continue with the good work that you have been doing Amathila’s time off................................................................ 12
in the fisheries sector, especially in Namibia.
At the start of a New Year, we have to echo the sentiments of President Mama Amathila..................................................................... 13
Hifikepunye Pohamba for Namibians to stand together and work hard to
Nam on track with HIV response......................................... 14
make Namibia a winning nation. There certainly are challenges facing us
as a nation, but we can translate these challenges into opportunities if Mbumba clears the air on Chinese scholarships.................. 15
we work together purposefully as one team in the interest of Namibia.
Towards the end of 2009, Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Libertina Amathila PM visits fish developments in Kavango.............................. 16
paid a farewell visit to the marginalised Ovatue and Ovatjimba
communities in the northern Kunene region. Dr. Amathila tackled the Vita Thom Royal House Chief “unforgettable”..................... 17
assignment to look after marginalised communities such as the Ovatue,
Caprivi schools face challenges............................................ 18
Ovatjimba and the San people with remarkable vigor and compassion.
Although she will be going into retirement soon, she can do so in the Caprivi school performance improves.................................. 18
knowledge that she did, indeed, touch the lives of people in need. The
Government Information Bulletin wishes Dr. Amathila a well deserved Gender-based violence campaign launched......................... 19
rest after having spent the greater part of her life working to ensure a
Volunteers trains on GBV..................................................... 19
2
better tomorrow for her fellow Namibians.
Our wish for Namibians in 2010 is that we shall all be blessed with an
Iitanango-Omakange road to boost economy..................... 20
abundance of tolerance to continue living together in peace and harmony,
buckets full of energy that will enable us to work tirelessly to bring the
News from Cabinet Chambers.............................................. 21
fruits of independence to all Namibians and endless wisdom to allow us
to address our individual and national challenges in a constructive way
to grow as people and a nation.

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government


The Government Information Bulletin was needs of communities, the public is invited to welcome to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing
established through Cabinet decision number send comments and suggestions on Government costs will be for the account of the subscriber.
13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information projects, programmes and policies, which will
bulletin to publicise the Government’s then be covered in the Bulletin. More Government
Private Bag 13344, Windhoek
programmes, policies and activities for the news and information can be accessed on the Telephone 061 - 2839111
benefit of Government institutions and the GRN news button on the Government internet Fax 061 - 230170
Namibian public. All Government institutions site at www.grnnet.gov.na E-mail grnmedia2000@yahoo.co.uk
contribute towards the Bulletin. The Government Design DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi,
Information Bulletin is published monthly by the The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural Windhoek.
Ministry of Information and Communication communities through the Ministry’s regional Layout and printing Solitaire Press, Windhoek.
Technology. To meet the specific information offices. The public and organisations are
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Elections entrenched Namibia’s


democracy
T he 2009 Presidential and National the next five years. It is the basis upon which and that is what we must provide to them,”
Assembly elections have entrenched we will address the socio-economic challenges Pohamba said.
the culture of democracy in Namibia and facing our people. Therefore, it is our duty
strengthened the country’s system of to implement all the policies and programmes Special attention will have to be given to
multiparty constitutional democracy. All outlined in the Manifesto,” Pohamba told his employment creation, public investments in
patriotic Namibians should be proud of Cabinet on 8 December 2009. the local economy, rural development, the
this achievement. provision of basic amenities and to boosting
The President said the electorate voted the the economic performance and improving the
These sentiments were expressed by President ruling party in because they believe that the education sector, the President stated.
Hifikepunye Pohamba when he addressed the Party will fulfill its election promises. “We should
last ordinary Cabinet meeting for 2009, shortly not let them down. Indeed, our people have President Pohamba called on his Cabinet to
after the announcement of the election results. high and justified expectations…….each and ensure that the policies and programmes
Pohamba once again thanked the Namibian everyone who will form part of the executive….. contained in the 2009 SWAPO Election Manifesto
voters for conducting themselves in a peaceful are expected to deliver on the promises that we are accommodated in the government’s Medium
manner during the voting process, saying it have made to the Namibian people,” Pohamba Term Expenditure Framework to ensure that
was a victory for the Namibian people and a said. their implementation are funded.
victory for democracy. The President also
applauded the nation for remaining peaceful The Head of State promised that in 2010 it will He thanked the Cabinet members for their hard
during the post-election period up to and after not be business as usual in the Government. work during the year, and praised the Cabinet
the announcement of the election results. He expected all civil servants to work tirelessly Secretariat for the valuable services it has been
to meet the government’s objectives. He also rendering to Cabinet.
Pohamba told his Cabinet that the new mandate cautioned that resources that are allocated
the government has received from the electorate towards the implementation of specific He called on Cabinet members to use the
will demand hard work from everyone to ensure programmes must be used effectively and holiday period to rest and recuperate, but also
that the ruling party fulfill the commitments efficiently. He warned that there will be no to think about fresh ideas on how to make
outlined in the Party Election Manifesto. “The room for complacency, indecision or vacillation. the government work better, faster and more
Manifesto is our blue print for governance during “The electorate expects prompt service delivery effectively.

President Hifikepune Pohamba addressing the last 2009 Cabinet meeting on 8 December 2009 while Prime Minister Nahas Angula listens attentively.
Photo: Nampa
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Make Namibia a winning nation - Pohamba Continues from page 1

According to Pohamba the government has also of implementation activities to ensure that public Touching on the social ills in the Namibian society,
made strides to improve the socio-economic services reach those who need it most. Pohamba lashed out against drug and alcohol
development of the country and to improve the abuse, saying that substance abuse is eroding
living conditions of Namibians. Several agricultural The President also praised those who have worked the social fabric of the nation. The President said
projects gained momentum in 2009, ground hard to contribute towards the development of the negative consequences of alcohol and drug
breaking ceremonies for several road construction the country and the betterment of the Namibian abuse are too numerous to mention. He called
projects took place and the Ohongoro cement society. “Your individual acts have created a on the Namibian society to change direction and
factory commenced and several public buildings national momentum that has carried our country to confront the problem of alcohol abuse in a
were inaugurated. forward towards the achievement of our national meaningful way in Namibia.
development objectives, documented in the NDPs
Projects that the private sector embarked on and Vision 2030,” he said. Pohamba also called on Namibians to work
created employment opportunities throughout together to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in
2009 and the President expressed the hope that According to Pohamba each and every one has a Namibia, urging Namibians to go for voluntary
this tendency will continue in 2010 and beyond. contribution to make towards the task of nation testing so that they can know their status and
building, adding that “we can only build Namibia make informed decisions.
In line with the 2009 SWAPO Party Election and make our country prosperous if we all work
Manifesto, the government will insist on greater together in unity of purpose and action”. The The President wished all Namibians a prosperous
efficiency, effectiveness and speed from officials President said with unity, no challenge will be too and happy New Year, “a year filled with optimism,
entrusted with the implementation of government great and no obstacle will be insurmountable. “We success and good health,” he said.
programmes and projects. In this regard, can achieve our goals if we join hands and work
Pohamba said he wants to see an intensification together as members of one team”.

Kaapanda addresses youth on nationhood


and pride
T he youth should understand and
internalise
importance of
the meaning
Namibia’s
and
national
Kaapanda wanted to know.

National pride, according to Kaapanda, refers to


be proud of being Namibian and you must act in
a manner that promotes the good image of the
country…..while shunning away from tribalism
symbols to consolidate the country’s patriotism and the social responsibility that goes and regionalism,” Kaapanda said.
nationhood, unity of purpose, democracy with it. “This calls for the youth to embrace a
and independence. sense of duty towards the country in protecting Kaapanda challenged the youth to adopt a
and maintaining what is dear to you for future patriotic spirit of readiness and sacrifice in the
Addressing the 4th Ordinary Representatives generations to also enjoy. As youth you must best interest of Namibia instead of sitting back
Council meeting of the National Youth Council and expecting the government to do everything
in early December 2009, Information and for them.
Communication Technology Minister, Joel
Kaapanda, said as Namibia is celebrating 20
years of independence in 2010, Namibians
should ask themselves whether they are proud
Namibians, whether, as a nation, we know our
4 history and who our heroes and heroines are,
what our national symbols stand for and what
the reason is for our being as a nation.

Kaapanda said Namibia’s nationhood came


about as a process of nation building out of the
ashes of the apartheid system of segregation
and homelands. “Namibia is a nation that was
born on 21 March 1990 and we consequently
acquired our National Flag as a symbol of our
unity and nationhood,” Kaapanda said.

Kaapanda asked whether the youth know that


the Coat of Arms depicts the country’s national
resources. “Did you know that the Oryx on
the Coat of Arms depict our national animal,
the fish eagle or national bird, the Welwitschia
Mirabilis our national plant and the diamond our
national gemstone against the backdrop of the
National Flag that symbolises our nationhood?” Information and Communication Technology Minister Joël Kaapanda.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Iyambo honoured for contribution to fisheries Continues from page 1

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Iyambo paid Namibia, furthermore, initiated and worked said it is frightening that human induced
tribute to the United Nations for according closely with Angola, South Africa and the climatic change is threatening agriculture,
fisheries its rightful place in the global United Kingdom to establish the South East land fertility, fisheries and aquaculture,
agenda through the promotion of sustainable Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (SEAFO), an especially if one takes into consideration that
fisheries. He said Namibia has been at the organization which is now fully functional and half a billion people in developing countries
forefront of regional collaboration in marine spearheaded by Namibia. SEAFO’s aim is to depend directly or indirectly on fisheries
scientific research in Southern Africa, adding ensure the protection of the environment and for their livelihoods. Furthermore, illegal,
that Namibia practices and values the the conservation and sustainable use of the unreported and unregulated fishing is causing
prudent management of shared fish stocks. living marine resources in the high seas outside sub-Saharan Africa to lose an estimated one
In 1997, Namibia established the Benguela the EEZs of Angola, Namibia and South Africa. billion US Dollar annually, equivalent to about
Environment Fisheries Interaction and 30% of catches.
Training Programme to enhance knowledge Dr. Iyambo also paid tribute to many countries
of the living marine resources and to improve and international oganisations for their Iyambo, therefore, called on world leaders to
understanding of the environmental factors. generous and consistent support to Namibia commit to sustainable fisheries and to honour
in the development of the country’s fisheries the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible
According to Dr. Iyambo, Namibia also helped sector. “These countries have indeed been Fisheries. “In the memory of Margarita
with the establishment of the Benguela safe pillars and bountiful fountains of hope Lizárraga, we must embrace concrete and
Current Large Marine Ecosystem Programme and knowledge as we formulate our fisheries collective actions and preserve what is left in
in 2001 to improve capacities in the region management initiatives,” Iyambo said. Iyambo the oceans,” he concluded.
and to deal with trans-boundary species.

Namibia celebrates Africa Statistics Day


By Julia Hamhata

N amibia joined the rest of Africa in development and monitoring of progress. updated causes of death classification that
commemorating the annual Africa countries should collect, compile and disseminate
Statistics Day on 18 November 2009. According to Katjavivi, the NPC has concluded the to properly manage the huge health interventions
first review of the Third National Development and or any other intervention,” Katjavivi said.
African Ministers responsible for economic Plan (NDP III) and the second Millennium
planning and development adopted November Development Goals (MDGs) report. However, the He indicated that although census and surveys
18 as Africa Statistics Day in May 1990 to Commission has a challenge of unavailability of are important techniques and methods of data
increase public awareness about the important data, which makes it difficult to measure certain collection, they are not sufficient, adding that
role that statistics play in all aspects of social goals of both the NDP III and the MDGs. Namibia does not need to “invent the wheel”
and economic life. Katjavivi further noted that development but to learn from other countries who managed
similar challenges, and move towards the
The day was celebrated under the theme conventional civil registration system.
“Strengthening Civil Registration and Vital
Statistics System in Support of National In Namibia, the current organisational and
Development and MDGs in Africa.” administrative setup is that the civil registration
is under the Ministry of Home Affairs and
Present at the event was the Director General of Immigration (MHAI), while the vital statistics is
the National Planning Commission (NPC), Prof. with the NPC or the Ministry of Health and Social
Peter Katjavivi, who told the gathering that the Services (MoHSS). 5
census and surveys are traditionally developed
to provide the statistics at specific point in time. Hence, Katjavivi emphasised the need for
“The combination and availability of these two proper strategies, mechanisms and institutional
data collection methods simultaneously in a linkages to address the interface and integration
country is a minimum requirement in generating of institutions to be able to attain complete and
annual, routine and current population Dr. Peter Katjavivi, Director General of the National universal civil registration, and vital statistics
estimates and projections that would enable us Planning Commission. systems in Namibia.
to calculate demographic and health indicators
using conventional methods,” he added. initiatives, decentralisation and democratisation Katjavivi further urged the Ministers of Home
processes and country level MGD measurement Affairs and Immigration; Health and Social
Katjavivi further stated that the NPC, through and assessment exercises require highly accurate Services; Justice and Regional and Local
the Central Bureau of Statistics, conducts and sustainable measurement tools that could Government, Housing and Rural Development
population census and household based surveys not be addressed with ad-hoc and indirect to enhance collaboration, coordination and
at intervals of ten and five years respectively. He data collection approaches such as census integration of the system among their respective
however, cited the necessity for the coexistence and surveys that are currently being used in ministries. While acknowledging the challenges
and complimentary between the two data developing countries, including Namibia. coming along with this collaboration, such as
collection methods with statistics from civil capacity building and human capital, Katjavivi is
registration such as birth, death, identification “There are critical data demands emerging at convinced that for them to achieve the national
cards, passports and driver licences, saying this global, regional and country levels in relation to goals, the only option is to convert these
will help in addressing the data demands for adult mortality, causes of death and maintaining challenges into opportunities.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Civil registration a developmental and human


rights issue
By Julia Hamhata

T he Ministry of Home Affairs and


Immigration, being the custodian
of civil registration, is among others
justice system, in social and
administrative services, as
well as in decentralisation and
responsible for the issuance of birth democratisation processes of
certificates, identity cards, death a country. “The benefits and
certificates, marriage certificates, services of civil registration
passports as well as emergence travelling and vital statistics systems to
documents. the individual, households,
the community, the public and
Officiating at the commemoration of Africa government are numerous,”
Statistics Day on 18 November 2009, the she added.
Minister of Home Affairs and Immigration,
Rosalia Nghidinwa, told the gathering that her According to the UN, only a
Ministry keeps records of all citizens, including few countries in Africa and Asia
foreigners who are residing within the territorial have complete civil registration
boundaries of Namibia. systems. The Working Group
on Monitoring Vital Events
The Minister also pointed out the challenges refers to this as “A scandal of
that Africa has been facing for the past 40 years Invisibility”, since many people
in developing the National Statistical Systems in Africa and Asia are born and
(NSSs), which resulted in civil registration die without leaving a trace
and vital statistics systems not receiving in any legal record or official Ms Rosalia Nghidinwa, Minister of Home Affairs and Im-
the attention they deserve. “As a result, the statistics. migration.
registration systems are largely incomplete,
weak and unable to provide the routine vital However, the Minister noted at hospitals is more proactive since it reduces
statistics needed for policy and programme that Namibia has made tremendous progress late registration of births and will provide real
design, implementation and monitoring,” she in this regard. The Ministry has accelerated the time statistical data.
said. issuing of national documents with the aim of
providing every Namibian with an identification “I am confident to inform this gathering that
“At the midterm evaluation of the Millennium document. Nghidinwa further said that during the project of registering new born babies at
Development Goals (MDGs), it is imperative the period 2005 – 2008, her Ministry has issued hospitals is going on very well and more than
that countries recognise that civil registration 572,244 birth certificates, 458,339 identity 7000 babies have been registered in Windhoek
is a developmental and human rights issue and cards, 17,846 marriage certificates and 94,467 since the inception of the project in September
our ability to monitor progress in this regard death certificates. last year. As of last month, we have extended
will depend on the availability of functional civil this project to Oshakati, Onandjokwe, Eenhana,
registration systems and reliable and timely Nghidinwa said a Memorandum of Oshikuku and Outapi hospitals based on the
vital statistics,” she added. Understanding that was signed between her high birth rate of about 20,000 babies born at
Ministry, the Ministry of Health and Social the above mentioned hospitals as reflected in
According to the United Nations (UN), civil Services and UNICEF in September 2008 to the 2008 annual report,” she revealed.
registration is the continuous, permanent, register new born babies with birth certificates
6 compulsory and universal recording of the
occurrence and characteristics of vital events
pertaining to the population as provided
“At the midterm evaluation of the Millennium
through decrees or regulations in accordance
with the legal requirements of each country. Development Goals (MDGs), it is imperative that
Among the vital events that are being referred countries recognise that civil registration is a
to by the UN are births, deaths, marriages and
divorces. Statistics on these have to be produced developmental and human rights issue and our
on a continuous and permanent basis.

The Minister also said that vital statistics


ability to monitor progress in this regard will depend
are crucial components of the NSSs as they
generate dynamics of the numerical profile of on the availability of functional civil registration
the human capital of countries.
systems and reliable and timely vital statistics”.
Nghidinwa further indicated that civil
registration systems play a critical role in the
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

‘Witbooi a man of vision and conviction’ –


Pohamba
By Julia Hamhata

T he nation owes it to the martyr of


the revolution to remain united
with commitment and fortitude, create
a stronger and democratic society to
which the Namibian heroes and heroines
have dedicated their lives. President
Hifikepunye Pohamba said this when he
was addressing thousands of mourners at
the Gibeon cemetery for the burial of the
late Hon. Rev. Dr. Hendrik Witbooi.

“We have a historic and national responsibility


to ensure that Namibia should forever remain
sovereign and independent,” he added.

The late Rev. Witbooi passed away on 13


October 2009 in the Roman Catholic Hospital
in Windhoek and was laid to rest on 25 October
2009 at the Gibeon cemetery, next to his late
wife Paulina Witbooi who passed away in 2003.
The late Witbooi is survived by his second
wife, Johanna Sophia Witbooi, six children, 21
The memorial service for the Late Rev. Hendrik Witbooi in the Parliament Gardens.
grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He
was 75. accorded a Heroes’ funeral. of wisdom, a source of inspiration and a
The soft spoken man, as he was described by torchbearer who stood firm in the face of colonial
At the memorial service of the late Rev. Witbooi many, was not only a political leader but also a brutality in defence of our peoples’ rights to
in the Parliament Gardens in Windhoek, teacher as well as a traditional and a spiritual self-determination, freedom and independence.
President Pohamba described the deceased leader who made differences in the lives of The life of the late Comrade Witbooi was a
as a freedom fighter, a nationalist, a comrade, many Namibians. life of selfless sacrifices, bravery and visionary
a traditional leader, one of the beacons of leadership,” said President Pohamba.
Namibia’s struggle for national liberation, a The late Rev. Witbooi was a”man of vision
reconciliator, a humble servant of the nation, and conviction” who actively participated in Although the late Rev. Witbooi is no more, his
a patriot, a loving husband, father and uncle, the national struggle for Namibia’s freedom legacy lives on. “As a nation, we can only keep
a dear brother, a dedicated SWAPO Party cadre and independence. “For the most part of his his legacy alive if we remain united; if we keep
and a servant of God. life, the late Comrade Hendrik Witbooi knew promoting the policy of National Reconciliation;
nothing else but a life of the struggle for if we maintain peace, security and stability in our
The late Rev. Witbooi became the first Minister national liberation, a life of detention, and a country; if we hold hands and march forward in
of Labour and Manpower Development in life of Christianity. It is, therefore, clear that unity to build Namibia to secure the welfare of
1990, a position he held until 1995 when he the role of this remarkable Namibian patriot in future generations,” Pohamba emphasised.
was appointed and sworn in as the first Deputy
7
the liberation struggle of our country is unique,”
Prime Minister until 2005, when he retired from explained Pohamba. The President urged the nation to rededicate
active politics. The late Rev. Witbooi was thus itself to the policy of National Reconciliation to
The Head of State further be able to meet the expectations of fallen heroes
noted that the SWAPO Party and heroines such as the late Rev. Witbooi, who
Government has embarked dedicated their lives to ensure that Namibia
upon the second phase of remains stable, peaceful, and secure.
the struggle since 1990,
and the late Rev. Witbooi Even though the State wanted to bury the late
was one of the foot soldiers. Rev Witbooi at the Heroes Acre as one of the
Pohamba added that the late Namibian heroes, this could not happen as he
Rev. Witbooi’s involvement in already requested to be buried at his home
the socio-economic welfare town, Gibeon. During the burial, President
of the Namibian workers and Pohamba declared the Gibeon cemetery as one
other disadvantaged groups of the shrines of the Namibian revolutionary
bears testimony to the trade historical monuments in the country.
mark he left behind.
The late Rev. Witbooi’s burial was attended by
“The late Comrade Hendrik thousands of mourners from all over Namibia,
Founding Father, Dr. Sam Nujoma and President Hifikepunye Pohamba
together with the late Rev. Hendrik Witbooi’s wife, Johanna Sophia Witbooi was a pillar of including political, traditional and spiritual
Witbooi during the burial service at Gibeon. strength, a fountain leaders.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

“We need to know what is under our soil,”


Nghimtina
By Rhingo Mutambo

M ines and Energy Minister Errki


Nghimtina says Namibia is endowed
with a kaleidoscope of minerals and much
Nghimtina said although minerals
happen to be an “irreplenishable
resource,” it is sad news that many
of the country is under-explored despite resource rich nations exploit those
an increase in prospecting investments. resources in an unsustainable
manner.
The Minister emphasised that to attract new
investment in prospecting and mining, a country “What is left behind is a negative
must have a business model with tailor made legacy of destitution and
parameters to manage and run a prospecting dilapidated environments,” he
and mining operation. said.

“What we are looking at is exploration. We According to Nghimtina, Epangelo,


need to know what is under the Namibian soil,” will allow citizens to become bona
he said. fide shareholders in the mineral
wealth of Namibia. Mines and Energy Minister Errki Nghimtina (centre) with the Board
He made these remarks at the inauguration of Directors of Epangelo, namely Eliphas Hawala, Helena Itamba,
Mathews Amungehete, Adv. Mandy Samson and Roger Gertze.
of the Epangelo Mining (Pty) Limited, a 100% Epangelo will provide a platform
government-owned company on 3 December for ensuring that the mineral
2009. wealth benefit future generations
to pursue its business imparatives based on
and contribute towards Namibia’s
sound business principles with a Board of
He said the idea to establish a government National Development Plans and Vision 2030
Directors that is constituted of technical experts
owned mining company resulted from a objectives.
who are well versed in the prospecting, mining
number of key strategic imperatives and
and legal disciplines.
objectives, adding that experiences have Asked what the startup capital for Epangelo
taught Namibia that state mining enterprises Mining was, the Minister set the budget at N$
The Board of Directors who were announced at
such as Alrosa and Endiana play a significant 1.5 million, hinting that this would increase in
this watershed event consists of Eliphas Hawala,
role in the development of mining industries the next financial year.
Advocate Mandy Samson, Roger Gertze, Helena
as well as in generating revenue through taxes
Itamba and Mathews Amunghete.
and royalties. He said Epangelo Mining will allow government

Namibia applauds Congo for generosity and


solidarity
8 By Julia Hamhata

N amibia and Congo Brazzaville have


a long standing bond of friendship
dating back to the days of Namibia’s
Madame Pohamba noted that through the
Congolese’s generosity, many Namibians were
educated at the Loudima Technical School. She
reached an agreement in 2006 to rehabilitate
the Technical Secondary School, Loudima in
Congo to become an institute for training and
struggle for freedom and independence. added that many of them are today contributing education.
Hence, the Namibian First Lady, Madame to the development of the country in their
Penehupifo Pohamba extended an respective capacities as Government officials, The Congolese First Lady was impressed to
invitation to her counterpart Madame business leaders, teachers and doctors. know that many Namibians who were trained in
Antoinette Sassou-N’guesso to visit “Namibia will always remember the Congolese Congo are today contributing enormously to the
Namibia. people for their generosity and solidarity” she development of Namibia, hoping that the senior
expressed. Congolese who are currently being trained in
“We will always recall that the people of the Namibia will emulate that good example.
Republic of Congo opened their arms to us In her statement, Madame Sassou-N’guesso
during those difficult days in the history of our related that everything the Congolese “I welcome your commitment to the fight
country as we confronted apartheid oppression” Government did for the freedom of the against HIV/AIDS and to work within your
said the Namibian First Lady during the official Namibian people was on behalf of Africa and organisation to ensure the empowerment of
visit by Madame Antoinette Sassou-N’guesso, all peace loving people. She also expressed widows and orphans of this pandemic,” said
First Lady of Congo Brazzaville to Namibia from her gratitude that the two Heads of States have Sassou-N’guesso.
12 – 15 October 2009. Continues on page 9
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

HIV/AIDS persists to destabilise fragile


economies
By Julia Hamhata

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has for the first zealously consider addressing the challenges and full implementation of the Ministerial HIV
time in 2009 joined the rest of Namibia and the of HIV/AIDS head-on and support prevention Workplace Programme that will guide us to
world in commemorating World AIDS Day on 1 programmes, which are aimed at reducing the effectively integrate HIV/AIDS activities into the
December. rate of HIV infections. core functions of the Ministry,” Asheeke urged.
He also emphasised that the Ministry should
As part of the public sector HIV/AIDS programme, “HIV/AIDS persists to destabilise fragile involve its various diplomatic missions abroad.
headed by the Office of the Prime Minister, the economies and social systems,” Asheeke noted.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs is determined to He added that HIV/AIDS has a devastating Although Namibia has recorded significant
prioritise and put in place prevention, treatment impact on the common effort to achieve national, success in the fight against the HIV/AIDS
and care support programmes to mitigate the regional and international stability, hence, the pandemic country-wide, new infections
impact of HIV/AIDS among its staff members. need to have in place a comprehensive HIV continue to emerge. This necessitates the
policy in the workplace to prevent the spread call for information sharing on HIV/AIDS and
Officiating at the Ministry’s commemoration of of the pandemic. support for behaviour change interventions to
World AIDS Day was the Deputy Permanent be the critical elements of a strong prevention
Secretary, Amb. Hinyangerwa Asheeke, who The Ministry of Foreign Affairs commemorated programme.
urged the ministry staff to collectively and the day under the theme: “Access to Workplace
Rights” for all ministry staff Asheeke noted that HIV/AIDS is not only a
members. medical issue, but also has an impact on the
economic and socio-cultural dimensions.
The Chairperson of the “Stigma and discrimination have proven to be
HIV/AIDS Workplace the greatest barriers hindering many people
Programme and Director from accessing, testing, prevention, care and
for Administration in the support services. Thus, fear of knowing and
Ministry, Benhardt Kukuri disclosing one’s status has added a dimension
stated that the Ministry of to the sensitive nature of the pandemic,” he
Foreign Affairs is trying to added.
reinforce and bring home
the message of caring to He therefore, emphasised the need for staff
help its staff members to members to cultivate the habit of knowing their
take care of themselves and status, as well as encouraging their colleagues,
their family members who friends and families to emulate such a habit,
are affected and infected by adding that individually and collectively the
the deadly virus. Ministry can make a difference.
Amb Wilbard Helao, Amb. Hinyangerwa Asheeke and Amb. Tuliameni
Kalamoh at the commemoration of World Aids Day by the Ministry of “We need to actively
Foreign Affairs. support the development

Namibia applauds Congo for generosity and solidarity Continues from page 8

She added that with the use of a molecule and girl children suffer disproportionately under women project, Penduka, and an orphanage 9
called Viramune, Congo has managed to the ills of the society, insisting that such a centre, Mount Sinai in Katututra Windhoek.
save unborn babies by administering HIV practice should come to an end.
positive pregnant mothers since 2000. “For “We should therefore, strive
the past two years, these mothers have together for the empowerment of
been supported by our Foundation through the girl child through education
funding for income generating activities to and raising awareness on issues
empower them as well as providing infant affecting their lives,” urged
formula that prevents transmission through Pohamba.
breastfeeding,” Sassou-N’guesso explained.
During her stay in Namibia,
The Namibian First Lady appealed to the Madame Sassou-N’guesso visited
women and the whole Namibian society to several places in the Northern part
stand together and find means of overcoming of the country such as the residence
the challenges facing them, as well as of Chief Herman Ipumbu of the
identifying a positive way of contributing to Uukwambi Traditional Authority at
the development of the country. Onamega in the Omusati region Chief Iipumbu of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority welcomes
the Congolese First Lady, Antoinete Sassou-N’Guesso (centre) and
and Okaukuejo in the Etosha Madam Penehupifo Pohamba to his homestead at the Onamega
Pohamba further cited that Namibian women National Park. She also visited a village, Elim constituency in the Omusati region.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

The HaiIIom now have Seringkop to call home


By Rhingo Mutambo

other previously disadvantaged communities.


Dr. Nashilongo Shivute, Under Secretary in the
Department of Land Reform and Resettlement
in the Ministry of Lands and Resettlements,
confirmed that the government managed
to conclude deals to purchase more farms
including Mooiplaas and Belelaida from
willing sellers for the previously marginalised
communities. During her working stopover at
Seringkop a year after she had facilitated the
resettlement of the HaiIIom communities here,
Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Libertina Amathila
Members of the Seringkop community.
was impressed by the “good inter-ministerial
coordination” at this farm. four envisioned classrooms, toilets and water
installations, which were expected to be
She encouraged the communities to work harder completed by the end of 2009, were in place.
and to take ownership of the farm, adding that The sub-committee, however, indicated that
Seringkop Chief, Mr. David Khamuxab. “if the government brought you to the fountain, teachers and stationery would be needed
it is your choice whether to drink or not.” The before the school commences.

F or years immemorial pending the


establishment of the Etotha Park
(commonly known as Etosha) and the
visibly enthusiastic community could not hide
their excitement for what government has done The community was encouraged to uphold
for them. They, however, expressed interest the joint management approach and use all
private farms around the park, the in starting capital projects such as charcoal the resources collectively. The community
HaiIIom communities lived around the production. They would, however, “need start- also informed the Deputy Prime Minister of
vast white historical Etosha pan. up capital.” The Deputy Prime Minister assured their good relationship with some commercial
the communities that her office will consider farmers in the area who have, in the absence
All they knew to sustain their family was to hunt training the youth in the charcoal business. She of their own bull, donated a breeding bull to the
the abundant wildlife and gathered wild plants also promised them that the next round of the farm for three months while some companies
for food and for clothing material, weapons and German Special Initiative Programme would be supplied them with vaccines for their livestock.
shelter without any limitations until they were earmarked for Seringkop and Uitkomst.
introduced to working in the park for money. The Health sub-committee has also reported
As the years went by their freedom to hunt “We want to make this place a Christian place that there were plans underway to have one of
and gather daily necessities was restricted and and start doing business slowly,” said the the trained San nurses attached to the outreach
the place they once treasured and called home eloquent Seringkop Chief, Mr. David Khamuxab. programme that visits Seringkop from Outjo
was fenced and in 1954 they could no longer Various technical committees comprised of once a month.
be allowed to hunt neither to live in the newly the Ministry of Health and Social Services,
created Etosha Park except as labourers. The Ministry of Lands and Resettlement, Ministry The Deputy Prime Minister was happy with the
situation compelled most of them to vacate of Environment and Tourism, Ministry of Works progress made. The community has, however,
their traditional territory - Etotha. and Transport and the Namibian Police formed also indicated some challenges including too
at Seringkop, briefed the Deputy Prime Minister many donkeys on the farm, the movement of
Since then, the HaiIIom communities have never on various undertakings on the farm subsequent people that affects the garden project, difficulty
had a place to call home. Hence, the Namibian to resettlement. in obtaining tools for maintenance, water
10 government has resettled 200 households of the supply, overcrowding, lack of mobile phone
HaiIIom communities at Farm Seringkop south Hence, progress reports on agriculture, reception, and a fence demarcation dispute
of Etosha in the Outjo constituency, through its education, health, construction of classrooms between Seringkop and Koppies Post.
resettlement programme in November 2008. and ablution facilities have been received.
At least now they have Seringkop to call home The Education sub-committee emphasised The issues were discussed at length, but follow
and government plans to buy more farms for its intention to educate children from grade ups and further discussions are to be made at
resettlement programmes of the HaiIIom and one to two in their mother tongue once the the community level.

Namibian Environmental Act made easy


By Rhingo Mutambo

H aving been passed in December 2007,


the Environmental Management
Act, Act No. 7, provides for the wise
its natural resources as provided for in
the Constitution.
management, namely government institutions,
organisations and individuals.

management of Namibia’s fragile It stipulates the roles and general functions The key principles of the Act are the use of
environment and the sustainable use of of all stakeholders involved in environmental renewable resources on a sustainable basis;
Continues on page 11
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Kalahari Constituency gets an Office


By Esther Benjamin

T he Omaheke Regional Council


recently opened a new office in the
Kalahari constituency at Tjaka / Ben Hur.
decentralise their reporting and do away with
cosmopolitan based reporting,” said Kazenambo,
adding that media practitioners should cover
The constituency office was officially events in small towns as well and not just focus
inaugurated by the Deputy Minister of on the central part of the country. He further
Regional, Local Government, Housing encouraged media practitioners to highlight the
and Rural Development, Kazenambo country’s achievements and thus encouraging
Kazenambo. national pride.

Kazenambo told the gathering to acknowledge Kazenambo explained that when people start
the development goals achieved by the recognising and appreciating the country’s
government, citing the inauguration of the achievements they would pave the way for Deputy Minister of Regional and Local Government,
Kalahari Constituency Office as an example of more development. He noted that the objective Housing and Rural Development, Kazenambo
Kazenambo inaugurating the Kalahari constituency
the efforts that the government is making in the of taking the government closer to the people
office.
delivery of its commitments to nation building. through decentralisation is materialising.

Kazenambo further told those with doubts to Kazenambo told the Ben Hur community that
look at what the SWAPO party has achieved and the opening of facilities such as the constituency
not at what they are being promised. “Trust in office is aimed at empowering the people. “The
the journey and trust in development. Believe inauguration of this office is an infrastructure
in what you are seeing and not in what you are for development and can be seen as a laid
being promised,” he added. foundation. This is your office, for you to make
use of,” he concluded.
The Deputy Minister also lashed out at the
media, saying that they should focus their Also attending the inauguration was the
reporting on the grassroots level as well, Governor of the Omaheke Region, Laura
calling on the journalists to get out of their McLeod-Katjirua, Kalahari constituency Kalahari constituency members who attended the
comfortable areas to go and get information Councillor Mogotsi and community members. inauguration of the constituency office.
from the grassroots level. “The media should

Namibian Environmental Act made easy Continues from page 10

the promotion of community involvement in harmful substances or if somebody pretends to As a country with its peoples’ well-being at
the management of natural resources; the be an environmental officer. heart, Namibia has already acceded to as
promotion of public participation in decision many as 17 international environmental
making; and to promote equitable access The guide also makes it clear that no one, conventions to help the country carry its
to all environmental resources. However, including private or government bodies, may environmental obligations and contribute to
the legal expectations contained in the carry out any activities that may have potential safer and sustainable natural resources.
Environmental Management Act would not be environmental consequences without obtaining
easily understandable, much less accessible
to those with little knowledge in legal
an environmental clearance certificate. The
Environmental Commissioner may also require
In December 2009, Namibia sent a powerful
delegation headed by Prime Minister Nahas
11
matters. Hence, the Government, through an environmental assessment prior to issuing Angula to the United Nations Climate
the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the clearance certificate. Change Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark to
has produced an illustrative guide entitled demonstrate the country’s commitment to the
“Guide to the Environmental Management The guide, furthermore, contains information reduction of the earth’s carbon emissions.
Act No. 7 of 2007,” to simplify the Act and on the reduction, re-use and recycling of all
ensure a balance between development and waste products, as well as on how to protect Namibia urged African states at the Summit
environmental protection. Namibia’s cultural and natural heritage, to collectively exert pressure on developed
including its wealthy biodiversity. nations to fulfil their commitments to the
The guide contains user-friendly information developing world on the implementation of
on the goals, scope and content of the Act by A film entitled “A Balancing Act” was also the Kyoto Protocol.
proving practical examples of how the Act can produced in English to increase understanding
help enhance decision making and planning, of the Act. The Oshiwambo and Afrikaans One of the Namibian principles of
thereby contributing towards the sustainable versions of the film will be available shortly. environmental management is that those
development of Namibia. The film calls on Namibians to manage their who generate waste and pollution must adopt
environment properly, unless we want to risk the best possible methods for reducing the
The guide states among others that it is leaving behind a piece of land that is broken waste or pollution, taking into account all the
an offence to give false information to an and abused…. a desolate landscape. necessary costs.
environmental officer conducting a search for
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Light at the end of the tunnel signals


Amathila’s time off
By Rhingo Mutambo

A s Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Libertina


Amathila plans to go on retirement in
March 2010 after a long political voyage,
electricity through the national rural electrification
programme.
economic face of Namibia would have changed.
We politicians love talking and talking but she is a
practical somebody. She got services for our most
she felt it was proper to make a final visit Mines and Energy Minister Erkki Nghimtina, who disadvantaged communities,” said Nghimtina at
to the Ovatue and Ovatjimba communities spearheaded the solar power installations project Otjikojo in Kunene region, on 5 October 2009.
in the Northern part of the Kunene region. at the three villages, said the solar system was One source revealed that sometimes Amathila
deemed appropriate for this type of settlement. would use her own money to buy necessities for
The aim of the visit was simply to inform them Consequently, every single house has been fitted the communities.
about her retirement and to officially launch with a single solar panel, while clinics have three
the solar power electricity installed for the panels. Echoing the words of the Minister, the Kunene
communities. Regional Governor, Dudu Murorua agreed that
The communities who previously had to travel “she is leaving a big challenge to Governors and
The manner in which she ended her long distances to fetch water and who only Councillors.”
commitment, love and passion to transform the knew fire, the moon and the stars as a source
living conditions of the previously marginalised of light, now have public taps and street lights. The communities were encouraged to keep lights
communities in the country, gives an interesting This is the first time in the Kunene region, if not off during the day and to jealously safeguard all
twist to the old adage “there is light at the end in the whole of Namibia, for a whole village to be their properties and report any vandalism to the
of the tunnel.” Indeed there is light at the end of electrified by solar power. relevant authorities. They will also be trained
her political journey. on how to handle and maintain the solar power
“I am surprised by what the government has systems.
After providing shelter to more than 689 Ovatue given us free of charge. Now we can see goat
and Ovatjimba people at Otjikojo, Otjomuru and and cattle dung. In the past we use to sleep in The Minister further said when the envisaged
Ohaiuua, and providing them with livestock, the dark, but now we have electricity. I will stay Baines hydropower station is fully functional the
accessible water, food, blankets, clothes, at Ohaiuua till I die,” said 79 year old Vakairika Kunene region will have enough power.
community gardens, seeds, schools, clinics, Tjambiru while relaxing in front of her house.
and a fridge, satellite dish and television to each Tjambiru only started getting her pension grant These poverty-stricken communities did not own
village, there was one commodity still missing, in 2006. any livestock nor did they have identification
namely electricity. documents before government intervened. With
“When we first saw television some of us the assistance of the office of the Ministry of
About 90 households were resettled at the three almost ran away, we thought its people coming. Home Affairs and Immigration at Opuwo, most
settlements, while 130 households have been Government has done well,” she recounted, of them have been registered.
resettled at Farm Uitkomst in the Otjozondjupa adding that they are very happy. However, she
region and Farm Seringkop in the Outjo said traditionally they were not accustomed to Amathila spent 47 tireless years working to
constituency of the Kunene region. a stranger’s household in front or at the back improve the lives of people and by March 2010
of another. “There is no place for family talks,” she will be glad to end her 5 year term as Deputy
Mr. Gerson Kamatuka, Director for Special she stressed. Communities were, however, Prime Minister. “I think it is the right time for me
Projects in the Office of the Deputy Prime encouraged to expand the villages and build to go and rest,” she said.
Minister said Government is also spending their traditional houses as long as they have
approximately N$100 000 per month on access to the services. “We will miss you Namazira”
12 allowances for volunteers and caretakers, as well
as for scholarships. He said the Office has also Nghimtina praised the
The Ovatue and Ovatjimba communities are

sent 15 of their volunteers living within these Deputy Prime Minister


communities to study nursing and two to study for all her efforts to
towards becoming qualified teachers. bring services closer
to the people. “We
“I want to pat myself on my back that am going are proud of you,”
home knowing that have I helped the people,” he commended
Dr. Amathila said with a visible mixed emotion of Amathila.
joy and sadness, on 5 October 2009 during the
official launch of the solar power electricity at He further encouraged
Otjikojo in the Kunene region. his fellow politicians
to stop talking and
She said she could not rest knowing that the rather become more
people she has resettled were in the dark, “practical” towards
learners had no lights to be able to read and the socio-economic
the weather was too harsh for the medication upliftment of the
at their clinics. Namibian people.
“If all politicians were Dr. Libertina Amathila examines a woman at the Ohaiuua resettlement clinic,
Amathila, therefore, pleaded with the Ministry hands on like Dr. shortly before President Pohamba held his 2009 Christmas party for the Ovatua
of Mines and Energy to provide the cheapest Amathila the socio- community. Photo: Nampa
Continues on page 13
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Light at the end of the tunnel signals Amathila’s time off Continues from page 12

disappointed that the only person they have 32 000 San community members and an the people who once had nothing at their
known as their rescuer will now have to leave unknown number of the Ovatue and Ovatjimba disposal and no place to call home. Pensioners
them. What seems to be more frightening is communities awaiting the government’s merciful now receive their government pension grant
the fact that they are not sure whether her hand. although they have to travel to pay points at
successor will be the same to them. Epupa or Okanguati for security reasons.
According to Kamatuka there are plans to request
This implies that whoever will step in the the National Planning Commission to conduct a The villages have grown in many ways and
Deputy Prime Minister’s shoes after she retires comprehensive survey to determine the total the people have taken ownership. Although
will have to be aware that he or she will have population of the San, Ovatue, Ovatjimba some community members have traded their
a high standard of excellence and expectations and other previously disadvantaged people in livestock, the cattle and goats are generally
to live up to. Namibia. well looked after. “Own the project and make it
sustainable,” encouraged the Kunene Regional
“We are sad that Namazira (Amathila) is leaving, Village progress Governor, Dudu Mururua.
but please go and rest well. We wonder if they Almost 18 months after President Hifikepunye
will replace you with someone who will treat us Pohamba officially handed over three newly Schools and garden cultivation are progressing
the same. She was a God’s sent lady and she established villages to the Ovatue and well. The communities have among others
made us her favourite as God to his people,” Ovatjimba communities on 13 June 2009, there planted maize, spinach, pumpkins, carrots
said one community member on behalf of the are tremendous improvement in the lives of and beans. The Deputy Prime Minister was
others. Continues on page 14

The community pleaded with the Deputy Prime MAMA AMATHILA


Minister to “please come visit” them and to tell
whoever will replace her that “there are people //Naûs ai kai
who eat too much here.” Amathila promised
that she will always “keep an eye on them” xawe mûs ai #khari
even when she is not in the office. Kaise /gawise /naúhe
Xawe /gâkhoen //aegu hohe
They have come to admire a woman they say
is “small in stature but powerful in mind.”
Amathila has not only demonstrated her !Hoãs /gui tamas
commitment, love and passion for the welfare Siseni tsîn tawas
of under privileged communities, but have
sacrificed her time and luxury to this call.
Koãsens tsî mûhes ose
Xawé /gâsana /gâba xura ore
Many have described her as an exceptional
and selfless hard working woman who has the
well-being of the poor at heart.
‡Gúro tare /Aedi aos Namibiab disa
//îs aida-a ‡îsa
She has literally traded the luxury of her home
and her ventilated office to be among the
/Gaisa ‡gômsas úhâ, tsîs Gao aoba ‡ân
marginalised communities. She often chooses
to drive long distances on bumpy roads instead Xu-î aos ta dân
of flying, and sometimes she shuns motorcades
and at times she is seen walking without her
!Noesase /gui !gû, ne/î tsî nãu/î
13
security she is entitled to, to take services to
the margalised communities. Sîseni ge !haese ga toa t’mî

“We are amazed by this high ranking official,


Hukã /gui ra gorose ‡aî ‡hansen sida xa
who came from nowhere to come and eat
what we eat and sleep in her tent under the Ma /gaus ais ni ra huida
trees in the cold and the heat of Kaokoland,”
said one resident. Libertines /gaisase ra //gora
During her tenure of community service Dr. Xu-î aon San tsîna go !nora
Amathila has left permanent footprints in
nine regions in Namibia, namely the Kunene, ‡nu audos /guis ta /khi
Otjozondjupa, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Oshana,
Omusati, Kavango, Caprivi and Omaheke
Tin nauna ra mi
regions.
Sida di mamas a //î
Her special projects have reached more than
10 000 people from previously disadvantaged
Tsida kaise a ‡khî
communities in Namibia. This is, however, the
tip of the iceberg as there are an estimated Mama Amathila
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Light at the end of the tunnel signals Amathila’s time off Continues from page 13

impressed by the progress made so far,


especially at the Otjomuru settlement east of Customary leadership
Okanguati. backbiting
Some community councillors
“I’m happy the garden is shining,” she said. under the Epupa constituency’s
The irrigation system has been a problem due headman questioned the
to low water pressure. However, each village appointment of the Ovatue and
was provided with a fuel water pump and Ovatjimba “Chiefs” selected by
villagers received guidance on how to best the communities themselves at
irrigate the gardens. the three established villages
(Otjikojo, Ohaiuua and Otjomuru).
Amathila almost cried as she listened to the They also expressed unhappiness
school kids singing the national anthem and that the “Chiefs” were apparently
she applauded the teachers for educating not introduced to the existing Ovatua community leaders welcome President Hifikepunye
them. leadership. Pohamba at the Ohaiuua village in the Epupa constituency of the
Kunene region during the President’s 2009 Christmas party. Photo:
Nampa
The people have taken ownership and have Most of the disgruntled councillors
started building their own traditional houses to belong to the Ovahimba
keep their ethnicity. communities and it appears like the whole
More needs
leadership dispute hinges on politics, envy and
The communities complained about lack of
“Call it Villages, not camps” egocentric mind-set.
transport for the sick or the deceased to the
Skeptics have scoffed the corrugated iron
nearby clinic at Okanguati, and voiced the
houses at the three settlements with some “What is their area of jurisdiction,” they
need for radio and mobile phone networks.
saying the resettled communities are not questioned the Deputy Prime Minister.
allowed to move freely, bring or selling alcohol
“Often pensioners have to travel to get their
there and calling these three villages “camps”. The Deputy Prime Minister said the Ovatue and
money at designated pay points and come
The Deputy Prime Minister encouraged the Ovtjimba communties have been under the
back almost empty handed as they had spent
people not to call their settlements camps, oppression of the well off communities in the
all the money on transport,” they said.
but villages. Dr. Amathila dismissed allegations region and it was high time they felt liberated
that people are not allowed to move freely. and re-establish their traditional authorities
They have requested the government to
to administer their own affairs without any
consider providing each village with donkeys
“I don’t want politics here. These are villages troubles.
and a cart that can serve as transport.
and not camps. These are your own homes,”
she said. She also pointed out that the appointed Chiefs
It is also clear that these communities need
were only operational chiefs for the settlements
information on sanitation, health, crop
The communities were also encouraged to she had established and not a substitute for the
cultivation and animal husbandry.
keep their livestock together and not to sell existing district traditional leadership structures.
them until they have multiplied.

Nam on track with HIV/AIDS response


14
H IV prevalence among pregnant
women in Namibia has decreased
significantly from 22% in 2002 to 17.8%
Global Fund and Pepfar.

Despite the progress, the


in 2008 according to the latest sentinel Ministry of Information and
survey results. Approximately 204 000 Communication Technology
Namibians are living with HIV and more will continue to fight HIV with
than 70 00 people are on anti-retroviral messages to help change the
treatment. behaviour of people in Namibia,
Kaapanda said. The latest
According to Information and Communication theme of the Ministry’s Take
Technology Minister Joel Kaapanda, this is a Control HIV/AIDS campaign is
remarkable achievement, demonstrating that “Break the Chain”, a campaign
Namibia is on track with its commitment to aimed at addressing multiple
respond to the HIV pandemic. and concurrent partnerships.
MICT’s Julia Hamhata shows the brochure and logo of the Break the
Chain HIV/Aids campaign.
Launching the multiple concurrent partnership Multiple and concurrent
Take Control HIV and AIDS campaign on 4 partnerships have been
December 2009 in Windhoek, Kaapanda said the identified as one of the main low levels of male circumcision.
progress resulted from a combination of efforts drivers of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa, including
by the Government and its partners, such as Namibia. Other drivers are low risk perception, The “Break the Chain” campaign explains the
the UN agencies, the World Health Oganisation inconsistent condom use, alcohol abuse, which risk of sexual networks and shows how to get
and the technical and financial support from the often result in high-risk sexual behaviour, and off these networks, Kaapanda said.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

Mbumba clears the air on Chinese


scholarships
By Rhingo Mutambo

of Information and Communication Technology whether it was a coincidence that only the
on 2 November 2009. children of senior government officials knew
about the Chinese scholarships.
Besides Minister Mbumba, Information and
Communication Technology Minister Joel “We did not have all the details of what happened
Kaapanda, his Special Advisor Mr. Mvula ya and when it happened,” said Mbumba.
Nangolo, MICT Permanent Secretary Mbeuta
ua-Ndjarakana and the Minister for Presidential The media also questioned the moral imperatives
Affairs, Hon. Abert Kawana were also present at for high ranking government officials to accept
the media conference. the scholarship intended for low income family
learners.
Contrary to media reports, Mbumba stated
that the income levels of parents of applicants The Education Minister reiterated that his
for financial assistance are taken into account Ministry was no aware of how that came about
when scholarships, administered by the Ministry and said the government cannot interfere with
of Education, are considered. what the embassies have done at their own
discretion.
He stressed that the Namibian government was
Education Minister, Nangolo Mbumba. fully committed to the welfare of its low income The students who benefited from the Chinese
citizens. Hence, it has budgeted an amount of scholarship in question are Ndapandula N

E ducation Minister Nangolo Mbumba


says all scholarships that have been
given to the children of senior government
N$ 213, 772 million for the 2009/2010 financial
year to assist 6000 students from low income
Haulenga, R. L Hamayulu, K. G Kampungu,
Kahupi Kekondjo, P. E. J Mbadhi, Lukas
backgrounds at tertiary institutions or studying Nambinga, Ndapandula Nuuyoma, L. N Usko,
officials as reported in the media, were abroad. S. N Ngheedelwa and J. N.Shatiwa.
not part of scholarships offered by or
through the Namibian government. The Namibia Students Financial Assistance Some media houses felt these beneficiaries
Fund (NSFA), a government fund which was appear to have come from one tribal group to
Mbumba explained that the scholarships in established in 1997 is governed by the Namibia which the Minister responded that it was a big
question are administered and offered directly Student Financial Assistance Fund Act, Act No. mistake to assume what tribe the beneficiaries
by sponsoring countries through their embassies 26 of 2000. came from on the basis of their surname.“It is
or high commissions in Namibia. easy to find an Otjiherero speaking Mbumba,
The Act lays down procedures for student Mbumba Kavango or Oshiwambo speaking
“It is, therefore, false and misleading for financial assistance. It establishes a Board Mbumba,” he stressed.
some of the print media to insinuate that high with statutory powers to administer the Fund.
ranking government officials are snatching such The income level of parents or guardians is The Minister assured the nation that the
scholarships at the expense of children from one of the determining factors for successfully Government will continue with its proud tradition
poor backgrounds,” he emphasised. applying for financial assistance from this fund. of making the needs of the low income groups
The only exception where a student can qualify in Namibia a priority and to grant scholarships

15
He also pointed out that China offered 40 for this government sponsorship is where to their children.
scholarships to the government in the last parents are sponsoring other children even if
years. their combined income is above the margin of Mbumba called on foreign missions in Namibia
N$ 150 000 per annum. to advertise scholarships on offer to ensure
With regard to President Hifikepunye Pohamba’s transparency.
daughter, the Minister said the President’s He said there are also scholarships offered to
daughter only informed her parents about the the Namibian government through the Minister “We are all experiencing this situation for the
scholarship about three months after she had of Education by friendly countries. About 473 first time. This is a learning process. We hope
received notice that her application had been such scholarships have been offered since to be much wiser in the future,” he said.
successful. “Her parents were never involved at 1997. “This year alone (2009) there are 70 such
any stage,” he said. scholarships from countries such as Algeria
(25), China (10), Croatia (1), Cuba (1), Czech
“We did not have all
He denied that the parents of the beneficiaries
influenced or requested those countries to
Republic (2), Russia (16) and Slovakia (1),” he
said.
the details of what
offer scholarships to their children as alleged in
newspaper reports. The media, however, felt the scholarships happened and when
to children of politicians and high ranking
“I want to state in no uncertain terms that such
reports are completely unfounded and false,” he
government officials were shrouded in it happened,” said
mystery. Neither the Chinese Embassy nor
said at a media conference held at the Ministry the Government could provide answers as to
Mbumba.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the regions


PM visits fish developments in Kavango
By Dr. Ekkerhard Klingelhoeffer and Foibe Fillipus

S ectors that are


engaged in renewable
resources, such as
fisheries, tourism and
agriculture should be
preserved as they are
the sectors which could
sustain Namibia in the
future.

Prime Minister Nahas Angula


expressed this sentiment in
mid-November 2009 when he
visited the Kamutjonga Inland
Fisheries Institute (KIFI) and
the Karovo Fish Farm in the
Kavango region. According
to the Prime Minister, other
resources such as diamonds,
zinc, copper, gold and
uranium can get depleted,
leaving only unused holes.
Those holes, he said, should
be used for fish farming to
improve food security in the
country.

Commenting on the
Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries
Prime Minister Nahas Angula assists with the harvesting of fish at the Karovo Fish Farm.
Institute (KIFI), Angula
said he is impressed by the
started, followed in 2008 with the construction farming projects, striving for self-sufficiency by
foresight of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine
of an aquarium, hatchery, nursery, fish grow- developing integrated fish farming, which is
Resources and especially of the Minister, Dr.
out ponds, additional accommodation, a guard combining fish farming with vegetables, fruit
Abraham Iyambo, for building the Institute. He
house, police quarters, a field kitchen and a trees, ducks and chicken production.
also praised the involvement of national and
pump station.
international experts in the institute, saying
The Karovo Fish Farm is operated by community
that it contributes to attaining the objectives of
KIFI was established with the aim to conduct members, who are benefitting both financially
the institute.
research, breed fish, and cater for students and protein wise from the farming activities.
16 Angula called on the Fisheries and Marine
doing their Master’s and PhD degrees, to store The farm is adding value to the livelihood of
data and to reach out to the communities in the the communities in the remote areas of the
Resources Ministry to continue with capacity
vicinity of the institute. Kavango region, while it is also inspiring the
building at the institute and to engage the
communities to empower themselves.
surrounding communities as it will add value
KIFI will start providing fingerlings to the
to their livelihoods and create new knowledge.
Karovo Fish Farm in 2010, which will enable Seeing the Karovo Fish Farm, Prime Minister
He similarly encouraged villagers to establish
the fish farm to produce an average of 1.5 Angula said it has, since 1989, been the dream
their own fish ponds and to engage on a large
tonnes of fish per month. This can increase of the government to make the Kavango region
scale in fish farming to contribute to the GDP
to 2 tonnes per month with increased quality the bread basket of Namibia through the
of Namibia.
management. promotion of fish farming and Green Scheme
activities.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba inaugurated
The Karovo Fish Farm is situated in the
the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute in
Kangongo constituency of the Kavango region, Angula urged community members on the farm
October 2008. Located in the Mukwe district
approximately 70 km west of KIFI. The farm, to work hard to ensure that Namibia win the
of the Kavango region, construction on the
which was initially created as a pilot project, war against poverty and malnutrition in the
institute started in 2005 with the building
has developed significantly and is sustaining a next five years, securing food security for all.
of an administration block, laboratories,
cooperative with fish, fruit, vegetables, ducks
a library, board room, workshop and staff
and chickens. While at the fish farm, Prime Minister Angula
accommodation. In 2007 the construction of
witnessed a fish harvest and was treated to a
a dormitory to accommodate 28 students, a
The Karovo Fish Farm is modeled on Asian fish lunch which included the harvested tilapia.
kitchen, laundry, dining hall and access roads
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the regions


Vita Thom Royal House Chief, ‘unforgettable’
By Rhingo Mutambo

T he Council of Traditional Leaders in


Namibia will not easily forget the
contributions made by the late Chief Mr.
Traditional Chiefs from various
Ovaherero Royal Houses, namely
John Kapuka Thom of the Vita Thom Royal Chief Tjavara, Chief Uemutonda
House who passed away on 31 October Mureti, Chief Kaihepovandu
2009 in Opuwo. Maharero, Chief Tumbee Tjombe,
Chief Uaakutjo Kambazembi,
“We will miss his dignified royal presence at the Chief Eerike Zeraua, Chief
tables of the Council of Traditional Leaders,” said Keharanjo represented by Mr.
Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Libertina Amathila on Tjuindikua Kahuure, Chief
6 November 2009 at the memorial service held Paul Kahorere, the Ovadhimba
at his palace in Omatete in Ohandungu district, community Chief Mr Jonas
north of Opuwo. Tjikuria and a representative
of the Uukwaluudhi Traditonal
Amathila, who delivered the statement on Authority attended the funeral.
behalf of President Hifikepunye Pohamba said Mourners surrounded the coffin of the late Chief John Thom of the
Chief Thom will be missed for “his friendship, “This is not only a traditional, Vita Royal House.
wise advice and his fair and impartial rule”. regional event but also a national
event,” said the Deputy Prime
Speaker after speaker praised the late Chief Minister.
for his bravery, selfless attitude and respect for
everyone including his subordinates and the John Kapuka Thom was
youth. They stressed the need for peace and appointed as the Chief of the
unity of the Otjiherero speaking communities. Vita Royal House in 1996,
“Let us work together. Let us support each succeeding his brother Chief
other,” said Chief Kaihepovandu Maharero of Johannes Kazonguindi Thom,
the Maherero Royal House. who succeeded their father and
laudable Chief of the Ovaherero
He was a hero, farmer, father, a chief, a communities in the great Kunene
conqueror who never feared predators like lions region, the late Oorlog Harunga
and leopards, eulogised speakers. Thom.

Oorlog is an Afrikaans word for


Chief Thom was a gentle war or hostility, which literary
means oVita in the Otjiherero
language. With the omission Ovahimba men singing warrior songs for the hero at the funeral of
man and “even death of an ‘o’, the later became the
the late Chief John Thom of the Vita Royal House.

famous name of the Chief who


could not transform the has been known for his heroic and sometimes
the Ovaherero people, Chief Kuaima Riruako,
while he also attended the funeral of the late 17
abysmal and ruthless leadership among the
Ovaherero Chief Clemens Kapuuo.
look of his complexion.” defenseless communities of his time.
The late Chief also supported the reparation
Although Chief Thom was generally
of the 1904 Ovaherero German genocide. He
remembered as an introvert and peace loving
and other leaders have in 1992 established a
The funeral, described as “distinctive and person, he was stern, assertive and protective
committee known as the Opuwo Committee on
extraordinary” was attended by approximately of his territory.
Genocide.
2000 people, including high ranking government
officials, religious leaders, historians, Chiefs Chief Thom was a gentle man and “even death
Sources revealed that Chief Thom “played a
from other Ovaherero Royal Houses across could not transform the look of his complexion.”
crucial role in the pre-independence era by
Namibia and local sympathisers. He was also known as an accommodative
mobilising the communities to assist PLAN
and supportive good hymn singer, who has
fighters during the liberation struggle. He also
“This is a very different funeral from all we committed himself to the well-being of his people
aligned his traditional rule with the development
have attended. It is very unusual that you are and to the call of traditional servanthood.
programmes of the government of the day.
served with such delicious vegetable soup, jam
and butter bread and non-stop coffee with Born on 10 January 1918 at Otjijandjasemo in
Buried next to his father, Oorlog, on 17 November
fresh milk throughout the night long memorial the Epupa constituency in Kunene North, Chief
2009, Chief Thom is survived by three wives, 14
service. This shows that a real Chief has fallen,” Thom participated in many activities including
Children and 123 grandchildren.
mourners said. the appointment of the Paramount Chief of
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the regions


Caprivi schools face challenges
By: Frederick Simasiku

Former school inspectors say the shortage money to buy some textbooks, but this cannot a teacher is sick and another one is on leave.
of accommodation for teachers, water alleviate the shortage of books, as buying Ndopu is also of the opinion that automatic
supply problems, textbooks, transport textbooks for every learner was a “very promotion of learners are not working as
for staff members, lack of discipline and expensive” exercise. learners keep failing due to the absence of a
commitment on the side of teachers, stable education foundation.
automatic promotions of learners and Competition over textbooks is another reason
the regular flooding of schools in some for the problems in the Caprivi region. Most of A retired teacher with 39 years experience
parts of the Caprivi region are some of the education materials earmarked for schools lamented that in some cases teachers are not
the major factors that hinder education in the Caprivi are first dropped at the Rundu properly trained to handle multi-grade classes.
in that region. Central Book Store before they are dispatched
to the schools in the Caprivi Region. “For how Another former school inspector, Mr. Borneface
In an interview with the Government long will Caprivi continue to be depended on Mukhwata Limbo, aged 67 years who has
Information Bulletin, Mr. Albert Zacharia Ndopu Rundu,” Ndopu asked, saying that when they worked for the Ministry of Education in the
said most of these challenges can be attributed send drivers to collect the books in Rundu, Caprivi region for the period of 35 years,
to the Ministry of Education, parents and the by the time they arrive, most of the new and recollected that the old system of education
learners themselves. required textbooks have already been taken by was “strictly” about discipline from both learners
the Kavango schools. and teachers.
Ndopu, a former school inspector, used the
example of Sanjo Senior Secondary School He argued that the system of dumping old “Education was taken very seriously, unlike
and other schools with hostels as schools reading materials for the Caprivi schools also these days and the emphasis was not only on
with poor sanitation and dilapidated physical contribute to the low pass rates in the region, the subjects that were taught in schools, but
infrastructure, including teachers’ houses. while driving from Katima Mulilo to Rundu to also on the extra mural activities such as hand
fetch books, leads to unnecessary expenses. writing, arts and crafts, manual work, music
He said some hostels do not even have beds, and sports,” said Limbo.
while some learners are using lockers as beds. As for teachers’ accommodation, Ndopu said
An enquiry into the situation reveals that the situation is bad. Schools such as the Limbo further said the scheme of work in those
these shortages can simply be attributed to Malundu and Lusese Primary Schools use their days was strictly to follow the syllabus and
insufficient provisions of such facilities from the storerooms as accommodation and kitchens for ensure daily preparations with teaching aids,
relevant authorities. teachers, he said. arguing that there is “no discipline” in the new
system of education and education is not taken
Regarding the shortages of books, Ndopu said He further lamented that some schools seriously.
this was a common outcry by the learners in experience an acute shortage of teachers.
most of the schools in the Caprivi Region. He In these cases, schools are often compelled He said there are too many teachers’ workshops
said the government really tries to allocate to come to a halt for some days or weeks if and as a result the learners suffer.

Caprivi school performance picks up


18 By: Frederick Simasiku

D eputy Director of Education in Caprivi


Region Mr. Austin Samupwa says a
comparison of three years from 2006 to
grades. This was successful for the first time
in the August 2009 mock examination. On
primary levels. The situation was investigated
and recommendations were submitted to the
the procurement of school stock, the Deputy head office of the Ministry of Education in
2008 indicates that despite challenges, Director said that the ordering of school stock Windhoek for consideration.
school performance in the region has is done at the beginning of the financial year,
improved. which is April to May to ensure early delivery of Hostel matrons and superintendents have been
textbooks and other consumables to all schools trained in food preparation and hygiene during
According to him, the region has in terms in the last term of the preceding year or early 2009 and they had the opportunity to visit the
of national ranking improved in the Junior in the new year. Otjozondjupa region to learn the best practices
Secondary Certificate examinations. In 2006, and plough it back in the Caprivi region.
the Caprivi region ranked 10th, while it improve “A system of checking delivered items against
to 4th in 2007 and decline again to 6 in 2008. ordered items has been put in place to ensure Samupwa said a new hostel was under
that funds budgeted for this purpose are not construction at the Sangwali Senior Secondary
To further improve the situation in the region, returned to treasury,” he said, adding that School to alleviate hostel problems in the
a Regional Examinations Committee was the repair of desks and chairs at the local region, adding that two new lower primary
established in February 2009 with the task to depot is done sporadically. Regarding hostel schools were expected to open their doors to
oversee examination matters in the region, administration, Samupwa said the region learners from the Kisako, Zilitene and Mukorofu
including writing standard examinations in all experiences a shortage of hostels, particularly at areas during the 2010/11 financial year.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the regions


Gender-based violence campaign launched
By: Maria N. Hedimbi

T he Gender-Based Violence (GBV)


campaign, which also addresses
human trafficking, was launched in the
in 2007, while the figure dropped
to 11 611 cases of GBV that were
reported in 2008.
second half of 2009 at the Oshikango
border post in the Ohangwena region. “What are we thinking when our
The campaign was launched by Prime hospital wards are filthy - overflowing
Minister Nahas Angula under the theme with women and children who
“Zero Tolerance for Gender Based require antibiotics, anti-retroviral
Violence: Report it to stop it.” and more often, gynecological
surgery to survive physical abuses?”
This campaign resulted from the action- the Prime Minister asked.
oriented recommendations developed during
the national conference on GBV that was held The Premier urged Namibians to
by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child develop the sense of speaking
Welfare (MGECW) in June 2007. out when acts of injustices are
committed. He made special
GBV has been a matter of concern in Namibia reference to women who, due to
and numerous reported cases have shown an fear, choose not to reveal gender-
increase in this form of violence. Another cause based abuses. Prime Minister Nahas Angula.
of concern is baby dumping by young mothers,
which is prevalent in the Erongo and Khomas The Acting UN Resident Coordinator,
regions. Joyce Mendes-Cole echoed the Prime Minister’s labour, human migration in the form of human
sentiment by saying that many women and girls trafficking and sexual exploitation of women
The campaign on Zero Tolerance for GBV believe that it’s normal and are encouraged and girls.” remarked the Prime Minister.
focuses on three areas, namely passion killings, to bear abuse because traditionally “that’s
baby dumping and human trafficking. how men ought to behave”. She pointed out Matt Harrington of the USA Embassy sees
interventions that are necessary in fighting human trafficking as a crime that involves many
According to the Prime Minister all citizens are human trafficking as legal and policy measures, victims, some of which are indirectly involved,
obliged to uphold the spirit of the campaign prevention and public awareness campaigns, adding that family members left behind will
on GBV by reporting all cases to the police protection services, as well as training for skills suffer the trauma of trafficking. He noted that
so that culprits can be brought to book. He enhancement and capacity development of human trafficking is a global scourge with
urged Namibians not to leave this responsibility service providers. terrible consequences for some of our most
to the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child vulnerable citizens.
Welfare alone, but to work together for a good “The recognition that gender-based violence is
outcome. a human right issue is a crucial step forward A study on human trafficking was conducted in
in combating the growing incidence of global Namibia in April 2009 in eight regions namely
According to national statistics on GBV, 12 563 human trafficking and of particular concern the: Khomas, Ohangwena, Oshikoto, Caprivi,
cases were reported to the Namibian police when we approach issues such as child Kavango, Karas, Erongo and Omaheke regions.

19

Volunteers trained on GBV


By Brenda Niilenge

A three day training programme on


gender-based violence, organised by
the Ministry of Gender Equality and Child
required for them to organise workshops and
educate their communities on gender-based
violence and reproductive health. Volunteers
The training focused on topics such as gender
and sex, gender equality, domestic violence,
national policies on gender-based violence, and
Welfare was recently held in the Omaheke were also trained on how to interact with sexual and reproductive health. It also looked at
region. community members. the mandate of the Women and Child Protection
Unit, prevention of HIV/AIDS and sexually
The aim of the training was to help reduce About 22 volunteers from different rural transmitted diseases and baby dumping, which
gender-based violence and to educate the areas in the region attended the training. The is a growing problem in the country.
community on reproductive health issues through volunteers help and support victims of gender-
the Women and Child Welfare Protection Unit based violence and identify different crimes The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child
Volunteers in the region. It was also aimed at against women and children and report it to the Welfare believes that training the volunteers
equipping volunteers with knowledge and skills police.
Continues on page 20
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the regions


Iitananga-Omakange road to boost economy
By Don Kaimbi

O n 14 November 2009 the residents of


Iitananga, Iikokola, Onamandongo
and other neighbouring villages in the
national needs. Thus, the Government has
prioritised our national needs to ensure that
development takes place in all corners of the
He said the government will continue to allocate
resources to ensure that development is felt
by all people. The President, however, urged
Tsandi constituency in the Omusati country. the communities of the Kunene and Omusati
region witnessed yet another new road regions to give their full cooperation to the
infrastructure development in the region contractors that are building these roads to
when President Hifikepunye Pohamba avoid unnecessary delays and thereby ensuring
officially commissioned the construction The President that the road is completed on time.
of the road commonly known as the
Okahao-Omakange road. also reminded the Echoing the same sentiment, the Omusati
Regional Governor, Sacky Kayone called on
The upgrading of 83km sand road to a bitumen
standard will not only provide an important link
communities that the contractors and engineers to work in close
collaboration and in consultation with villagers.
to the inhabitants of the Omusati and Kunene
regions, but will also provide a shorter distance Namibia, like any other The Governor said the local people know the
to these inhabitants when traveling to the area well and can provide valuable advice with
Khomas and Erongo regions compared to the country in the world, regard to the correct positioning of bridges and
existing B1 road . culverts, adding that the provision of a suitable
has limited resources road network is vital in communication and
The President assured the jubilant communities facilitation of economic growth, which is key to
that this is a re-confirmation of the
Government’s commitment to the development
and unending competing the realisation of Vision 2030.

of infrastructure that would lead to the socio- The Iitananga-Omakange road, which runs
economic development of Namibia and her national needs. Thus, from the Omusati to the cattle-rich Kunene
people. region, is expected to provide farmers in the
the Government has Kunene region with easier access to wider
Pohamba said previously the movement of markets, especially the central northern regions,
people and goods between the Omusati and
Kunene regions has been limited by the lack of
prioritised our national Pohamba said.

proper road infrastructure, thus depriving the


majority of the residents of these two regions
needs to ensure that The road will also link landlocked countries such
as Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi via
of easy access to basic services. the Trans-Caprivi highway through the Rundu-
development takes place Nkurenkuru-Erundu road, which is also under
The President also reminded the communities construction. “This road has the potential to
that Namibia, like any other country in the world, in all corners of the attract increased tourism to these two regions
has limited resources and unending competing and thereby boosting their local economies,”
country. said Pohamba.

20

Volunteers trained on GBV Continues from page 19

on the above topics will greatly benefit the hygiene and to improve their communication and train others in their respective areas,”
communities. After the training the volunteers skills. said Hijamutiti.
would be able to educate communities on
where to seek for help if they would find Hilde Hijamutiti, Liaison Officer of the Ministry of The participants stated that they were happy
themselves abused by either their partners or Gender Equality and Child Welfare in Gobabis, to be given an opportunity to attend the
any other person. was one of the facilitators at the workshop. She training, because it helped them understand
noted that the training was cost effective and the meaning of gender-based violence, which
On reproductive health, they were trained on consumed less time for many reasons. “This “will help them improve a lot in their line of
family planning issues and were also educated saves time for the Ministry. Instead of sending work”. They called on the Ministry of Gender
on the different parts of the body, including facilitators to different areas, we have organised Equality and Child Welfare to come up with
this training to train the volunteers who can go more training workshops on similar topics.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the Cabinet Chambers


Cabinet took the following decisions at its 21st - Increase the profile of conservation and the appointing.
ordinary meeting held on 8 December 2009. Government’s commitment to conservation
and conservation-led development in The Ministry further requires the appointment
1. RATIFICATION OF THE SOUTHERN Namibia; of at least three Chief Meteorologists with
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY - Raise the profile and recognition of key specialisation in aeronautical meteorology,
(SADC) PROTOCOL ON FINANCE AND tourism attractions for international climatology and agricultural meteorology and
INVESTMENT (FIP) visitors; four Principal Meteorologists with specialisation
- Distinguish the park agency from in aeronautical meteorology. The professionals
The idea of a SADC Finance and Investment concessionaires operating within the parks; from Ethiopia would be attached to the Namibia
Protocol dates back to 1995 when SADC - Foster further support for conservation Meteorological Service to carry out day to day
Ministers of Finance decided to develop such a within Namibia, from both Namibian and operational duties and to provide on the job
protocol on regional cooperation and integration international visitors; training to their Namibian counterparts.
in the area of finance and investment. - Contribute to law enforcement activities
within conservation areas; Cabinet, therefore, endorsed the agreement
The objectives of the SADC Finance and - Enhance the identity, pride, loyalty and between Namibia and Ethiopia signed in
Investment Protocol are to facilitate regional morale of staff working within and for February 2008 and gave in principle approval
integration, cooperation and coordination within national parks; and to the Ministry of Works and Transport to
the finance and investment sectors with the aim - Present Namibian parks in a consistent, appoint three Radar rated Air Traffic Controllers
of diversifying and expanding the productive uniform and well-organised manner to for its Air Traffic Service Unit to manage the
sectors of the economy and enhancing intra- visitors associated with the 2010 Soccer transitional process from procedural to radar
SADC trade to achieve deeper monetary World Cup. controlling and ensure the training of a critical
integration, sustainable economic development mass of Namibia’s Air Traffic Controllers.
and growth, as well as eradication of poverty. The logo comprises an Oryx on a dune with the Cabinet also gave approval for the appointment
wording Namibia Parks and Wildlife around it. of three Chief and four Principal Meteorologists
The SADC Finance and Investment Protocol The Oryx was chosen to feature on the logo with specialisation in aeronautical meteorology.
was considered and signed by seven member because of the fact that it is Namibia’s national Cabinet also endorsed the idea of the Education
states at the SADC Summit of Heads of State animal, it appears on the Coat of Arms, it is Ministry setting aside a number of bursaries to
and Government in Maseru, Lesotho in 2006. found in most parts of Namibia, it is a species allow young and gifted Namibians to pursue
All member states have now signed the Protocol which does not create human wildlife conflict academic studies in the field of Meteorology as
with the next step being ratification of the and it has a strong association with Namibia. from 2010.
Protocol. It also represents the economic opportunities
through both photographic tourism and the 4. REPORT OF THE VISIT TO LUSAKA,
Cabinet, therefore, supported and endorsed trophy hunting industry, while it is an instantly REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA ON 18
the Protocol and mandated the Minister of recognisable image and is easy to reproduce in NOVEMBER 2009 BY HON. HELMUT
Finance to table it in the National Assembly for a single colour. ANGULA, MINISTER OF WORKS AND
ratification. TRANSPORT
Cabinet, therefore, approved the new national
2. BRANDING OF NATIONAL PARKS park logo submitted by the Ministry of Cabinet instructed the Ministry of Works and
Environment and Tourism. Transport to look at the re-establishment of the
Namibia has an extensive range of national ferry on the Zambezi River. The decision was
and game parks, however, aside from the 3. TECHNICAL COOPERATION BETWEEN thought to urgently assist the nationals living
term “park” attached to some they are not THE FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC on the Impalila Island of the Caprivi region.
easily distinguishable to Namibians or visitors OF ETHIOPIA AND THE REPUBLIC OF Cabinet also instructed the Ministry of Works 21
from beyond our borders. Namibia did have NAMIBIA and Transport to clear the land border line
a “brand” for its parks in the form of the old between Namibia and neighbouring countries.
Nature Conservation logo, however, this has The Air Service Agreement between Ethiopia
become indistinct in the recent years. and Namibia was signed in February 2008. The The Minister of Works and Transport thus
Agreement addresses the liberal exchange of Air identified the need to meet with his Zambian
The significant efforts of the Ministry of Traffic Rights, while the Technical Cooperation counterpart to discuss a number of technicalities,
Environment and Tourism and the Government Agreement provides for the exchange of especially the clearing of landmines, bush
to profile its efforts and achievements in the technical professionals. encroachment and the dredging of the Zambezi
field of conservation and conservation-led The Ministry of Works and Transport seeks River.
development are, therefore, under-recognised to appoint three Radar rated On-the-Job-
and under-utilised as a marketing and awareness Instructor-Trainers (OJIT) to provide training Minister Angula informed his counterpart that
building tool. Therefore the request to brand to air traffic controllers as soon as the radar Namibia was in the process of procuring a boat
the nationally owned protected area system to is installed and functional towards the end of with the carrying capacity of 40 people and two
increase visibility, staff pride and marketability. 2009. This would enable the Ministry to ensure vehicles to transport people between Katima
a smooth transition process from Procedural Mulilo and the Impalila Island.
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism, to Radar Controlling and complement the
together with its stakeholders, therefore contractual limitations of the three French The meeting agreed to appoint a Joint Technical
embarked on the branding exercise in 2008 to radar rated instructors that the Ministry will be Committee on the Zambezi River to look among
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the Cabinet Chambers Continues from page 19

others into the following: The two ministers discussed the development WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE IN
of a transport corridor between Angola and COPENHAGEN, DENMARK, 7 – 18
- Safety matters related to the Namibia through Gobabis-Grootfontein- DECEMBER 2009
implementation of the ferry service on the Tsumeb-Katwitwi-Menongue-Luanda. The
Zambezi River; Angolan Minister informed the meeting of Namibia is a signatory to both the UNFCCC
- Identification and marking of the route efforts by the Angolan Government to develop and the Kyoto Protocol and is fully involved
and pickup points on both sides; roads in Angola and especially the Kwando in the process.
- Issues surrounding the use of the service Kubango Province with the view of making
by Zambian citizens; easier connection to the corridor under Despite the country’s limited human,
- The harmonisation of national laws to discussion. Both parties recognised that the institutional and financial capacity to adapt
enhance the smooth operation of the demining exercise is delaying the realisation of to effects of climate change, Namibia is
ferry; the mentioned corridor. making efforts to develop a strategy that will
- Analysing the depth of the river along enhance synergies amongst various climate-
the envisaged routes to identify areas The meeting agreed to appoint a Joint Corridor change sensitive sectors. These efforts are
to be dredged to deepen areas to fit the Management Committee to: being supported by the Namibian Climate
specified boat. - Share information on the construction Change Committee, a broad-based multi-
progress on both sides; stakeholder platform and the UNDP GEF-
The meeting agreed that the first consultation - To promote the development of the above funded Enabling Activities for the Preparation
meeting of the Joint Technical Committee transport corridor; of Namibia’s Second National Communication
shall take place in Katima Mulilo before the - To work together on the demining to the UNFCCC Project under the Ministry of
end of January 2010. programme; Environment and Tourism on behalf of the
- To identify project components, sources of Namibian Government.
The parties also discussed the construction of funding and spearheads the implementation
the Kazungula Bridge, land border clearance of the project; Namibia has developed a National Climate
and issues related to the Road Contractor - The Joint Corridor Management Committee Change Strategy and Action Plan, which will
Company-Zambia. will be headed by the accounting officers be submitted to Cabinet once finalised.
of the Ministry of Works and Transport in
Cabinet, therefore, took note of the bilateral Namibia and the one for the Ministry of The Namibia National Committee on Climate
discussions between Namibia and Zambia on Public Works in Angola. Change (NCCC), chaired by the Ministry of
infrastructure development and approved the Environment and Tourism facilitated the
establishment of a Joint Technical Committee The parties also agreed to sign a memorandum development of Namibia’s Climate Change
composed of representatives from the of understanding before the end of January Strategy and Action Plan, which has
Ministries of Works and Transport; Home 2010 and to exchange the names of the ten identified the key issues for Namibia. These
Affairs and Immigration; Foreign Affairs; people to serve on the Committee also before issues constitute the common position for
Defence; Safety and Security; Environment the end of January 2010. Namibia and which have been integrated in
and Tourism and Lands and Resettlement, the African common position.
as well as a representative from the Caprivi The parties also agreed to the need for the Namibia will be represented at the COP-15
Regional Council to form part of the Joint construction of three bridges, namely the at technical level by representatives from
Technical Committee on the Zambezi water Calai Bridge at Rundu, the Cuanga Bridge at the Ministries of Environment and Tourism;
transport project and the clearing of the Nkurenkuru, as well as the Nciriku Bridge. Fisheries and Marine Resources; Foreign
Singalamwe-Katima Mulilo cordon fence. Affairs; Mines and Energy; Agriculture,
The two parties also discussed civil aviation Water and Forestry Finance and the
5. REPORT OF THE CONSULTATIVE issues, the construction of a railway line National Planning Commission, as well as
22 MEETING ON ROADS between Namibia and Angola, as well as border representatives from NamPower and non-
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS and health issues. governmental organisations.
BETWEEN HON. HELMUT ANGULA,
MINISTER OF WORKS AND In light of the above, Cabinet took note of the The Government will also have a display
TRANSPORT AND HON. GENERAL bilateral discussions between Namibia and stand at the COP-15, aimed at showcasing
HIGNO CARNEIRO, ANGOLAN Angola on infrastructure development. Cabinet climate change activities in Namibia and how
MINISTER OF PUBLIC WORKS, also approved the formation of a Joint Corridor the country is vulnerable to projected climate
ONDJIVA, REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA, 18 Management Committee to be headed by the change impacts.
NOVEMBER 2009 Permanent Secretary in the Namibian Ministry
of Works and Transport and his counterpart in In light of the above, Cabinet endorsed
The meeting resulted from the SADC Protocol the Angolan Ministry of Public Works. Namibia’s position on climate change
on Transport, Communication and Meteorology negotiations, as well as that of the Africa
and correspondence between the Heads of 6. THE FIFTEENTH CONFERENCE OF Group, while Cabinet also granted approval
State and Government of Namibia and Angola, PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS for Namibia’s participation in COP-15 in
emphasising the need for bilateral discussions FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON Denmark from 7 – 18 December 2009.
on the transport infrastructure development CLIMATE CHANGE (UNFCCC) THE
between the two countries, with special FIFTH MEETING OF THE PARTIES
reference to the construction of bridges at (CMP) OF THE KYOTO PROTOCOL,
Calai/Rundu and Cuanga/Nkurenkuru.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the Cabinet Chambers Continues from page 22

7. FINAL REPORT ON THE POST programmes to repair basic services; and Cabinet gave its consent to the Ministry of
DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT economic recovery through soft term financing Health and Social Services to vaccinate the
(PDNA) to restart production, especially small and agro above-mentioned target groups with the
The North and North-Eastern parts of Namibia businesses. H1N1 vaccine donated to Namibia by the
experienced heavy rains since the beginning WHO.
of 2009. This increased the water levels of the The longer term reconstruction needs at an
Kunene, Chobe, Zambezi and Kavango rivers, estimated cost of N$3.8 billion calls for the 9. THE NAMIBIAN STANDARDS
affecting the Caprivi, Kavango, Ohangwena, construction of better (disaster resilient) INSTITUTION (NSI) MEMBERSHIP
Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto regions. housing and infrastructure and transforming TO REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL
the agriculture sector to be more resilient to STANDARDISATION BODIES
The effects of flooding in both 2008 and 2009 droughts together with water harvesting. The Namibian Standards Institution (NSI)
increased the levels of vulnerability, especially was established by the Standards Act, 2005,
for the large proportion of the population. The medium and long term activities proposed Act 18 of 2005 as the national standards body
The damage affected an area that is home in the PDNA do not constitute a recovery and of Namibia responsible for the promotion
to 60% of the total population, destroying reconstruction plan and, therefore, requires of standardisation and quality assurance
critical infrastructure, washing away crops further analytical work to prioritise sectoral in the industry, commerce and the public
and livestock, damaging homes, and causing needs, formulate programmes and projects and sector in Namibia. The aim of the Standards
widespread displacement. elaborate on implementation arrangements, Institution is to improve product quality,
while finalising the cost estimates. industrial efficiency and productivity and to
On 17 March 2009, President Hifikepunye promote trade to achieve optimum benefit
Pohamba declared an emergency situation in Cabinet, therefore, endorsed the PDNA report for the people of Namibia.
the North and North-Eastern parts of Namibia and authorised the delegation of Prime Minister
and appealed for international assistance. Nahas Angula to the Copenhagen Climate In 2008, following the withdrawal of the South
Change Conference to use the PDNA report to African Bureau of Standards regulatory arm
The Directorate Emergency Management in solicit financial assistance to start implementing from Namibia, Cabinet directed the Ministry
the Office of the Prime Minister immediately the suggestions with respect to recovery and of Trade and Industry to set up the necessary
mobilised emergency assistance to meet reconstruction. Cabinet also authorised the mechanisms to ensure the continued
the most pressing needs of the people in National Planning Commission to convene a functioning of the regulatory controls over
the affected regions. The National Planning round table conference with donor partners to food safety, wholesomeness and compliance
Commission also requested the Global Fund solicit financial assistance, particularly for the of fish and fishery products to national
for Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery Long Term Reconstruction Needs. legislation and international practice.
through the World Bank to undertake a Post
Disaster Needs Assessment together with the 8. REQUEST FOR AUTHORISATION BY Since its inception in 2007, the NSI has
United Nations and the European Commission CABINET FOR THE MINISTRY OF established its headquarters in Windhoek and
to assist the Government. HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES TO two operational offices in Walvis Bay where
ADMINISTER THE PANDEMIC H1N1 it operates a Biotoxins and Microbiology
The Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) 2009 VACCINATION CAMPAIGN FOR laboratories and fishery inspections at the
has been prepared based on the work of the TARGETED GROUPS NSI Testing and Inspection Centre, while
Human Early Recovery Needs Assessment Following the declaration of the pandemic H1N1 there is also a Fishery inspection facility at
done by the UN and the Damage and Loss 2009 as an emergency by the World Health Lüderitz.
Assessment by the World Bank. Organisation, major pharmaceutical companies
aggressively responded by manufacturing Membership of regional and international
The PDNA identified and calculated the vaccines against the pandemic. The WHO standardisation bodies will greatly enhance
required post-disaster investments, through then collaborated with member states and the NSI’s capacity to act as the national 23
estimation of needs for achieving full industries to improve access to these vaccines standards body and it will guarantee NSI
recovery of human and economic activities, to developing countries. access to regular and updated information
reconstruction of destroyed physical assets on standards development, product
and undertaking longer tern disaster risk Accordingly, the WHO will donate vaccines for quality and expertise for the benefit of its
management activities. 10% of the country’s population to Namibia, scientists, laboratory technicians, inspection,
which translates to approximately 220 000 certification and other functions. An enhanced
The total damages and losses from the 2009 doses of the vaccine. role of Namibia in regional and international
floods have been calculated at approximately standardisation work will ultimately
N$1.7 billion, with N$1.1 billion attributed to According to action plans, health care workers, contribute to a reduction in technical barriers
damages in physical assets and N$0.6 billion pregnant women, Diabetic patients, chronic to trade and ensure easy access of Namibian
in the losses of production flow. medical cases and liver, as well as immune- products to the world trade markets.
compromised patients are recommended for
After the early recovery, the PDNA report vaccination. Thereafter, children between 6 The NSI made budgetary provision for
recommended actions on the basis of a to 11 months, learners, immigration officials, membership to regional and international
Medium Term Recovery and Reconstruction prison wardens, Namibia Defence Force and organisations.
Needs, providing for livelihood recovery to NamPol members should be vaccinated.
support communities through cash for work
Continues on page 24
Government Information Bulletin December 2009

News from the Cabinet Chambers Continues from page 19

Cabinet, therefore, approved participating 11. APPOINTMENT OF GOVERNMENT 2009 (Act 8 of 2009), since the new Act
membership of the NSI to the International OFFICIALS AS MEMBERS TO THE abolishes the previous NCC Act.
Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), NAMIBIA FINANCIAL SECTOR
affiliate membership to the International CHARTER COUNCIL Cabinet approved the appointment of the
Electro-technical Commission, participating The Namibian financial sector, in consultation following people to the CRAN Board of
membership to the African Organisation for with Government, has been engaged in sector- Directors for a period of three years:
Standardisation (ARSO) and participating wide consultations for the past few years with - Mr. Lazarus Jacob, Director and
membership to the African Electro-technical the aim of formulating a Charter for the sector. shareholder in Paragon Investment
Standardisation Commission (AFSEC). Holdings as Chairperson;
It has been agreed that the Charter will apply - Ms Hilma Tukale Hitula, Director of
10. NAMIBIA’S MEMBERSHIP OF to all financial institutions, except SMEs as Hitula Property Investments PTY Ltd and
THE AFRICAN UNION PEACE AND defined in the Charter. The Charter provides Director of LorentzAngula Inc as Deputy
SECURITY COUNCIL (PSC) the framework for transformation and economic Chairperson;
The Peace and Security Council is one of empowerment in the sector. - Ms. Tulimevava Kaunapawa Mufeti,
the African Union organs within the AU Project Manager: Management
Commission in Addis Ababa. Its functions The Charter’s objectives are: Information Systems Development at
involve monitoring the state of peace and - To enhance the growth and development of UNAM as a member; and
security in the AU member states, and to the Namibian economy; - Mr. Tylvas Natangwe Shilongo, Senior
make appropriate recommendations to - Achieving broad-based transformation of General Manager at the Namibia Central
the AU Assembly through the Permanent the financial sector; Intelligence Service as a member.
Representatives Committee and the Executive - Promoting Namibianisation of enterprises in
Council. the financial sector; 13. 8th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF
- Maintaining high standards of corporate NAMIBIA NATIONAL REINSURANCE
Membership of the AU Peace and Security governance in the sector. CORPORATION LIMITED
Council rotates on a regional basis for terms (NAMIBRE)
between two and three years. The SADC The Charter is a sector-wide consensus code Cabinet noted the Annual Financial Statements
region is currently represented by Angola, of conduct for transformation of the Namibian of NamibRe as well as the resolutions taken
Zambia and Swaziland and their term of office financial industry. It sets out targets, the at the NamibRe Board of Directors meeting
in the AU Peace and Security Council expires implementation process and mechanisms for held on 13 August 2009.
in January 2010. review, monitoring and annual reporting of
progress over the next ten years. Cabinet, furthermore, authorised the Minister
From the SADC region only Namibia and of Finance to table the Annual Financial
Zimbabwe have not served in the AU Peace The Ministry of Finance, in consultation with Statements of NamibRe for the financial
and Security Council and both countries have other government institutions nominated two year ending March 2009 in the National
expressed their readiness to take up their substantive and two alternate government Assembly.
seats in the Council from 2010. representatives on the Namibian Financial
Sector Charter (NFSC) Council. 14. ANNUAL REPORTS:
Namibia expressed interest in taking up a
two year term, but would be ready to serve Cabinet endorsed the nomination of Ms. Ericah - 2005/06, 2006/07, 2007/08,
for three years if so requested. Membership B. Shafudah from the Ministry of Finance to 2008/09 ANNUAL REPORTS AND
of the Peace and Security Council involves the NFSC Council, with Ms. Dagmar Honsbein, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
participation in meetings at expert level, also from the Ministry of Finance as alternate NAMIBIA WILDLIFE RESORTS LTD;

24 ambassadorial, ministerial and Heads of


State and Government levels. As such
member. Cabinet also endorsed the nomination
of Mr. Gordon Elliot from the Office of the Prime
- 2005/06, 2006/07 AND 2007/08
ANNUAL REPORTS OF THE TENDER
Namibia’s membership to the AU Peace and Minister to the NFSC Council, with M. Godfrey BOARD OF NAMIBIA;
Security Council will place additional financial Kuyonisa from the Ministry of Trade and - 2008/09 ANNUAL REPORT OF
requirements of approximately USD70 000 Industry as Mr. Elliot’s alternate on the NSFC THE NAMIBIA QUALIFICATIONS
per annum on the Namibian Mission in Addis Council. AUTHORITY
Ababa, while additional staff would also be Cabinet noted the above-mentioned annual
needed to allow Namibia to fully participate 12. APPOINTMENT OF BOARD MEMBERS reports and authorised the Minister of
in the work of the Peace and Security Council. OF THE COMMUNICATIONS Environment and Tourism to table the four
Furthermore, the Ministry of Defence will REGULATORY AUTHORITY OF annual reports and financial statements
have to budget to avail a Defence Attaché to NAMIBIA (CRAN) of Namibia Wildlife Resorts Ltd in the
the Namibian Mission in Addis Ababa. The Communications Regulatory Authority of National Assembly, while the Minister of
Namibia (CRAN) was established in terms of Finance received authorization to table the
Cabinet gave its approval for Namibia to the Communications Act, 2009 (Act 8 of 2009). Tender Board annual reports in the National
take up a seat in the AU Peace and Security The term of office of the Board Members of Assembly. Similarly, the Minister of Education
Council. the Namibia Communications Commission, the was authorised to table the annual report of
predecessor to CRAN came to an end with the the Namibia Qualifications Authority in the
enactment of the new Communications Act, National Assembly.

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