I have heard the cry of the poor in our country, and I have dedicated my Presidency to the complete eradication of poverty in this beautiful country of ours.

Minister of Finance, Calle Schlettwein on the Mass Urban Land Servicing Project in Walvis Bay

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President Hage Geingob in his address at the launch of the National Dialogue on Wealth Distribution and Poverty Eradication

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“ When we cooperate and leverage our different strengths, it will greatly enhance our ability to deliver meaningful outcomes to Namibian citizens.”

Continued on Page 3

See Page 5 See Page 6

Two medics die in as many monThs See Page 4

Two Crane accidents in Walvis Bay currently under investigation

Housing for the poor a tough nut to crack

Sharon Brooks

Two separate crane accidents occurred this week in Walvis Bay, the first involved a crane belonging to Walvis Bay Plant and Tool Hire on Tuesday afternoon at the Salt Pans. Later that night, a Rental Support Services (RSS) crane malfunctioned and fell on its side in Kuisebmond, causing damage to a vehicle and shack in the process.

In regards to the accident at the Salt Pans, Chris Kuhl of Walvis Bay Plant and Tool Hire, stated that the driver of the crane suffered minor injuries and the damage to the crane itself must still be ascertained.

The crane has been salvaged and returned to the Walvis Bay Plant and Tool Hire property.

The cause of the accident is unknown at this stage, but due to the fact that the Salt Pans fall within the mining industry, protocol demands that a full investigation into the incident be launched and this process has begun.

The incident in Kuisebmond occurred on Tuesday night while the crane was moving a housing unit. According to Thomas Wolff of RSS, it is suspected that a hydraulic failure on one of the outriggers was to blame for the crane falling on its side, though this will only be confirmed once an investigation has

been conducted. As the crane fell, a vehicle parked

nearby incurred slight damage, and the crane’s hook damaged a shack as it fell. Luckily, no injuries were sustained as a result of the accident and RSS has already begun the process to repair the damage made to the shack.

According to Wolff, contrary to the wishes of the occupant of the shack, the owner of the property seemed reluctant when approached regarding the rebuilding there of.

RSS have however stated that they will be more than happy to compensate the parties involved for any damage incurred as a result of the accident, and are merely waiting for an agreement to be reached as to the way forward.

Niel Terblanche

Corrupt dealings in the provision of land by local authorities is to blame for skyrocketing property prices and a huge backlog in providing affordable land to the poorest of the poor.

The Annual General Meeting of the Namibia National Mayors Forum in Walvis Bay served as the platform where Urban and Rural Development Minister Sophia Shaningwa warned executives of all local authorities to be vigilant and self-disciplined against corrupt practices when dealing with the immense task of providing land to the landless.

“Integrity of individuals and transparent and well thought through practices of bodies such as local authorities will smooth the way to a better life for all Namibians. People in power should do the right thing. Opportunities will arise but you should

guard against helping yourselves before those who need help the most. I will not tolerate such practices,” Shaningwa said at the official start of the AGM.

The Minister described local authorities as the closest and first contact that the largest portion of Namibians will ever have with Government and she was adamant about the fact that stupid decisions by executives in local and regional government bodies will provoke negativity amongst citizens. She warned that all dealings with the public should be clear and fair.

“The days of the practice of going under the table with so-called middlemen is over. This practice caused the backlog in the provision of plots to the poor and was also responsible for colossal increases in property prices. Your honour should

Thursday, 20 August 20152 news

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Vandals attack Telecom infrastructureSharon Brooks

Telecom Namibia have called for increased vigilance from the public and police due to the increasing number of incidents of theft and vandalism on the fibre-based network after 12 poles were cut and stolen near Usakos last week. Telecom Namibia have gone so far as to offer a large cash reward for information in an effort to safeguard the network’s infrastructure.

The theft of poles near Usakos has fortunately not resulted in any downtime to the Network, however Oiva Angula, Head of Corporate Communications & Public Relations said that the cost of the latest vandalism is still being calculated by ground staff.

A large number of people were left without internet access last year in a similar incident after vandals stole dozens of poles and cut the fibre-optic cable between Omatjete and Khorixas.

under the misguided impression that the cables are made of copper which they intend to sell on the scrap metal market. However, Angula says, “Last year we recovered a lot of copper from the aerial network and this resulted in a slowdown in criminal activities in Erongo.”

“Copper theft is a dangerous crime. It puts lives at risk, causes power communication outages and increases the costs of doing business. Criminals are getting away with a handful of copper and causing many thousands of dollars in damage” says Angula.

The attacks seem to involve the same methods and patterns and has raised concern for Telecom and the company has stepped up efforts to prevent future attacks and catch the individuals responsible.

Telecom has approached the Erongo Police Regional Commander, Commissioner Samuel //Hoebeb, requesting an increase in police patrols along the B2 route, particularly between Arandis and Karibib. Angula says that the police cannot, however, solve the problem on their own and Telecom is engaging all stakeholders – communities, councillors, traditional leaders and all other interested groups to be watchdogs to safeguard the national telecommunications backbone.

The public are also urged to report any suspicious activities around the Telecom Namibia infrastructure to the nearest Police Station or the Telecom Namibia Hotline at 0800 301630 or 061 301630, anonymously.

“Telecom Namibia offers cash rewards of up to N$20,000 for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of any person or persons responsible for committing crimes of vandalism or theft on the Telecom Namibia network”

“When reporting the public should provide us with enough information to help us investigate the suspected theft or respond to suspicious activities. At a minimum, we need (1) description of the items (2) the street address or directions to the location and (3) name and telephone number to stay in touch. Any information provided will be kept confidential.” adds Angula.

Oiva Angula, Head of Corporate Communications & Public Relations at

Telecom Namibia

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In another incident thousands were left without fixed or mobile communications when vandals cut the fibre-optic cable between Okatjoruu and Ongongoro in the Omaheke region.

According to Angula, the culprits are often

3 Thursday, 20 August 2015 news

New Chinese dog-eatingclaims surface in Walvis

be unquestionable and you must be steadfast in your integrity.”

Mrs. Shaningwa declared that her signature on land deals and with specific regard to the Massive Urban Land Servicing Project (MULSP) will not be for sale. She also said that she would refuse to put her signature on property deeds that can be construed as unfair towards the basic needs of the majority of Namibians.

“I am speaking to your hearts. How can I put my signature on files where a deal will consist of a large piece of land belonging to only one person or a single entity for the purposes of so-called development while the majority of people in this country live in abject poverty in houses constructed of mainly black plastic bags. You will have to assist me in finding a solution for this huge challenge.”

The Minister said the solution would be for local authorities to enter into beneficial partnerships for all parties involved but to keep the end user in mind when doing so. She volunteered to approach the

Housing for the poor a tough nut to crack

Continued from Page 1

Ministry of Works and Transport with a proposal that machinery standing in yards all over the country be put to use in servicing plots under the MULSP.

She further imposed upon Mayors present at the AGM to approach this project within the respective budgets of their towns and villages. Mrs. Shaningwa said that no one – not even government bodies - can live beyond their means.

“I don’t like to be harsh but I can also not afford to be a darling while this situation is getting out of hand.”

Mrs. Shaningwa said her ministry is in the process of tabling a bill to seek clear legislation that would ban foreigners or foreign companies from owning land. She said in the bill foreigners will be allowed to lease land, but that it would be tied to tangible investments that create jobs and contribute to the

national economy.“We should be careful who

we sell land to. Large portions of land have already been sold to foreigners and that land will never be returned to Namibians. If we sell it all what will we leave behind for the generations of our countrymen to come.”

The Minister also touched on the Mass Housing Scheme and said Government decided to suspend the project in its current form. She indicated that implementation of the scheme did go as expected. Mrs. Shanigwa said the project is in the process of being overhauled and that it would be realigned with the objectives of Government to provide affordable housing. She, however, gave the assurance that the Mass Housing Scheme will continue albeit with a different approach.

Urban and Rural Development Minister Sophia Shaningwa warned local authorities to be vigilant and self-disciplined against

corrupt practices

Donna Collins

The increasing dog theft in Walvis Bay during recent times has led to new claims that these animals are being sold to feed Chinese dog-eating habits, after posts on face book indicated that they are being sold for the pot.

This shocking allegation has drawn the attention of the Walvis Bay SPCA who say that they are aware of such claims being made, but they cannot confirm at this stage who is involved and responsible.

This coupled with the growing Chinese population infiltrating Namibia, in particular Walvis Bay through the mines and other construction work, has raised concern that these trends are starting to rear their ugly head on our own doorstep, and pet owners need to be extra cautious.

Walvis Bay SPCA Manager Bernice Grobler, said that fresh reports have surfaced of a gang of young boys going around people's homes and letting dogs out of their yards, which ultimately vanish into thin air.

She said this has raised alarm bells amongst distressed dog owners who have searched for their missing pets, and the sentiment is that they are being

sold to feed the new growing Chinese dog market in town.

"There are no leads at the moment where exactly these dogs are being sold, but that there is a black market for this type of trade, and it is really a matter for the police to investigate and follow up, because I foresee this becoming a problem if nothing is done about it, " said Grobler.

According to a report in the Guardian newspaper certain sectors of the Chinese population are traditionally a big dog meat eating nation, and the highly criticised annual Yulin dog-meat festival which is under growing flack from animal rights activists around the world, ended this year in June.

The report stated that Animal rights groups estimate that 10,000 dogs are rounded up and slaughtered during the festival each year, and that many are electrocuted, burned and skinned alive. Pictures posted online show flayed dogs, dogs hanging from meat hooks, and piles of dog corpses on the side of the road. In China dog meat is prized as a nutritious winter time dish - a tradition which is spilling over into Namibia with the arrival of droves of Chinese workers.

Animal welfare groups said the Chinese dog meat trade was inhumane,

and much like what is happening in Walvis Bay, dogs are stolen from their homes and land up in the hands of unscrupulous people.

“The Walvis Bay SPCA is now urging pet owners to become more aware of where their animals are when they leave for work, and to padlock their gates to protect their dogs from being stolen," said Bernice. "We need the community to stand together and help us help the animals, and to report to us any suspicious activities."

She said that whilst the illegal dog fighting trend has died down, there still needs to be a constant vigil kept out amongst the communities to report any one involved in dog fighting, which usually takes place in the desert behind Dune 7, where a 4x4 is needed to get there.

"I am appealing to the public to report anything unusual to either the police or the SPCA, as cruelty towards animals should have no place in our society," she added. "People need to start becoming more responsible towards their pets and showing kindness towards them, because they too are living creatures."

Meanwhile Bernice praised the Walvis Bay business community and other concerned citizens for their ongoing support and assistance

in keeping the shelter going with donations and other useful commodities. She said that the vehicle sponsored by Indongo

Toyota is a life saver, and that she is backed by a new committee who are all hands on deck to help in the running of the SPCA.

Bernice Grobler Walvis Bay SPCA Manager warns people to keep their animals safe in their yards with the recent claims that dogs are

being stolen to feed the Chinese dog eating demands. (Photo Donna Collins)

Thursday, 20 August 20154 news

Two medics die in as many months

Niel Terblanche

The tragic death of a young paramedic from Swakopmund along with four other people in a plane crash in the Tygerberg nature reserve had the whole of the Namibian nation and more specifically the coastal community in shock.

The 23-year-old Alfred John Ward was part of a flight crew on an air ambulance flying to Cape Town with 80-year-old Gabriel le Roux and his daughter Charmaine Koortzen, 49, a South African who lives in Oranjemund. It was reported that the elderly man was

visiting his daughter at the mining town and that he was injured during a fall. His daughter accompanied him while being transported to the Medi Clinic Panorama in Cape Town for emergency treatment.

Namibian pilots Steven Naudé, 53, and Amore Espag, 23, also died when the small two engined air craft crashed into the mountain side about a kilometre from the nearest house in the Durbanville suburb of Cape Town.

The young paramedic, the son of the well-known and respected paramedic Terence Ward, is the second young medical professional to die as the result of an accident.

During the first week of June 29-year-old Ian Booysen lost his life after a car crash. He died after he smashed his car into a tree in the lagoon suburb of Walvis Bay during the early hours of the morning on June 7. Shortly before his death Booysen left the employ of EMED24 to work for a mining company in the desert.

In the meantime the South African Transport Minister Dipuo Peters has asked members of the public to refrain from speculating on the cause of the plane crash.

"The minister has called on members of the public, regardless of their status in society, who have no expertise in aviation to desist from venturing into unsubstantiated claims/speculation on the possible cause of the crash," her department

said in a statement."People ought to act responsibly and

acknowledge the loss of lives in this crash. Distraught and bereaved families of those who regrettably perished want accurate reports on the crash and not sheer speculation aimed at causing panic and alarm.

"We urge the investigation team/s to do everything in their power to get to the bottom of the cause of this accident and report back speedily on their findings."

She offered condolences to the families of the deceased.

"We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate occurrence. Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go to the families of those who lost their lives. The department's accident and incident

investigation team has already been to the scene... and we are also in contact with the Namibian authorities on the matter.

The Namibian medical emergency plane had been instructed to remain in the air because a technical glitch at Cape Town International Airport affected arrivals and departures.

No one could confirm how long the E-Med Rescue 24 plane had waited to land before it crashed on the Maastricht Wines farm.

The plane left Oranjemund Airport in Namibia at 4am and was scheduled to land three hours later at Cape Town International Airport.

Metro Emergency Services received reports of the crash at 7.15am.

Panic as car burns

Niel Terblanche

Panic erupted in Hanna Mupatemi Street in Walvis Bay when a car burst into flames without warning.

A technician working for a well-known car dealership close by ran around in panic to get help when the car he took for a test drive after a routine service at the dealership’s workshop burst into flames.

Members of the municipal traffic department cordoned the street off at the busy intersection of Nangolo Mbumba and Hanna Mupatemi Street in fear of the car exploding while emergency services battled the fire and a crowd of Walvis Bay residents looked on.

Employees of a well-known tow in service in the harbour town were stationed close by and saw the

technician running around for help. They immediately went to the man’s assistance and tried to put the fire out with fire extinguishers which are carried in their emergency vehicles.

“The powder extinguishers we normally use were not very effective because the flames kept on reigniting,” one of the men said on the scene.

Employees of another car dealership close by also came running with fire extinguishers. This effort also proved futile because the heat generated by the flames kept on reigniting the flammable parts of the vehicle.

It was only after the fire brigade arrived at the scene that the inferno was successfully extinguished, as the water used by the firemen both doused the flames and managed to cool the metal parts of the vehicle.

5 Thursday, 20 August 2015 news

Land issue on the move

Seagulls have a gruesome new way of attacking baby seals

Niel Terblanche

Equitable access to land cannot be left unsettled for very much longer and urgent dialogue is needed to resolve the issue once and for all.

In this regard the Minister of Finance, Mr. Calle Schlettwein, visited Walvis Bay to spell out the objectives of Central Government and to engage in constructive dialogue with the regional and local authorities to address the pressing matter of providing serviced erven to landless people.

Mr. Schlettwein’s message was clear and direct: “The Massive Urban Land Servicing Project (MULSP) needs resources. As we all know resources in this country are not without limit. Therefore we need to spend wisely and implement with maximum impact. The provision of serviced erven is only one step in reaching the ultimate goal of providing decent shelter for people.”

The Minister was of the opinion that funds will have to be diverted from less important projects to provide funding for the project.

He also said that a multitude of discussions will have to follow before land can even be allocated to people.

“Clear and sober thoughts will be the key to the success of the MULSP while we find the cheapest possible way to service the land. The cheaper the input the more erven can be made available at lower cost.”

Mr. Schlettwein said a great deal of cost saving will have to come from people living in the area of erven earmarked for servicing. He said volunteers are needed to do the work. This includes people and construction companies willing to help with the process.

“Put simply, people and companies will have to donate their services to bring down costs of establishing services on erven, which in current market related terms can vary between N$60 000 and N$180 000 per square meter. We need the assistance of all stake holders in the value chain. Nonphysical costs like transfer fees, to name but one example, must be lowered significantly or cut out of the value chain entirely to ensure the best possible pricing structure of the

end product.”According to the minister,

price dynamics in the real estate and housing sectors have not lent themselves to provide affordable housing. The price overshooting has outstripped wage improvements, rendering an average house rocketing out of affordability range of low-income earners.

Mr Schlettwein referred to the War on Poverty as declared by the President during his inauguration and during the State of the Nation Address, that there shall be a massive nationwide project earmarked towards servicing of urban land and land allocation.

Government undertook to immediately embark on a project to service 200 000 plots country wide.

Windhoek, Walvis Bay and Oshakati were chosen to serve as a pilot project and the servicing of land has started.

The President stated in his address to the nation that cleared urban land will be serviced for future allocation. Under the Massive Urban Land Servicing Project, Namibians will be called upon to voluntarily participate in servicing

identified urban land.“To that effect, a technical committee

was established to work out all modalities regarding the project. In order to implement the agreement Government has established an ad hoc committee at ministerial level under the chairpersonship of Hon Sophia Shaningwa. Other members are Honourable Ministers Alpheus !Naruseb, Frans Kapofi, Tom Alweendo and Attorney General, Sakeus Shanghala. This high level committee is supported by a technical committee, Mr Schlettwein said, stating that he is part of the Ad Hoc Committee.

“Amongst the many pertinent issues underlying the aspects covered in the agreement there are two important aspects that needs to be highlighted for the consultative discussion process.

These are the issues of land availability and affordability.”

Mr. Schlettwein said that Government has received many offers for support from various private sector entities. He renewed his call on the business community and players in the financial sector to partner with Government in this national endeavour.

“When we cooperate and leverage our different strengths, it will greatly enhance our ability to deliver meaningful outcomes to Namibian citizens.”

Mr. Schlettwein said Government has already worked the project into a budget of nearly one billion Dollars but sternly cautioned that services rendered during the process on a voluntary basis will not mean automatic entitlement to land.

Minister of Finance Calle Schlettwein visited Walvis Bay to discuss the Mass Urban Land Servicing Project

Kelp gulls are eating the eyeballs from new-born Cape fur seals—a behaviour never before seen in nature, a new study says.

During the past 15 years, scientists have logged around 500 instances of kelp gulls (Larus dominicanus) attacking and attempting to eat the eyeballs of new-born

Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) in Namibia’s coastal Dorob National Park.

Since blinded seals cannot find help from other seals and easily succumb to more attacks, the birds have discovered removing eyeballs is an especially efficient way to get a meal.

The behaviour seems to be entirely new to science—if a little tough to stomach, says study lead author Austin Gallagher, a postdoctoral researcher at Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada

“It is not a pleasant behaviour to observe, as the seals completely freak out and make a lot of noise,” says Gallagher, whose study was published August 14 in the African Journal of Marine Science.

"Cruel Way to Go"Life for a Cape fur seal pup is pretty

tough to begin with.For one, the babies cannot swim and

have to rely on their mother’s milk, says Michelle Jewell, a behavioural ecologist at the Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research who was not involved in the new research.

To supply that milk, the mother seals must occasionally go hunt fish, leaving the pups alone at the colony for several days. The unprotected pups might then fall prey to land predators such as lions and

hyenas—and now, seagulls.In the study, kelp gulls were successful in plucking out

eyeballs in roughly 50 percent of observed attacks.“A blind seal cannot forage, cannot find mom, and will get

attacked by other gulls,” says GallagherIn many cases, once a gull pecks out the eyeballs, other

kelp gulls join in and begin to eat the seal’s exposed areas, such as its underbelly and genitals, the scientists observed.

“It’s a cruel way to go,” says Gallagher. But from the gull’s point of view, it’s a “beautifully strategic attack.”

Easy TargetsBut why are gulls just now targeting seal eyeballs?Gallagher believes it is likely a result of an increase in

Cape fur seal populations—essentially, the birds are taking advantage of a newly abundant food source.

In the winter months, between 20,000 and 80,000 of the pinnipeds flock to Namibia’s coasts to mate and raise young. This dramatic population increase from just around a hundred seals in 1998 is due to the species' natural boom-and-bust cycles, the study says.

Seagulls are also very quick learners.“Once one gull figures out a fast food meal like Cape fur

seal eyeballs, other gulls observe and quickly learn the new feeding behaviour,” Jewell says.

Not to mention "the eyes are soft targets, and a good source of both fluid and protein,” adds Craig Harms, a veterinary medicine expert at North Carolina State University who was not involved in the new research.

As a responder for the U.S. Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Program, Harms has seen first-hand the damage gulls can do.

“Gulls particularly like to peck at and eat the jaw fats of beached harbour porpoises, dead or alive,” says Harms.

And while the seal eye-gobbling behaviour is new, Harms points to other research that shows seagulls peck at southern right whale calves' back blubber when they surface to breathe.

“It's not surprising," he says, "that they would find a similar source of fresh food that is not good at defending itself."

Source: National Geographic

Thursday, 20 August 20156 news

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President declares war on poverty

Niel Terblanche

Despite being an independent country for the past quarter of a century, Namibia’s struggle for total freedom for all its people is not yet over and a call to wage war against poverty has come from the highest authority.

President Hage Geingob in his address at the launch of the National Dialogue on Wealth Distribution and Poverty Eradication called on all Namibians to become soldiers in the fight against the scourge of poverty.

“I have heard the cry of the poor in our country, and I have dedicated my Presidency to the complete eradication of poverty in this beautiful country of ours. The essence of the all-out war on poverty is that the eradication thereof is only achievable if there is a collective effort from all Namibians. This is why on the eve of the 31st of July, when I met with leaders of the Affirmative Repositioning group, I called on them to hold hands with Government in the spirit of Harambee and be part of the war on poverty.”

Geingob said the manifestation of poverty and its accompanying ills are so heart breaking that it is easy to forget that since attaining Independence, the country has had significant achievements in improving the livelihoods of thousands of Namibians with the lifting of 400 000 Namibians out of poverty.

According to National Statistics Agency, 69 percent of all Namibians lived below the poverty line in 1993. Moreover, 82 percent of the population in rural areas was estimated to be poor compared to 39 percent in urban areas. By 2010, the overall poverty rate had been reduced to 29 percent from 69 percent.

According to Geingob, this progress is unprecedented in global terms. He referred to his State of the Nation address during April and said the statistics are testament to the immense work done in alleviating poverty.

“However, the cold facts are that we cannot allow ourselves to be consoled by a 40 percent poverty reduction rate. Our target is the immediate alleviation and eventual eradication of poverty through sustainable and targeted efforts. The statistics confirm that poverty is a structural legacy of apartheid and highlight the challenges we face in addressing poverty. It also reveals the importance of detailed research, monitoring and evaluation which enables Government to target poverty eradication at appropriate levels.”

He said the establishment of the Ministry of Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare is meant to ensure the co-ordination, implementation and evaluation of government programs aimed at poverty eradication. This Ministry was the result of a collective realization that poverty eradication programs are cross-cutting, and are developed and implemented by various government Ministries but requires focus and co-ordination.

“An immediate poverty alleviation strategy was implemented in favour of our senior citizens and children. According to the National Statistics Agency, the old age pension has played a major role in the prevention of childhood poverty in Namibia. In the absence of an old age pension, the childhood poverty rate would have been ten percent higher than the current figure. That is why one of the first priorities was to increase the old age pension by 66.7 percent from N$600 per month, to N$1 000 per month, starting in the current Financial Year.”

Beyond the first two steps undertaken to address poverty the Government will be turning its focus towards several other poverty eradication strategies. A key poverty eradication strategy according to Geingob is education and skills development. Research has shown that children of average talent from high-income families have a higher chance of academic and financial success then above average children from low income families. Geingob said that this disparity entrenches the poverty trap and forces the children of the poor to remain in the circumstances they were born into.

“Children must be assisted to escape the trap of poverty by equalizing access to quality education and ensuring equal access to opportunities.”

Geingob went on to say that another strategy is to introduce sustainable income generating activities in various communities, as well as broad-based empowerment programs. He said these activities should be supported through the setting up of sites and premises, but more importantly, through ensuring that there is a market for the produce of these projects in order for them to be sustainable and profitable. He indicated that these programs need the support of industries such as food production, bakery, brick- making, tourism, aquaculture, livestock and crop farming.

“Government is at an advanced stage of establishing a national Food Bank, with headquarters in Windhoek, and branches countrywide. The Food Bank will provide food and basic items to ensure that we are able to bring dignity to all our people. This is not promoting a culture of handouts, but a necessary intervention to assist the most vulnerable members of the Namibian House to have at least one nutritious meal a day.”

Geingob was of the opinion that it is imperative that Government takes time to listen to the people most affected by poverty on their proposed solutions. The President said that he has already commenced on a personal mission to engage communities nationwide. Town hall meetings will be held in each region to allow Namibians to articulate their solutions to national issues. He said he is encouraged by the community engagement in Zambezi, Kavango East and Kavango West.

“The long-lasting solution to poverty eradication is reducing the high rate of

unemployment. In order to achieve this, government and the private sector needs to grow the Namibian economy in an equitable manner. The prerequisite for economic growth is business competitiveness, employee productivity, fair treatment of workers and the empowerment of black Namibians. These ideals are often treated as if they are mutually incompatible but they are not. We must not shy away from difficult discussions on the redistribution of wealth and empowerment of all Namibians as it is only through dialogue that sustainable solutions can be formulated.”

He said access to land is another aspect all Namibians will have to consider in the war against poverty. Geingob referred to the book titled, The Land Question, by Henry George wherein the author says the following about the importance of land: “Land is necessary to all production, no matter what be the kind or form; land is the standing-place, the workshop, the storehouse of labour; it is to the human being the only means by which he can obtain access to the material universe or utilize its powers.”

“Our Constitution permits for the implementation of policies and programs aimed at redressing socio-economic imbalances. To the extent that our laws and policies are inconsistent with our constitutional ideals for human dignity and appropriate shelter, we will amend such laws and introduce new laws which support our drive for inclusivity and growth for all Namibians.”

Referring to his State of the Nation Address, Geingob said Namibians will recall that he said that the issues of access

to land and poverty are closely related and it is opportune to initiate a national dialogue under the over-arching theme of wealth re-distribution. He said that he has come deliver on that promise.

“I also said that as President, I will personally chair some of the sessions of the dialogue to ensure that the legitimate concerns of our people are not only heard but also translated into effective strategies and action. I am here to inform you that I will deliver on that promise.”

Any country which has been at war places peace at a premium. In order to maintain peace and stability, it is imperative to address the income inequality legacy of apartheid. Namibia’s economy according to the President has to grow in a manner which creates decent jobs and wealth and has to be redistributed in an equitable and fair manner.

“Intellectually, many of us believe in racial equality and express disdain for discriminatory practices. We however need to take a self-evaluation to ensure that our habits and attitudes do not unconsciously produce discriminatory results. An example of this is the 2014 Employment Equity Commission Report that states that white males occupy 66 percent of Executive Directorships. This is an anomaly in a country which is 90 percent black. In this regard, I call upon the private sector to apply greater and sincere efforts to ensure demographically diverse workforces which include black Namibians and women at all organizational levels.”

Geingob, however warned

that the stratified nature of the economy should not lend itself to generalizations as if all white owned businesses behave in an uncaring manner and that he is heartened by the unsolicited offers to join the government in its crusade against poverty eradication.

“Government resources are not unlimited and in order not to saddle the youth with unsustainable debt, it is imperative that affordable and appropriate strategies are formulated. Effective implementation of these strategies requires a national shift in mind-set from all Namibians. Key to private and public service delivery is effective governance and accountable leadership which avoids the pitfalls of corruption, tribalism, nepotism and lack of accountability.”

Geingob quoted Julius Nyerere who said, “A man is developing himself when he grows, or earns, enough to provide decent conditions for himself and his family; he is not being developed if someone gives him these things."

“Let this national dialogue begin the process by which we come together as One Namibia, One Nation in order to give our people the means by which they can grow, earn a living and provide decent conditions for themselves so that the Namibian House becomes a house of shared prosperity, free of the effects and ills of poverty. Let us resist the temptation to cheapen the issue of poverty or land with politics. If ever Namibians needed to unite to fight a common enemy, it is now. The war on poverty requires all of you to be the soldiers of prosperity.”

7 Thursday, 20 August 2015 news

Stove• Never use the stove or hot plate as a heater. • The size of the pot should match the size of the stove plate.• Rather use a pressure cooker when preparing food that normally takes a long time to cook.

Let’s work together and use electricity sparingly.

ENERGY SAVING TIPS

VacancyNamibia Fish Consumption Promotion Trust (NFCPT) set up in terms of Cabinet Decision NO: 38th /05/12:00/0.10.to perform the powers and functions assigned to it by the Notarial Deed of Trust No: T76/01.To meet this strategic objective the NFCPT is therefore looking for a dynamic leader, team player and self-motivated individual to fill the following vacancy at the Head Office, Walvis Bay. The candidate must be self-managed and result-driven, with an ability to operate under pressure.

DEPARTMENT: FINANCEPOSITION: MANAGER: FINANCEWALVIS BAY

Purpose of the job:To develop, direct and control the implementation and maintenance of the financial control system, to support the activities of the Trust.

Key Performance Areas:The Incumbent reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer with key functions as follows: • Manage and control the smooth and effective functioning of the Finance Department, • Budgeting and forecasting, payroll, preparation of monthly management accounts and reporting,• Analysis of financial performance against budget, • Advise the CEO on key indicators, procurement , asset management and supervise employees

dealing with financial transactions,• Interpretation of financial statements, • Establishing procedures for custody and control of assets and financial records,• Evaluating data pertaining to costs in order to plan budgets,• Evaluating financial reporting systems, accounting and procedures, and investment activities

and makes recommendations for changes to procedures, operating systems, budgets, and other financial control functions,

• Overseeing the flow of cash and financial tools,• Planning, directing and coordinating risk and insurance programmes of establishments to control

risks and losses,• Planning, directing and coordinating the activities of employees in the department,• Preparing financial and regulatory reports required by laws, CEO, and Board of Trustees,• Preparing operational and risk reports for management analysis, among others.

Qualifications/Experience Required:• A 4 years Degree in Accounting/Financial Management,• Plus at least six (6) years appropriate experience, of which 3 years should be at a supervisory level,• Financial administration and accounting principles and practices,• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Practices,• Risk management and insurance, • Fluent in English,• Computer literacy is mandatory (MS Word and Excel),• Excellent analytical and Supervisory skills,• Be able to work independently,• Planning and organizing skills,• Managerial and negotiating skills,• Knowledge of PASTEL is mandatory,• Completed articles will be an added advantage,• Knowledge in VIP classic payroll administration is mandatory,• Experience in the Fishing industry or similar environment will be an added advantage,• Code BE Driver’s licence.

NFCPT is an equal opportunity employer and would like to encourage people with disabilities, women and previously disadvantaged people to apply.

Comprehensive applications supported by a detailed CV and cover letter, with certified copies of educational qualifications should be addressed to:

By Hand: The Acting Chief Executive Officer, NFCPT Head Office, John Ovenstone Street, Industrial Area, Walvis BayBy Post: P O Box 568, Swakopmund

Enquiries: Mrs E. Stephanus at: (064) 204 508/11 or email: marketing@nfcpt.com.naNFCPT is an equal opportunity employer. CLOSING DATE: Friday, 28 August 2015

Note: Late, or faxed, and/or incomplete applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicant not contacted after three weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. Documents not certified will not be considered. No documents will be returned.

Namibia dairy industry in serious trouble: O&L

Staff Reporter

Namibia Dairies, a subsidairy of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group says Namibia’s entire dairy industry is on the verge of collapse and requires an urgent intervention in order to survive a crisis that would not only cripple the sector, but that would deliver a major blow to Namibia’s industrialization path.

In a statement released last week, O&L stated that this is a result of the global dairy crisis which has been described as the “perfect storm” brewed from the culmination of a number of factors and landing global dairy prices at a 13-year low.

Contributing factors include amongst others, the rapid increase in production by dairy farmers in major dairy producing countries such as New Zealand, Europe and the United States during 2014, resulting in a surplus which could not be absorbed by existing markets. Exacerbating the oversupply, were developments like China’s own rapid increase in dairy production, and Russia’s decreased demand in the wake of EU sanctions.

These oversupplies have been flooding international markets, and Africa has been earmarked by global dairy players as the primary target for dairy off-take. The impact on the region has been dire. In South Africa, the total milk supply (consisting of production less net exports) increased by 182 million litres during the first five months of this year, compared to last year.

This was due to higher milk production which accounted for 117 million litres (65%) while imports and marginally lower exports contributed 65 million litres (35%). The increase in production and imports caused a dairy oversupply in South Africa. This has in turn had a crippling impact on Namibian dairy due to the overflow of lowly priced dairy products, particularly milk from South Africa, into the Namibian market, in order to avoid severe losses as a result of write-offs.

Namibia Dairies Managing Director, Gunther Ling expressed his concern: “Namibia’s own dairy industry is not able to compete with these cheap imports flooding the Namibian market, and the fact that these imports are often sold in Namibia (as low as N$11.99 for 1 litre of UHT) at the same prices or lower than that in their market of

origin, (despite the cost of transport and VAT which is charged in Namibia) is testimony to the under-pricing of these dairy products in Namibia. Please note that not even a litre of flavoured water can be purchased at the price point of N$11.99 in Namibia.”

Ling went on to say that as a result of the under-pricing of imported dairy products, there has been a drastic decline in the demand for Namibian dairy products, as is evidenced with a 23% decline in sales of fresh and UHT milk by Namibia Dairies as compared to the same period (July) last year. “This trend of increased local milk production in the midst of decreased demand for local milk, despite all efforts to try and sell this milk through heavy discounting, has resulted in amongst others, a build-up of 1.4 million litres of UHT milk which is at risk of being written off due to slow movement”, said Ling.

He added that with a capital debt of about N$ 240 million, Namibia Dairies is not in a position to weather out this storm and is therefore appealing for the support of all its stakeholders in the fight for the survival of Namibia’s dairy industry. While Namibia Dairies has already initiated discussions with its milk suppliers to take a price cut in an effort to reduce losses, this is not adequate and the N$10 million monthly income to dairy farmers and their dependents is still at risk if further measures are not put in place to support Namibia’s dairy industry.

Chairperson of the Dairy Producers Association, and a dairy farmer in his own right, Japie Engelbrecht had the following to say, “dairy farmers in Namibia have invested heavily in order to increase production and build Namibia’s dairy industry. If we are to reduce the price of milk further, our operations are no longer viable and we may as well concede that Namibian industry cannot bear the onslaught of more developed countries.”

Ling concluded by thanking all the players in Namibia’s dairy industry for their continuous efforts in contributing to the fight for the survival of Namibia’s dairy industry and appealed to consumers to support the local industry by purchasing Namibian milk: “Let’s take a stand and work together to ensure that we continue in delivering our mandate of feeding the nation, by bringing local, healthy Nammilk to our people,” he said.

The over-supplies of milk from international markets has had a crippling impact on Namibian dairy due to the overflow of lowly priced dairy products, particularly milk from South Africa, into the Namibian market, in order to

avoid severe losses as a result of write-offs. Photo: O&L

Thursday, 20 August 20158

INVESTMENTS | SAVINGS | INSURANCE

How do I find Old Mutual’s New Walvis Bay Office?

OLDMUTUAL has taken just a small hop around the corner from our previous location on the 2nd Floor of the Nedbank Building on the corner of Sam Nujoma Avenue and 11th Road, to new offices located at the Afcon Building, corner of 6th Street and 11th Road. Our move allows us to improve our level of service, with better parking and easier ground floor access for all our clients.

Our contact number of +264 64 21 9700 stays the same, alternatively you can find further information on www.oldmutual.com.na, or speak to your Personal Adviser.

WE HAVE MOVED OFFICE

Walvis Bay Move POSTER.indd 1 13/08/2015 12:43

news

Permanent infrastructure has no place in DNP Seven sensitive locations threatened

by NICC and Desert RoseJacques du Toit

The proposed Namibia International Convention Centre (NICC) project will not only cost the Namibian tax payer at least N$1, 2 billion, but also gamble with the country's fastest growing “export” product: the coasts’ sensitive attractions.

According to the newly released Dorob National Park Management Plan (DNPMP), approximately seven locations rated medium to highly sensitive, will be touched by this development.

“The DNP encompasse Namibia’s richest coastal area for birds. The area between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay is the most important area for Namibia’s breeding endemic seabird, the Damara Tern,” says the minister of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET), Uahekua Herunga, in the foreword to the DNPMP.

The main concern against the development focusses on Caution Reef, just south of Swakopmund, which is the most important breeding location for one of Namibia’s most endangered bird species, the Damara Tern.

Damara Tern The Damara Tern has a world population of 14 000 with 98% of

this population breeding in Namibia before flying northward. The breeding colonies around Caution Reef housed 147 nests during the last breeding season from September 2014 to March 2015. It is the densest breeding colony out of only 70 available breeding locations.

Tourism along the coast is very fickle to change and can easily swing up and down according to the book: Namibia’s Coast: Ocean Riches and Desert Treasures published by the MET and Directorate of Environmental Affairs in 2012.

By 2006 the coastal tourism industry contributed N$2.3 million to the national income with the main portion of this sprouting from ecotourism and adventure sports. Mainly in areas in close proximity to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Around 8 350 jobs were dependent on tourism in 2006.

Swakopmund is one of Namibia’s most popular destinations for people from the wealthier sections of the Namibian society, especially next to the beachfront where land is a very valuable resource and a lot of surplus wealth has been invested.

The NICC is projected to cost the Namibian tax payer more than N$1.2 billion while projected to contribute N$455 million to GDP in its first year. Upon completion N$4.5 billion

might be generated in the first five years, creating 5 000 possible jobs in this time.

Management Plan In the DNPMP the Permanent Secretary of MET, Simeon Negumbu, says the objective is to “manage, rehabilitate and sustainably develop” the Dorob National Park (DNP). Meanwhile maintaining a balance between protection, recreation and sustainable business development so that the parks’ assets are available for future generations.

The plan provides guidelines and rules and explanations on what must be done to manage the park’s natural resources, infrastructure, prospecting, and mining and developing eco-friendly tourism.

The DNPMP is a principle based plan and decisions that are made against these principles might still be in line with Park policy.

Discussing new infrastructure to attract tourism, the plan plainly states that “all buildings and facilities for tourism and recreation should be non-permanent.” Tourism infrastructure should promote the “environmental and outdoor assets of the Park, without compromising alternative and future use of the resources.” Sense of place, sustainable tourism The main objective is to not lose

the “sense of place” that the Park creates and to respect the wishes of the visitors to the Park. This can be done by putting up structures that are designed and constructed to create the “least visual impacts” while applying Namibia’s Eco-Awards guidelines.

Considering sense of place and sustainable tourism, the Namibian Eco-Awards reads: “Wild areas are disappearing fast. Destinations that offer natural beauty, solitude and a wildlife experience are thus becoming increasingly popular. Consequently, Namibia’s wide-open spaces and sparsely populated wilderness areas have become sought after commodities that must be regarded as valuable national assets. Preserving these assets – or maintaining the sense of place - is essential to developing sustainable tourism in Namibia.

Discussing social development the Eco-Awards advises that: “Positive spin-offs (from development) must not detract from the fact that poorly planned, uncontrolled or insensitive tourism activities can destabilize entire communities.”

In a letter disseminated during the public meeting for the NICC and Desert Rose Development, a member of the public, Hartmut Dichtl, had the following concerns. Opposing Development

Dichtl asks what price has Sand Rose Investments offered to pay for this “very valuable asset” (beachfront land as well as sensitive coastal attractions)?

Regarding the rezoning of the land he wanted to know why a conservation area is established if it’s only going to be rezoned for the “personal enrichment of a developer.”

Further he doubted that this project aligns with the efforts of a recently started German funding initiative that helps to develop the coast or if “international banks and lenders or local commercial banks with a green portfolio would want to be associated with the destruction of an environmentally sensitive area for the benefit of a private investor.”

During the public meeting, those pro-development clearly stated that those opposing this project will have no success. Direct attacks were made on white people as well as environmental lobby groups, stating that they should not stand in the way of development.

Main infringement locations:

Highly Sensitive: Damara Tern Breeding Sites.

Very Sensitive: Coastal Gravel Plains; Swakop River Mouth; Inland Gravel Plains and associated drainage lines; Sand Dune Belt.

Medium Sensitivity: Ephemeral Swakop River

Thursday, 20 August 201510 news

English Channel Here we come!Donna Collins

Bobby-Jo Bassingthwaighte, Sandy Le Roux and Ulla Gossow-Buttner are about to turn their dream of swimming the English Channel into a reality, and flew out of Walvis Bay on Wednesday, to embark on a first ever two way channel crossing next week, which if completed will make history in a never done before attempt.

The three brave, and daring Swakopmund women have taken the plunge to swim the icy waters of the English to raise awareness for their 'strokes for earth’ environmental and beach clean-up campaign they started along the Namibian West Coast.

After completing a gruelling 18 month training regime that has hopefully prepared them for this extraordinary feat, the swimming trio will be the first women in the world to ever attempt a two-way crossing through the English Channel, over a period of three days, notching up 30 hours of swimming time over a 90 kilometre stretch.

During a brief telephonic interview before leaving for the airport, a nervously excited Bobby-Jo told the newspaper, that their hard work and perseverance has paid off, and that they are in top condition both mentally and physically.

"What we are really nervous about is the elements, because you cannot control the weather," she said. "Other challenges we face are the cold water temperatures because we are not wearing wet suits, the distance which we have to swim, jelly fish, the heavy boat traffic, sea sickness and fatigue because we won't be getting much rest."

She explained that they have a three day window period in which to complete the swim which if all goes according to plan, will commence on August 26th ending 29th. The team will be accompanied by a hired boat for the duration of the swim, with a full back up of crew members, a boat pilot, a CSA observer, supplies and costume change. In order to do the swim, they had to first affiliate themselves as Namibian swimmers by the 'Channel Swimming Association' (CSA), which is the international governing body that lays the rules and regulations for anyone undertaking this channel crossing.

Bobby-Jo also said that the last few weeks in particular have been tough as the time drew nearer, and that they have battled flu, whilst still braving their daily swims through the cold Atlantic Ocean and Swakopmund mid-Winter climate.

Preparing for such an expedition has taken more than just a punishing training regime to build up fitness and endurance, they have also had to raise funds individually to cover the overall N$200 000 cost of such a venture, which includes travel expenses, hiring of the boat, and kitting themselves out with swimming gear and many sets of designer made costumes with the Namibian flag on them.

"Swimming the English Channel is fraught with dangers and unexpected problems," said Bobby Jo, who was the first Namibian woman to ever swim and finish the English Channel crossing in 1999, and ranks as one of only 500 people in the world to successfully crossed the channel.

The party flew out from Walvis Bat airport on Wednesday afternoon to England, with their splash off point being Dover, 'Shakespeare Beach'.

"Our swim is to raise awareness for the planet, and we wanted to do something worthy, in particular a clean-up campaign and fund raiser closer to our doorstep," said Bobby Jo, adding that so far four major companies have donated substantially towards the 'Strokes for Earth' campaign, by branding large rubbish skips which have been strategically placed on beach areas.

When asked what their main wish is, she replied. "We just want to get this over and done with because the build-up for this moment has been very intense."

Waving goodbye and in good spirits - English Channel swimmers Sandy Le Roux, Bobby Jo Bassingthwaighte and Ulla Gossow-Buttner, are three Swakopmund ladies who are going to make history by swimming the English Channel next week.

(Photo Donna Collins)

Swimming the English Channel is fraught with dangers and unexpected problems,

To transform accepted business solutions into technical support and/or solutions of Swakop Uranium’s (SU) integrated Non- ERP software systems, through best practice user-support, installation, patching, upgrading and maintenance, and by managing, analysing and solving Non-ERP faults and system service requests logged with the service desk in support of the relevant operational sites, providing Non-ERP system support, advising on strategic matters and ensuring the database environment (development, quality and production environments) is well secured and maintained including relevant back-up and disaster recovery solutions for all Non-ERP software.

Key Performance Areas:• Toperformtasksrelatedtotheevaluation,installation,configuration

and deployment of applications, software and/or enhancementsthroughoutSwakopUranium(SU).

• Tooverseethedailyperformance,databasesecurity,back-uproutinesofsoftwaresystems.

• To set up software for employee use, access control, performs orensuresproperinstallationofsoftware.

• Toperformdailymonitoringandtroubleshootingofsystems;installsandconfigurespatchesandupgradesasrequired.

• PerformnecessarydutiesthatsupportERPintegrationintonon-ERPSUsystemsandviceversa,meetingfunctionalrequirements,systemcompliance,andinterfacespecifications.

• Toreadtechnicalmanuals,conferswithusers,orconductcomputerdiagnosticstoinvestigateandresolveproblemsortoprovidetechnicalassistanceandsupport.

• Todeveloptrainingmaterialsandprocedures,ortrainsusers intheproperuseofsoftware.

• To support and participates in troubleshooting, systems backups,archiving,anddisasterrecovery,businesscontinuity.

• Toliaisewithcompany’ssoftwaresuppliersforpromptrectificationofanyproblemsoremergencies.

Requirements and experience:• FormalqualificationinInformationTechnology.• MicrosoftMCSDcertificationisadistinctadvantage• Formalprojectmanagement training suchasPMPCertification is a

distinctadvantage• CodeBdriver’slicense• 3 years’ experience in Information and Communication Technology

(ICT)support.• Demonstrable experience inObjectOrientedProgramming (eg. C#,

Java)andDatabases(MSSQL,Oracle),HTML,JavascriptandXML.• ExperienceintheminingITenvironmentadistinctadvantage.

Email: recruitment@cgnpc.com.cnClosing Date: 31 August 2015

One of the world’s foremost emerging uranium companies, Swakop Uranium, is focused on developing and operating the world's third-largest known primary uranium deposit near the town of Swakopmund in Namibia. We need energetic, self-motivated and confident people to apply for our roles and we regard you as our “Employee of Choice”.

VACANCIES

SoftwARE AND APPlICAtIoNS CooRDINAtoR

Boilermaker/Welder (Processing Plant)

Location:SwakopmundReportstotheSoftwareSuperintendent

Location:HusabMine,SwakopmundReportstothePlantMaintenanceForeman

To safely perform skilled maintenance and repair boiler making/welding tasks in accordance with set standards, procedures and specifications, to achieve optimum equipment availability and process efficiency objectives.

Key Performance Areas:• Performsskilledtechnicalworkwithintheparametersofthetradeby

installing, repairing,maintainingor changingoutwornor defectivepartsandcomponentsofProcessingPlantequipmentandmachinery.

• Performsavarietyofweldingtasksusingdifferentweldingtechniques.• Ensures adequate careand correctuseof tools in the section, and

maintainsworkshopequipmentwherenecessary.• PerformScheduledmaintenanceactivities,andassistinensuringthat

therequiredparts,toolsandspecialtoolsareavailableduringservicesandrepairsasplanned.

• Providesproactiveadvice andguidanceon theeffective repair andmaintenanceofequipmentandmachinery.

• Performsongoingdiagnosesandfault-finding/runninginspectionsonallequipment/structuresandmachineryunderhisjurisdiction.

• Plansforanadequatesupplyofmaterials,sparesandcomponentsforuseinthesection,tominimizedelays.

• EnforcescompliancetoCompanyjobsafetyandgoodhousekeepingstandards/practicesatalltimes.

Requirements and experience:• RecognizedTradeDiplomawith4 technical theoretical subjects (N3

level)• Code8driver’slicense• 3–4yearspostapprenticeshipexperiencepreferably inthemining

industry• Soundexperienceinusingsafetyandoperationprocedures• Soundfaultfind&troubleshootingexperience• Miningexperiencewillbeadvantageous.

Email: psujobs.eng@cgnpc.com.cnClosing Date: 31 August 2015

Throughitscommitmenttoitspeople,thecompanyoffersacompetitiveremunerationpackageandtheopportunitytoworkalongsidesomeofthemostexperiencedanddedicatedpeopleintheindustry.InterestedpersonsshouldsubmittheirCVandrelevantsupportingdocumentstheaboveemailaddressesORviaourfaxnumber064-4109001.PreviouslydisadvantagedNamibiansmeetingtheabovecriteriaareencouragedtoapply.Clearly indicate thepositionyouareapplying foraswell asyournameandsurname in the subject lineofyourapplicationemail.Applicationsreceivedthatdonotmeetthiscriteriawillnotbeconsidered.Onlyshortlistedcandidateswillbecontactedwithintwoweeksoftheclosingdateofthisadvertisementandnodocumentswillbereturned.Short-listedcandidatesmustbewillingtoundergopre-employment

selectionassessments.Formoreinformationonthecompany,pleasevisitwww.swakopuranium.com

11 Thursday, 20 August 2015 news

SAVANNAH debuts her smash hit at the coast

Yoga Catz comes to the coast

Entertainment reporter

The young and talented musician SAVANNAH touched base with her home town Swakopmund last week, where she spent a whirlwind few days releasing her new smash hit single 'Broken Dreams' on radio before flying back to Cape Town, to resume her music studies.

Savannah - a Windhoek born singer, songwriter and guitarist is no stranger to the live music scene in Namibia and Cape Town having first stepped on stage at 17. 'Broken Dreams' which was written and produced by herself in

January, went live on air last week during the West Coast FM 'Local Explosion' show.

The single was recorded and wrapped up by Windhoek's Groove Studios, since Savannah's policy is to support the local music industry, and be a "proudly Namibian" artist. 'Broken Dreams' is the second single she has released, with the first song 'Alone' last year airing on radio stations in America.

'Broken Dreams' which has been described as old school rock, delivers a personal message of self empowerment, whilst showcasing Savannah's fly guitar playing skills and bluesy vocals. "Who

are you to call me weak, you ain't never walked a day in my shoes." resonates her don't judge policy, and takes you on a journey of musical story-telling, combined with a brilliant guitar solo and shoo bee-doo back-up vocals.

With already nine solid songs written and in the bag waiting to be recorded, mixed and mastered in studio, Savannah is taking a step closer to releasing her first album. A process for an artist that takes both time and money.

"I am so grateful our local radio stations for their continued support of my music, and for releasing my new song, which I am lining up as an entry for next year's NAMAS music awards," said the delighted musician, adding that she wants to be part of this music extravaganza in her home country.

Savannah, who is currently in her third year of contemporary music studies in Cape Town, as well as completing her Trinity of London music teaching diploma, wants to take her music abroad before settling down with any fixed plans.

When asked on radio what the title of her CD would be - she answered without hesitation. "Be Free - this was a song I wrote three years ago, and is the thread that runs through my own life - so why not call my album that."

Juliana Hango

For the second time around healer and Integral Lifestyle Coach, yoga teacher and Animal Communicator Chantelle Meyburgh will be returning to Namibia for her annual healing

workshops including the Yoga Catz yoga day at the Last resort centre in Swakopmund.

Yoga Catz is a fun, free for all yoga charity event that will be taking place in Windhoek at the Warehouse Theatre as well as in Swakopmund at the last resort wellness centre on the 29th August 2015.

The event will include a two hour hatha yoga practice including pranayama and a sound journey using Tibetan sound bowls in an effort to create awareness, and in aid of, the Cat Protection Society in both Windhoek and Swakopmund.

To attend the class, heartfelt donations can be made and all proceeds go to stray cats and the Cat Protection Society. For more information contact Caroline Pejewski on 081 410 9932

Thursday, 20 August 201512 news

ExecutiveCareExecutiveCare

Contact 081 304 0232Email: namib.carwash@gmail.comLocated next to Mega Stationers in Walvis Bay

Every 5th Every 5th Wash & Vacuum is FREE

Wash & Vacuum is FREE

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Tel: +264 64 221 713Cell: +264 81 628 5010CELL: +264 81 128 7916email:mcclunes@mweb.com.na

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McCLUNE’SShuttle Services

Windhoek Walvis Bay SwakopmundDeparture 1: 7:30 amDepartune 2: 14:45 pm

Departure 1: 8:00 amDepartune 2: 15:00 pm

Departure 1: 7:00 amDepartune 2: 14:00 pm

We offer a reliable shuttle service between Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay that guarantees satisfac-tion and channels development on internation and local scale. Our vehicles have been branded and are easy to identify, Which expresses ownership and legality as well as professionalism. Bookings are essentail. Terms & Conditions apply.We operate 7 days a Week

Prices per person (one Way); Windhoek/Swakopmund N$ 220.00Windhoek/Walvis Bay N$ 230.00Pensioners Special N$ 170.00

Departures are as follows

Join PwC Business School for a Thought Leadership Tax breakfast session.

WHERE: Walvis Bay DATE: 8 September 2015VENUE: Pelican Bay Hotel

www.pwc.com.na

Register with Liza Mollentze on +264 64 217 765 or liza.mollentze@na.pwc.comRegistrations close Friday 04 September 2015

© 2015 PricewaterhouseCoopers. All rights reserved. In this document, PwC refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers Namibia, which is a member firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each member firm of which is a separate legal entity.

PwC Business School Thought Leadership Tax Breakfast Session

Thought Leadership Session

• Speakers from Inland Revenue and Namibia Training Authority (NTA) on proposed Tax legislation and other topical matters.

• 4 hours of Tax technical training sessions by PwC experts onaUSBflashdrive-selectrelevanttopicsandwatchatyour convenience.

Target Audience: CFO’s, Financial Managers, Senior Accountants

Time: 07h30-10h00

Cost: N$1,725(inclVAT)perdelegateperday

Jacques du Toit

All is being done to control disturbances created as a result of the construction of the new container terminal at the Walvis Bay harbour.

After receiving various complaints, Namport told the China Harbour Engineering Company to address

concerns about dust and excessive noise. Pictured is a wall of containers stacked next to the harbour’s border close to the Waterfront to create a sound barrier to reduce noise. In the back is the cement mixer which was responsible for creating dust, but has now been mostly covered up to solve this problem.

Photo: Jacques du Toit

Chinese Harbour Engineering Company responds positively to residents’ complaints

13 Thursday, 20 August 2015

Founder of Project Semicolon Amy Bleuel

A global movement is revolutionizing how we talk about mental health — with punctuation.

Project Semicolon, which offers hope to those struggling with depression, suicide, addiction and self-injury, borrows its philosophy from the punctuation mark in its name.

“A semicolon is used when an author could've chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to,” the project's website reads. “The author is you and the sentence is your life.”

The idea behind Project Semicolon is simple: Draw or tattoo a semicolon on your body to raise awareness about mental health and the power of choosing to continue.

The movement's founder, Amy Bleuel, knows that choice well. She experienced mental illness during her youth, leading to multiple suicide attempts and instances of self-harm. Her father also struggled with depression, taking his own life in 2003.

"That was definitely a big struggle for me," she told Mashable. "The purpose of the project and me founding it [was that] I wanted to tell my dad's story. I wanted to honour him."

Though some media outlets have reported the project started when Bleuel got a semicolon tattoo to honour her late father, she clarified to Mashable that it really began in April 2013, about a month before her own tattoo. She posted a flyer to social media, encouraging people to draw semicolons on their wrists on April 16, showing their struggles — or their loved ones' struggles — with mental illness.

Bleuel's message was widely spread; she estimates the first Semicolon Day had more than 500,000 participants. The movement's following, she said, has remained strong ever since. People show support throughout the year, and the project has especially gained traction in recent weeks.

While she can’t remember exactly how she thought of the semicolon two years ago, Bleuel said the punctuation mark’s unexpected meaning was the perfect analogy for the movement.

“It’s a simple thing that works,” she said.

And now, through Project Semicolon, it's a way for those living through self-harm, depression and suicidal thoughts to connect via the hashtag #ProjectSemicolon, encouraging each other through recovery.

Project Semicolon is described as a

Semicolon tattoos - a new way to talk about mental health

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“faith-based movement,” but Bleuel said it's inclusive of people of all faiths and identities.

"I chose to call it 'faith-based' because I wanted to be open about it," Bleuel said. "Christ was accepting of everybody and he wanted to help everybody."

The reactions she's been getting have been overwhelmingly positive, from those within and outside the faith community.

"[For those who participate,] it's almost like knowing they're not alone, knowing that others are out there," she said. "They aren't just another person in the crowd feeling alone anymore. They feel they have found someone to relate, regardless of the direct conversation."

While Project Semicolon is a way for those struggling to connect, it is not a professional recovery organisation.

Source: www.mashable.com

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The block-shifting puzzle was a massive hit when it was released in the early 1980s - but it is more useful than you might think, says a new study.

The confounding, frustrating and altogether dastardly video game Tetris could be a massive tool in the fight against addictions. Psychologists

Playing Tetris 'can help stop cravings'from Plymouth University and Queensland University of Technology, Australia, have revealed that playing Tetris interfered with desires not only for food, but also for drugs, including cigarettes, alcohol and coffee, and other activities.

The test was the first of its kind, monitoring people in their normal lives outside of a laboratory and noting their cravings and how they fluctuated in comparison to game play.

The game requires patience and quick-thinking as players stack hundreds of little coloured blocks on top of each other in a small screen. Tetris was released on Nintendo's Game Boy in 1989 and, as of 2009, had sold more than 35 million copies.

The journal Addictive Behaviours is set to publish the study, with the authors saying playing the game could help

people to manage cravings. They have recommended further research, including testing people dependent on drugs.

Professor Jackie Andrade, from the School of Psychology and the Cognition Institute at Plymouth University, said: “Playing Tetris decreased craving strength for drugs, food, and activities from 70% to 56%.

"This is the first demonstration that cognitive interference can be used outside the lab to reduce cravings for substances and activities other than eating.

"We think the Tetris effect happens because craving involves imagining the experience of consuming a particular substance or indulging in a particular activity.

"Playing a visually interesting game like Tetris occupies the mental processes that support that imagery; it is hard to imagine something vividly and

play Tetris at the same time.”During the experiment,

31 undergraduates, aged 18 to 27, were prompted seven times a day via text message to report on any cravings they were feeling. They were also encouraged to report cravings proactively, independently of the prompts. Fifteen members of the group were required to play Tetris on an iPod for three minutes, before reporting their craving levels again. The benefits of playing Tetris were maintained over the seven-day study period.

Craving was recorded in 30% of occasions, most commonly for food and non-alcoholic drinks, which were reported on nearly two-thirds of those occasions.

Of cravings, 21% were for substances categorised as drugs – including coffee, cigarettes, wine and beer – and 16% were for miscellaneous activities

such as sleeping, playing video games, socialising with friends, and sexual intercourse. Food cravings tended to be slightly weaker than those in the other categories.

“The impact of Tetris on craving was consistent across the week and on all craving types,” said Professor Jon May, also of Plymouth University.

“People played the game 40 times on average but the effect did not seem to wear off. This finding is potentially important because an intervention that worked solely because it was novel and unusual would have diminishing benefits over time as participants became familiar with it.”

“As a support tool, Tetris could help people manage their cravings in their daily lives and over extended time periods,” added Professor Andrade.

Source: www.mirror.co.uk

His girlfriend called it "the stupidest idea" she'd ever heard of, but this young Texas entrepreneur claims demand is soaring for potatoes scribbled on

Have you ever thought how nice it would be to receive a potato with a message scribbled on it in the post?

Possibly not.Nevertheless an entrepreneur

says he is raking in the cash after launching a business that does exactly that.

Potato Parcel offers its customers the chance to anonymously send ordinary potatoes ranging from large ones costing $9.99 (£6.40)

Businessman launches firm which sends potatoes in the post

Taipei, Taiwan (AP) — A pair of roadside mailboxes that were uniformly bent by a falling signboard during a typhoon earlier this month have become celebrities in Taiwan, drawing steady lines of people to snap photos and inspiring fan merchandise.

Many Taiwanese think that the public mailboxes resemble faces, and this side-by-side pair — one green and one red — now looks especially cute because their poles are bent in their mid-section at similar angles.

"They look like they're smiling,"

said Taiwan's mail service Chunghwa Post publicity officer surnamed Huang. "That's pretty special. So we see a lot of people out taking photos."

The mailboxes, two of 10,986 around Taiwan, gained fame after Typhoon Soudelor ripped across the island Aug. 8, killing eight and injuring 420 before claiming another 21 lives in China. Strong winds tore a signboard from a building in central Taipei, bending the mailboxes to the right on their poles as it fell.

Security guards now protect the

mailboxes while chuckling fans pose next to them, either bending themselves or pretending to push the boxes.

"The typhoon wasn't really that bad after all," said Ting Po-yi, 17, a high school student who came from a Taipei suburb to get his photo taken.

Some fans have created memorabilia including key chains and mobile phone shells. A website has an app that lets users superimpose the mailboxes onto photos in phones and computers.

Chunghwa Post originally planned to remove the boxes Thursday, citing

safety concerns. But the postal service announced after a public outcry it would let the boxes stay pending an internal review. In a statement Thursday, it advised crowds not to push or squeeze.

The mailboxes can still take letters, which Chunghwa Post is stamping with a special postmark showing the two leaning celebrities, said public relations officer Weng Yao-kuang.

The boxes nowadays are usually stuffed.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Creepy mailboxes with faces now 'celebrities'

to medium ones at $7.99 (£5.12) to anyone they like.

Their USP is that Potato Parcel will write on said potato any message you wish using a bog standard pen.

Founder Alex Craig, 24, claims he is clearing $10,000 (£6,400) a month on his potato parcel business.

"What's really cool about this is that it takes me about 30 seconds to write on a potato," he told USA Today .

When he told his girlfriend his business plan, she told him it was the stupidest thing she had ever heard.

But Alex, from Texas, says

he has sold more than 20,000 potatoes since launching in May.

He is also taking it international, offering Australians, Canadians and Brits the chance to send inscribed potatoes.

Twitter users have been sharing images of the potatoes that they have received in the post.

Potato Parcel follows in the same vein as Ship Your Enemies Glitter, a company offering exactly what it says on the tin.

Source: www.mirror.co.uk

15 Thursday, 20 August 2015

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motoring

MotoringBeing a global best-seller, the Focus is an important model for the Ford brand and although it sells well in South Africa, it should do better. The Focus plays in a competitive space and Ford has put its best foot forward in an effort to up the stakes against the likes of the popular Volkswagen Golf. Does the revised Ford Focus have what it takes to win the hearts, minds and confidence of the public?

What’s New?The most significant change is the introduction of the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre EcoBoost engines to the Focus range. These engines should be well received in South Africa judging by the uptake in Europe.

Now sitting lower and wider than before, the new Focus has also received some beauty treatment in the form of a new bonnet, front fascia and grille as well as a slimmer rear end and thinner tail lights. Ford’s magic wand has been waved on the inside too in an attempt to improve cabin quality and a number of under-the skin changes have been made to improve drive and handling too. From the outside then, the Focus actually looks pretty good, but let us step inside.

Interior AnticsThe interior of the Focus is mostly fitted with dark plastic surfaces, some of which are of very good quality, but there is a definite lack of consistency when it comes to the grade of plastics used. We also noticed a large panel gap between the door and B-pillar which is disappointing for a car in this segment. The large soft-touch dashboard houses the infotainment system which is accessed via a 4.2-inch screen. The system is relatively easy to use, but does require a fair amount of button-pushing to get used to the functionality. The adjustable center storage console offers more space for smaller goodies and it does a good job of holding bottles firmly in place.

The fabric seats are comfortable and both the driver and passenger seat is height adjustable. The multifunction steering wheel is rake and reach adjustable and features audio, Bluetooth and cruise control buttons. The Focus is also equipped with two USB ports and an Auxiliary port, which is great.

In terms of dimensions, the Focus is larger than its competitors, affording it generous interior space and average size rear passengers should be happy with the leg and headroom available. The 316-litre boot offers decent space which can be expanded even further by folding the 60/40 split rear bench completely flat. Other niceties include electric windows all-round as well as vanity mirrors with lighting for the driver and passenger.

Drive Time The Focus comes fitted with Ford’s new 1.5-litre Ecoboost petrol engine that produces an admirable 132 kW and 240 Nm of torque. Those figures outshine the competition by a healthy margin and are put to tar using a 6-speed manual transmission. Changing gears is quite pleasant as the lever requires minimal effort for shifting, which is always pleasing. There is no wrestling the gear lever in this Focus.

You will also be happy to know that the Ford Focus performs very well out on the road and delivers its power with grace and composure. Well liked about the Focus is its driving flexibility. It is an excellent car to drive conservatively in the city, but it also has the ability to perform when required. The engine has some gusto and in-gear acceleration is excellent which makes overtaking easy and somewhat fun.

In terms of ride and handling, Ford has done an excellent job. Thanks to revised steering, suspension and a stiffer chassis, the Focus soaks up bumps and imperfections easily, delivering a pleasantly smooth ride. The Focus feels solid and planted to the road even

Introducing the face lifted Ford Focus 1.5T Trendwhen you press on and it handles corners with precision and poise. The Focus inspires confidence and is a capable and fun car to drive on a daily basis.

In terms of fuel economy, Ford claims 5.5L/100km on the combined cycle. With stop/start technology and a mind-full driving style, figures between 7 and 7.5L/100km are certainly do-able.

On the safety front, the Focus is right up there with its competitors and offers a host of safety features including six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, traction control and electronic stability control. Additional driver assistance systems are offered as an option and these include Perpendicular Parking, Active Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert, Park-Out Assist, Active City Stop, Lane Departure Warning as well as front and rear sensors with a rear view camera.

Ford Focus Price in South AfricaThis Ford Focus 1.5T Trend hatchback is priced at R271 900. Buyers can also opt for the smaller capacity 1.0T derivative with pricing starting from R217 900. The price includes a 4-year/120 000km warranty and a 4-year/80 000km service plan.

VerdictThe Ford Focus is a solid offering that delivers a decent dose of spec for the price while also offering excellent drive and

handling. More than this, the new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine is a star performer. Apart from an interior that is lacking in pizzazz when compared to its competitors, you simply cannot go wrong with the latest Focus, it really is that good.

Quick SpecsEngine: 1.5-litre Turbo PetrolTransmission: 6 Speed ManualPower: 132kWTorque: 240NmBoot Space: 421-litre Fuel Tank: 55-litresFuel Consumption: 5.5-litres / 100kmTop Speed: 224kphPerformance: 0-100kph in 8.6s

Source: www.cars.co.za

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