Namibia

In a country that the sun seems to grace more often than not, Namibia is witnessing a new dawn as Nandi-Ndaitwah, at 72, steps in as the first female president. Sandwiched in the southwestern corner of Africa, Namibia stands on the precipice of a potential economic revolution, led by burgeoning oil and gas industries. Nandi-Ndaitwah's inauguration isn't just notable for adding one more name to the short list of female African leaders but serves as a beacon of the possibilities of what women can achieve on this vast,…

“To step into the role of president necessitates a gravitas not to be taken lightly; the aspirations of every Namibian rest upon my shoulders,” remarked Namibia's President-Elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in a candid statement prior to her inauguration on March 21. Her words resonate like a clarion call, suggesting both the weight of responsibility and the promise of transformative leadership. Nandi-Ndaitwah recently addressed her staff at State House during a poignant farewell to outgoing president Nangolo Mbumba, and her…

Tracking elephant populations across the vast landscapes of Africa has long been a complex endeavor. Logistical hurdles, civil conflicts, and funding limitations have posed significant obstacles. Yet, a recent study, expertly collated by George Wittemyer for The Conversation Africa, has pulled together data from a staggering 1,325 surveys conducted over 50 years, shedding light on a stark reality: a dramatic decline in elephant numbers. To put it into perspective, the African savanna elephant population has decreased by a…

In a moment that resonates with profound national significance, the founding president, Sam Nujoma, lies in state at the serene Parliament Gardens. The stillness of the surroundings belies the wave of emotions that ripples through the hearts of those who gather to pay their final respects. Today, this solemn vigil transitions into a national memorial service, a poignant occasion set to unfold at the iconic Independence Stadium. As the sun begins its ascent, casting golden hues over the tranquil gardens, one cannot help but…

In a moment that could redefine Namibia's energy landscape, Gustos Energy has unveiled a substantial oil discovery off the country's coast. This find is not merely a drop in the ocean; rather, it solidifies the Orange Basin as a burgeoning hotspot for hydrocarbon exploration. As reports trickle in from the scene, there's an air of cautious optimism surrounding the implications of this mineral wealth. It's fascinating to witness how exploration efforts, which have unfolded over decades, have finally culminated in such a…

Sam Nujoma, the renowned activist and guerrilla leader who cemented his legacy as Namibia’s first democratically elected president, has passed away at the age of 95. His journey through the tumultuous path to independence from apartheid South Africa is marked by determination, vision, and an unwavering commitment to his people's freedom. In the 1960s, Nujoma was instrumental in founding the South West People’s Organization (Swapo), a movement that became synonymous with Namibia’s struggle for liberation. Undertaking immense…

Dr. Hage Geingob, the esteemed third president of Namibia, passed away after a brief yet courageous battle with cancer on February 4, 2024. He was a titan of democracy and a foundational pillar in constructing and preserving Namibia's democratic ideals. According to Dr. John Stetler, his former Economic Advisor, “His sharp and brilliant mind shaped the free and independent Namibia we call home.” This sentiment not only encapsulates Geingob's political acumen but also reflects the deep respect he earned throughout his…

The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) is truly hitting its stride in 2024, and the buzz surrounding its accomplishments is palpable. Gone are the days when the board merely responded to international invites like a teenager waiting for a friend’s call for a night out. Instead, it has revamped its strategy, diving headfirst into a proactive and purposeful method of consolidating both foreign and domestic investments within the pristine landscapes of Namibia. Talk about making a statement! With a keen…

Wicknell Chivayo, a well-known and often divisive figure in Zimbabwe’s business landscape, has firmly rejected any suggestions of his involvement in a contract for supplying ballot papers to the Namibian Electoral Commission (NEC). Chivayo expressed his dismay, deeming the claims linking him to this contract both unfounded and alarming. A report by the Daily Maverick pointed to Chivayo's connections with Ren-Form, the firm awarded the task of designing, printing, and packaging ballot papers for Namibia's upcoming…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has opted not to pursue charges against President Cyril Ramaphosa or anyone involved in the Phala Phala affair, which originated from a criminal complaint lodged by former intelligence official Arthur Fraser back in 2022. Known colloquially as "Farmgate," the controversy erupted when Fraser accused Ramaphosa of covering up the theft of $4 million after a burglary at the president's Phala Phala game farm. The president firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that the funds taken…