Namibia

May 2024 marked a significant turning point for Namibia in the realms of energy and international diplomacy. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, often known as OPEC+, hinted at considering Namibia for potential membership. This news raised eyebrows and piqued the interest of those monitoring global energy landscapes. Experts in the energy sector speculated that within just a decade, Namibia could emerge as Africa's fourth-largest oil producer. Imagine a nation leaping to such heights in a field…

Namibia has entered a transformative era under the leadership of its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Upon assuming office, she made an audacious move to trim the size of her Cabinet from a bulky 21 members down to a more agile 14. This decision has sparked both admiration and vigorous debate, inspiring many to ponder: what does leadership in a modern government truly require? Critics often argue that larger Cabinets imply an expansive vision. Yet, as Nandi-Ndaitwah's actions make clear, a leaner team can…

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…