Ongeveer 30 persent van Namibiese volwassenes maak staat op familie of vriende vir finansiële hulp in ‘n noodgeval, maar driekwart van hulle sê die geld sal baie moeilik wees om te bekom. The Brief berig Leora Klapper, hoofekonoom by die Wêreldbank, sê dat slegs een uit elke drie Namibiese volwassenes binne 30 dae toegang tot […]

Die DA sê die uitspraak teen Jacob Zuma oor sy regskoste wat deur die staat betaal word, is ʼn oorwinning vir Suid-Afrika en die beskerming van belastingbetalersgeld. Die Hooggeregshof in Pretoria het die oudpresident opdrag gegee om 28,9 miljoen Suid-Afrikaanse rand aan regskoste te betaal wat onregmatig deur die staat befonds is. Zuma moet die […]

Israel het die Internasionale Geregshof se jongste raadgewende mening verwerp en noem dit ʼn politieke dokument. Die hof sê in sy nie-bindende mening Israel is verplig om die lewering van die Verenigde Nasies en sy instellings se humanitêre hulp in die Gaza-strook te fasiliteer. Die doel is om in die basiese behoeftes van Palestynse burgerlikes […]

Twee polisielede sal die voormalige Franse president, Nicolas Sarkozy, in die tronk beskerm om te verseker dat hy nie leed aangedoen word nie. Hy het Dinsdag sy vonnis van vyf-jaar begin uitdien nadat hy skuldig bevind is aan sameswering om veldtogfondse uit Libië te bekom. Die minister van Binnelandse Sake, Laurent Nunez, het aan die […]

Justicia Shipena Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) parliamentarian Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo has raised concern over teachers recording and posting videos of learners on social media during school hours without consent from parents. She said the practice violates the Child Care and Protection Act of 2015 and the constitutional rights of children to privacy and dignity.  Mbinge-Tjeundo warned that exposing learners on platforms like TikTok and Facebook puts them at risk of cyberbullying, exploitation, and permanent digital footprints that could affect their future. “Such practices not only violate the rights of children but also divert attention from the primary mandate of schools, which is teaching and learning,” she said in parliament this week.  In her questions to education minister Sanet Steenkamp, she asked what systems are in place to ensure teachers seek consent from parents or guardians before sharing any media featuring learners online.  She also questioned how the ministry monitors compliance with the Child Care and Protection Act on children’s online safety and privacy. Mbinge-Tjeundo asked what steps the ministry is taking to protect learners in the digital space as more teachers use social media for content creation. She further wanted to know how the ministry ensures that such activities do not interfere with learning time. She called on the ministry to create awareness programmes for teachers regarding the ethical and legal issues of sharing children’s images online. Her remarks follow the growing number of videos showing teachers creating content with learners online. In August, a video by Grade 1 teacher Gelda Waterboer went viral on TikTok. The video showed her singing a body safety song she created to teach children about consent and personal boundaries. It gained international attention but did not show learners. Human rights activist Linda Baumann warned that schools risk violating children’s rights if they post learners’ photos without parental consent.  She said taking and sharing pictures of learners online raises serious concerns about privacy and child protection. “Consent is crucial. The ministry and schools must obtain clear, informed, and voluntary consent from the learners’ parents or legal guardians before capturing and sharing their images publicly. In cases where learners are older and capable of understanding, their direct consent should also be sought,” she told the Windhoek Observer.  Baumann said the consent must specify how and where the images will be used.  She warned that failing to do so could expose children to online exploitation, bullying, or discrimination. “Children have the right to privacy and protection from the misuse of their personal information, including their pictures. Uploading photos without consent may violate their right to a safe and supportive educational environment,” she said. She urged the education ministry and schools to adopt strict policies aligned with national laws and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.  “The ministry and schools must treat learner images with utmost responsibility, respecting consent and protecting children’s rights to privacy, dignity, and safety,” Baumann said. The Teachers Union of Namibia (TUN) has also warned teachers against recording learners without consent. TUN secretary general Mahongora Kavihuha said the practice is unethical and violates privacy, especially for minors. “It is unethical to record any person without their consent. Learners, especially those who are underage, are not in a position to give such consent. Therefore, it is completely wrong for anyone, not only teachers,” he said. This comes as consultations continue on the Teaching Profession Bill and its regulations, which aim to restore integrity and respect in Namibia’s education sector by professionalising the teaching field. Kavihuha said adults can record themselves, but they must ensure their recordings do not harm others. “You don’t need a Teaching Professionals Bill to understand that recording someone without their consent is unethical. This applies to everyone: teachers, student teachers and even cleaners. It’s a matter of public knowledge,” he said. Kavihuha said the union continues to educate teachers about respecting privacy and professional boundaries. 

Renthia Kaimbi Health and Social Services minister Dr Esperance Luvindao’s threat to sue the Windhoek Observer for defamation, both personally and through her brother’s law firm, has drawn sharp criticism from legal and governance experts.  They say the move raises concerns about ethics, conflicts of interest and misuse of office. Through Dr Weder, Kruger & Haikali Incorporated, Luvindao issued an undated letter of demand to the Windhoek Observer, threatening legal action over an article published on 17 October.  The report stated that she had urgently reached out to foreign diplomatic missions for emergency anti-malarial supplies amid low national stock levels.  The article, titled “Luvindao scrambles for malaria medicine from foreign missions… as only a month’s supply is left,” was based on a leaked ministerial letter confirming the appeal during a malaria outbreak that has claimed more than 150 lives in 2025. Lawyer Norman Tjombe of Tjombe Incorporated, representing the Windhoek Observer, refused to retract the story.  He called it “a matter of national importance and public accountability.” Tjombe said, “The content and context of the article has nothing private or personal of or concerning the minister of Health and Social Services.”  He added that it was inappropriate for the Luvindao to act in her personal capacity when the issue involved her official duties. He said any lawsuit should be handled by the attorney general’s office, not a private firm. Tjombe also questioned the minister’s choice of legal representation, as her brother, Tshuka Luvindao, is a director and co-managing partner at Dr Weder, Kruger & Haikali Inc.  “If the threatened lawsuit is pursued in her official capacity, we will seek a High Court review to set aside the decision to hire private lawyers as unlawful and an unnecessary waste of scarce state resources,” Tjombe warned. Corporate governance expert Johannes Coetzee said the minister’s approach risks eroding public trust.  “If the matter has to do with her ministerial capacity, suing in a personal capacity blurs the line between public duty and private interest. Using a law firm where a close relative is a director creates a clear and undeniable conflict of interest,” he said.  He said such actions contribute to a growing pattern of public officials using their positions for personal protection.  “This growing tendency to conflate political authority with personal privilege weakens accountability and undermines public confidence in governance,” Coetzee said. The Windhoek Observer has stood by its reporting, saying the story was accurate and based on verified information. The paper said it sought official comment from the Ministry of Health before publishing and the existence of the letter requesting malaria drugs was not denied.  The Windhoek Observer said, “Our report concerned a matter of urgent national and continental concern; malaria remains the single biggest killer in Africa. It is in the public interest that such issues are reported transparently and truthfully.” The paper said it views the minister’s legal threat as an attempt to intimidate the press and prevent scrutiny of government performance on key health issues. The dispute has drawn comparisons to recent legal developments in the region.  A South African court this week ordered former president Jacob Zuma to repay R28 million in state funds used for his private corruption defence, ruling that the expenses were personal and unrelated to his duties.  Legal observers say the case shows that public funds and positions cannot be used for private legal matters, even if the issue stems from official work. The Windhoek Observer maintains that its report did not defame the minister but exposed the government’s lack of preparedness during a public health emergency.  It’s lawyers said holding public officials accountable is a constitutional duty of the press.  “Sending legal threats does not change facts. Public office demands accountability, not intimidation.” The dispute has now turned into a broader debate on ethics in public office, conflicts of interest, and the role of the media in holding power to account. Windhoek Observers says the case could set a precedent on how far public officials can go in using personal legal action to challenge public scrutiny. The Windhoek Observer said it will continue to report on issues of public concern.  “We will not be silenced,” the newspaper said. “When lives are being lost, the truth must be told, no matter who feels uncomfortable.”

Former presidential advisor and CEO of the Development Bank, Dr. John Steytler warns against a hasty abandonment of the Payroll Deduction system as it can create confusion and panic amongst government employees. Written by Dr. John Steytler, Economist The launch of the recent Fin Fit survey on how government employees view the Payroll Deduction Management System (PDMS) is about more than just collecting statistics. The data should give us pause to reflect on what the numbers are saying. It reminds us that financial systems are not abstract mechanisms; they impact people’s lives. As the former Statistician General, I know the power of data. It should connect policy with lived experience. Payroll deduction systems have long been a cornerstone of financial access in Namibia. They were designed to make credit safer for lenders and more accessible for workers, particularly those in public service. By automating repayments, PDMS reduced defaults, built trust, and opened the door for thousands of employees to participate in formal financial systems. In that sense, it has been a powerful tool for inclusion. But inclusion, while important, is not the final goal. Access without understanding can quickly turn into dependency or over-indebtedness. When payments are deducted automatically, financial discipline improves, but awareness can fade. One must not forget that financial discipline is exceedingly hard to maintain. There’s always too much month left at the end of your salary, as the saying goes. People easily lose sight of how much disposable income remains for essentials like food, rent, or savings. True financial empowerment requires more than access. It requires financial literacy. What the survey revealed was that many employees appreciate PDMS as a reliable, easy-to-use system that simplifies their financial lives. They would, however, like to see it improved and modernised. Not abolished. It tells us something profound: people want both access and autonomy. They value systems that help them, but they resist systems that control them. Abolishing the present system would cause significant consternation and panic amongst the government employees. The danger of moving too fast As Namibia transitions toward more digital and debit-based systems, the temptation will be to innovate quickly. When it comes to people’s finances, speed without caution is not without pitfalls. Automated processes like PDMS exist because they have been tested, refined, and proven to work. Replacing them hastily with less reliable and costlier alternatives risks undermining the very trust that sustains financial inclusion. Financial systems operate in a zero-error environment. A glitch in a social app may be inconvenient; however, a glitch in payroll deductions could mean a missed mortgage payment or a family unable to buy food. Moving fast should be out of the question in this payroll space. Innovation must be deliberate, tested, and accompanied by safeguards. Real financial inclusion rests on three pillars: * Access: ensuring everyone can obtain fair, affordable financial services. * Capability: equipping people with the knowledge and tools to manage those services wisely. * Protection: safeguarding against reckless lending and financial abuse. Payroll deduction systems have delivered powerfully on access and protection. But capability remains the missing piece. Without financial literacy and transparency, inclusion risks becoming dependency. The future is not about keeping or scrapping PDMS. It should be about improving it. Imagine a system where employees can view and manage their deductions in real time, supported by financial education that builds confidence and autonomy. It’s not just government employees, in Namibia we could all use financial literacy training. That is the kind of inclusion that lasts: one that strengthens households, not just balance sheets. Systems alone do not make people financially healthy; awareness, behaviour, and trust do. Our responsibility—as policymakers, lenders, and citizens is to design systems that build both a strong economy and strong households. Payroll deductions are one instrument in that symphony. Played in tune, they create harmony. Left unchecked, they make noise. The Fin Fit survey started a vital conversation; one based on evidence, not emotion. By listening carefully and acting responsibly, Namibia can build a financial system where access, education, and protection go hand in hand. That is how we ensure that inclusion is not just about survival, but about dignity and strength. Which will lead to a more financially resilient workforce that has access to services they did not have before. The post Balancing Access, Autonomy, and Financial Responsibility appeared first on Informanté.

Allexer Namundjembo A Usakos resident, Melvin Areseb, is suing the Namibian Police, including the inspector general Joseph Shikongo and the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, along with three police officers, for more than N$2.9 million following his alleged unlawful arrest and assault in August this year. Court documents seen by the Windhoek Observer show that Areseb is claiming N$2 million for disability, loss of amenities of life and insult to dignity.  He is also seeking N$500 000 for shock and trauma, N$300 000 for future medical expenses, and N$10 000 for destruction of property. Through his lawyer, Areseb asserted that he received no legal grounds or reasons for his arrest. “The arrest and detention were unnecessary, unjust, and influenced by the third to fifth defendants’ desire for self-gratification.”  Areseb is also demanding N$50 000 for his unlawful and wrongful arrest and detention. In September, Areseb’s lawyers, Sisa Namandje & Co sent a letter of demand to Shikongo outlining the alleged events.  According to the letter, Areseb was taken from his Usakos home around 03h00 by warrant officer Jonas Flai, Constable Raphael Kaundu and Constable Willem Jantze. The officers allegedly forced him out of his bedroom, handcuffed him and assaulted him before taking him to a police vehicle. The assault reportedly continued on the way to the Usakos Police Station. Areseb was released the following morning and dropped along the B1 road in Usakos, where he was told to find his own way home. When he returned home, he experienced severe pain and was admitted to Usakos State Hospital.  He was later transferred to Katutura State Hospital for emergency surgery and readmitted due to complications from his injuries. His lawyers claim the assault caused serious internal damage, including to one of his testicles and other organs.  The letter threatened to take legal action against all defendants if they did not make compensation within 30 days. The three officers were arrested and released on N$5 000 bail each by the Usakos Magistrate’s Court.  They face charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Allexer Namundjembo As local authority elections draw near, new discussions about the long-delayed Omuthiya Vocational Training Centre (VTC) have caused mixed feelings among residents. This follows a post by the Omuthiya Town Council on its official Facebook page announcing that a team from the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) visited the site earmarked for the project. The council stated that construction of the centre is expected to begin soon to help reduce the strain on vocational training opportunities in the Oshikoto region.  During the visit, Omuthiya Town Council chief executive officer Petrus Shuuya noted that vocational training centres are essential for developing practical skills, enhancing employability and encouraging self-employment among young people. However, some residents question the timing of the announcement, suggesting it could be politically motivated. President of the Omuthiya People’s Association (OPA) and local authority election candidate, Moses Alfeus, said he doubts the motives behind the renewed attention to the project. “When the establishment of the Omuthiya Vocational Training Centre came on the table, we as residents were happy,” Alfeus said.  “But years passed with no one talking about it. Now suddenly, less than a month before elections, it is being brought up again. One wonders if this is genuine or just a campaign mechanism to blind the electorate.” Alfeus said the project was meant to provide access to education for the youth of Oshikoto and to stimulate employment and business in the town. “It was supposed to be an opportunity for employment and a business booster. Had the vocational training centre been established long ago, by now our youth would have started their studies already. Those from income-generating families are able to go around the country to seek study opportunities, but those from poor families are forced to remain at home due to financial limits,” he said.  He accused local leaders of reviving dormant projects to win votes instead of addressing long-standing community challenges. “I believe that this is a political campaign by the current leadership, fooling the voters for political gain. It is shameful that we have a town surrounded by bush-encroached land while our people are landless,” he said.  Alfeus also criticised the lack of affordable business infrastructure in Omuthiya, saying residents are forced to rent “unhygienic structures at very high rent rates”. “Our leaders failed to address such small but critical challenges. Now they talk about the VTC, which has been under the carpet for many years, only to be mentioned before elections when it is about to rain. Who is fooling whom?” The Omuthiya VTC was first proposed several years ago as part of the government’s plan to expand access to vocational education and improve technical training in the Oshikoto region.  Despite its potential, the project saw little progress until now. In 2017, the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) reaffirmed its plan to establish vocational training centres in all 14 regions as part of its Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Transformation and Expansion Strategy.  During that period, NTA indicated that the Omuthiya VTC was among the proposed projects, along with centres for Nkurenkuru and Khorixas.

Brave Gladiators have mountain to climb after smash defeat against Zambia  Namibia Economist

Parliament has reaffirmed the important role of traditional leaders in promoting unity, peace, and development within communities. During a briefing session with the Council of Traditional Leaders, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Urban and Rural Development and Land Reform, Elifas Dingara, also highlighted the key part traditional authorities play in land reform, housing, and rural development. Dr. Dingara noted that the Committee is committed to continuous engagement with traditional leaders to ensure fair land distribution and improved service delivery. "Parliament deeply values the partnership and dialogue we share with traditional authorities. Together, we can strengthen the social fabric of our country, promote inclusive development and ensure that the voices of our people from rural villages and urban centres are heard. We have been consulting key stakeholders, including Communal Land Boards and regional authorities, to better understand the challenges in the sector." He also revealed plans for a study visit to Kenya, Uganda and South Africa to learn best practices in land management and traditional governance. The Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Authorities, Immanuel |Gaseb emphasised the need for equal treatment and closer cooperation between Parliament and traditional leaders. Chief |Gaseb also called on parliamentary committees to engage with traditional leaders. "All traditional leaders are equal. No one is above another. Decisions should not be taken at high levels without consulting those on the ground. The land belongs to tradition; we must start there. I ask you very humbly to visit my office, see the resources we have, and engage with traditional leaders before making decisions. This is how we can work closely together for the development of our country."

Justicia Shipena The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has awarded 39 security service contracts worth N$535 million over the past three years. The contracts, CPBN said, aimed to promote local empowerment, job creation, and SME development. CPBN chairperson Mary Shiimi revealed these facts during her presentation on “The Bidding Process of the CPBN” at the first Namibia Private Security Conference and 33rd annual general meeting held this week at the Mövenpick Hotel in Windhoek. According to Shiimi, the board prioritised Namibian products, workers, and services by awarding the contracts under the Public Procurement Act of 2015. She emphasised fairness and compliance during the bidding process.  “Together, we are building a transparent and inclusive procurement environment that supports national growth and integrity,” she said. This comes as the CPBN has also introduced a pre-qualification system for contractors in the construction sector to promote efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public procurement.  The system aims to enhance the effectiveness of procurement for large projects, such as schools, hospitals, roads, bridges and water systems. CPBN’s manager for stakeholder relations, Johanna Kambala, said through the new process, CPBN will identify and classify experienced and well-resourced contractors eligible for restricted bidding.  She said the goal is to shorten procurement timelines, cut costs, and ensure only qualified bidders participate in major tenders. “This initiative demonstrates CPBN’s commitment to conducting procurement in a manner that is efficient, effective, fair, and accountable, in support of Namibia’s national development goals,” she said. To participate, bidders must buy a pre-qualification bidding document from CPBN offices for N$3 000.  Once approved, contractors will remain on the pre-qualified database for one year and will be invited to take part in relevant restricted tenders. Applications close on 21 January 2026. Kambala said the system will strengthen Namibia’s public procurement framework.  The event brought together leaders, policymakers, regulators, and representatives from the public and private security sectors. The two-day event included discussions on compliance, labour issues, and training, along with an exhibition showcasing security technologies and solutions. Topics such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and transparency were central as Namibia’s security sector adapts to new challenges. More than 200 security companies, government officials, ministries and corporate leaders attended. Caption  Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) chairperson Mary Shiimi speaking at the first Namibia Private Security Conference in Windhoek this week.  * Photo: Contributed 

Justicia Shipena The ||Kharas and Hardap regional councils have directed all municipalities under their control to cancel outstanding debts owed by pensioners before the end of the year.  The move aims to promote social justice and protect the dignity of elderly citizens. In a circular dated 16 October 2025, ||Kharas Regional Council chairperson Joseph Isaack instructed local authorities to write off water debts accumulated by pensioners, both living and deceased.  He said the decision aligns with the constitutional principles of social welfare and compassion. Isaack explained that the directive is based on the Local Authorities Act of 1992, which allows councils to remit or cancel charges if it serves the public interest.  “The intention is to allow pensioners, many of whom live on limited state pensions, to do so without the burden of water debts that threaten their dignity and access to life-sustaining resources,” he said. He added that the decision also supports the Water Supply and Sanitation Policy of 2008.  Isaack noted that many pensioners live in poverty and still support unemployed relatives, making it unfair to demand payments they cannot afford.  “Our pensioners are the pillars upon whose sacrifices our communities stand,” Isaack said, calling the move “compassion through action.” Local authorities in ||Kharas must identify affected pensioners, pass council resolutions and record all write-offs transparently by 30 November 2025.  The circular was also sent to the governor of ||Kharas, the minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa,NamWater CEO Abraham Nehemia and Landless People’s Movement leader Bernadus Swartbooi. The Hardap regional council also issued a similar order on 15 October 2025.  It instructed local authorities to write off all municipal debts owed by pensioners by December 2025.  Chairperson Gershon Dausab said the decision followed appeals from residents and rising living costs affecting the elderly. “Pensioners often act as the main and sometimes only, source of income for entire unemployed families. This places a huge strain on their limited pensions,” Dausab said. Local authorities in Hardap must approve resolutions authorising write-offs, clear both capital and interest and report back by December. Dausab said the process must follow transparency, accountability and sound financial management principles.  He advised councils needing help to contact the regional council’s directorate of development planning. The councils described the write-offs as an act of responsibility and good governance aimed at restoring dignity and easing the economic burden on those who built the country. Caption  The //Kharas Regional Council and Hardap Regional Council have directed all local authorities to write off outstanding water debts owed by pensioners by the end of the year.  * Photo: Contributed 

The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the appointment of its Executive Director, Toska Sem, as Second Vice-Chairperson of the Technical Commission of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a role attained following her nomination by Australia and secondment by Cameroon and Kazakhstan during the recent 42nd ICAO Assembly,

The warning by PDM member of parliament Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo could not have come at a more crucial time. Her call for greater scrutiny of how some teachers are using learners to create social media content must serve as a national wake-up call. Namibia is fast catching up with the global trend where schools, classrooms, and even children’s private moments are turned into digital entertainment, often without consent, without understanding the consequences, and without any protection for the minors involved. What was once a space for learning and mentorship, the classroom, is now becoming a stage for online fame. Teachers who should be role models are sometimes transforming their learners into props for viral videos, TikTok dances, or motivational reels. It may look harmless on the surface – a fun video, a trending challenge, a moment of laughter. But beneath the filters and hashtags lies a troubling erosion of ethics, privacy, and child protection. We live in an age where the smartphone is more powerful than the chalkboard. Teachers now compete for social media validation as much as they do for academic recognition. But the moment a teacher points a camera at a learner and uploads that video online, the relationship between educator and pupil changes. Teachers hold authority and trust. When they use that authority to film a child for online engagement, that trust is compromised, especially when consent is neither informed nor freely given. A child may smile on camera because the teacher asked them to, not because they truly agreed. What happens when those images go viral, are shared beyond control, or are mocked and remixed in ways the child cannot escape? It is not just about embarrassment; it is about digital safety, dignity, and long-term consequences. A child who is filmed and uploaded today could have their video resurface years later. A moment meant to be funny can turn into lifelong ridicule. Lessons from other countries Namibia is not alone in this phenomenon. Across the world, societies are now grappling with the dark side of social media in education. In the United States, several teachers have been suspended or dismissed after posting classroom videos of children without parental consent. One case in Georgia saw a teacher lose her job after recording students’ emotional reactions during a disciplinary session; the video garnered millions of views, but the backlash was immense, leading to investigations and emotional harm to the students involved. In South Africa, the Department of Basic Education has repeatedly warned teachers against filming pupils for TikTok content. In 2023, a viral video of a Cape Town teacher dancing provocatively with learners led to public outrage and disciplinary action. The department reminded educators that “schools are not stages” and that such acts violate the South African Schools Act and child protection laws. In Kenya, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recently issued a circular warning teachers against “unauthorised online engagements involving learners”, after several cases of students’ images being used in promotional or entertainment videos without consent. These cases point to a global pattern: where boundaries between professional responsibility and personal social media clout are being dangerously blurred. Namibia must not wait for its own scandal to act. Social media fame vs. professional ethics At the heart of this issue is a clash between modern culture and moral duty. Social media rewards instant fame — likes, followers, shares — and teachers, like everyone else, are not immune to that temptation. But teaching is not a popularity contest; it is a vocation of trust and responsibility. A teacher who uses a student’s image or voice for online content is not just being unprofessional—they are violating the sanctity of education. The classroom must be a safe space where learners feel respected and free from exploitation, not one where they risk becoming the next trending clip. Furthermore, many of these videos inadvertently expose school identities, uniforms, names, and locations, putting children at risk of cyberbullying, grooming, or identity theft. The digital world does not forget, and predators are watching. Namibia currently lacks a specific legal framework governing social media conduct in schools. The Child Care and Protection Act offers general protection against exploitation, but the digital age requires sharper tools. Teachers who misuse learners’ images or videos should face disciplinary consequences under the Education Act, with clear codes of conduct defining digital boundaries. Schools must also introduce social media policies, both for teachers and students, outlining what can and cannot be shared online. The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture must urgently collaborate with the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology to establish digital safety guidelines that address this emerging threat. Parents, too, must play a role. They must educate themselves about their children’s online exposure and assert their right to say no when schools or teachers post images of minors. Consent must be explicit, informed, and respected. The issue goes beyond rules; it’s about values. When teachers reduce their students to content, they send a message that fame outweighs integrity, that exposure is more important than education. What happens to the spirit of mentorship, compassion, and discretion that once defined great educators? In a society already struggling with youth mental health, cyberbullying, and online exploitation, this reckless trend risks deepening the damage. The children we are supposed to protect are being turned into unknowing performers in a digital circus they neither control nor understand. The way forward Namibia cannot remain passive. It is time for: * Clear regulations on social media use by educators; * Mandatory digital ethics training for teachers; * Stronger enforcement of child protection in online spaces; and * National awareness campaigns on the risks of children’s digital exposure. The Windhoek Observer joins Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo in calling for a national conversation, not to shame teachers, but to protect learners. Education is sacred work, not a content creation opportunity. Let us be clear: children are not props for social media. Their faces, their emotions, and their private moments belong in classrooms of safety, not in the ruthless, permanent theatre of the internet. If we do not act now, we risk raising a generation of children who grow up knowing they were entertainment before they were protected.

As jy daardie ekstra kilometer kon hardloop of ‘n persoonlike beste in die gimnasium opgestel het, is jou eerste gedagte dalk om jou harde werk en toewyding te bedank. Maar nuwe navorsing dui daarop dat jy dalk ook jou ma ‘n dankie moet gee… nie net vir haar aanmoediging nie, maar ook vir jou gene. […]

Chamwe Kaira Projections made by Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah rest on assumptions that require careful interpretation. Economic analyst Almandro Jansen said maintaining GDP growth above 3% depends on how quickly investments in energy, logistics, and housing move forward, as well as on continued private-sector confidence. He noted that SACU inflows, which still make up about a third of total revenue, remain exposed to regional trade performance and South Africa’s fiscal outlook. Jansen said election-year spending in the 2026/27 financial year could test the government’s commitment to spending cuts. He said Simonis Storm’s assessment is that the fiscal outlook is credible but conservative. “We anticipate a mildly expansionary fiscal stance through 2026, balancing electoral and economic imperatives, followed by a firmer consolidation path thereafter. This sequencing is rational: expansionary spending in the near term supports confidence and growth, while the gradual return to consolidation post-2026 ensures medium-term sustainability,” said Jansen. Namibia’s funding mix remains 80% domestic and 20% external, a structure that protects the country from foreign-exchange volatility and external-debt risks. The borrowing requirement for 2025/26 has surged to N$29.8 billion, more than double the previous fiscal year’s level. “Such an expansion inevitably tightens domestic liquidity as government debt absorbs a larger share of national savings. Local pension funds and insurance companies, traditionally the main buyers of Treasury paper, are approaching their internal exposure limits to sovereign assets. Once those thresholds are met, Treasury must either raise yields to attract additional demand or diversify its investor base,” Jansen said. Despite tight fiscal conditions, Jansen said the government achieved several key milestones midway through the 2025/26 fiscal year, showing that its fiscal consolidation efforts are taking shape. One major success was the redemption of the US$750 million Eurobond, which matured in October 2025. The repayment was fully financed through domestic resources and the Sinking Fund, without new external borrowing. Public debt has since stabilised at N$176.3 billion, or 67.5% of GDP, and is expected to stay below the 70% threshold in the medium term. Jansen said the budget deficit widened to 6% of GDP from an initial forecast of 4.6%, mainly due to weaker revenue and the Eurobond redemption. The previous year’s deficit stood at 4.8%, showing temporary pressures rather than structural problems. Public debt rose from N$167 billion to N$176.3 billion, or 67.5% of GDP, nearing the 70% comfort threshold. Real GDP growth was revised down from 4.5% to 3.3%, compared to 5.4% in 2022 when mining and construction rebounded from pandemic lows. Inflation is expected to average 3.8% this year, while the repo rate remains at 6.50%, indicating a moderately supportive monetary stance. By September, total revenue collection stood at N$36.6 billion, 40% of the annual target, compared to 43% during the same period in 2024. “This shortfall exposes persistent structural fragilities in the revenue system. Namibia’s dependence on SACU transfers, which typically contribute 30 to 35% of total revenue, leaves it vulnerable to regional trade slowdowns. VAT and income-tax receipts have also underperformed due to weaker import volumes and a sluggish corporate environment, while VAT refunds, especially to exporters and oil exploration companies, have risen,” said Jansen. Caption Election-cycle spending pressures could also test the government’s consolidation resolve.  -Photo: Contributed

Chamwe Kaira The Namibian Competition Commission (NaCC) has paid N$9 million in penalties into the state revenue fund after the audit of its 2024/25 financial year by the auditor general.  This fulfils its obligation under the Competition Act, which requires all collected penalties to be transferred to the fund. NaCC corporate communication practitioner Dina //Gowases said the commission collected the penalties through settlement and consent agreements with companies in several sectors, including non-financial services (N$1 million), cement (N$5 million) and fuel and air transportation (N$3 million).  She said investigations found that some companies violated chapters 3 and 4 of the Competition Act by conducting mergers without approval and abusing their dominant positions in the market. //Gowases said that since the commission’s establishment in 2009, a total of N$65 million in penalties has been paid into the fund from various violations of the act. The Competition Act promotes fair and open markets by addressing anti-competitive practices.  Penalties play a key role in this process by acting as a deterrent, discouraging companies from forming cartels, abusing dominance, or merging without approval. They also serve as punishment for harm caused by such actions, which can lead to higher prices, reduced innovation and fewer choices for consumers.  Penalties further encourage compliance, as companies are more likely to strengthen internal controls when non-compliance carries financial risks. According to //Gowases, by punishing rule-breakers, the law ensures that businesses compete based on quality and innovation, not illegal or unethical tactics. She said anticompetitive behaviours such as price-fixing, bid-rigging, and monopolisation distort markets and harm consumers. She added that penalties for such conduct are a vital deterrent that helps create a competitive and efficient economy. Raising the risks of illegal behaviour discourages companies from limiting competition and encouraging innovation. Penalties also protect consumers from inflated prices and limited options, promoting a fairer distribution of economic benefits. “The Commission urges all businesses operating in Namibia to ensure adherence to the Act. Additionally, the Commission is committed to implementing the Act to the benefit of all Namibians,” //Gowases said. Caption The Namibian Competition Commission pays collected penalties into the State Revenue Fund.  * Photo: Contributed

Staff Writer The Bank of Namibia (BoN) and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (Namfisa) have released the October 2025 Financial Stability Report, assessing the strength of the country’s financial system and its ability to withstand internal and external shocks. According to the report, the domestic economy slowed sharply in the second quarter of 2025, mainly due to weak performance in the manufacturing, fishing, and agriculture sectors.  The economy grew by 1.6% during the quarter, compared to 3.3% recorded in the same period last year. The contraction was driven by declines in manufacturing, fishing and fish processing on board, and agriculture subsectors.  Among the primary industries, only mining recorded positive growth, supported by increased uranium output. The secondary industries showed mixed results.  Manufacturing fell due to lower cement and blister copper production, while construction and the electricity and water subsectors improved, supported by government infrastructure projects. The tertiary industries continued to expand, with growth in wholesale and retail trade, tourism, communication, financial services, education and public administration and defence. “Overall risks to the Namibian economy remained moderate, mainly reflecting both global and domestic factors. Global factors such as prolonged policy uncertainty could dampen consumption and investment, whereas the escalation of protectionist measures disrupts supply chains and reduces productivity growth,” the report said. The report also cited depressed diamond prices and growing competition from lab-grown diamonds as significant risks. These could weaken export earnings, reduce government revenue, and worsen the country’s external balance sheet. Domestically, risks include water supply interruptions in coastal towns and lower Southern African Customs Union (SACU) receipts for the 2025/26 fiscal year. Household debt growth declined by 2.3 percentage points to 0.3%, with total household debt standing at N$77 billion by June 2025.  Corporate debt rose slightly by 0.7% to N$182.1 billion during the second quarter, mainly due to increased domestic borrowing. “The banking sector remained well capitalised, profitable and liquid, with notable improvement in asset quality in the first half of 2025. The banking sector’s total assets declined by 4.1%, mainly due to a decrease in cash and balances. The Non-Banking Financial Industry sector’s aggregate assets reached N$501.7 billion by mid-2025, representing a 5.8% increase from the end of 2024,” the report said. Caption The Bank of Namibia (BoN) and the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (Namfisa) issue financial stability reports throughout the year.  * Photo: File

Chamwe Kaira The eighth edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) will bring together industry leaders, government officials, and investors to discuss Namibia’s growing energy sector.  The conference will take place from 14 to 16 April 2026 in Windhoek. Organised by RichAfrica Consultancy, the conference will focus on Namibia’s transition from exploration to development and production. It aims to promote the creation and sharing of in-country value while advancing a diversified energy mix that includes oil and gas, renewables, nuclear, and power generation. RichAfrica said this milestone edition will align with Namibia’s approach to building a balanced and sustainable energy mix. Since its first edition in 2012, the NIEC has become Namibia’s main platform for dialogue, partnerships, and collaboration within the energy industry.  The event attracts government leaders, global investors, and businesses, supporting efforts to achieve first oil while laying the foundation for a resilient and diverse energy future. “It is a privilege to welcome you to this milestone 8th edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference. This edition is not just another conference; it is a defining moment where we celebrate progress, confront challenges, and unlock opportunities together. More than a gathering of leaders, NIEC is a catalyst for collaboration, investment, and innovation, strengthening the enabling environment and laying the foundations for an energy future that goes beyond first oil to deliver diversification, security, growth, and shared prosperity,” said Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, CEO and Founder of RichAfrica Consultancy. NIEC 2026 will host senior government leaders, investors, operators, service providers, financial institutions, academics, innovators, and civil society representatives. Shimutwikeni said discussions will focus on updates in Namibia’s energy landscape, in-country value creation, human capital development, local enterprise participation, infrastructure and export readiness, energy security, supply chain resilience, and renewable integration. The event is endorsed by the Government of Namibia and the African Energy Chamber, with support from both international and local institutions. Its programme will include plenary sessions, panel discussions, technical masterclasses, B2B matchmaking, networking receptions, and an interactive exhibition featuring technologies, services, and investment-ready projects. Caption The Namibia International Energy Conference will take place in April next year.  * Photo: Contributed

Korrektiewe beamptes doen werk wat gevaarlik kan wees, en die diens se kommissaris-generaal, Raphael Hamunyela, het in die parlement voorgestel dat hulle salarisse gevaar-toelae insluit. Die beamptes werk met gewelddadige misdadigers, en is kwesbaar weens ‘n gebrek aan personeel. Kosmos 94.1 Nuus het gepraat met die Korrektiewe Diens se adjunk kommissaris-generaal, Sam Shaalulange gepraat wat […]

Die geskorste minister van Polisie, Senzo Mchunu, het ontken dat hy by die polisie se werk ingemeng het en het onder eed volgehou dat hy geen voorvalle van politieke inmenging kan onthou nie. Mchunu het voor die ad hoc-komitee getuig en gesê verdeeldheid binne polisieleierskap het lank voor sy aanstelling bestaan en is gewortel in […]

‘n Organisasie wat internasionale media afsetpunte in Israel en die Palestynse gebiede verteenwoordig, sê hulle hoop Israel se Hoogste Hof sal hul versoekskrif goedkeur wat onmiddellike toegang vir joernaliste tot Gaza eis. Die hof sal vandag ‘n versoekskrif deur die Buitelandse Persvereniging aanhoor om toegang tot Gaza te verkry. Israel se owerhede het sedert die […]

Motorsport: Nege voltydse renjaers sal die eerste oefening vir die naweek se Formule Een Grand Prix in Mexikostad misloop as deel van die verbintenis om nuwelinge minstens twee oefen-geleenthede per seisoen te gee. Hulle sluit in die huidige wêreldkampioen, Max Verstappen van Red Bull, Lando Norris van McLaren en Lewis Hamilton van Ferrari. Die voorloper […]

Namibia has recorded its first confirmed case of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, and while that headline alone may alarm some, this moment should be seen as an opportunity for vigilance, not fear. The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) has moved swiftly to isolate the patient, begin contact tracing, and activate the national emergency response system. That decisive action deserves commendation. In times like these, calm professionalism matters just as much as medical expertise. Understanding mpox: What we are dealing with Mpox is not new to Africa or to the global health landscape. It’s a zoonotic viral disease, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, caused by an orthopox virus related to smallpox, though notably less severe. The disease was first detected in monkeys in 1958 and in humans in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970. Since then, it has appeared periodically across parts of central and western Africa, often in communities with close contact with wild animals. What makes the current situation different is that mpox is now largely transmitted from human to human. Transmission occurs through direct contact with the lesions or bodily fluids of an infected person, prolonged face-to-face contact, or contact with contaminated materials such as bedding or clothing. Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after exposure. They include fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash that progresses from flat lesions to fluid-filled blisters before crusting over. While mpox is rarely fatal, it can cause severe discomfort, scarring, and complications in people with weakened immune systems. Namibia’s case has been linked to cross-border travel within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). That should not come as a surprise. With 17 African countries currently reporting active mpox cases, including our neighbours Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania, regional movement inevitably raises exposure risks. This reality underscores a simple truth: viruses do not respect borders. Namibia’s first case does not indicate failure but connectivity, economic, social, and geographic. As a country that sits at the heart of the region, we are part of a larger ecosystem of travel and trade. The key lies in how we manage the health implications that come with it. The ministry’s swift response Health ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya has confirmed that Namibia has activated its public health emergency response mechanism and mobilised resources to contain the situation. This proactive stance demonstrates that lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic have not gone unlearned. From contact tracing to the repurposing of isolation facilities, the ministry’s response has been structured, timely, and transparent. It is worth remembering that even a single confirmed case is classified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as an outbreak. That classification does not imply catastrophe; it simply ensures that the correct public health measures are put in motion early enough to prevent further spread. Public confidence is built on such clarity. By promptly informing citizens, rather than concealing or downplaying the news, the ministry has affirmed the principle that transparency saves lives. As the story spreads, so too will rumours, half-truths and outright falsehoods. This is perhaps the most dangerous contagion of all. The public must resist the urge to circulate unverified information on social media or to stigmatise those affected. Mpox, like any infectious disease, does not discriminate. It can infect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social group. Fear-driven stigma undermines both the victims and the national response. It discourages people from seeking treatment or reporting symptoms. It erodes the trust between communities and health workers that is essential for effective containment. What Namibia needs right now is not hysteria, but hygiene. The simple measures that worked during COVID-19 — frequent handwashing, avoiding unnecessary physical contact, and promptly seeking medical attention for suspicious rashes or fever, remain our first line of defence. The emergence of mpox reminds us that public health is an ongoing investment, not an occasional expense. Diseases will continue to evolve and cross borders, but a resilient healthcare system ensures that they do not overwhelm us. Namibia’s quick mobilisation shows that we are not starting from zero. The surveillance systems developed over years of managing HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, and more recently Covid-19, have strengthened our ability to respond to outbreaks. These are the invisible victories of institutional memory and investment in human capacity. At the same time, this outbreak should reignite the conversation about continuous funding for public health infrastructure, laboratory capacity, and emergency response teams. The cost of readiness will always be less than the cost of crisis. The Ministry of Health’s assurance that Namibia is adequately prepared must be matched with sustained vigilance from every sector of society. Regional cooperation within SADC is also crucial. Since the first case has been linked to cross-border travel, neighbouring states must share surveillance data, standardise screening procedures, and coordinate communication to limit transmission. Local leaders, civil society, and the media have a collective responsibility to keep the public informed without inflaming anxiety. Accurate reporting saves lives. Constructive partnerships between journalists and health authorities will be critical in managing the narrative responsibly. In the end, Namibia’s first mpox case is not a national crisis, it is a national test. How we respond will determine not just the trajectory of this particular outbreak, but our readiness for future ones. Let us commend the Ministry of Health and Social Services for acting decisively and communicating openly. Let us also play our part, by staying alert, informed, and compassionate. Public health is a shared responsibility, and in moments like this, our collective discipline becomes the country’s strongest vaccine. The Windhoek Observer stands with Namibia’s health professionals and urges all citizens to respond to this outbreak with calm, cooperation, and care. Information, not panic, will keep us safe.