&
Gems Energy, Geology & Mining News
Ministry of Mines and Energy Official Newsletter
Volume 1 • Edition No.2 • Aug 2014 - Feb 2015
6 16
Ministry if Mines and Energy host the IAEA
28
Extensive Interview with outgoing Director
Rural electrification on track
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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MINISTRY OF MINES & ENERGY
Table of Content Content Page Editor’s Note
3
Solar panels stand tall at Usib rural school
4
Rural electrification on track but electricity tariffs remain a challenge
6
Power purchase agreement between Nampower and Zimbabwean power corporation (ZPC)
10
Pupkewitz Mega-Tech Revamped
12
Wholesale Licence
14
Ministry of Mines and Energy host the IAEA
16
The Oldest Mammoths came from Africa
18
Namibia hosts the African Association of Women in Geosciences (AAWG) 7th Congress
22
MME thanks outgoing CEO
24
Kandjoze Bids Farewell to Namcor
26
Extensive Interview with outgoing Madam Director
28
Yes Namibia at the Young Earth Scientist (YES) Congress
33
Thanks to our Sponsors
35
MME Panorama
38
Editor: Ten Hasheela
2
Contributions: Steven A Helke Mocke Andreas Simon Kombada Mhopjeni
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
Design & Layout: Space Dimensions Photographs: Contributed (MME)
EDITOR’S NOTE
The year 2014 has come and gone, and ‘‘boy’’ was it a busy year. We experienced sorrow and also joy, with the passing of our deputy minister, Hon Willem Isaacks. We also bid farewell to one of our Directors, Mrs. Selma-Utonih who went on retirement. Others who left the industry were Mr Siseho Simasiku, CEO of ECB (retirement) and Mr. Obeth Mbui Kandjoze who was part of the President’s list of the eight nominees to the National Assembly 2015. The ministry however also saw many projects take off, which can be described as a success to the country as a whole. In this edition we take a look into the solar power plant which was inaugurated at Usib rural school in Hardap Region near Rehoboth. Another milestone worth mentioning is the successful hosting of IAEA group meeting and the discovery of a Mammoth in the Etosha National Park. The rural Electrification Programme still remains a priority on the Ministry’s agenda. To date, since its inception in 1991, more
than 48,588 homesteads have benefited from this programme. Please help us to fulfil our mandate by sending in critiques and positive contributions to our newsletter. May we wish you a productive and a successful year ahead. Enjoy reading!
Disclaimer Lights & Gems is an official publication produced and published by the Ministry of Mines and Energy. It is one of many channels that highlights the news and activities of the Ministry of Mines and Energy are disseminated. The newsletter is published twice per annum, in May and November. The statements and opinions expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the views of the
publisher. Copyright is reserved, and should anyone wish to reproduce articles in whole or in part, permission has to be sought from the editor on condition that acknowledgment is made to the newsletter. The editor welcome news items, press releases, letters, feature articles and photos with captions relating to the Ministry’s activities. Any contributions and enquiries should be addressed to:
The Editor • Lights & Gems • Ministry of Mines and Energy • Private Bag: 13297 • Windhoek, Namibia. Tel: +264 61 284 8111 • e-mail: info@mme.gov.na
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Solar panels stand tall at Usib rural school By: Andreas Simon
T
he Ministry of Mines and Energy is extensively getting involved in the affairs of powering the nation with rural electrification. This was noted on 09 June 2014 when Mrs. Selma-Penna Utonih, the Director of Energy at the Ministry delivered a speech on behalf of the Minister of Mines and Energy Hon. Isak Katali, at the inauguration of the CVP demonstration plant at Usib. The fastening event was held at the Usib community school in the Rehoboth rural constituency, in Hardap Region. Reading the Minister’s speech, Mrs. Utonih started by thanking the Usib community for the warm welcome which it extended to her upon arrival as a representative of the Ministry. “This event has brought about a positive impact for the Usib Primary School in particular. Positive change, no matter the measure, should be recognised and celebrated as we are doing today,” she read.
ELECTRICITY: CVP Plant at the Usib Community School
supplying the Usib School with electricity, and powers a water pump that irrigates the community garden. Although small in output, its contribution to reliable and consistent supply of electricity to both the school and the garden pump has had a great impact. Energy, as identified in the National Development Plan 4, is one of the key vehicles for economic expansion. The country has set ambitious plans to be an industrialised country by the year
The occasion was also a portrayal of the first ever solar system of its kind in Hardap Region. The concentrated Photovoltaic (PPV) Plant was set up as a demonstration plant and has been Mrs Utonih cutting the ribbon at Usib during 4
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
2030 and sufficient and reliable energy supply lies at the centre of realising this goal. Namibia is focusing on implementing large scale generation projects to address the power supply shortage which is an issue at the moment. It is however clear that plenty of opportunities exist for small-scale renewable energy resources. Namibia has a direct solar radiation of about 3000kWh/square meters per annum in some areas, making it one of the best in the world. This offers opportunities for households not connected to the electricity grid. In his speech, the Minister stated that the Government remains committed to supporting renewable energy technologies to complement conventional energy sources. He further encouraged Independent Power Producers (IPP) in solar, wind and biomass to invest in renewable energy projects. The Rural Electricity Master Plan facilitated by the Ministry of Mines and Energy has identified areas where grid-electrification will remain a
the ceremony
challenge in the foreseeable future and hence solar power has been the solution. This is making significant progress in increasing electricity supply in rural areas throughout the country. The annual budget for rural electrification has been increased from approximately N$45 million during the 2012/13 financial year to N$60 million for the financial year 2014/15. The ministry will continue to put measures in place, in order to accelerate the implementation of the rural electrification programme in the country. The ministry hopes to see further investment in the development of solar energy throughout the country, through IPP’s. The Government is calling on IPP’s to forge partnerships in order for it to meet its developmental challenges. Finally, a special ‘thank you’ was bestowed to Soitec together with NamPower for initiating the project.
MD of Nampower with some Board members Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Rural Electrification on track By: Steven A economic development, based on the principles of sustainable development. This provides opportunities for the rolling out of sustainable sources of energy.
Hon Katali addressing the community at the inauguration
T
here is no doubt that electricity can make an important contribution to rural development. As such, it is a direct and symbolic value to the rural people of Namibia. It is no understatement that the power electricity provides makes an important contribution to rural development by supporting service provision and local economic development. According to the ILO, around 60% of the Namibian population does not have adequate access to grid electricity. Vision 2030 and the National Development Plan 4, provide a framework for
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One of the initiatives put in place aimed at improving access to grid electricity the Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP). In 2000, the master plan was finalised and then amended in 2005. It identifies the need for the development of on-grid and off-grid infrastructure. REMP was formed as a direct result of government’s integrated approach which seeks to extend the electrical grid into rural areas. The main focus is to spearhead rapid and equitable electrification of rural areas in Namibia. Under REMP rural public institutions such as schools, clinics, government buildings are supposed to benefit under a capital injection, implying that the whole process of bringing the power line to the target is catered for. Under the programme, rural communities are supposed to be empowered both socially and economically by the promotion of productive use of electricity in irrigation and other smallscale industry.
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
The power transformer at one of the schools in Zambezi Region
Hon. Katali with staff of the school that was recently electrified Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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The case however, is that a number of challenges have hampered the speedy deployment of this programme into the rural areas of Namibia. Among the major challenges are a lack of capacity by companies contracted, a shortage of power supply and a lack of funds.
the case when the programme first began,� Katali explained, adding that the advantages of this approach is that it will help fast track rural electrification of public buildings, in effect improving education standards and improving access to vital medical needs by the rural community.
However, the major issue hampering the operation of REMP has until recently been a lack of funds. This has since been reversed and the programme is now back on track to the satisfaction of the Minster of Mines and Energy, Isak Katali.
The new approach by government will as the Minister explained enable the Ministry to rollout electricity infrastructure into rural areas while connecting public institutions in close proximity to the national grid system.
The Ministry has since received an additional N$15million for its rural electrification programme, bringing the rural electrification budget for 2014/15 financial year to N$60 million. Katali revealed that government has changed its approach to the rural electrification programme. “The revised approach now focuses first on electrifying only vital institutions such as schools and public institutions, before extending to businesses and private homesteads within 500 metres radius from the transformer as was
Minister Katali receiving a gift from one of the village elders 8
To date, since its inception in 1991, more than 48,588 homesteads benefited from the Rural Electrification Programme (REP). This represents about 29 % coverage since independence, with more than 1216 villages and localities with grid electricity. The government invested more than N$ 850 million in electrifying rural centres and government institutions in all the fourteen (14) regions of the country. REP still remains an important priority for the government and last year alone, 71 localities have been electrified at an amount of N$160 million.
Hon Katali at Kaliyangile community resource centre during the event
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
Learners of Ibbu Combined School welcoming the Minister of Mines and Energy during the visits to schools that were electrified in Zambezi region.
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MDs of Nampower P Shimba and Zimbabwean Hwange Power operation signing the agreement
Power purchase agreement between Nampower and Zimbabwean power corporation (ZPC)
I
By: Andreas Simon
t was eight years ago in 2006 when
much reporting from the local and
NamPower
regional
and
ZESA
Holdings
signed an agreement to jointly
rehabilitate Station
in
the
Hwange
Zimbabwe.
media,
always positive.
which
was
not
But despite these
Power
reports, the two utilities, supported
NamPower
by their Governments, stood by their
availed the U$40 Million funding for
arrangement.
“Now eight years
the rehabilitation; as repayment, ZESA
later, we are looking back at this
provided NamPower with a supply of
agreement and we can confidently
150MW for a period of eight years.
say it served both countries well “said Hon. Katali during the signing of
The agreement at that time received
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Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
power purchase agreement between
understandings
between
ZPC and Nampower on 16 October
utilities and Government itself.
power
2014. The signing ceremony would not have been possible if the current
Furthermore,
the
power
sharing
agreement have not been beneficial
agreement which is signed between
to both countries.
the two parties is a clear testimony of the sound relationship that exists
The Ministry of Mines and Energy
between
served as witness during the power
Holdings, the holding company for
purchased
ZPC and ultimately between the two
agreement
signed
between NamPower and the (ZPC)
Nampower
and
ZESA
countries (Namibia and Zimbabwe).
at the NamPower head office in Windhoek.
This is also a clear demonstration of how strong regional cooperation can
Hon. Katali also mentioned that,
be of great benefit to all the parties
Government will continue to look for
involved.
ways on building joint agreements which are aimed at building mutual
Sealed the deal: MDs of Nampower and ZPC Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Ready to cut the ribbon, from left Mr. Paul Koster (Managing Director of Pupkewitz Mega-Tech), Mrs Selma-Penna Utonih (Director of Energy at the Ministry of Mines and Energy), Hon. Isak Katali (Hon. Minister of Mines and Energy) and Mr. Eugene Shepherd (Financial Director of the Pupkewitz Group).
Pupkewitz Mega-Tech
revamped
F 12
By: Andreas Simon
riday, the 13 June 2014 was not a ‘bad luck day’ for MegaTech as it is considered by many superstitious people. It was rather a celebration day – the launch of the revamped Pupkewitz MegaTech store in Edison Street, Windhoek.
these support the objectives of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, whereby not only inequalities in the provision of energy supplies are redressed, but competent and adequate electric and engineering staff resources are produced”.
During his speech Ministers Katali said that “Innovative initiatives such as
Mr Koster, of Pupkewitz Mega-Tech thanked the Minister for availing
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
time to attend the event. “Having the Minister here at our event is not only pleasing to the employees of Pupkewitz Mega-Tech but also pleasing for many customers, who work closely with the Ministry to make access to electricity a reality for many of our fellow Namibians”, he said. He further thanked customers for their continued support and mentioned that their customers are the main reason why MegaTech is where it is today. Pupkewitz MegaTech relocated to the current property over three years ago after a parking lot with an unused warehouse in the back was turned into a store.
According to Mr Koster, this still stands out as one of the highlights of his tenure with the Pupkewitz Group, since it signified the new beginning for Pupkewitz MegaTech. He also paid attribute to the late Mr. Harold Pupkewitz, who was persistent in his ventures to turn MegaTech into a reality and decided not to close the shop. Till this day, it is believed that, Harold had the foresight to move Pupkewitz MegaTech to a street named after Thomas Edison, the famous inventor, who happened to design the first light bulb.
Megatech is a subsidiary of Pupkewitz Group of Companies which deals in electrical supplies.
FACTS ABOUT LIGHT BULBS 17.5% of global power consumed is through lighting 80% of all light bulbs are still the ‘old style’ incandescent bulbs Light bulbs were introduced by Thomas Edison back in 1879
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Ministry of Mines & Energy
Directorate of Petroleum Affairs
WHOLESALE LICENCE WHAT IS WHOLESALE?
Wholesale sale is the sale of petrol or diesel in bulk quantities and a bulk quantity is a single quantity of 200 litres or more.
Provide adequate supply of petroleum products to the nation
WHO MAY APPLY FOR A WHOLESALE LICENCE?
Anybody who wants to import, distribute or export petrol or diesel in bulk quantities may apply for a wholesale licence.
IMPORT PERMITS 1.Everybody who wants to import petroleum products into Namibia must have a wholesale licence. 2. Also have an import permit under the Import and Export Control Act, 1994 (unless such import is from within the customs union). The import permit is issued by the Ministry of Trade and Industry provided the Ministry of Mines and Energy approve the said import.
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Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A WHOLESALE LICENCE? 1. Form PP/3 (the formal application) – duly completed 2. A certified copy of your identity document and in the case of non-Namibian citizens, any of the following: a permanent residence permit, or an employment permit and proof of residence in Namibia, or proof of domicile in Namibia. 3. If you are a body corporate (that is for example a company, close corporation or co-operative), a certified copy of registration.
INFORMATION TO BE GIVEN TO THE MINISTER ON A YEARLY BASIS (28 February) 1. The total quantity petroleum products imported and exported 2. In the case of petroleum product imports, the source from where those products were obtained (the name of the seller), and in the case of petroleum product exports, the name of the export customer and the country of destination 3. All ports of entry into and exit out of Namibia
4. A list of all retail outlets and others (e.g. detail name of Government, consumer installations, etc) which you intend to supply with petrol and diesel at the date of the application.
4. The cost, insurance and freight (CIF) price of petroleum products
5. A list of the ports of entry or exit from where you intend to import or export, as the case may be, petrol or diesel.
6. Retail outlets and consumer installations which you supplied
6. A list of all storage facilities you intend to use, including shared storage facilities with other wholesalers, and you must also specify—the location of the storage facilities; the capacity of the storage facilities; the ownership of the storage facilities (including the ownership of the land on which the storage facilities are situated, if different) and, in the case of shared ownership, the basis of sharing; the names of other wholesalers sharing the same storage facilities.: 7. In the case of storage facilities to be erected, final design or construction drawings of buildings, road works, structures and plant, including the location thereof, to be erected, or if not available, preliminary sketches or a general layout plan thereof, and in the case of existing storage facilities, the as built or record drawings of buildings, roadworks, structures and plant, including the location thereof; 8. If an environmental assessment study has been conducted, a certified copy of the document setting out the outcome of the study.
5. A list of all storage facilities used,
7. Any other person than a person mentioned above to whom any petroleum product was supplied 8. Any change of the information required when you applied a licence
Legal Fire precautions, petroleum products spills, specifications, storage tanks information, penalties for contravention and many more should be dealt with according to: Petroleum Products and Energy Act, 2000 as amended and Petroleum Products Regulations, 2000.
Fees:
Application fee = N$ 100 License fee = N$ 1000.00
Private bag 13297. Windhoek • Namibia. Phone: 061-284 8111 Fax: 061-284 83200 • E-mail: info@mme.gov.na Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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IAEA delegates at Namibia Uranium Institute in Swakopmund
Ministry of Mines and Energy host the IAEA group meeting By Andreas Simon
T
he Government of the Republic
uranium resources, exploration and
of Namibia in cooperation with
environmental technologies.
the IAEA (International Atomic
Energy)/NEA/OECD hosted the 51st
Namibia was preferred as the ideal
Uranium Group Meeting. The event
location to host this event due to its
took place at the Hilton Hotel in the
history and experience in uranium
Capital from 6 -10 October 2014.
mining.
Another reason was to
offer the participants the practical The
meeting
dialogue
between
to
promote
exposure they coveted regarding the
Governments,
promotion of knowledge on uranium.
International
Organisations
Industries
good
on
and in
Hon. Isak Katali, the Minister of Mines
uranium
and Energy during his opening speech
mining, with emphasis on matters of
stated that he was pleased with the
the
16
aimed
regulation
of
practices the
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
number of countries that attended the event.
He further thanked the
IAEA for their continued support and the Uranium Group for accepting Namibia’s bid to host the 51st Uranium Group Meeting. “The meeting is happening at the right time,” said Minister Katali. One could agree with the Minister. As this is the time when Namibia`s uranium sector is expanding with the construction of one of the biggest uranium mines, Husab (Swakop Uranium), despite the depressed uranium prices, it is however encouraging to note that there has been a slight positive increase in the market. The Ministry of Mines and Energy at the time of planning and the kick-start of the event, worked closely with Rössing Uranium Ltd, Langer Heinrich Uranium and Swakop Uranium. The ties between the Ministry and the uranium corporates were tightened as the uranium companies took the role of joint sponsoring the event.
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Wading across the Ekuma.
The Oldest Mammoths Came from Africa
T
By: Helke Mocke
he Etosha Pan in northern Namibia
Dr Roy Miller, previously a director of the
is better known by tourists for its
Geological Survey of Namibia, described
beautiful wildlife, but most visitors are
the geological deposits, also known as
unaware that the pan is also an important
the Ekuma Delta Member in more detail.
fossil site.
Etosha is one of the largest
Together with Dr. Martin Pickford and
pans in the world, with an estimated
Dr. Brigitte Senut from the Natural History
surface area of 5000 km². Scientists are
Museum of Paris, Dr. Miller studied the
still debating the processes that led to
fossil fauna and flora from the sediments,
the formation of such a huge pan. A
concluding
geography student from Namibia, Martin
approximately
Hipondoka, discovered the first fossils in the
(Pilocene) under freshwater conditions.
that 4-5
they
accumulated
million
years
ago
Ekuma River and at Oshigambo in 2005,
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which led to Holocene age estimation for
Many fossils have subsequently been
the deposits.
found in the Etosha Pan since 2005,
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
Lower jaw of a reed buck. including freshwater snails and bivalves,
Over 400 entries were made in the field
catfishes, crocodiles, gemsbok ancestor
catalogues. Several highly important fossils
(Damalacra),
(Redunca
were found, including the first identifiable
darti), the equid, Hipparion, a pedetid
remains of suids (pigs), cf Gerontochoerus
(spring hare), elephant, the rhinoceros
koobiforaensis, also known from Kenya,
(Ceratotherium praecox), hippopotamus,
and a jaw with teeth of the African
tortoise (Pelusios), and birds (flamingos).
elephant, Loxodonta.
Recently, in 2013, two trips to the Ekuma
These new discoveries will help scientists to
Delta resulted in the discovery of many
give the deposits a more accurate age.
well preserved bones and teeth, molluscs
Several new faunal records were made for
and plants.
the Ekuma Delta Member, including the
reed
buck
Excavation of backbones and pelvis Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Helke Mocke posing next to the mammoth skeleton
first remains of the lung fish (Protopterus),
This mammoth was previously also known
the long snouted crocodile (Euthecodon),
from the Northern Cape’s world renowned
and several mammals such as porcupine,
Laangebaanweg fossil site.
hyaena, small carnivore (jackal size), aardvark
(Orycteropus),
small
bovid
(steenbok size) and giraffe.
The field team comprised of scientists such as, Mr Dirk Jan Mol, a mammoth expert from the Natural History Museum,
The biggest highlight for fossil finds from
Rotterdam, Holland, Dr Martin Pickford
the Etosha is probably the discovery of the
and Dr Brigitte Senut, Sorbonne Universités,
oldest mammoth in the world.
Paris, France, Dr Elke Möllmann, Director, Natural
History
Museum,
Dortmund,
In August 2014, Helke Mocke the curator
Germany, Dr Loïc Ségalen, University
of the National Earth Science Museum of
Pierre and Marie Curie, Paris, France and
the Geological Survey of Namibia joined
Mr Remigius Augustinus Bakker, sculptor,
scientists from around the world in the
Animal Works, Holland.
Etosha National Park to excavate the
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bones and teeth of the mammoth, known
Great care was taken to excavate a
as Mammuthus subplanifrons.
shoulder blade, femur (upper leg), tibia
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
and fibula (lower leg), the vertebral column
Earth Science Museum. They are of great
(back bone) consisting of 10 thoracic
significance to Namibia and the world,
vertebrae, four lumbar vertebrae, five
in that they represent only a few of the
sacral vertebrae, two caudal vertebrae,
known skeletal bones of ancient African
several loose ribs and a complete pelvis
mammoths, which were the ancestors of
(hip bones). A tooth of a baby mammoth,
the European mammoth.
fragments of an adult tooth, and a short, pointed, polished, tusk were also found.
Mr Mol plans to assist Ms Mocke on cleaning and restoring of the bones and
The size of the bones, (e.g.) the maximum
produce an excellent display for the
length of the pelvis is 152 (cm); indicates
National Earth Science Museum at the
that the animal may have been a mature
Geological Survey of Namibia.
mammoth bull when it died. The excavation was filmed by a German The mammoth fossils that were excavated
film crew for a ZDF TV series, Terra X, which
were safely brought back to the National
focused on the origin of mammoths.
Naturally broken and polished mammoth tusk Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Namibia hosts the African Association of Women in Geosciences (AAWG) 7th Congress By: Kombada Mhopjeni and Helke Mocke
D
uring 03 - 09 November 2014, the Geological Survey of Namibia hosted the 7th Congress of the Association of Women in Geoscience (CAAWG) in Windhoek. AAWG was started in Kenya in 1995 to promote the participation of women in geosciences. The first congress took place in Cape Town in 2002. The theme of the seven-day conference was “Earth Science and Climate Change: Challenges to Development in Africa�. Climate change is real and has become a serious problem, which threatens the livelihoods of many Africans, in particular women. It has adverse effects
22
on environmental health, species diversity and numerous other important life supporting systems. More than 60 scientists from various countries, including Angola, South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Germany and Australia, attended the event. Local guest speakers included; Inge Zaamwani, Managing Director of Namdeb, Teofilius Nghitila, Environmental Commissioner and Dr Mary Seely of Gobabeb. The conference
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
had seven diverse sub-themes, ranging from ‘Applications of Earth Sciences’ to ‘Earth and Environment’, ‘Women and Climate Change’ etc, all addressing various aspects of challenges. The workshop in Windhoek was followed by a three day field excursion to the coast, to expose the delegates to the way environmental issues are handled in our Uranium central district, and the beautiful Namibia geology and landscape.
The visit included informative stops at the Gobabeb Research and Training Centre, Rossing Uranium Mine and the Areva Desalination Plant. The conference was a success filled with educational and thought provoking presentations. Visit the conference website for more information http://www.mme.gov.na/gsn CAAWG7/home.html
AAWG7 excursion participants at the Rossing Uranium Mine Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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MME thanks ECB’s Outgoing CEO
By Andreas Simon
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Light & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
T
he farewell function of the outgoing CEO of the Electrical Control Board (ECB), Mr. Siseho C Simasiku and the
Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Awards was held at the Hilton Hotel, Windhoek on
with the aim of developing the following: the National Integrated Resource Plan, (IPP)
Independent
Power
Producers,
Investment market framework, and the introduction of Connection Charge Policy
11 July 2014.
guidelines.
This set a platform for the Ministry of
Minister Isak Katali, the Minister of Mines
Mines and Energy to cheerfully grace the event by honouring the outgoing CEO of Electricity Control Board Mr. Siseho Simasiku and at the same time recognise institutions within the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) for their efforts in making the supply of electricity throughout the country a reality.
of more than twenty years in the Energy sector, of which the last fourteen were spent specifically in the electricity sector. Under his leadership, and in line with Government policy and development goals, ECB managed to excel in several areas. Some of the notable achievements include, a successful development and implementation of planning, economic technical
procedures.
outgoing CEO for establishing the legal framework and for transforming ECB into a multi-sectoral regulator and for a successful establishment of the REDs as part of the restructuring process which is still ongoing. Hon. Katali said that the achievements
Mr Simasiku gained extensive experience
and
and Energy, was at most, grateful to the
regulatory
tools
and
Simasiku further pressed
of Mr. Siseho are therefore milestones which the Ministry and particularly the Directorate
of
Energy
should
highly
recognise. “Your name will always be synonymous with the Energy Industry development success story in Namibia and beyond. It is my hope that even in your retirement; you will continue to contribute to the established success and legacy you are leaving behind.� remarked Hon. Katali.
Light & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
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Kandjoze Bids Farewell to Namcor T. Hasheela
T
here were mixed emotions at Hilton Hotel on the evening of 26 February 2015, when the MD of Namcor, Mr. Obeth Mbui Kandjoze bid farewell to his staff and the petroleum industry. Sadness because he is leaving the industry; and joy because he was in the President’s list of eight candidates who will go to the National Assembly for 2015. Speaker after speaker described him as a fair leader, and someone who likes order. He joined Namcor in 1997 as a Geologist, and climbed the ladder up to the top position in the organisation, as the Managing Director, in 2012. He said, “Namcor is all I know, Namcor runs in my veins.” He added that the only industry he knows is that of oil and
Minister O.Kandjoze former MD: Namcor 26
gas, of which he became an expert.
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
He however noted that such expertise is lacking in our country, with only three of them as experts in the whole country. He urged the government to consider training young geologists in the field on oil and gas for the sole purpose of uplifting Namibia. In his speech the Minister of Mines and Energy, Hon. Isak Katali thanked Kandjoze for a job well done and by bringing Namcor were it is today. He
added
successfully
that and
Namcor
has
extensively
advanced a lot of projects under Kandjoze’s leadership. Some of the projects include the Kudu Gas project which is in its advanced stage, and the Oil Storage Facility which is being constructed in Walvisbay. He urged whoever is going to take over from him, to make sure that all the projects started by Kandjoze are realised. The Minister further thanked him for the good relationship they have formed over the years, emphasising that he will always be available whenever necessary to support him. “Make the people your goals, and not yourself. Wherever you go, go well.” the Minister emphasised. We wish Honourable Kandjoze well and success in all his endeavours.
Hon. Kandjoze was appointed as the Minister of Mines and Energy on 20 March 2015
Former Minister Isak Katali
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
27
Extensive Interview with Outgoing Director of Energy
By: Andreas Simon & T. Hashela
Mrs Selma-Penna
Utonih Lights and Gems (LG) took time to sit with Mrs Selma - Penna Utonih to give an in-depth interview about her years at MME.
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Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
LG
Madam Utonih, what year did you
Exploration
and
Production,
Petroleum
start working for the Ministry of Mines
Supply and Distribution, Renewable Energy
and Energy?
and National Energy Fund.
SPU
LG
Engineer by academic, the Ministry of Mines
motherhood and professionalism?
I have joined the Ministry based on the fact that I have studied
Electrical Engineering. I am an Electrical and Energy was the most appropriate Ministry to work for. I went into exile in 1974 and I was a freedom fighter when I arrived there. I was fortunate to have been one of
Mrs. Utonih, can you tell us in short about your life as a mother
and whether it is easy managing both
SPU
I am a mother of two daughters and of course with an extended
family. I regard myself as a housewife
the recipients of the SWAPO scholarships to
because I do not depend on my children
go further my studies.
to do all the chores in the house neither do I have a domestic worker. The question of
I obtained my MSc; in Electrical Engineering
managing motherhood and professionalism,
at the Institution of Technology in Plzen,
this depends on person to person because
Czech Republic. After independence, with
people are not the same.
my appropriate qualification, the Ministry of Mines and Energy hired me in 1991 to
I don’t think motherhood should surpass
1996 as Chief Control Officer and later
professionalism or vis versa. The reason I
Assistant Electrical Engineer, Directorate
managed to be in control both at work
of Energy. Later I have joined the Ministry
and home is simply because of time
of High Education in 1996 to 1999 as Chief
management and setting priorities. When
Development
I am at work I have to prioritise my work
Planner,
Directorate
of
Science and Technology.
and ensure that all tasks that need to be carried out are performed. I have a strategy
I later joined the University of Namibia
to always finish my office work at the office
(UNAM), Multi-disciplinary Research Centre
before I start the next day programme.
(MRC) as Programme Leader of Energy Resources Management and Engineering
I do this by coming to work as early as 7h00
Technology 2000 – 2002. As they say home is
in the morning every day, to complete the
home, I therefore re-joined the MME in 2003
unfinished work of the previous day so that
as Deputy Director of Energy responsible
I start the day afresh. I have also many
with electricity matters especially Rural
responsibilities in the community, attending
Electrification. I was then promoted as
bible study with other fellow women of my
Director of Energy in 2006 the position I
church (Evangelical Lutheran Church) and
held until retirement. As Director of Energy,
I am a member of Church Elders Council
I was responsible with matters related
for many years but I manage my time
to
accordingly.
Conventional
Electricity,
Petroleum
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
29
fields but for me, I remained focused and When I go home I make sure that my
dedicated. If I decide to do something
husband and my children are taken care
I always ensure that I attain my goal no
off. I cook myself and my children have to
matter what.
help here and there. In my absence they do everything. I do not like my husband to
My experience at MME was a challenging
be fed by the children all the time. It doesn’t
one because where you have people there
mean that because I am a professional
is always hiccups here and there. There are
woman I have to neglect my husband, I
those who want to see you prosper in your
have to respect him as the head of the
work and those that simply demoralise you.
household at all times
LG
I managed to sail through those difficulties Being an industrious woman
that I have encountered along the way in
engineer as you are in a
my career. Some concerned challenges
field dominated by men, what can you
that we are still experiencing are the
say?
unavailability of contractors to perform rural
What are your experiences here
at the Ministry and have there been any
electrification accordingly.
challenges? If so, please mention them? The new approach of rural electrification
SPU
Firstly I became an Engineer
implementing government institutions up to
based on the fact that I was
2017 is also a challenge as the communities
inspired by my late Military Commander,
want their homesteads to be connected
Comrade
Nghaamwa
by the government. The shortage of human
(McNamara) whose remains were recently
resources capacity is a big challenge within
repatriated back home and buried at
the directorate.
Augustus
Heroes Acre. Comrade McNamara was an Intelligent Commander, dedicated and
Another
challenge
is
also
the
many
committed.
applications for solar revolving funds that are exceeding our budget. The issue of
I was very impressed with the way he trained
connecting to an existing Transformer which
us on how to plant and detonate explosives. I
was fully paid for by the first customer is still
was being trained as an electrical technician
not understood. It is therefore imperative
by the late Mr. Mwahafa Nghishekwa,
that the community members are sensitised
Electrical Engineer. When SWAPO got me a
in order to understand the policy very well.
scholarship I pursued my studies to become an Electrical Engineer. I knew that men have always been sceptical when women are taking up technical
30
LG
As the Director of Energy here at the Ministry of Mines and Energy.
I am sure that you have accomplished
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
and implemented many things. Can you
to enter the oil exploration industry. We have
mention two or three milestones which you
also worked around the clock to get the
think are unrivalled?
BEE into petroleum supply and distribution industry. Together with the Permanent
SPU
As a team effort within the
Secretary I was instrumental in advocating
directorate, we came up with
for the NEF to become a Division and not
the Grid Rural Electrification Distribution
a Section in order for them to perform their
Master Plan. It was a big achievement to
duties freely.
have a document which is guiding us. The document is still our guiding tool which is
All and above I worked very hard to maintain
reviewed after 5 years.
professionalism
and
discipline
amongst
the directorate staff members through In line with the Energy White Paper we
directorate management and directorate
have successfully came up with Off-Grid
meetings. I am happy to mention that I see
Energisation Master Plan to complement grid
a lot of improvement. We are like family and
rural electrification with renewable energy
friends.
technologies. I am happy to mention that the MME has now two guiding documents which guide us on how to implement the project successfully. I am very proud to mention that I was one of the contributors to our “Energy White Paper, Policy Document.”
LG
If the position had been that of a man, do you think he would have
accomplished what you have?
SPU
I
do
not
performance
I was instrumental in getting the Solar
believe is
based
that on
whether you are male or female. What I
Revolving Fund back to the Ministry. It was a
believe in is that anybody can do the work
difficult process but together with my team
whether male or female, what matters is that
we managed to have it here and operational
the holder of the position should have the
from the Ministry. I was appointed as a
passion, dedication and conviction to carry
member of the Government Negotiation
out the tasks assigned. Man or woman is the
Team (GNT) and member of Technical
same.
Advisory Committee (TAC) on petroleum exploration and production, I am proud to mention that we put the system together to negotiate with investors for exploration and production of licences.
LG
What legacy would you want to leave as the Head of the Energy Directorate?
SPU
As Martin Luther King Jr. has
The system we put in place is good, transparent and encourages local partners
stated and I quote, “If a man
is called to be a street sweeper, he should
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
31
sweep streets even as Michael Angelo
choice. There is no career on this earth for
painted, or Beethoven composed music or
men or women only. We are all masters of
Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep
our own destinies.
streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.� I am quoting this because I believe that my
LG
Any message to MME staff?
team is worth the praise. We worked as a
SPU Firstly, I would like to thank the Ministry
cooperative team therefore I am grateful to
for grooming me, believing in me and for
them for a job well done all of those years.
having awarded me a scholarship in 2004 to obtain my MBA in 2006 at UNAM with
The legacy that I want to leave behind is
Maastricht, Netherlands.
simply to be remembered by the Directorate and MME staff members and management
Further, thank you for all the support and
as a person that always strives to achieve
encouragements, yes we might have had
set goals, someone that was a fanatic of
our differences but I know despite all these
punctuality and the meeting of deadlines,
we remained professional and respectful
someone who was hard working and
towards each other. If I have hurt anyone
someone that valued the work of others and
at the MME please know that it was not my
always encourage staff members to respect
intention and for that I apologise. We need
each other cultures, values and opinions.
to learn to love one another, and then only will our world be a better place for us.
LG
Finally, Mrs. Selma-Penna Utonih, do you have a message you would
I furthermore encourage the MME staff to
like to give to fellow women who would like
serve the public at large with transparency,
to take up a challenging career like yourself?
honesty and integrity.
SPU
LG
that if you put your vision, mission and
SPU
To my fellow women I would like to state that there is nothing
impossible, the sky is the limit. I believe clear objectives with commitment and determination, you will definitely attain your set objectives and goals. I encourage fellow
Madam, I thank you for your time and it was a pleasure talking to
women to remain positive in everything that they do and ensure that they forge forward to attain their set goals in technical fields of
32
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
you... The pleasure was all mine. Thank you!!!
YES Namibia at the Young Earth Scientist (YES) Congress Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 11th – 14th August 2014
S
ix members of YES Network Namibia
Generation into Global Earth Science
attended the 3rd YES Congress
Integrations”. Apart from presenting their
at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere
research, the Congress provided the
International Convention Centre in Dar
young scientists opportunities to network,
es Salaam, Tanzania. The congress was
meet prominent scientist including the
organized jointly by the Tanzanian YES
President of the International Union of
National
Tanzania
Geological Sciences (IUGS), Dr Roland
Geological Society. This is the first YES
Oberhänsli and exposure to the latest
Congress held in Africa. Earth scientists
trends in sustainable applications of
from 40 countries participated in the
earth sciences within the region and
congress under the theme “Bridging Geo-
internationally.
Chapter
and
the
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
33
Member
Title of Presentation
Type
Josephine Uushona
The state of Oil and Gas in Namibia: Focusing on Exploration and Benefits
Poster
YES Network Namibia: reflecting on the way forward and geoscience opportunities in Namibia
Oral (on behalf of K.M.)
Ralph Muyamba
Clustering analysis of satellite imagery and airborne geophysical data: Application to the Gariep Belt and Rosh Pinah area, Namibia
Oral
Michelle Hijamutiti
Risk Assessment of Abandoned Mines in Erongo Region, Namibia
Oral
Giesbertha Shaanika
Replacement textures, disseminated grains, porphyroblasts, recrystallization
Oral
Rosina Leonard
Risk Assessment of Abandoned Mines in Erongo Region, Namibia
Poster
Teresia Malobela
The geology and geochemistry of the manganese occurrence in Olulilwa, North-West Namibia
Poster
Presentations by the YES Namibia team 34
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
Thank You
A Profound
to all our Sponsors
Some of the participants at the YES Conference Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
35
The
The
BRILLIANT CUT is designed to
MARQUISE CUT was
enhance the brilliance and
reportedly commissioned
sparkle of the
by Loui XIV, who
diamond. In the
wanted a diamond to match
century.
brilliant cut, all
the radiant smile of the
Its wide step facet
58 facets appear to radiate
Marquise de Pompadour.
and deep clipped
from the centre of the
The elongated and
diamond
pointed ends of
towards its outer edges.
a Marquise cut
The ASSCHER CUT was developed in the early twentieth
corners allows it to produce a fiery brilliance.
slightly differentiate
The CUSHION CUT has maintained a fierce popularity for over a century for its almost rectangular shape, curved sides and the brilliance of its larger facets.
it from the brilliant cut.
Ministry of Mines and Energy • Private Bag: 13297 • Windhoek, Namibia. Tel: +264 61 284 8111 • e-mail: info@mme.gov.na MINISTRY OF MINES & ENERGY
The
The
RADIANT CUT remains
symmetrical design of the oval
the popular choice for jewellery, as it
cut is popular among
combines the elegance of the
The
emerald cut and the
ultimate symbol
brilliance of the
of love is a fancy
shape gives a flattering
brilliant cut. Surely,
diamond cut, shaped
illusion of length to the hand.
the next time the worlds baguette or
to resemble the
The sparkling teardrop
pear is mentioned, the visual
universal day
design of the PEAR SHAPE diamond
image that will be
of love,
created will have
Valentine’s Day.
nothing to do
women with small hands, as its elongated
cut works beautiful for earring and pendant design with single point. This hybrid cut combines
with food.
the best of the oval and marquise cuts.
Copyright 2015 MINISTRY OF MINES & ENERGY
38
Light & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
In Loving Memory The late
Deputy Minister Ministry of Mines and Energy
Hon. Willem Isaacks 31 - 07 -1969 08 -10 -2014
Light & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015
39
WHERE
TO FIND US IN NAMIBA
Tsumeb
Swakopmund
Windhoek
Ministry of Mines and Energy
Lüderitz
Oranjemund
40
Windhoek
Lüderitz
Swakopmund
Ministry of Mines and Energy Building 6 Aviation Road Private Bag 13297 Windhoek Namibia Tel: +264-61-284 8111 Fax: +264-61-238643/ 220386 Email: info@mme.gov.na
!Nami≠Nüs Office 777 Lindequist Street P. O. Box 934 Lüderitz Tel: +264-63-203 583 Fax: +264-63-203 579 Email: dreinhold@mme.gov.na
Stadtmitte Complex 2nd Floor, Office No. 3 Woermann Street P. O. Box 1909 Tel: +264-64-403 633 Fax: +264-64-403 656 Email: pelungu@mme.gov.na
Tsumeb
Oranjemund
Tsumeb Station P. O. Box 621 Tsumeb Tel: +264-67- 221046 Fax: +264-67-687054
8th Avenue P. O. Box 195 Oranjemund Tel: +264-63-234 232/ 233 726 Fax: +264-63-233 779 Email: auulamba@mme.gov.na
Lights & Gems | Ministry of Mines and Energy Newsletter | 2015 www.mme.gov.na