Namib Independent Issue 127

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Issue 127 - Thursday, 27 November 2014 to Wednesday, 03 December 2014

Bikers to Gather For Toy Run

02

No to chinese Navy

06

Mass Housing Gains Momentum

13

12

Racist

Meet the "Average Barbie"

Attack Goes Viral Lana Groenewaldt

The cornerstone of a pre-independent Namibia was the blatant and institutionalised oppression of one specific ethnic group by the minority white government. Since then, Namibia has defied all the odds to become what it is today, a non-racist and more tolerant society, though not perfect by any stretch of the imagination.

Tens of thousands of residents were shocked to receive a malicious, slanderous and racist image in their in boxes and on the social networks during

the week. It appears that the image was purposefully crafted to portray a derogatory image of the manager of Erongo Red. Purposeful intent to do harm cannot be disputed on account of the expertise and effort that was required to compose the image.

The picture that went viral circulating in the coastal community, depicting a baboon on a telephone pole,

Meet your new Erongo Red District Manager

Continued on Page 3

Doors Close on Swakop's

Bundu 'n See Hotel

auctioned off.

Atlanta Building (PTY) The landmark Swakopmund Bundu 'n See Ltd a subsidiary of the Frans Hotel CC, has gone bust following failed Indongo Group, is the owner attempts to recoup outstanding rentals and of the established building in debts of around N$500 000 from the proprietor Jona Levi. The doors to the hotel were shut by Continued on Page 3 the sheriff of the court and every last scrap Donna Collins

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2 | News

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Coastal Bikers to Gather For Toy Run Donna Collins Bikers young and old were out in full swing this past Saturday with riders gathering in Swakopmund for the annual 'Vetkoek Run', which saw coastal biking clubs enjoy some good weather and an easy ride to Arandis and back.

This social event is one of many bike runs and rallies held around the country and, in the spirit of the occasion was held just one week ahead of the charity drive Toy Run, an annual charity event for bikers who donate toys and clothes to the underprivileged children.

This weekend the Live to Ride Walvis Bay Chapter is hosting their event and are expecting a huge turnout of bikers to open up their hearts to the less fortunate. Bikers

will gather outside the Walvis Bay Municipality building on 30 November. Following a mass ride through town they will end up at the Swimming Pool where toys and gifts will be handed over to the less fortunate children for Christmas.

The Toy Run is amongst the largest motorcycle charity events in the world and is held annually in Namibia by the motorcycle clubs with multiple objectives. One of them is to improve and enhance the image of motorcyclists in their communities, with the main aim being to collect and distribute toys, gifts and clothes through the generosity of the bikers.

Bikers living at the coastal towns are welcome to join in the annual Live to Ride Toy run, which kicks off at the Walvis Bay Municipality at 11h00 on Sunday, so be sure to come along with toys for the underprivileged children.

Photo: Donna Collins

Merry Christmas Elders

CONTACT US

Junior Reporter Carla Smit

Tel (+264 64) 200 497 Email info@namibindependent.com.na Sales Lorna Bock 081 350 0346 lorna@namibindependent.com.na Gareth Amos 081 128 2197 gareth@namibindependent.com.na Editorial Tanya Calitz tanya@namibindependent.com.na Design Maggie’s Attic Graphic Design sonya4maggiesattic@gmail.com Address

127 Theo Ben Gurirab Street (MVA Office Complex), PO Box 5085, Walvis Bay, Namibia

Disclaimer:

Namib Independent is published by Halfround Communications CC. All rights are reserved. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within, no liability can be accepted by the publishers or contributors for any errors, misstatements or omissions which may have occurred. The opinions expressed in the publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Also, the publishers accept no legal liability regarding copyright ownership for material which was supplied directly to the publishers by any of the advertisers or contributors.

Tuesday was a beautiful and special morning for all elders when the Municipality of Walvis Bay’s members set aside their busy daily lives to host the annual senior citizen Christmas party at the Civic centre in Walvis Bay. About a thousand elders from all around the Walvis Bay area gathered. The municipality showed their appreciation by giving each a lunch box and small juice. Mayor Uillika Nambahu delivered a speech and sent out a powerful message about the youth and the education of our country.

She said: “You can lead a horse to the water, but you cannot make it drink. We should stand together for the future of the youth.”

Our elders should educate their children and grandchildren about what choices to make in their lives. They have lived long lives, and each of them has a message. Most elderly people say that throughout the years they do not regret the things they did, but it is the chances they did not take that they regret the most.

We can all learn something from the elders for a brighter future. All the many fundraising events held throughout the year were worth it so the seniors could get something for Christmas and put smiles on their faces. The Namib Independent wishes a Merry Christmas to all our precious senior citizens!

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Thursday, 27 November 2014

Doors Close on Swakop's

Bundu 'n See Hotel Continued from Page 1 Swakopmund. But the monthly rental of N$92 477 proved to be too high for Levi, who told the Namib Independent that for an old hotel this amount was "crippling".

The arrears rental of N$362 000, plus a Municipal account of N$75000 as well as an undisclosed Erongo Red amount, were not paid up when the axe fell. After a failed attempt to suspend an eviction order the final crunch came when instructions for his eviction came from Namib Estates leasing agents, who act on behalf of the Indongo Group.

On 28 July this year the Messenger of the Court walked into Bundu 'n See Hotel, padlocked the doors and attached all the removable property. An onsite auction thereafter to sell all removable property was poorly attended and did not reach target only bringing in N$60 000, which

was a drop in the bucket. Now empty and dormant, the once lively but run down hotel is poised for its next phase.

Wilfred Ahrens of Ahrens & Associates, the judgement creditor attorneys, confirmed that this case has been going backwards and forwards for two years, pointing to a file as thick as a brick.

He said that Levi made continuous arrangements with Ahrens & Associates to pay off the accrued back debt, as well as attempts to grant him an extension to keep the doors open for business. But the legal pressure and mounting back debt that continued for two years was unsuccessful, and even though the hotel has been closed down, the claim amount has not been settled, and the matter is still open until further notice.

According to Werdi Engelbrecht from Namib Estates, it was an ongoing problem collecting the monthly rental from Levi, and they

struggled to get their client’s full payment every month. She said that a lot of leniency was given to Levi, but in the end it was in the interest of her client to take action.

The first eviction notice against Bundu 'n See Hotel CC was serviced back in July 2012, already followed by a Warrant of Execution against property in December 2012.

There were months that the rent and expenses were paid, but other months where they lapsed until the outstanding amount just piled up.

Levi’s attorneys Kangueehi & Kavendjii Incorporated even made an offer to pay N$130 000 with N$10 000 of monthly instalments in a desperate bid to keep the place open - but this was rejected.

Meanwhile, Levi further stated in a telephonic interview on Tuesday that he tried hard to hold onto the hotel but the running costs were "killing" him and he lost about N$3 million.

He also said that he is in the process of negotiating to buy the property

Racist Attack Goes Viral Continued from Page 1 was originally posted on someone’s Facebook profile. In no time at all a segment of the local community elected to download the image and increase its “viralbity” by electing to email it to all in their contact lists. This action was duplicated by many more residents as the picture permeated the coastal community and spread like wildfire.

In an attempt to identify the source of the images it was immediately evident that the individual had either been banned by Facebook or, realising the potential legal consequences of their action, the perpetrator deleted their own profile.

All the same, the damage was done, possibly having inflicted

emotional scars on the victims and their families.

Regardless of the intentions, racist jokes are not all fun and games. The authors of media content that promote and encourage racist attitudes could land themselves in serious trouble.

Commissioner Ottilie Kashuupulwa of Nampol commented, “Racism is a crime with legal consequences.

“The Namibian Constitution is very strict on the problem of racism.” She continued to mention that Article 8 of the Namibian constitution promotes respect for human dignity and Article 10 highlights that equality and freedom from discrimination against sex, race or religion amongst others is a basic human right.

“People should respect the constitution as well as each other,” she said.

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According to Kashuupulwa people can get arrested for compiling and promoting racist material.

“If a person is found guilty, they can get a sentence ranging from N$ 80 000 or 10 years imprisonment to N$ 100 000 or 15 years of imprisonment,” Kashuupulwa said.

Considering the heavy legal consequences as well the irreversible damage to victim’s that racial discrimination can cause, it is vital for the coastal community to reconsider where they stand on this issue. Is it really worth upholding and forwarding racist material, thereby fuelling the flames of this destructive attitude? What will it take for racial discrimination to be completely eradicated in Namibia? Each member in the community will have to answer these questions for themselves.

from the Frans Indongo Group.

"I am an entrepreneur who grew up in Walvis Bay and I have an investor who is interested in buying the property," he said, adding that the plan would be to knock it all down because it is old, and put up a spectacular new modern building.

The Bundu ‘n See Hotel, formerly trading as the Atlanta Hotel is one of the oldest established hotels in Swakopmund. With 20 rooms, a perfect centrally situated location, separate pub facilities, a la carte restaurant and outside café area, the Bundu ‘n See one of the most visited tourist spots for travellers.

Well-known Swakomund hotel Bundu 'n See formerly the Atlanta Hotel went bust recently and is standing empty, after owner and entrepreneur Jona Levi (above) failed to meet his financial commitments after a two year legal wrangle, forcing the court to take action and padlock the doors. (Photo Donna Collins)

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Thursday, 27 November 2014

Why We Must Fight to Keep Chinese Navy from Our Shores Opinion: Gareth Amos For a nation whose leaders are so emphatically haunted by the ghosts of colonisation that much of the politicking is infused with promises of “never again, I find myself astounded by the news that these very same leaders are affording any credence to the notion that a foreign military base on our coastal shores might just be a good idea.

For wont of words to describe my astonishment of this terribly illconceived notion, I see myself reverting repeatedly to profanity and find no solace in the sad affair that I am (loathingly) electing to the appropriation of a ‘facebookism’, to express my credulity.

WTF? For a people who have so recently felt colonialism’s cruelty, have we all but abandoned our faculties and tossed out forever our hardcopy original print of “How to never be colonised, ever, ever again 101”?

Perhaps we have been so inwardly focused, as we reconstitute a people from the apartheid ashes, that we have sacrificed our ability to grasp the periphery or, better put, to notice what has been happening on the pale blue dot we refer to as the planet upon which we live. Convinced that the search for an alternate, credible explanation will not be entirely in vain, perhaps a quick review of exactly how it has transpired that arses of the Kardashian clan are so readily imprinted upon the minds of every prepubescent spotted faced teen on the planet will do its bit.

Conceivably the prevalent peril that shall befall our naive nation by allowing the Chinese to so easily coerce us to fall in line (willingly and enthusiastically) with their world domination / empire building plans can be best illustrated by drawing a parallel to the world’s sole (not for long) dominant empire, the USA. The Kardashian arses, as we know, emanate from the USA: a super power – emphasis on ‘power’. After World

War Two, US technology and the fact that it alone amongst developed nations remained unscathed (Pearl Harbour aside) from the terror of the war played a pivotal role in leap frogging the US far beyond capabilities of the rest of the world. The (relatively) short-lived cold war, if anything, pressed the US every forward in terms of creativity, production and finance. Since the fall of the Berlin wall, the US has used its position to further enhance its notion of self-styled US exceptionalism, by increasing its empire across the globe.

Currently American imperialism may be defined as a three-headed snake in the form of economic, military and cultural influence in sovereign countries in all corners of the planet.

Empires have always been the key actors in the waves of globalisation throughout history. The empire of the United States of America is not an exception to this history. Military, economic, cultural and political integration and control from an imperial centre are key elements in understanding the forces of globalisation in the past and today.

Without exception the extension of military power has always been essential to all empires. The most significant cause of other nations’ “willingness” to open their markets for free trade and US investments within sovereign borders is the global armed forces of the US, which are tasked to keep these markets and sea lanes open for this specific wave of globalisation (read, imperialism) just as the British navy did in the nineteenth century.

The strategic imperative of worldwide military bases was emphasised in 1990 by US Senate Foreign Relations Committee by the following - overseas bases, the presence of elements of United States armed forces, joint planning, joint exercises, or excessive military assistance programs…all but guarantee some involvement by the United States in the internal affairs of the host government.

The fact is that globalisation of the

world economy will continue, with a widening between the haves and the have-nots. This military domination also extends to the integration of foreign military forces into the imperial mission as seen in terms of the mutual defence treaties that the United States have with most of the world‘s nations.

These defence treaties not only give the United States authorisation to invade if their control is threatened but also allow these military forces to be used as proxy forces for the extension and maintenance of control from the imperial centre.

President Woodrow Wilson stated in an address to an International Congress for corporates in 1916, “go out and sell goods that will make the world more comfortable and happier, and convert them to the principles of America.” Perhaps these remarks by America‘s most renowned foreign policy idealist were authorising a global traffic in values as well as commodities.

Fast forward a century and it is clear that the call was adhered to as US strategists, in an attempt to justify their military interventions in different parts of the World, have conceptualised the greatest fraud in US history, namely “the Global War On Terrorism”

(GWOT). The latter, using a fabricated pretext, constitutes a global war against all those who oppose US hegemony. A modern form of slavery, instrumented through militarisation and the “free market,” has unfolded.

The key element of the conquest of and world domination strategy by the US are a) the control of the world economy and its financial markets; b) the taking over of all natural resources, primary resources and nonrenewable sources of energy through the activities of its multi-nationality and c) the protection of these interests through the establishment of a global network of US bases.

In a pre-internet world the US managed to establish and control 191 governments through the establishment of air force bases, army and land bases, navy bases and communication and spy bases in their territories and foreign armed forces of some two hundred and fifty thousand feet on the ground.

At the beginning of the millennium, approximately 48% of the 500 largest companies in the world were US corporations, another 30% were from Europe and another 10% were Japanese. The percentage of US corporation’s increases as we reduce the number to the largest 100, 50

and 25. Five of the top ten banks, six of the top ten pharmaceuticalbiotech companies, four of the top ten telecommunications companies, seven of the top information technology companies, four of the top gas and oil companies, nine out of the top ten software companies, four of the top ten insurance companies, and nine of the top ten general retail companies planet-wide are U.S. multinational corporations.

One need not go into any further detail to draw to the fore the exact nature of the impetus behind the Chinese application to establish military bases in a host of countries, Namibia included, where it has serious economic interests. What must however, be admired by the invaders from the east, is that they come not as the invaders from the west do, as wolves in sheep’s clothing, but they come as wolves dressed as wolves.

Everything nature teaches us about camouflage rubs against this notion, but the promises of gold and silver and other shiny trinkets are just too enticing for our leaders. Perhaps we should reflect upon the early European traders’ trinkets and their severe consequences upon our shores, from which we have only just been unshackled.

6 | News

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Bank Windhoek Walvis – Back to Boere Bank?

Windhoek, also indicated telephonically that the interview did take place.

Armed with this information, Fahl was once again approached to confirm that the interview took place, despite an earlier denial and was again requested to respond to the allegation.

Fahl issued a final response on the matter, undoing her previous statement (now armed with irrefutable proof that the interview did take place) that no such interview took place as follows: “Bank Windhoek can confirm that the interview indeed took place, but according to our records the interview was conducted in English, as per company procedures.”

The reader is left to make what they will of Fahl’s contradictory statements.

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A recent incident in the Walvis Bay branch of Bank Windhoek, in which an English interviewee was told that she was to be interviewed in Afrikaans and that if she could not speak Afrikaans then she could not work in Bank Windhoek, has done much to undo the millions that Bank Windhoek have spent in an attempt to unshackle itself from the old perception that it is a Boere Bank.

According to the candidate< as she walked in and greeted the two interviewers in English, one of them state, “Ag nee, nie nog 'n Engelsman” - translated “Oh no, not another Englishman” the term used by Afrikaans speaking people to denote a Namibian or South African of English decent and whose mother tongue is English.

Matters only got worse for the candidate from there. The interviewers started conducting the interview in Afrikaans and when the candidate informed them that she was not that proficient in Afrikaans, in particular with the industry jargon, she was simply informed that the interview would be conducted in Afrikaans and anyway, if she was to work in Bank Windhoek she needed to be able to speak Afrikaans.

According to the candidate in the end, the interview was conducted in Afrikaans with the candidate answering in English. On the occasions

that the candidate asked for clarity on questions or statements, the two interviewers stumbled to adequately provide answers in broken English.

According to the Namibian Labour Act, it is illegal for a person (or company) to discriminate in any employment decision directly or indirectly, or adopt any requirement or engage in any practice which has the effect of discrimination against any individual on one or more, on the grounds of race, colour, or ethnic origin; amongst other things.

When approached for comment Bank Windhoek Executive Officer: Group Human Resources, Elize Fahl initially denied that any such interview had taken place stating, “Bank Windhoek’s Walvis Bay Branch has NOT conducted interviews since July/August 2014, contrary to the allegations that the candidate attended an interview at the branch.”

This statement was issued even though the newspaper had provided (via the candidate) the bank with an email from the local branch which highlighted the bank was in the process of arranging an interview in September 2014.

When the paper pressed for clarity on the dates, another statement was issued by the same bank representative making no reference whatsoever to the incident and instead made reference only to the bank’s employment policy.

In her email response Fahl indicated that

tbwa.com.na

Gareth Amos

“Bank Windhoek’s job interviews are all conducted in English and the questions are also in English, irrespective of the position. Bank Windhoek also does not advertise teller positions, as we first use our Candidate Bankers Training (CBT) programme to fill vacant teller positions, or alternatively the CVs received from respective branches. As indicated in our previous response this morning, Bank Windhoek has zero tolerance for discrimination. Bank Windhoek complies with the Namibian Labour Act.” Upon receipt of the same, the paper contacted Mrs Jeanette De Waal, who had arranged the interview with the candidate. She confirmed telephonically that the interview did in fact take place. Mr Stander, local branch manager for Bank

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|7

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Lack of Ecosystem Monitoring During Port Expansion Raises Concerns Lana Groenewald A discussion on the Harbour Expansion hosted by the Walvis Bay Municipality a few weeks back, has raised quite a few concerns in regards to the fact that there are basically no ecosystem monitoring programs in place during the various phases, which could have serious impact on the environment surrounding the harbour.

Even though an Environmental Impact Assessment study (EIA) was done prior to the expansion operations, not much has been done about setting up supporting and monitoring systems to measure the impact on the various ecosystems as these expansion phases develop.

Speaking at the information sharing session, Rod Braby from NACOMA said that there are many environmental aspects one must take into account during the port expansion period. During Braby’s talk he raised the issue on the dredging for the container terminal phase, and the gases and toxins that may be released during this process. Braby stated that due to a lack of information sharing, there is confusion regarding the effect that the dredging will have on the immediate environment. He pointed out that this could have dire consequences on the oyster farming industry, if not regulated and monitored properly.

As far as the Namib Independent could establish speaking to various key role players and industry insiders, there are no monitoring programs to regulate or measure the possible impact on the various ecosystems during the development, except for one company that is undertaking water quality monitoring.

“It is Namport’s responsibility to make provision for all environmental studies, as well as putting people in place to monitor the different impacts,” Braby stated.

An additional concern raised was on the matter of the dredging waste.

“We are not sure what Namport is doing with the waste created from the dredging, where the material

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being disposed of,” Braby queried.

The paper tried to establish what is actually happening with the dredged material during the container terminal phase (because it is alleged that it is pumped further out at sea) from Namport, but without success. For over a month the paper attempted to get an official response from Namport, as well as obtain permission from Namport to interview the company commissioned by Namport to issue water quality reports, but Namport has remained mum on the issue.

Another major concern raised by another environmental group, the Namibian Dolphin Project (NDP), is the effect the development will have on our Dolphin populations inhabiting the port vicinity.

“We have applied to Namport to get some funding to put a monitoring program for the dolphins in place, but no luck so far,” Dr Tess Gridley from the NDP told the Namib Independent during an interview a week before the information sharing session at the Municipality.

Gridley also stated that as far as they know, there are not any other wild life monitoring programs in place either.

Oyster farmers Walvis Bay “The nice thing is that we already have a huge amount of data on the dolphins pre-harbour expansion development, which allows us to get a clear picture of the possible impact the project has on the dolphins,” Gridley pointed out.

Co-project leader Dr Simon Elwen said that they cannot yet say that the activities in the harbour have affected the Dolphins, but what they have noticed is that the bottlenose mothers with babies are less visible and seen in the harbour area where they usually see them.

“Now we cannot yet say what has caused this behaviour, thus the importance of having a monitoring program in place to document the change in their activities and behaviour," he explained.

Braby also pointed out that the seabirds are at great risk, if not monitored.

“A concern we have is that the effluent from the dredging and other development activities could end up in the birds food chain, which can lead to poisoning,” he said.

In conclusion, it is essential that

monitoring programs are put into motion to avoid a full negative impact on the ecosystem, which in turn will have a huge effect on tourism businesses operating from the harbour.

“It is essential that we protect the harbour life and vegetation.

People come here to see the birds, seals, dolphins and whales, and it is terrifying to think that we might destroy this industry due to the lack of proper monitoring,” a tour operator in Walvis said.

Greed vs. Economical Opportunity Online Turf War Over ‘Desert Rose’ Splits Coastal Community in Half Lavrenty Repin Roses are red… this might explain why local residents are seeing red as they argue over the controversial N$8 billion Desert Rose development planned to be built on the coast, seven kilometres outside Swakopmund.

The project has captured imaginations of both environmentally aware and industrially inclined residents of the coast, creating two opposing camps for and against the massive development, which could change the face of Swakopmund.

Following the exclusive Namib Independent report on the Desert Rose development, response from the coast has been rather optimistic, and the sentiment of “embracing change” was a prevailing one.

On Facebook, many were excited about the proposed development. One lady pointed out, “Wow!! Some people are so negative!! More than 1 million tourists visited us in 2011...

Imagine 2014.”

“The coastline will still be there, it will only be a bit different from its original state. But you fail to see the bigger picture here. Virgin soil and raw sea beaches are not enough,” another resident responded to the environmental outcry.

The discussion was upheld, with some pointing out that “tourists visit this country because it is so untouched. Their countries are overpopulated and their hotels and casinos are 100 000 times better. Why give them the same stuff here?”

Those concerned though, hardly constituted of only hardcore environmental protestors.

Although the damage on the coastline will be dire, as specialists in the field project, most opposing residents were doing so for moral reasons, as one resident’s widely liked comment read: “A positive change would be a huge hospital with enough place for a booming population. If you are sick, it don’t (sic) help you go to the damn beach.”

To this, another resident aptly pointed out: “The fact that these group of businessman are planning to build a resort instead of a giant hospital, like most of us wants it, doesn't necessarily make it a negative change (sic).”

Of course it seems fair to remember that the project’s central funding will come from the government.

The environmental movement has had a head start, catching on to the new development before any of the media. Some ecologists in Swakopmund raised their concerns on Facebook back in May as the victory over Phosphate mining was sinking in, and the potential influence of “green power” to sway multi-million dollar companies has held strong in the coastal town since. It already caused dismay, even as the details were murky; one comment at the time read: “‘Desert Rose’ - a name suited more to a brothel than an international convention centre.”

Swakopmund Matters, an organisation that has been particularly vocal in denouncing the project, published their disapproval in local and national newspapers. They have cast into question the legality of this development, especially in terms of environmental assessment and interested/affected party participation; a challenge that the project will have to step up to.

Meanwhile, the government position regarding this development has been positive.

As reported earlier this year, Erongo Governor Mutjavikua threw his support behind the project, citing growth of economy as his primary incentive and telling the media that industrialisation “cannot be stopped.”

Some residents were particularly heated and emotional on this issue, like the comment that read: “Nigerian organised crime would probably be the first customers to feed greedy developers with blood money to find a place of rest and laundering their money.”

But even with such ferocity, the truth is that the discussion is split right down the middle.

Comments like “It’s high time we, Namibians and Namibian lovers, support developments of this significant magnitudes,” or “Thumbs up, we are getting there step by step. I love the plan,” and “This is an excellent job. Keep It Up,” as well as “Great economical jump I'd say! Developing on a few km's in our country, will NOT have a tragic effect on nature!!!”or “Yes, yes, yes... now I can own a yacht”, clearly show that many Namibians are desperate for a progressive future.

Yet in the same breath, there are many who are willing to assess the risks, and who fight for what they believe, and often the passion is noticeable immediately: “The projected site for the conventional centre is a conservation area; a delicate environment for sea and shore birds,” one resident said, “this alone should have it shut down! How dare ANY developer choose a site which has this status?”

In the end opposition to business and development only brings forth transparency; if the potential really is as fantastic, it us up to the business developers to convince all who will be affected, not just satisfy a portion of the people.

8 | News

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Serial Fraudster Couple Responsible For N$320 000 Theft at NIMT? Following an anonymous tip off to the Namib Independent about the alleged defrauding of approximately N$320000 from the Namibian Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) in Arandis, the organisation’s legal representative, Mr Richard Mueller of Mueller Legal Practitioners in Windhoek, has confirmed that action has been taken against two NIMT staff members in connection with the theft.

According to Mr Mueller, the alleged fraudsters, whose identities are withheld at this stage, are well known to him as this is the second time in a handful of years that he is representing a client in instituting action against such persons.

Several years ago, he represented a Windhoek based company, where the couple both worked, in a civil case that resulted in those persons admitting to the crime of defrauding their then client of N$250 000.

The then owner of said business confirmed that the two persons had systematically defrauded the husband and wife run business of approximately N$250 000.

“These people are incredible and I cannot believe that they are actually stupid enough to be up to this kind of thing again,” said the then owner, Mr Wentzel * (pseudonym).

According to Mr Wentzel, the

company had appointed the female to work in the accounts department. At the time she was living with her husband and children in Keetmanshoop, so she had a weekly commute to Windhoek and only saw her family on weekends.

When the company advertised a trainee position about six months later, she, being already employed by the company, allegedly begged her employers to consider employing her husband as well, who at the time was unemployed, so that her family could be reunited permanently in Windhoek, which they duly did.

“We felt sorry for the family and made a heart and not head decision in this instance,” said Mr Wentzel.

The couple worked for the company for another year or so until, after being awarded a very lucrative tender of tens of millions of dollars a year, a group of employees who had been assigned as the service team looking after the large new account, all walked out of the company on the same day. Mr Wentzel stated that the service team had been conspiring with the new client to offer better terms if the client was willing to support them if they created a breakaway company to fulfil the tender requirements and benefit financially.

“Strangely these two persons formed part of the splinter company. The wife still insisted in coming to work

each day, but after a few days we dismissed her. It was not weeks before the customer complaints about lack of payment started raining down on us and by the time we fully comprehended what she had been doing the losses had reach approximately N$250 000,”said Mr Wentzel.

Mr Mueller has confirmed that in terms of the alleged theft at the NIMT, the same modus operandi seems to have been followed and authorised creditor payments were actually siphoned to other accounts. Mueller highlighted that the walls came tumbling down when a customer account query raised suspicions enough for the chief financia l officer to look into the specific matter.

This was swiftly followed by a more indepth interrogation into the history of payments made to creditors. It was at this point that the organisation realised the extent of the alleged fraud.

According to Mr Mueller, NIMT is in the process of instituting a civil case.

When asked about the matter of civil or criminal charges, Mr Wentzel stated, “Even though this devious couple had crippled the business my wife and I had built up from our kitchen table, we elected to institute a civil action only on account of the fact that the couple had young children of their own and had even adopted a child. These children would have been without a mother and

The Dubai Dream Lavrenty Repin

It is a little known fact that the industrial future of Walvis Bay for the next 20 years is modelled on the economical and infrastructural success of megacity Dubai, to the extent where delegations from Namibia to Dubai and vice versa are in regular communication, the relationship between the two countries has improved, and plans are to link the Walvis Bay airport, upon its completion, directly with Dubai.

The industrial park to be built outside Dune 7, the airport upgrade and of course the bold harbour extension are all projects that derive in part from the inspiration of Dubai, and are built with the country providing guidance and assistance – the dream of Walvis Bay is evident, especially after presenters from esteemed organisations, at an information sharing session hosted by the Walvis Bay Municipality,

cited the current economical stature of Dubai as the aim of Walvis to achieve in 20 years’ time – Walvis dreams to become the next Dubai.

And many believe that this not just a pipe dream, but a possibility.

20 years ago Dubai was an unknown dump in the desert; today it is unrivalled as the capital of Middle East business, commerce and tourism. Dubai really only achieved a stable political regime and economical constancy after the Persian Gulf War of 1990; making the history of Dubai strikingly similar to Namibia’s.

Like us, Dubai is surrounded by the Arabian Desert, with its hot, windy desert climate, constituting of sand and seashells (and no natural water deposits), and is a port gateway in the Persian Gulf that links to the Indian Ocean. As Namibia, the United Emirates have historically had a tiny population; in 1970 it was at about half a million people, but even today the census

estimates no more than 5 million people.

Yet in some sense, this dream is optimistic to say the least. To begin with, the turning point of the United Emirates and Dubai was in 1966, when the country discovered oil, which is what makes the current GDP of the United Emirates nearly US$400 billion, compared to Namibia’s US$12.5 billion. If we look 20 years back to when the country began its mammoth transformation, the number was still a lot higher than ours now, at US$50 billion. Dubai on its own at present generates US$16 billion a year, Walvis Bay merely US$1 billion.

The boom is attributed to the rise of oil prices worldwide; while some countries missed their opportunity, the Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Norway used this advantage to build a strong economy. Unless Uranium prices suddenly double an unlikely scenario - Namibia has no such export capabilities. The

father.

“How do I feel after receiving this latest news? I really think that criminal charges should be pressed.

These people are as ignorant as they are devious and as is evidenced are in all likelihood to do the same thing to other unsuspecting victims. When one considers the children in this instance, one has to ask whether being raised by people like these is actually in the best interests of the children,” he concluded. *Wentzel is a pseudonym as the victim did not wish to be publically identified.

Gulf of Persia is a well-established trade route that served Europe for thousands of years, ours is recent and presently small.

Dubai also opened its borders and embraced immigrants who built the city; a task that Namibia seems reluctant to do. Not to mention, of course, the country remains an absolute monarchy, one that respects its people and human rights, but that does not allow for democratically elected governments.

Dubai was and remains in essence an idea, supported by the government; allowed to be free and cosmopolitan in a strict society where alcohol, for instance, is prohibited (Dubai has bars and bottle stores). Free economic zones, where companies can trade tax free, like the world’s largest ‘Jebel Ali free zone’ were created and maintained with a vision in mind, a new international airport built, an influx of immigration to the desert country was welcomed to help built this city, to bring in foreign currency, to use foreign skills and to improve foreign relations; today 96 percent of Dubai’s population are foreign born!

Dubai is a metropolis with a staggering skyline, the world's tallest man-made structure, 7 star hotels and gold plated Lamborghinis as well as private manmade islands that resemble mini-continents. The city is hosting the 2022 World Cup, building stadiums with humongous air conditioners for the fans and the players.

Although Walvis Bay should dream big, we should not let our imagination get ahead of us. We need roads, schools, ports, ships and houses – Dubai with its focus on luxury might not be the best place to look at first.

MONITRONIC SUCCESS COLLEGE NOTICE

The following courses have recently been granted NQA Accrediation (Ministry of Education) Registration for January 2015 is now in Progress Application fees: N$250 Registration Fees: N$1 000 Closing Date: As soon as classes are full.

Diploma NQF Level 5 & 6

Min. Entry requirements: Grade 12 l Accounting and Finance l Business Management l Human Resources Management l Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management l Electrical & Electronic Engineering l Telecommunication Systems Min. Entry requirements: Grade 10 l Diploma in Electrical Installation l Hospitality & Tourism l Office Administration Study Loans available, apply now before 30 November 2014 SMS to 081-278 5053 YOUR NAME, POSTAL ADDRESS, COURSE(S) or Call information line: 081-566 0015 WINDHOEK BRANCH No. 4 Sauerstrasse Windhoek North, close to Bachbrecht Post Office P.O. Box 40792, Ausspannplatz Windhoek Namibia Tel: (061) 232652 Fax: (061) 234736 Cell: 081 278 5053 OTJIWARONGO BRANCH Erf 2235 Werf Street Orwetoweni Otjiwarongo Tel: (067) 304652 (Hostel) Accommodation available) WALVIS BAY BRANCH P.O. Box 4810 Walvis Bay No 98, Erf 3107 W, 6TH Street Walvis Bay Tel: (064) 220023 Cell: 081-671 6418 ONDANGWA BRANCH Chicco Building Ondangwa/ Oshakati Main Rd - FNB PO Box 15581 Oluno Tel: (065) 240468 Cell: 081-650 6453 DM0201400134157 R/D

News

www.mtc.com.na

10 | News

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Festive Season at the Coast Set to Boom!

Donna Collins

Visiting inlanders escaping the heat were out and about this weekend at seaside resorts, frolicking in the surf, doing recreational fishing and exploring in their 4x4's as towns along the coast started to fill up with early holiday makers enjoying the near to perfect weather.

With the closure of schools this week the mass exodus will begin as roads fill up with families heading out on their annual vacations. Road Safety Campaigns are in full swing to spread the message of "arrive alive", and law enforcement traffic and police departments are on full alert.

However, nothing can prepare the coastal towns for the bumper season that is being anticipated with holiday accommodation booked out as early back as June already. With no room left for a mouse in Swakopmund and Walvis Bay running out of space, hotels, furnished homes, apartments and self catering units to mention some, have been snapped up at high season rates.

One estate agent said, "People will pay anything to come to the coast at this time of the year. We have clients from South Africa who are willing to pay N$10 000 a day for something ‘nice' for their family for up to three weeks.”

Christine Schwieger (Owner of Nels Estates), one of the biggest holiday accommodation agents in Swakopmund,

said that if her bookings were anything to go by, the coastal holiday towns are in for a real bumper season and business is going to boom.

"Reservations are much better than previous years with bookings confirmed from end of November to mid January, shifted in three groups. The major portion runs through the peak season from 20 December to 2 January," she explained, adding that they have 50% deposits up front with all their bookings.

With the overwhelming demand for accommodation the rates are high, but controlled, and prices can peak up to as much as N$4 500 a day-but that would be for an extreme luxury mansion overlooking the sea. The lower end starts at around N$900 per day which can sleep four, and can go up to N$2 400 for a top of the range holiday "pad".

"We opened our bookings in April and have been fully booked since June, with a 50% deposit paid up front, and there is not even a single room available in Swakopmund at the moment."

Lyndon Izaaks (Ops Manager Bay Self Catering Accommodation, who dominate the self catering market in Walvis Bay) is currently managing nearly 300 self catering apartments, and has been inundated with calls and bookings.

He said that they are well over 80% full already. The festive rush started early in October already with bookings made throughout the year. They have their regulars and holiday makers confirming

VACANCY

Manica Group Namibia is an equal opportunity employer with offices based in Walvis Bay. The Group is looking for a suitably experienced Sales Agent to join Manica Sourcing & Trading as soon as possible.

SALES AGENT Manica Sourcing & Trading Location : Walvis Bay

Minimum Requirements...

The successful incumbent should be in possession of the following: Ÿ 2 years of work experience at a local ship agency or ship chandler which has resulted in an understanding of Walvis Bay port dynamics and the key industry players; Ÿ A sales background that involved direct client interaction would be beneficial; Ÿ Behaviour / traits: Self-confidence. Responsive. Takes ownership of tasks.

Organized and efficient approach to task accomplishment; Job Specification...

The main focus areas of the job are: Ÿ Boarding vessels on a daily basis to offer the services of Manica Sourcing & Trading; Ÿ Completing the Manica Sourcing & Trading's sales process: which involves interacting with clients, taking supply/service orders from clients; Ÿ Sourcing the relevant items & services, quoting clients and then facilitating the delivery of approved quotes;

Read more on the Website Closing Date: 3 December 2014 Bidvest Namibia is an equal opportunity employer. Remuneration packages are comenserate with qualifications and experience. Apply for this position online at: Register and upload your CV for alerts on future positions.

http://bidvestnamibia.pnet.com.na

occupation for up to two weeks, and only a limited number of two bed units are left.

Offering everything from fully furnished townhouses, flats and loose standing homes, all the holiday makers need to come with are their clothes - they provide the home away from home comforts.

Izaaks explained that festive period rates are 20% higher than during the year, with their top luxury units at the Presidents View Complex on the lagoon going for N$3 000 per night. They are, however, already snapped up by high ranking officials from the Brazilian navy, as

well as a Minister from Botswana.

Meanwhile behind the scenes shops and businesses are frantically finalising their last consignments of goods ordered months ago to make it in time for the big 'rush'.

"We need to make sure all our orders get out early before the factories close so that our merchandise which is imported from either South Africa or abroad, reaches us for the Xmas trade," said one shop owner.

"We are expecting a good year, and everything is in place for the hoards of holiday makers that will descend upon the coastal towns during the festive season."

A Windhoek family got their holiday season off to an early start with a visit to the coast this weekend and a first ever dip in the ocean. With accommodation at the coastal towns full to the brim and good weather prevailing, a bumper festive season is expected. (Photo Donna Collins)

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

VACANCIES TECHNICAL TRAINING COORDINATOR (ENGINEERING) Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Superintendent Technical Training To co-ordinate engineering technical training programs with all relevant stakeholders to achieve the SU training and development strategy and to support operational requirements to ensure optimization of skills to enhance efficiency of productivity.

Key Performance Areas: • Technical Training Effectiveness • Training Programs/Course efficiency • Evaluation of Technical Training Programs/Courses • Management of Technical Training Function Resources • Training budget efficiencies • Professional Development & Growth • Management the Technical Training Function Resources Training budget efficiencies Professional Development & Growth • Co-worker Effectiveness • Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality Effectiveness Requirements and experience: • Grade 12 Recognized Trade Diploma as Fitter or Fitter & Turner or National Engineering Diploma (N6) with a recognized Trade Diploma with 4 technical theoretical subjects (Level III or N3) in a Mechanical/ Electrical field or Training Administration Diploma • Code B Driver’s License • 6 years’ Technical Training Officer/Coordinator of which 3 years should be on a supervisory level • Sound knowledge of technical training methodologies and accreditation • Previous maintenance/training experience on Caterpillar or Komatsu equipment will be an added advantage • Simulation training methodologies and development of training and assessment modules/ materials

DIESEL MECHANIC MINING MAINTENANCE Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Team Leaders Mining Maintenance To safely perform skilled repair and maintenance work on earthmoving equipment / machinery at Swakop Uranium (SU) by applying practiced detailed technical knowledge and acquired skill of the diesel trade, according to set standards, procedures and OEM specifications within related SHERQ standards and guidelines.

Key Performance Areas: • Fault Finding & Continuous Improvement • Planning/Organizing • Work management- skill application • Performance Management & Coaching • Skill Development & Growth • Team work and own effectiveness • Safety, Health, Environment & Quality Effectiveness Requirements and experience: • Grade 12 passed with 4 technical theoretical subjects or N2 • Recognized Trade Diploma as Diesel Mechanic or Earthmoving Mechanic • Code C or BE Driver’s License • 5 years post trade experience • Mining equipment maintenance experience on Caterpillar or Komatsu equipment would be preferential • Experience in OEM hydraulic equipment maintenance • Experience in OEM fault finding systems (SIS, VIMS, Link1, Mine Care)

FITTER MINING MAINTENANCE Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Team Leaders Mining Maintenance To perform skilled repair and maintenance work on earthmoving equipment / machinery at Swakop Uranium (SU) by applying practiced detailed technical knowledge and acquired skill of the fitting trade, according to set standards, procedures and OEM specifications within related SHERQ standards and guideline.

SENIOR ORGANISATIONAL AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the OD and Performance Management Manager To co-ordinate and administer all the related activities within the organizational development and training section by providing an effective service related to skills development, training programs, assessment administration and organizational effectiveness in order to effectively contributes to achieving the departmental strategic objectives.

Key Performance Areas: • Skills Development Plan Effectiveness; • Organizational Development Effectiveness; • Skills Development and Organizational Development Administration; • Training Programs Co-ordination; • Assessment Administration; • Professional Development & Growth; • Co-worker Effectiveness; • Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality Effectiveness.

Requirements and experience: • BTech/Bachelor Degree in Industrial Psychology or Human Resources Development; • Assessment Administrator Certification; • Experience in Organisational Development/Training and Development field: 5-7 years; • Demonstrated experience in administration of assessments; • Demonstrate experience in facilitation and conducting of training; • Assessor certification will be an advantage; • Moderator certification will be an advantage; • Code 08 Drivers License.

TRANSPORT OFFICER

Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Coordinator Transport To assist in the administration and control of the passenger and transport fleet in the most effective way and with minimum and greater utilization of resources.

Key Performance Areas: • Company Transport, Fleet Operation, Schedules and Administration Effectiveness; • Ensures Compliance and Implementation of Systems and Procedures; • Monitors and Reports Driver Issues and Incidents; • Handles Safety Concerns and Licensing Issues; • Assist with Schedules and Work Assignments; • Provides Support to Drivers by Ensuring Availability of Materials, Tools and Equipment; • Co-worker Effectiveness; • Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality Effectiveness.

Requirements and experience: • Grade 12 with a Certificate in Transport Management; • 2 Years Experience as a Transport Officer and 2 Years as a Heavy Duty Driver; • Work Experience as Employee Transportation Supervisor preferably in Mining Industry; • Sound Experience of Public Road Rules and Regulations; • Demonstrate experience in facilitation and conducting of training; • Proven Record of Transportation Logistics; • Code C/CE License for Goods and Passengers.

TRANSPORT COORDINATOR

Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Transportation Manager To develop and maintain the Processing Training function for the Processing Department at Swakop Uranium (SU) and ensure the continued effectiveness of training efforts to deliver on high levels of competency regarding personnel, training courses, programmes and materials, in order to ensure effective contribution to departmental goals and objectives.

Key Performance Areas: • Resource Management • Transport Systems and Schedule Administration • Transport Legal Knowledge and Inventory Control • Training Program Administration and Maintenance • Cost Control on SAP • Subordinates Effectiveness • Co-worker Effectiveness • Mine Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality Effectiveness

Key Performance Areas: • Work execution – planned and unplanned maintenance • Analytical and pro-active maintenance • Planning/Organizing • Performance Management & Coaching • Skills Development & Growth • Team Work and Own Effectiveness • Safety, Health, Environment & Quality Effectiveness

Requirements and experience: • Grade 12 with a National Diploma in Transport Management • Valid heavy duty Driver’s License (Code 11/C/CE) for Goods and Passengers • 7 – 10 years’ experience in transport management of which 3 years should be on a supervisory level • Work experience as employee transportation controller, preferably in a mining or manufacturing industry

Requirements and experience: • Grade 12 passed with 4 technical theoretical subjects or N2 • Recognized Trade Diploma as Fitter or Fitter & Turner • Code C or BE Driver’s License • 5 years post trade experience • Mining equipment maintenance experience on Caterpillar or Komatsu equipment would be preferential • Experience in OEM hydraulic equipment maintenance • Experience in OEM fault finding systems (SIS, VIMS, Link1, Mine Care)

Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry. Interested persons should submit their CV and relevant supporting documents to recruitment@cgnpc.com.cn OR on www.jobportunities.net website by 5 December 2014.

Previously disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply. Clearly indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet this criteria will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no documents will be returned. Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments.

For more information on the company, please visit www.swakopuranium.com

Passionately energise our World

12 | News

Thursday, 27 November 2014

Mass Housing Project

Gains Momentum in Walvis Bay Siglinde de Villiers For daily travellers between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, new houses seem to pop up every day in Kuisebmond, forming colourful neat rows, a stark contrast to the rest of the rural, ghetto jammed suburb. On Tuesday, the President of Namibia handed over the first completed houses to delighted beneficiaries.

Informal settlements have mushroomed radically throughout Namibia, flinging people into deplorable living conditions. The National Mass Housing Development Programme (NMHDP) spearheaded by President Hifikepunye Pohamba and the Namibian government, aims to arrest this ugly trend in its tracks through deliberate and focused efforts.

Slums tend to negatively impact the social, economic and political fabric of Namibian society with farreaching and long-term effects, especially on the youth and in turn, the country’s future.

In the face of the controversial land grab issues erupting all over Namibia, 89 houses, partly subsidized by the Namibian government, were awarded on Tuesday in Walvis Bay to locals who previously resided in shacks. In a speech by the retired Major General Charles DNP Namoloh it was highlighted that another 1506 houses of different categories are still to be completed in Kuisebmond to be handed over to beneficiaries in the future. Namoloh pointed out that the severe shortage of proper housing for the majority of people in terms of number as well as affordability is a complex challenge that requires an out-of-the box approach and bold leadership.

“Housing is an adaptive challenge and the Ministry has secured the services of Cuban engineers to assist in the proper planning, implementation and monitoring of this project,” Namoloh said. To this end, Namoloh referred to President Hifikepunye Pohamba as the leader who ensured that the NMHDP spread its wings and took flight.

Pohamba introduced Gabriel Marin Castro from Chile to the audience as the advisor for the NMHDP. “We worked together for many years in the past, when he ran away from the oppressive dictatorship in Chile and joined Namibian refugees in Zambia. Together, we built many schools and clinics for Namibian refugees.

When we decided on the mass housing project, we looked around at who could assist us and asked him to come and advise us on housing situations,” Pohamba related.

According to Pohamba, the delivery of Tuesday’s houses to their recipients is an important milestone.

“Construction of houses has gained momentum and more houses will be handed over in the months to come,” Pohamba said.

According to the Blueprint National Mass Housing Framework, (BNMHF) the NMHDP aims to construct

a total of 185 000 houses to the total value of N$45 billion, 10 278 houses to be built on a yearly basis.

Despite the progress made since the NMHDP was launched in November 2013, Namibia continues to experience an acute shortage of affordable housing to the point where people are threatening to take violent action. In October 2013, the BNMHF stated that there was an estimated backlog of 100 000 units, growing at an annual rate of 3700 units.

According to the BNMHF, the largest backlog of housing is in the lowest income sectors, with an estimated number of 45 000 people earning a monthly income of N$0 - N$1500, and 30 000 people having an income between N$1501 and N$4600. In stark contrast, the NHE only provided housing for people whose incomes were over N$5000 a month, which were less than 13 percent of the country’s population.

“Our government is determined that this programme is implemented successfully. For this reason, all stakeholders are under strict instructions to ensure that they fulfil their responsibilities. Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development, as the lead institution, is mandated to monitor progress and ensure that targets are met,” the President continued.

He continued to express his disappointment at construction companies in the past who did not provide quality work. “Only a few years after they handed over the completed buildings, they started cracking and falling apart. We do not want the same to happen here,” he emphasised.

“Delays and poor workmanship will not be tolerated.

All contractors must, therefore, comply with the required quality standards,” he added.

Kleophas Mutjavikua, the Governor of Erongo Region said, “Mass housing has at long last become a reality. Recipients of these houses have a responsibility to show their appreciation by taking care of these properties in an extraordinary manner and paying their bills on time.”

“We will move with deliberate speed to deliver houses to those who are still waiting for this service,” Pohamba concluded.

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Lifestyle | 13

Thursday, 27 November 2014

LIFESTYLE Meet the ‘Average Barbie’ Doll Lammily For years the average looking girl has been haunted by the perfect look in the form of a doll, but thanks to Graphic designer and toymaker Nickolay Lamm girls do not have to be taunted by the unrealistic body ideal created by the original Barbie.

Lamm created the Lammily doll — what the Barbie would look like if she actually had the measurements of an average 19-year-old woman’s body (based on CDC data). And brown hair. (She also comes with a sticker-extension pack, complete with cellulite, freckles and acne, but we will get to that later.)

What started as an art project in July 2013 became available for purchase and delivery Wednesday.

“Parents and their kids were

emailing and asking where they could buy the ‘normal Barbie’ — but it did not exist,” Lamm, 26, tells TIME. And so he decided to crowdfund his creation, raising $501,000 for his $95,000 target goal.

“To be honest, I knew it was either going to bomb or blow up, there was no in between,” Lamm says.

Lamm also created a video that transforms a Lammily doll into a Barbie to really get his point across: “I wanted to show that reality is cool,” Lamm says.

“And a lot of toys make kids go into fantasy, but why do they not show real life is cool? It is not perfect, but it is really all we have.

And that is awesome.”

But real proportions and movement were not enough. Before

putting the US$24.99 dolls on sale — 19,000 dolls are going to backers, but 25,000 more are ready to be shipped before the holidays — Lamm decided to take things a step further.

Enter the US$5.99 stickerextension pack, available in January. Lamm says it took four months to find the proper sticker material, that gives the doll’s face acne, freckles, moles and the ability to blush: Lamm also decided to include scrapes and bruises.

“Some people were, like ‘Oh my God,’ as if I am promoting domestic violence or something,” says Lamm, before assuring TIME that that was far from his intention.

“Look, we all get boo boos and scratches. Life is not perfect, we all sometimes fall down but we get back up.”

Lamm’s aunt recommended

he add scars, he says, “because, you know, some kids have scars and are really shy about them.”

Unleashing a doll with stretch marks on the Internet is basically asking for trouble. But Lamm insists that it came from a sincere place, and that some people will welcome the option.

“Demi Lovato even tweeted about it,” he says: "Also, Barbie should make dolls with cellulite!!! Hahaha!!! After all, around 95% of ALL women have it!!!"

“You know, people were saying this whole project was a joke from the beginning, so I have no doubt some people will take it as a joke,” Lamm says.

“But I hope there are enough people who believe what I believe. I think 25% to 30% will fashion options in January: “This is the doll people have think the stickers are stupid and been waiting for,” Lamm says. Stretch marks and all. the rest will think it is good.”

The Lammily will have other Source: http://time.com/

No babies were harmed in the making of this advert

Caring for our community this Christmas

Namib Independent Great news for the coast!

14 | Worldwide

Thursday, 27 November 2014

W o r l dwid e Stray Dog Follows Team in Amazon Race Arthur’s story begun earlier this year when he emerged from the jungles of Ecuador, while a Swedish team were making their way through the Amazon.

The surprised athletes, who were taking part in the Adventure Racing World Championship, gave the animal a Swedish meatball, which would be the start of their journey together.

From that moment the dog followed them on their gruelling 692 kilometre race, which involved them cycling, walking and kayaking across the Amazon.

They tried to send him away on several occasions but he stuck to them like glue.

“They started with four team members — but finished with five,” the Peak Performance outfit wrote on Facebook.

One of them added: "I came to Ecuador to win the The tale of a stray dog who would not leave the side of World Championship. Instead, I got a new friend." a group of explorers will leave you heartbroken and The most testing part of their journey together was inspired at the same time. when they decided to leave Arthur behind because

they were getting into Kayaks. They said a heart-breaking goodbye to the dog and he was reportedly ‘worried and stressed’ they were going to leave. But after setting out on the water they looked across and found their trusted companion was swimming next to them.

“This was too heart-breaking for the team, and [team member Mikael

Lindnord] helped Arthur up on the Kayak,” they explained.

Eventually the team, including Arthur, finished the trek and after some initial difficulty Mikael was able to adopt the animal and bring him back to Sweden.

"I almost cried in front of my computer, when receiving the decision!" he said.

FESTIVE

SEASON

SAFETY TIPS

The Internet Making Random People Millionaires The Internet bubble has finally burst – and it is filled with little bags of .com gold.

Millions of social media users around the world have agreed to randomly make someone a millionaire through crowd-sourced generosity.

The ‘millionaire maker’ experiment, the first of its kind, will see Reddit users donate one dollar each to a person selected at random.

To enter people simply needed to post a message on the forum: ‘Reddit, Let’s Make A Millionaire!’.

The rules were simple – one message per Redditor from an account that was older than the thread itself (to stop cheaters posting multiple times). And today, the first

winner of the crowd-funded stunt was chosen – a Redditor called Emphursis from South London who posted: “Welp, fingers crossed!”.

The group is now hoping to make the ‘millionaire maker’ experiment a regular instalment on the social media site.

After hearing about his win Emphursis wrote: “I was half awake in bed and I thought I should have a quick look at Reddit, saw the little red envelope and clicked it to be greeted by all this! I am blown away; it still has not really registered. There’s so many PM’s and replies here that I can’t hope to reply to them all.”

But what will he spend the money on? He said: “I will definitely be making some donations to charity, to

help give children in deprived areas a brighter Christmas. Beyond that, I have not really thought about it.”

Asked whether the win was a setup, he added: “Oh, I have also seen a couple of posts saying this was in some way rigged. That was not the case, I was fast asleep while all this was happening!!”

The idea spawned from a Reddit thread called ‘Shower Thoughts’ after one user mused: “If a million of us picked a certain Redditor and all donated just $1, we would have the power to make someone a millionaire.”

Keep your eyes peeled for the next round folks.

What should I do before I leave on holiday?

LET’S TALK ALLSURE Ensure all your personal belongings which you are taking with you, are insured or specified under your ALL RISK section.

Cover is worldwide.

For further information contact your adviser or broker. * Old Mutual Short-Term Insurance Company (Namibia) Limited.

Source: http://metro.co.uk/

WALVIS BAY - (064) 206 152 • SWAKOPMUND - (064) 418 800

Motoring | 15

Thursday, 27 November 2014

MOTOR ING Salt Water Powered

Car Gets Approval Process and Project Manager For our Marine Services business in Walvis Bay, Namibia, we are seeking to employ a high calibre Process and Project Manager. The Process and Project Manager is responsible for the operational management of spare parts processing, project and contract management and service administration. The role reports to the Service Centre Manager.

Key Responsibilities •

• • • • • • • • •

Manage the customer services support teams to drive on-time delivery and responsiveness through processes that focus on cost, quality, customer satisfaction and profitability.

Monitor the processes using relevant metrics and reporting and keep in close contact with the customer.

Ensure working procedures are defined and adhered to, to maintain quality in service delivery and meet customer timescales.

Support the coordination and development of working procedures for repair & overhaul, upgrading, and turnkey projects, including pre-calculation and invoicing in the Area Identify preferred suppliers for equipment, technical capability and resources required for service projects/activities. Act as the key interface for managing the supplier relationships Pro-actively improve, monitor and report compliance against Rolls-Royce quality management requirements (as in QMS) and Health, Safety and Environment (HSE). Prepare for and manage internal and external audits as required Develop manpower plans for the Back Office to support the service activities across the locations within the Area. Manage performance and training of the team Work with the Area finance team to ensure periodic and ad hoc financial reporting requirements are met in a timely and accurate manner. Provide commentary and background information enabling users to understand the processes in the Back Office Work with the Services Development Manager and Service Centre Manager to actively seek opportunities to grow and improve service delivery Support the implementation of CBP (Common Business Process) across services activities in-country Support and implement the Journey to Process Excellence (JtPE) improvement plans

Key Technical/Professional Competencies • • • • • •

In depth knowledge of the maritime industry & market Demonstrated management capability, preferably within the marine sector Good verbal and written communication skills Fluency in English Pro-active self-starter Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant discipline

Key Experiences • • •

Preferred experience working in the Marine sector Preferred experience with Marine Products and Systems Relevant experience in previous Service / Management roles

To apply, please submit your CV in English to Calandra Beukes: calandra.beukes@rolls-royce.com Closing date: 30th of January 2015

In Europe

It works just like a hydrogen fuel cell except that the liquid used for storing energy is saltwater. This is not far from the water powered car, an idea labelled as a hoax by many despite the massive amount of evidence behind it.

In this case the liquid (saltwater) passes through a membrane in between the two tanks, creating an electric charge. This electricity is then stored and distributed by super capacitors. The four electric motors in the car are fed electricity which makes it run. The car carries the water in two 200-litre tanks, which in one sitting will allow drivers to travel up to 373 miles (600km or from Swakopmund to Tsumeb). Overall, the four-seater is 5.25 metres (0.4ft) long, 2.2 metres wide (7.2ft), the 1.35 metre (4.4ft) high.

“After making its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show in March, the saltwater technology has now been certified for use on European roads.”

Nanoflowcell AG is the company behind the design, and they are currently preparing the technology for mass production.

“We have got major plans, and not just within the automobile industry. The potential of the NanoFlowcell is much greater, especially in terms of domestic energy supplies as well as in maritime, rail and aviation technology,” stated NanoFlowcell AG Chairman of the Board Professor Jens-Peter Ellermann.

This is huge news, and is another example out of so many that clearly show how we have so many ways to do better here. Although money remains an issue, it does not have to be. All cars should be required to be made from this type, or other similar types of clean green energy. A few years ago, if you told somebody that it is possible to fuel a car by pouring saltwater into it, they would have called you a crazy person.

Scientists at the U.S Naval Research Laboratory have developed a technology to recover carbon dioxide and hydrogen from seawater and convert it into a liquid hydrocarbon fuel. This could be a tremendous breakthrough and eliminate the need for old ways of generating fuel.

It is just another example of the many ways of generating energy that are now

available that could end our dependence on fossil fuels.

These new, clean green ways of generating energy have been around for decades, so why are we always talking about them without ever implementing them?

“Re-fuelling U.S. Navy Vessels, at sea, is a costly endeavour in terms of logistics, time, fiscal constraints and threats to national security at sea. In fiscal year 2011, the U.S. Navy Military Sea Lift Command, the primary supplier of fuel and oil to the U.S. Navy fleet, delivered nearly 600 million gallons of fuel to Navy vessels underway, operating 15 fleet replenishment oilers around the globe.”

The Navy successfully used the new fuel-from seawater process to power a radio-controlled scale-model replica of a World War II aircraft with an internal combustion engine. Researchers say that this approach could be commercially viable within the next seven to ten years. They state interest in pursuing land-based options that could provide a solution to our current problems. Again, another option, and example showing the power of human potential, so what is stopping us from the implementation of cleaner and greener technologies?

Not long ago, U.S. Department of Defence adviser Dr. Harold Puthoff made some noteworthy comments while discussing the reality of free energy.

This is what he said: “I have been taken out on aircraft carriers by the Navy and shown what it is we have to replace if we have new energy sources to provide new fuel methods.” Whether it be solar, free energy (zero-point), or converting seawater, it is clear we can do better than we are doing now.

It is remarkable how Barack Obama has constantly pointed out that we will be using oil, gas and coal for the next twenty years, and that we do not have the technology to lift our dependence off of these resources. Those who are looking into it can clearly see that this simply is not true. We have the means to live in ways that are more harmonious with the planet and all beings on it.

Source: http://www.collectiveevolution.com/

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