Namib Independent Issue 153 by The Namib Independent

Independent Namib

Tel: 064 200497

Like a newspaper, only better!

Diamond Arrow Winner Best Community Newspaper 2014

Issue 153 - Thurs, 18 June 2015 to Wed, 24 June 2015

Mr. Otis Finck opened the dialogue amongst concerned Narraville community members at Tuesday evening's resident's meeting.

The campaign to discredit the Walvis Bay energy project is both short-sighted and without merit. Hennie Steyn, managing director of the project developer firm, Xaris Energy on the gas power plant project in Walvis Bay See Page 6

See Page 3

Bank of Namibia increases repo rate by 25 basis points

See Page 4

Father's Day Fun!

Check out what one local dad has done for his kids this Father's Day, and see the last chance to enter our Coolest Dad Competition! - Page 12

Narraville community takes charge of its destiny Gareth Amos Following on the back of a recent series of meetings held by the Municipality in the key areas of Narraville, Town and Kuisebmond to table the proposed budget for the next fiscal year, residents of Narraville have not let the opportunity to voice their opinion on the budget elude the community. A community meeting was called for by Narraville resident and prominent business personality Mr. Ivan Marshall on Tuesday this week to discuss the budget and to get input from the community in order to meet the municipality’s deadline for feedback which expires on Friday 19th June. Although the meeting was not as well attended as the organisers had hoped, valuable contributions were made by the community which highlight that the proposed budget for Narraville falls horribly short and neglects to

allocate funding to items deemed vital by the community. Mr. Otis Finck, well known journalist and stalwart of the community, opened dialogue by diligently highlighting the proposed line items of the budget and explaining them in a little more detail so that the attendees were fully versed on the specifics of the budget, before Mr. Marshall led the floor in a structured though open dialogue on the key points. At the outset of the discussion, the mood clearly indicated two things above all: that the budget simply was not enough and that many items of the budget have been promised year after year without any tangible results, which attributed to an atmosphere of despondency. OLD AGE HOME Off the bat, the long running back and forth of promises relating to the Narraville Clinic and Old Age Home was once again upon the

already impatient residents. “The saga has been going on for years now and what do we see about the old age home? … nothing,” said one resident. Another sticking point is the land which has been made available for the Old Age home, with almost all of the community agreeing that there has been significant short-sightedness in the allocation of land for the home. The general consensus being that it is way too small and offers no scope for growth. “If you look at old age homes anywhere, there is always a clinic and some kind of health care facility for the elderly connected Continued on Page 3

No mass action for Walvis Bay?

AR - We will negotiate! Staff Reporter Following a recent public gathering in Walvis Bay by concerned citizens and much continued dialogue between the organiser of the meeting and the AR leadership, the AR community leader for Walvis Bay, Mr. Knowledge Iipinge, has officially confirmed in a statement to the Namib Independent that the group is willing to discuss alternate, short and medium term solutions for the landless youth issue, which in all likelihood will mitigate any mass land action that has been planned for 31 July 2015. This is the first such

public statement from the AR leadership that does not carry with it the caveat that in order to move forward amicably on the issue, that the local authority must supply affordable land to the 9500 local applicants by the deadline. “On the very day that the AR applications were filed at the Walvis Bay Municipality, we discussed the possibility of setting up a meeting with the Municipality regarding the applications and the process that was to follow after the submission. However, until last week we had not even received acknowledgement of Continued on Page 3

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Walvis Bay Town Planning Scheme Consent: Shared Advertising CC On Erf No.: 4482

Tel (+264 64) 200 497 Email info@namibindependent.com.na Sales Lorna Bock 081 558 1263 lorna@namibindependent.com.na Wouter Deysel 081 437 8678 wouter@namibindependent.com.na Rita Potgieter 081 150 5455 rita@namibindependent.com.na Gareth Amos 081 129 2157 gareth@namibindependent.com.na Editorial Sharon Brooks sharon@namibindependent.com.na Design Maggie’s Attic Graphic Design sonya4maggiesattic@gmail.com 081 129 2158 Address

In terms of the above-mentioned Scheme, notice is hereby given that I/we, the undersigned, have applied to the Walvis Bay Municipality for permission to erect/establish ** Diesel/Gas Tanks on the site. Plans may be inspected or particulars of this application may be obtained Town Planning, First Floor, Rooms 101 & 106 D, Civic Centre. Any person having an objection to the approval of this application, must lodge such objections, together with grounds thereof, with the General Manager: Roads and Building Control, (Town Planning), Private Bag 5017, Walvis Bay and the undersigned, in writing, not later than* 12 Days of this Advertisement. Name and Address: Applicant(s) Jalene - 081 465 5992

McCLUNE’S

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.

Township: WVB Ext 12

Street: Langerhein Street

Rössing and AREVA team up for safety

Shuttle Services

Sharon Brooks We offer a reliable shuttle service between Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay that guarantees satisfaction and channels development on internation and local scale. Our vehicles have been branded and are easy to identify, Which expresses ownership and legality as well as professionalism. Bookings are essentail. Terms & Conditions apply.

We operate 7 days a Week Prices per person (one Way); Windhoek/Swakopmund N$ 220.00 Windhoek/Walvis Bay N$ 230.00 Pensioners Special N$ 170.00 Departures are as follows

Windhoek

Contact Details Tel: +264 64 221 713 Cell: +264 81 628 5010 CELL: +264 81 128 7916 email:mcclunes@mweb.com.na

Walvis Bay

Swakopmund

Departure 1: 7:30 am

Departure 1: 7:00 am

Departure 1: 8:00 am

Departune 2: 14:45 pm

Departune 2: 14:00 pm

Departune 2: 15:00 pm

Rössing Uranium and AREVA Namibia launched a safety awareness project in Swakopmund on Wednesday aimed at empowering children in the Erongo region to become safety WISE through the development of teaching support materials for primary school students. According to Werner Duvenhage, Managing Director at Rössing Uranium, the project will initially focus on Grades 1 to 3 in schools in Swakopmund, Arandis and Walvis Bay through the distribution of toolkits to 10 800 learners. The project has been named Safety W.I.S.E and stands for: W – Wakey-Wakey – do not be caught by surprise I – Informed S – Sensible E - Eager The material features AREVA’s Bouba and Zaza characters who will share their experiences and in the process, impart important safety lessons based on Rössing Uranium’s eight Life Saving Rules. The messages, graphics and examples contained in the toolkits will adapt these rules to “reflect and incorporate environments and contexts relevant to the targeted age groups at home, on the way between home and school and on the school grounds” Duvenhage said. He added that Rössing and AREVA take great pride in their roles as responsible corporate citizens, but are

above all, concerned neighbours within the Erongo region, and it is in the context of this background that the idea for Project Safety Wise was formed after consultations with neighbouring communities, community leaders and various specialists, including education specialists. The concept is that if learners are exposed to safety awareness in small and progressively increasing quantities “it will become part of their inherent behaviour as they become adults”. The topics covered in the learning materials include risk assessment, electricity and fire safety, road safety, especially pedestrian, bicycle and passenger safety, safe cell phone use and water safety which will include information on drowning and the importance of clean drinking water. Duvenhage told of an incident that occurred in September last year in which a two year old boy drowned in a sewage dam, an incident which could have been avoided had the children involved been made aware of the dangers of playing at the dam, and had received information on water safety. The success of the campaign relies heavily on the participation of the teachers who will be presenting the information, and Rössing and AREVA urged all the teachers to actively support the project. Duvenhage went on to thank all role players for the professional manner in which the project was developed, particularly the Ministry of Education for their assistance in making the world a bit safer for our children and empowering them to become safety WISE.

Your Logistics Partner in Namibia Providing you an integrated approach to supply chain management, including vessel agency and husbandry services, international freight forwarding, customs brokerage and warehousing.

Masterminding Innovative Supply Chain Solutions

Corner of 2nd Street East & John Newman Syncrolift Industrial Area P O Box 4407, Walvis Bay, Republic of Namibia Telephone: +264 64 276600 | Fax: +264 64 276601 / 602 Email: info@lssnamibia.com Website: www.Lssnamibia.com

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Narraville community takes charge of its destiny

Continued from Page 1

to the home. But how can that happen here on the small land allocated to the home?” said one resident. Another resident drew a sharp contrast to the land allocated in Narraville and the massive land allocated to the public old age home in Swakopmund, near the municipality. Residents also indicated that no long term strategic planning has gone into the project. A community member highlighted that long term studies and census activities should have been taken a decade or two ago to determine the upcoming needs of the communities elderly population. “A survey or census will have determined the future needs in terms of an old age home. The municipality will have known exactly how many people to cater for” stated another resident. CLINIC On the matter of the current health clinic, it was agreed unanimously that it is entirely inadequate to serve the needs of the community, considering that the staff of the clinic is comprised of one Sister with a policy of seeing no more than 15 patients a day, a situation made worse by the fact that many people travel from Kuisebmond to attend the clinic as well. LAND The housing issue and allocation of affordable land was also high on the agenda. According to the municipal budget 61 mass housing program houses (still under construction) have been allocated to Narraville and 270 for Kuisebmond. Consensus was unanimous in that not only has Kuisebmond been the recipient of significantly more land than Narraville in the past, but many Kuisebmond residents are moving to Narraville in an effort raise their families in a safer area of town. On this account, the community feels that the Municipality should be allocating a lot more land in Narraville for low cost housing projects. Attention was also drawn to the fact that there are supposed low cost housing developments in Narraville which have become white elephants. One in particular drew much attention, with community members stating that the development behind the soccer fields seems to have changed hands numerous times, and new contractors are

continually appearing on the scene, but no significant progress is taking place.

Our children have nothing and are left to play on the streets or to hang out in houses while their parents work. This is not a good situation for any community and it is no wonder many turn to alcohol, gangs and drugs. YOUTH AND SPORTS FACILITIES Of particular concern to the community is the absolute lack of any facilities for the youth. “Our children have nothing and are left to play on the streets or to hang out in houses while their parents work. This is not a good situation for any community and it is no wonder many turn to alcohol, gangs and drugs,” said one of the attendees. The gathering indicated that there was no budget allocated to this issue and felt that funds must be allocated to sports fields and facilities, a multi-purpose centre for the youth and indeed the revival of the local swimming pool, which is currently filled with sand. “It is simply not acceptable that budget can be allocated to numerous facilities in Kuisebmond including the construction of a VIP stand and two additional stands for the Kuisebmond football stadium, while very little is allocated to facilities in Narraville,” stated one member of the meeting. Traffic and Road Safety The Swakopmund turnoff exit from Narraville and road safety in the town

in general is another issue that residents feel is not addressed well enough in the budget. The turnoff exit has been a bone of contention for some years now, with relief being promised but residents remain angry at the length of time it is taking to sort the matter out. According to the community, plans have been drawn up and approved, though frustration is still abound that nothing has yet transpired to alleviate the issue. On other safety matters the lack of speed bumps throughout the area is of grave concern. Due to the lack of social facilities, children are forced to play on the roads which present obvious dangers. Residents highlighted a terrible incident that took place four years ago in which a child was killed. There is no allocation in the budget for speedbumps at all. Other issues Other issues raised were the lack of bank branches in town, a lack of traffic monitoring and control, the long awaited tarring of key roads throughout the neighbourhood and also the influx into Narraville of new and dangerous drugs. Narraville Community Helpline Community organiser Mr. Marshall has taken it upon himself to donate a phone and a community hotline for Narraville residents to raise their concerns anonymously via SMS to the hotline. The goal of the hotline is to help the community raise valid concerns, which in turn may be presented to the municipality in an effort to help them keep their finger on the pulse of the neighbourhood and to address the ongoing concerns of the community in any future planning. Residents wishing to make use of the hotline are encouraged to save the following number into their address books and to share the number with friends and neighbours. The hotline number is 081 261 0554

No mass action for Walvis Bay? AR - We will negotiate! the applications or any other dialogue from the municipality on the matter at all,” said Iipinge. According to Iipinge, he attended the public meeting held last Wednesday in Walvis Bay where members of the community gathered at the Yacht Club to share information on the AR applications, the threat of mass land action and the role of the various authorities should such an event transpire. “What we saw was real people, ordinary members of the public coming together to discuss the proposed mass action with a real understanding of the challenges faced by so many disenfranchised Namibians. Without municipal or NAMPOL representatives at the meeting, who one expects to be part of the conversation, we realised that the AR plight has touched ordinary Namibians who are willing to be part of the solution by opening dialogue with all stakeholders in an effort to join in unity to try to resolve the land issue,” said Iipinge. Feedback on the meeting was shared with Amupanda, who himself held a public meeting at Independence Beach last Saturday attended by over one thousand AR supporters and land applicants. At this meeting, Amupanda directed the community meeting organiser, Walvis Bay resident, Gareth Amos, to Mr. Knowledge Iipinge to discuss matters relating to Walvis Bay in general and the meeting held at the Yacht Club specifically. The outcome of that meeting and continued dialogue between the two parties has resulted in an official statement being issued to the Namib Independent by Iipinge on behalf of the AR, stating that the AR are willing to open dialogue immediately with the Municipality to discuss tangible solutions that will satisfy all parties involved while remaining realistic and achievable. “After last week’s events we wrote a formal letter to the CEO of the Walvis Bay Municipality, stating that we are still awaiting any official dialogue on the matter and that a recent statement in the media that the ongoing land issue shall be fully resolved by 2030, through the continued implementation of massive housing projects planned for the town between then and now, is not considered an acceptable solution in the short term. We have however stated that we are seeking to dialogue on the matter. To date we have not had any official response to our letter,” said Iipinge. According to Amos, this is the first time that the AR have publically stated that they are willing to discuss their demands with a local authority with the single aim of finding an amicable solution that need not be tied to the threat of mass action. “Walvis Bay is the first town to find itself in this position and I hope that our community’s willingness to participate in the national conversation and to

POWER SUPPLY IS UNDER STRAIN, PLEASE MANUALLY SWITCH OFF YOUR GEYSER BETWEEN 17:00PM AND 22:00PM. Let’s work together and use electricity sparingly.

Continued from Page 1 seek solutions without political motives shall have an effect on other towns and cities who hope to resolve the issue peacefully, while considering the needs of all Namibians, particularly those who are disenfranchised,” stated Amos.

It is not necessary for our demands to be met in order to move forward, hand in hand with the government and local authorities. Iipinge, speaking on behalf of the AR, said “It is not necessary for our demands to be met in order to move forward, hand in hand with the government and local authorities. We realise that the municipality in Walvis Bay cannot make 9500 low cost plots available, however, as has been stated in the press, we cannot accept the notion that the Municipality shall ensure that the AR demands and those of the community for affordable land and housing shall only be fully met by 2030. This is not a point of departure that we see viable. We would, however, like to work with the authorities to discuss two and five year plans to help alleviate the suffering of the landless youth specifically. Even if we have to volunteer to make these programs come to fruition then we will do that, but we need to know that the government is doing all it can in the short term as well, in order to minimise the plight of the poor”. Spokesperson for the Walvis Bay Municipality has confirmed that they have received correspondence from Amupanda and while no formal correspondence has been entered into yet they shall respond to the official letter. This phenomenal breakthrough in Walvis Bay has come with welcomed relief for all parties, following on the back of reports that the CEO of the Katima Mulilo municipality, Charles Nawa, is alleged to have been attacked by landless youth (not affiliated with the AR, according to AR leadership) in a demonstration that according to news reports found NAMPOL ill prepared and unable to deal with the situation effectively.

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Standing up for Narraville Sharon Brooks

preSentS

Viewing Friday From 8am-16h00 t & C’s aPPly n$3000 reFundaBle depoSit photoS on FaceBook 064220387 | 0811434368 0811475475 bayauctioneers@gmail.com

Ivan Marshall, a well know businessman in the Narraville suburb of Walvis Bay, is one of the group of men that have taken it upon themselves to represent the Narraville community in discussions with the council in order to ensure that the needs of the area are better communicated to the municipality. Marshall, who grew up in Narraville, first realised that intervention was needed when he attended a council meeting and witnessed frustrated residents demanding answers from the council regarding certain ongoing problems within the community. He then suggested to the council that he hold community meetings to better ascertain what the residents feel are the most urgent issues that need to be addressed. The council readily agreed to work through him, along with Otis Finck and Paul Fisher, in order to better understand the needs of the Narraville community. The first of these meetings was held on Tuesday at the Narraville Primary School Hall. Topics such as land availability, the tarring of roads, an additional exit and the need for an old age home were discussed. It was suggested that a committee be formed in order to aid in communication with the council and Marshall hopes to be able to serve on this committee. The results of these public meetings will be compiled and will be handed over the municipality on

Friday. Marshall says that it must be noted that the council is trying its best to meet the needs of the community, as evidenced by projects such as the new town hall. Having grown up in Narraville, Marshall very much has the pulse of this close knit community and has undertaken many projects in the past in an attempt to uplift and add value to the suburb. Marshall opened a game shop in the hopes of providing the youth of Narraville with wholesome activities to keep them off the streets. He also runs a printing shop which provides much needed services such as printing, faxing and internet access to the residents of Narraville. Marshall believes that the internet is a fantastic tool, and encourages people to use it to improve themselves. Marshall is a self-made man, proving that with the right attitude, anything is possible. He says “As Martin Luther King said, ‘I have a dream’, but you must make a conscious decision to live your dreams out and make a difference”. Even though he did not finish school, he has worked hard and tirelessly to get where he is now. He owns a number of other businesses, including Eagle Upholstery and Eagle signs and in 2007 he bought and renovated the building opposite Woermann Brock. Marshall has even dabbled in the music industry and has a recording studio which has produced CDs for Afroshine and the Namib Marimbas. It is with this background that Ivan says that in order for Narraville to thrive, not

only should the business community stand together, but it is of equal importance that residents in Narraville begin to support local businesses. He says “There are take-aways, salons and even florists in Narraville - try to support these businesses before you go into town. They have families that they are trying to provide for, they add value to our community and they need your support.” Touching on the issue of alcohol and drug abuse within the community, he says “Think twice before you use drugs and people must stop selling drugs. You will not get your blessings and you are taking bread out of other people’s mouths. Remember, tears will pay tears.” He comments that alcohol abuse often goes hand in hand with poverty. His biggest hope for Narraville is improved education among the youth. He has noticed that people from Narraville have a bad reputation due to the high number of school drop outs which have resulted in a large number of residents who are unemployed and unskilled. He says that if he could get support from the community and the council, he would love to implement programs to provide skills training to the community. “You have to invest in children, and do everything you can to give them a better life and give them the opportunity to have all the things you did not,” he concluded.

Bank of Namibia increases repo rate by 25 basis points Sharon Brooks Following a Monetary Policy Committee meeting held on Tuesday, Ipumbu Shiimi, Bank of Namibia (BoN) Governor announced on Wednesday that the central bank has increased the repo rate by 25 basis points from 6.25 per cent to 6.50 per cent in response to Namibia’s hunger for luxury goods. Repo rate refers to the rate at which the central bank lends money to commercial banks. When this rate increases, the deposit-taking institutions increase deposit interest rates by the same margin, it ultimately affects the interest rate of clients with loans at the commercial banks. According to Shiimi, the decision to increase the repo rate was an effort

to contain the high growth in household credit, particularly instalment credit. “The MPC noted that a large portion of these loans continue to be primarily used to finance unproductive imported luxury goods… putting additional pressure on the international reserves of the country,” Shiimi said. In essence, Namibians are taking out too many loans, too often, for too many things they do not need, and this is exactly what the central bank wants to avoid. The central bank wants people to be employed, with controlled inflation and money should move through the economy with ease. Instead, it seems like Namibia has folks borrowing money to buy unproductive assets which the bank thinks pose a risk to economic stability. And so to combat this, the central bank wants to "tighten the screws," so to

speak, on financial conditions. Another issue facing Namibia is that a lot of these loans are not being paid for in Namibian dollars. Though the central bank did not specify which foreign currencies, it did note that its reserves are still sufficient to defend the current exchange rates with the US dollar and the South African rand. According to Shiimi, the current low inflation rate is abnormal and comes as a result of the dropping oil prices. He said that international economic signs point to the eventual recovery of the global economy, which will inevitably lead to interest rate increases. It would appear that with the combination of low prices and borrowing costs that encourage excessive loan taking, what the Bank of Namibia wants to avoid is a credit crisis.

Namibian Police take to the water

The Namibian police will soon be taking the fight against crime to sea with the anticipated acquisition of two patrol boats that will be stationed at Walvis Bay. The first of these highly modern boats has comes at a total cost of N$70 million and will form the core

of the country's new police fleet when it is delivered in 2017. The announcement was made on Monday during the first official visit to the regional headquarters by Minister of Safety and Security, Major-General, (Retired) Charles Namoloh. The statement comes just as the community is preparing for the “Turn Back Crime” campaign to be launched on Saturday at Kuisebmond Sports Field which aims to reduce the impact of crime by engaging the community in the fight. The commissioner of police in the Erongo Region, comm. Samuel // Hoëbeb, confirmed the acquisition earlier this week and said that there are two patrol vessels heading to Walvis Bay and staff for the new marine unit will still have to be appointed and trained.

The police currently operate only one skiboat in the Walvis Bay area as well as eighteen vessels which are stationed in the North, predominantly in the Kavango and Zambesi regions. These vessels are used for border patrols, crime prevention and search and rescue operations and comprise of skiboats, lightweight aluminum vessels and rubber boats. He added that the new wing is to be built on the same basis as the recently formed air wing of the police. According to reports, provision has already been made to pay a

deposit of N$14 million to ensure the production of the new boat. Three further instalments of N$20 million, N$7 million and N$29 million must be paid before the vessel will be delivered in 2017. It is not clear whom the contract for the construction of the boats was awarded to. The new vessel will be similar to the one acquired by the Namibian Navy in 2009, the Brendan Simbwaye patrol boat was purchased from Brazil and is fully armed, can reach a top speed of 26 knots and has a crew of 31.

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Lighthouse Restaurant

owner in legal battle with developer

Drug infestation in Naraville

The doors to the Lighthouse Restaurant have remained open pending a court case between owner Quinton Liebenberg and a Windhoek developer who was going to transform the Mole beachfront property into a luxury ocean facing apartment complex Donna Collins Literally days after the public were informed of the closure of the Lighthouse restaurant, owner Quinton Liebenberg had to do an about turn after the developer allegedly reneged on the conditions and terms of the shareholders agreement which was entered into between the two parties. Liebenberg who is a well known entrepreneur at the coast, owner of amongst others the Jetty Restaurant and Tiger Reef beach bar, has been running the Lighthouse Restaurant for the past 18 years, which has become a popular dining venue for tourists and locals alike. Discrepancies within the framework of the Lighthouse Property Development Trust contract, has resulted in pending court proceedings, which has not only put a stop to the closure of the Lighthouse Restaurant but a thorn in the side of development plans of a multi-million beachfront complex. Liebenberg stated that until the matter has been resolved, he will keep the doors of his restaurant open, despite having shut down the kitchen, paid off 32 staff, and stripped out most of the fixtures and fittings of the restaurant. The Lighthouse restaurant which is adjacent to the old public swimming pool was due to be bulldozed to the ground along with the

rest of the building with plans of a multi story luxury ocean front apartment block and retail shops being developed at the popular Mole beachfront area. Liebenberg meanwhile has handed over the running of the premises to local a businessman, which is now operating as a full blown pub and Saturday afternoon live music venue offering a hot dog style pub menu. While the legal wranglings are still in their early days, a disappointed Liebenberg said this week that the transaction had not gone the way he had intended it to, and that whilst he was really looking forward to the beachfront development, everything is going to be put on hold pending a court case. Currently the swimming pool is being demolished and will be flattened in due course, but the Lighthouse Restaurant will remain up and running, until the 'Lighthouse Property Development Trust' can sort out its issues. “Everyone is pro the development but not until the conditions of the contract have been resolved," said Liebenberg. Meanwhile, the premises are open from Tuesday to Saturday and fans of live music can pop around on Saturday's to enjoy one of the many local bands and acts in Namibia. The main purpose of the Lighthouse pub is to promote live music and provide a venue for people to socialise.

Julia Hango The recent community meeting which took place on Tuesday evening at the Narravile community hall raised concern over the growth in abuse of narcotics in the township, specifically crystal meth “tik” and new drug on the block desomorphine, known on the street as krocodil. Worried members of the community expressed their concern about the growing trend, saying the lack of social upliftment activities and the growing rate of unemployed youth in Naraville and many other townships across the country, has caused young people in Naraville to venture into the ultimate escape route of narcotic abuse. Desomorphine, known by the street name krokodil, is an opioid derivative of codeine. Like heroin and other opioids, it has a sedative and analgesic effect, is highly addictive, and potentially harmful. Krokodil is presumed to contain desomorphine, but due to illicit, home-based, manufacturing, it may contain other unknown ingredients, or in fact, no desomorphine at all. Homemade versions of the drug start with codeine, and can be ‘cooked’ similar to illicit methamphetamine (“meth”) production. Organic solvents such as gasoline, paint thinner, or lighter fluid, iodine, hydrochloric acid, and red phosphorus (from matches) are used in homemade synthesis. These dangerous chemicals are not always fully “cooked” out of the concoction when used to make illicit krokodil. Those who inject these caustic agents into

their veins can develop extreme skin ulcerations, infections, and gangrene - a discoloured (green, black) scale-like skin that resembles a crocodile, hence the street name “krokodil”. Krokodil also refers to chlorocodide, a codeine derivative in the synthetic path to desomorphine. Krokodil is also called “Russian Magic”, referring to its short duration of opioid intoxication (euphoria). In Cape Town, South Africa, crystal methamphetamine use has exploded very quickly. Known locally as "tik," and usually smoked using a straw in a light bulb, the drug was virtually unknown as recently as 2003. Now, it is the city's main drug of abuse, even when alcohol is included. The drug epidemic is pushing parents to take desperate measures: in March 2010, 52 year old Ellen Pakkies killed her own son as he lay in a drug–induced stupor. She was quoted as saying that killing her son was simply taking back her own life, describing how she had to have a security gate in her bedroom to stop her son stealing her clothes and told of years of physical abuse at the hands of her son. Ellen told of his death in clinical detail, she entered Abbie’s shack outside her house and noticed a length of white rope. She tied it into a noose and slipped it over his neck as he lay barely conscious, She asked him: "Abbie, why don't you appreciate what I do for you?" "Mammie, I'm going to," the boy replied in a feeble voice that tailed off. She could no longer hear him. "No, I've gone and had enough of that," she said. Mrs Pakkies pulled the noose on her son's throat so tight that it cut through the skin. Blood trickled from her hands. She wiped off some of the blood and her child was gone. Crack cocaine, tik and now krocodil have divided the community and has led to ongoing drug related crime, destroying numerous lives and families. Perhaps it is time that the entire community comes together with different eyes in an effort to create an inclusive community advocacy movement that addresses the deeper issues relating to the drug problem.

Connect via the new MTC app. The new MTC App gives you convenience at your fingertips. Access MTC’s pre-paid and post-paid services, subscribe to your Aweh package, check your credit balance, buy data and international voice bundles. An easy, secure and free connection to your MTC world.

www.mtc.com.na

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Walvis Bay Energy Project Above Board In light of recent reported irregularities in the tender and approval process for the proposed 250MW gas power plant to be built behind Dune 7 by Xaris Energy, the company has issued a press statement in defence of the project, stating unequivocally that the reports are “without merit” and that all steps followed by the developers have been done with high degrees of transparency and integrity. In addition, Xaris has launched a digital platform to allow stakeholders access to information on all aspects of the project. The energy project under way in Walvis Bay to generate 250 Megawatts of power, primarily for the Namibian market, is completely above board, says Hennie Steyn, managing director of the project developer firm, Xaris Energy. “We have deemed it necessary to reiterate the ethical and legal standing of this project as reports continue to surface in the press that may mislead the

public and other interested and affected stakeholders,” says Steyn. Steyn says the Walvis Bay energy generation project, from conception to beginning of execution, has been conducted with the highest level of transparency and integrity. “We have nothing to hide,” says Steyn. Furthermore, in the interest of transparency, the team has launched a digital platform accessible to all interested parties that details the project path, including the project history, rationale, funding arrangements, project partners as well as the Namibian government’s financial exposure. This portal is accessible via the following link: http:// www.walvisbaypowerplant.com/ “We are disappointed to learn that cabinet officials have been named in media reports as the people behind comments that are devoid of truth and utterly unsubstantiated,” says Steyn. Steyn says Namibia’s energy utility NamPower, a potential equity partner in the project, has signed off on the project and is satisfied that the process – including the

M+Z Motors Coastal Tel: 064 20 3792

Louis, Tel: +264 81 293 2348

Walvis Bay, Henties Bay & Swakopmund

View our quality pre-owned vehicles now!

appointment of Xaris Energy through a highly publicised tender – was above board and completely beyond reproach. Steyn says he is saddened to learn of the existence of parties who would like to see the Walvis Bay energy project derailed for the apparent purpose of furthering alternative agendas.

“These individuals have regrettably placed their interests ahead of the interests of the Namibian economy and its people,” adds Steyn. “The campaign to discredit the Walvis Bay energy project is both short-sighted and without merit,” concludes Steyn.

NKB Blinds offer a wide range of Vertical, Aluminium and Wooden Venetian, Roller, Panel and Bamboo Blinds as well as Thermowood Shutters. FRee QuoTATioNS We come to you, qoutes provided within 24 hours

JIMMY LOHMANN

Rest in Peace Uncle Jimmy, a big

personality with an even bigger heart.

Karmen, Tel: +264 81 293 2348

JUNE SPECIAL!!!

Felicity, Shelly, Sharon and Heiner Pete, Garth and Elliot Eve, Chiara and Alessandra Mike, Vanessa, Melanie and Lauren

Contact Ricardo on the Following numbers: 081 454 2141 081 149 0691

NKB B

We’ve got you

NKB Blinds We’ve got you covered.

Ever

Executive Care

Wash ry 5th & Vac uum is F

FREE

CAR WASH

2010 Corolla 1.3 Professional - 110 000 km

N$99 995 Quality comes to those who don’t wait!

Contact 081 304 0232 Email: namib.carwash@gmail.com Located next to Mega Stationers in Walvis Bay

NO DEPOSIT ● N$2100P/M 60 Months ● rv 25% ● C1 Comfort 5 Doors Air/Con ● Radio Terms and conditions apply. Image for illustration purposes only. While stocks last.

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

'Bobby Brown' to the rescue of shack fires Donna Collins In the wake of an unidentified woman burning to death in a shack fire incident last week in the DRC informal settlement, the Swakopmund Fire and Emergency department is increasing its fire fighting capacity by converting one of the fleet vehicles into a dual purpose machine, which is presently being used for sea rescue operations. The long servicing 'Bobby Brown' M.A.N. 4x4, is gaining an extra strong portable pump costing around N$200 000, to upgrade it into a competent fighting unit as well. The duel functioning rescue vehicle will provide more efficient back-up for the informal settlement's shack fire outbreaks. 'Bobby Brown's' high ground clearance and manageable size will enable firefighters to better manoeuvre the vehicle in between the maze of shack dwellings, and reach the scene in the least amount of turnaround time. The pump is a portable unit, which will be positioned at the rear of the vehicle, enabling a water capacity of 1 800 litres to be pumped out, providing the much needed firefighting assistance where there are no fire hydrants. Said Adri Goosen (Chief Fire Officer Swakomund), "We must be equipped to efficiently assist our residents in the

Fire-fighter Christofine Uises with Adri Goosen (Chief Fire Officer Swakomund), with fire fighting vehicle 'Bobby Brown' which is going to be upgraded to double up as a water pumper for shack fires. event of shack fires, especially during the long winter months when fires are on the increase. "The worrying part of shack fires is that these dwellings are made of flammable materials, such as cardboard and wood and once they catch fire, it is a matter of minutes before they are engulfed in flames, burning everything. "If the wind is in our favour, then the matter can be controlled quicker, but if not so, the flames can spread causing multiple shacks to burn down, resulting in a loss of possessions and a home to the inhabitants. " Fire chief Goosen also said that they currently have four pumper units in their fleet and most certainly will

welcome being able to put 'Bobby Brown' to better use in the future. He also said that this fire-fighting machine was donated to the department many years ago from Germany, and was one of the first vehicles in its fleet. It was also mentioned that it was unfortunate that by the time the fire department and the police had received the call about the shack fire in the DRC in the early morning of last Thursday, the shack had already been reduced to a heap of smouldering embers by the time they arrived. The body was burnt beyond recognition, and it is suspected that the cause of fire might have been a lit candle.

select

249

per moNth

Samsung Galaxy J1 extra payment N$63.25

Including: 300 Minutes 300 MB 300 SMSs *Visit website for more phone options. offer valid until 30 June 2015. 24 month contract. Connection fee N$218. terms & Conditions apply.

www.mtc.com.na

Another successful Donation brings relief to

marine education day SRT anti-poaching efforts

Sharon Brooks The Namibian Dolphin Project once again hosted a marine education day on Saturday at Oceans Restaurant in celebration of World Oceans Day and bio diversity week. The purpose of the event was to educate the community, and especially children, about Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s incredibly diverse and sensitive marine ecosystem. Hundreds of children and adults flocked to the Vette Mossel to participate in fun activities that aimed to not only entertain, but to educate. Participants played games like weigh the whale, learnt about how pollution affects marine life and made beautiful paper plate pelicans and origami whales at the arts and crafts table. The most popular activities included learning to identify the different bones from marine animals and matching high quality fin pictures from the different dolphins. The Namiban Dolphin Project uses this process, termed photo-ID to determine which dolphins are visiting Walvis Bay most frequently and to calculate abundance estimates. The

children also really enjoyed going on tour boats and meeting the seals, courtesy of Mola Mola. After having successfully completed the activities, and sharing their new found knowledge in a quick quiz, the kids were rewarded with sweets and cool drinks, and they could not get enough, with many doing the activities over and over again. According to Tess Gridley of the Namibian Dolphin Project, many children in local schools have no idea what a pelican is, and the greater Walvis Bay community are completely unaware that our coast is home to a wide variety of life which relies on us to preserve their habitats, it is through events such as this, that the organisation hopes to educate coastal residents about our rich natural heritage in order to ensure the continued preservation of the marine environment. Debmarine was the main sponsor of the event with support being received from Seaworks. The Albatross Task Force, Nacoma and CETN also pitched in to make the day a huge success, with fun being had by all.

Donna Collins With the shocking news of a Rhino carcass discovered in Damaraland last Saturday, the Save the Rhino trust are sharpening their swords to turn up their anti-poaching strategy, and were delighted to have received a donation of N$100 000 at this critical time. The funds were received by SRT CEO Simson Uri/Khob, from Swakopmund born Rhino supporter Christopher Thesen who is currently living in Germany. Christopher won the money during a charity poker event in Hamburg recently, and chose to donate the money towards to the plight of saving the endangered Rhino in Namibia. The cheque was proudly handed over by his father Werner Thesen, who said that his son has always cared for animals, and on their trips into Etosha he was fascinated by the wild life in particular the Rhino who have remained dear to his heart since he was a young boy. Uri/Khob expressed his gratitude on receiving this much needed donation, saying that the

escalating slaughter of Rhino's for their horns has spilled over from South Africa into Namibia, and that we are feeling the heat. "We are faced with a poaching crisis that is threatening our Rhino population in the Kunene region, and our mission is to monitor the protected black Rhino with military precision, against the organised crime syndicates that have started to target the animals in the area. "The new operating regime requires additional funding which we are working hard at obtaining, and Christopher's contribution of N$100 000 is a huge and welcome relief," he said. "Donations such as this from the private sector gives us hope that we will continue protecting our precious Rhino and strengthen our pro-active programme to fight these perpetrators and halt poaching in its tracks." He also said that the five poachers were arrested due to the diligent efforts made by the SRT trackers, who are working hard in the field day and night, high days and holidays to protect these animals from the onslaught of ruthless poachers.

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Currently On

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”.

PrOmOtiOn 2 Door steel statioNery cupBoarD

VACANCIES HANDYMAN (1 YeAr fixeD terM coNtrAct - reNewAble) Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Business Support Officer To carry out a variety of semi-skilled repairs and maintenance work, including a wide range of simple to odd jobs within the Business Support Department.

n$1 999 eNZ0 hiGh BacK chair

Key Performance Areas: • Assess condition of buildings, offices, furniture, fixtures and informs the supervisor of repairs and maintenance needed; • Repairs doors, windows, office furniture, walls, ceilings, fixtures, etc; • Reports all instances of willful abuse of Company property to supervisor; • Performs maintenance, alterations and construction work; • Cleans building gutters, removes leaves, fallen branches and debris from walkways; • Provides upkeep and maintenance to outdoor areas such as parking areas and walkways; • Maintains and ensures that all preventative maintenance is done as per schedule ; • Co-worker Effectiveness; • Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality Effectiveness. Requirements and experience: • Grade 12. • General handyman repair and maintenance experience: 3 Years. • Work experience in the Mining environment will be a distinct advantage. • Working knowledge of MS Office will be a distinct advantage. • Code B/BE License Email: recruitment@cgnpc.com.cn Deadline: 22 June 2015

DRIVERS Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the Transport Coordinator

n$2 249 4 Drawer FiliNG caBiNet

n$1 999 Visit our showroom at 39 sam Nujoma aVeNue, walVis Bay or call us oN 083 383 3300

To operate a light and medium vehicle to safely transport and assist authorized passengers to and from various destinations along with prompt messenger and delivery duties. Key Performance Areas: • Safely transport company designated passengers as instructed. • Collects and drops off passengers at their locations timeously. • Assists passengers to safely board and disembark. • Effectively maintains vehicle by ensuring scheduled repairs and maintenance, cleanliness and that the vehicle is equipped with the necessary amenities. • Maintains an accurate log book to monitor and reflect all trips made. • Keeps accurate record of weekly fuel consumption and submits receipts to finance weekly. • Loads and unloads goods on vehicle and delivers timeously and safely to designated destination. • Provide messenger services to all departments by providing pick up and delivery of official documents as required. • Performs other work as reasonably requested by superiors. • Adheres to all Safety Health, Environmental, Radiation and Quality standards, practices and procedures. Requirements and experience: • Grade 12/ Grade 10 Certificate • Code B or BE licence (valid) • 3 years’ experience driving without and major incidents. • Valid Professional Driving Permit. • Sound knowledge of road rules and regulations. Email: recruitment@cgnpc.com.cn Deadline: 22 June 2015 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 the above email addresses OR via our fax number 064-410 9001 OR or hand delivered to Husab Tower, c/o Leutwein and Nathaniel Maxuilili street Swakopmund by the above mentioned deadline. Enquiries can be directed to the Recruitment Team at 064 410 9000. 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

VACANCY

Senior Technical/Mechanical Engineer Walvis Bay & Lüderitz Qualifications: • Degree Baccalaureus Technologiae in Mechanical Engineering with specific reference to steamdried fishmeal production processes. • Certification in Professional Marketing and Sales Skills and Experience required: • Management of fishmeal manufacturing plant • Computer literacy – windows, Excell, PowerPoint • Industry knowledge • Technology architecture, technology trends • Agile development methodologies • Business process architecture • Organizational design • Project management • Facilitation and excellent communication skills Competencies required: • Self- motivated and driven, self-starter • Team player who is willing to deliver on organisation wide objectives • Strong communication, documentation and presentation skills, able to engage with senior stakeholders • Ability to rapidly explore and evaluate new technologies • Strong problem solving skills, being able to rapidly address issues • Creativity, persuasiveness • Ability to manage and channel team motivation • Salary – negotiable Please forward a two page Curriculum Vitae (CV) with two contactable references to ockie@dascom.co.za. Application closes on 30 June 2015. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you have not been contacted in two weeks after application closing date your application was unsuccessful. www.dascom.co.za

VACANCY

Production and Maintenance Technician Fishmeal plant in Lüderitz seeks to appoint a male candidate for production of steamdried fishmeal and general maintenance of the processing facility. The position is permanent and the candidate must be prepared to locate to Luderitz. Qualifications: • Matric • Computer literacy – windows/email/excel Skills and Experience required: • Minimum 5 years’ experience in production industry • Minimum 5 years’ experience in mechanical maintenance • Proficiency in operation of boilers • Knowledge of pumps, bearings, motors, gearboxes, etc • Basic electrical background • Preventative maintenance and skills • Welding skills Competencies required: • Self-motivated, driven and self-starter • Team player and motivator • Willing to work after hours and night shifts • Shift supervision and relief duties • Inter-personal and communication skills • Problem solving and ability to manage emergencies • Driver’s license is a requirement • Salary – negotiable Please forward a two page Curriculum Vitae (CV) with two contactable references to ockie@dascom.co.za. Application closes on 30 June 2015. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you have not been contacted in two weeks after application closing date your application was unsuccessful. www.dascom.co.za

PT1500/B

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Children show their appreciation for senior citizens Sharon Brooks

The children of the Faith Education centre showed their appreciation for the elderly citizens of Walvis Bay in a day filled with music, laughter and a delicious meal served by the children themselves. Over eighty children attended afternoon classes at the Faith Education Centre, and the children are often encouraged to undertake community upliftment projects, and this year the kids decided to show their appreciation for the elderly, whom they referred to as “our heroes”, by treating them to a hot meal and wonderful entertainment. The Navy Brass brand provided musical interludes while the kids danced and sang their hearts out. Deputy Mayor Benson Uakumbua said, “This gathering is proof that as a society or community we do not forget or neglect our senior citizens and that we believe that given the fact that they are our parents although perhaps not biologically, they are our elders and as such worthy of our love, care and support.”

He added that the event was an opportunity for the children to source wisdom from their elders, while the seniors were given the chance to reflect on their lives and relive childhood memories. Uakumbua said that he encourages the community to hold such events more often saying, “They tend to remind us of just how human we are and that our society’s strength and development rests on every single individual member of our society, both young and old.” The Faith Education centre was the brainchild of Taati Niilenge who decided to open the centre

after a year-long fellowship in the states made her aware of the lack of educational support in our community. The centre opened its doors in 2013 and has grown from five students to over eighty children from grades one to nine who attend classes in the afternoons to get help with their homework and enhance their education. Not only does the centre keep the children off the streets, but through the efforts of the teaching staff, students not only achieve higher grades, but some go on to receive academic prizes in various subjects at their schools.

Photo Credit: Faith Education Centre

Father's Day

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Last chance to enter our Coolest Dad Competition! The Namib Independent is in search of the coast’s coolest Dad, and we are asking you to send in photos of you being the best dad ever. One super-Dad, who happens to be the managing editor of the Namib Independent, keeps the magic alive by telling his son and daughter that their teddies come to life at night and get up to all sorts of naughty mischief. The children dutifully make sure their teddies are safely tucked away before they go to sleep, but unbeknownst to them, Daddy sneaks

into their bedrooms and photographs the teddies getting up to all kinds of nonsense, and shows the kids the evidence the next morning. The children are amazed at the nocturnal antics of their toys. They truly believe that their teddies are alive and that they must be locked away at night to prevent midnight shenanigans. Of course, this particular Dad is not eligible to enter our competition, but you still have a chance to show us what sort of Super Dad you are and be in with a chance to win some super prizes.

LAST CHANCE to ENTER your SUPER DAD for a chance to WIN groovy prizes! We know that every daddy is cool, but this father’s day we want you to prove it! To win one of the great prizes from our sponsors, simply take a photo of your daddy being super cool and email your photo entries to rita@namibindependent.com.na or upload it to our Facebook page.

A ‘Daddy Pack’ to the value of N$2000

A Toolkit to the value of N$1500

Cellphone to the value of N$1000

A Voucher to the value of N$500

SILVER DESIGNS

081 128 3921

adelaine@iway.na

A hamper of 204 Cnr of to Sam the Nujomavalue & 16th Road N$500

* Open to residents of the Erongo Region only

News

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Use less electricity during peak times

and

FOR ALL YOUR DSTV REQUIREMENTS, PAYMENTS AND INSTALLATIONS

N$ 1299* Decoder + Dish + Installation

Please avoid using washing machines, dishwashers, pool pumps, irons, air conditioners and all other appliances you do not need to use during these times. Let’s work together and use electricity sparingly.

Explora Decoder

N$ 2999*

WALVIS BAY: 064-203318 SWAKOPMUND: 064-403418

MAKE THE BEST DECISION YOU’VE EVER MADE RETIRE IN SWAKOPMUND For more information visit www.faanberghwinckler.com

Worldwide

Thursday, 18 June 2015

Worldwide

Chinese sibling suicide

Four siblings have died of pesticide poisoning in an apparent suicide after they were abandoned by their parents in

China. The children were found in their home in the city of Bijie, Guizhou province, and died in hospital on Tuesday night. State

news agency Xinhua reported that the three girls and a boy, aged between five and 13, had been left to fend for themselves since March in a poor township. The eldest boy left a suicide note saying "today is the day to go" before drinking the pesticide, according to broadcaster CCTV. Photos of their home showed squalid rooms caked in dirt and strewn with litter, food waste, toys, colouring books and a Disney Princesses rucksack. “The children did not lack food and clothes, but lacked the love and care of parents,” Xiao Wenying, a distant relative quoted by state media said. “The parents failed to fulfill their parental responsibilities.” Their mother reportedly left the

Female Lion protects a baby baboon

Photographer Evan Schiller and Lisa Holzwarth were on a game drive in northern Botswana's Selinda area when they came across a big troop of baboons charging through the bush. "30-40 baboons were heading in our general direction making a lot of noise," Lisa recalls. The baboons were obviously frightened by something and they all scampered up trees, shouting, alarming, and making a big scene. It quickly became clear what the problem was: two large lionesses came out of the tall grass and chased the baboons into the trees, soon joined by two more lionesses. "Between the baboons shrieking and the lionesses communicating with deep guttural roars, it was a mad scene," Lisa says.

But then the real chaos began! One brave baboon descended the dead tree and tried to make a run for it, but got snapped up in the jaws of a lioness. The lioness grabbed a female baboon on the run. But there was something else there. As the baboon lay dying in the jaws of the lioness, a little baby (less than a month old) slowly disengaged from its mother's body.

home in March 2014 after a dispute with the father, who disappeared four months ago but left the children a debit card. It had 3,500 yuan (£363) left when they died. The deaths have shocked China, triggering the dismissal and suspension of several local officials, as well as a nationwide review of the Ministry of Civil Affairs’ welfare system. Premier Li Keqiang responded to the outrage on Friday by ordering supervision to be stepped up to avoid similar tragedies. He told government departments to examine welfare provision and punish the “inaction” of officials in Bijie. “Such a tragedy should never happen again,” the Premier said in a statement. It has turned renewed scrutiny on the country’s “left behind” children, who are abandoned by impoverished parents, usually in rural areas, who leave to find work. China’s strict “hukuo” registration system means it is rarely possible for

migrant workers to take their children with them as it would remove their rights to subsidised education, health care and other basic services. There are an estimated 61 million “left behind” children in China. Most are left with grandparents or relatives but around 3 per cent are completely alone, like the siblings who died this week. Activists are leading calls for reform to “hukou” policy to help parents searching for work to not have to abandon their children, who are at heightened risk of trafficking, suicide and accidental death. China's one-child policy has been gradually relaxed, bringing in exemptions for ethnic minorities, who are allowed four children in rural areas, “practical difficulties”, disability and other conditions. Source: www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk

A New Flu Drug Works Astoundingly Well

The lioness was inquisitive and gentle at the same time. After a while she picked up the baboon softly in her mouth and walked away, then settled down with the baby between her paws. In a strange behavioural twist, the baboon started to try and suckle the lioness.

The lioness got distracted-this time by two male lions who arrived on the scene. Their advances, however, were met with aggression by the lioness. Was she defending the baby baboon? Or just uninterested in their mating advances? Here's where it gets interesting: waiting in a nearby tree is a big male baboon, who is obviously intent on saving the baby. The male lions were causing such a ruckus that it presented a short window of opportunity for the brave hero to descend the tree, grab the baby and head back to safety.

Instinct took over and the baby tried to make a go for a tree, but did not have the strength to climb. At this point the lioness noticed the "little guy" and went over to investigate. Instead of snapping the baby up in a deadly movement, she started to play with the baboon.

The heroic male baboon, having just saved the baby from the lions, cradled him in his arms. Photographs by Evan Schiller www.facebook.com/OkavangoExpeditionsBotswana

Dying from the flu, whether it's a standard-issue seasonal flu preying on the elderly and otherwise immunocompromised or a superstrain we don't even know about yet, mostly comes in the form of respiratory failure. This is what the virus (usually) targets: airways and lungs. As an influenza infection turns dire, the thin layer of cells known as the microvascular endothelium that form the barrier between the circulatory system and the respiratory system become damaged and the result is leakage of fluids in sometimes large volumes. This result is known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Flu-death is sort of like drowning. For the most part, there's no effective treatment for the flu. There's the yearly crapshoot of flu vaccines and there's better-than-nothing Tamiflu, but beating back the virus in its more advanced and potentially-lethal stages is more a matter of supportive care and the efforts of the body's own immune system. It's not ideal. A new treatment known as Vasculotide offers a fundamentally different approach to fighting viruses—not fighting them in the first place. Instead, it concentrates on stopping fluid from leaking into the lungs, buying the body's immune system some crucial time and perhaps

even enough to outlast the virus and recover. So, yes, it turns out that "just treating the symptoms" isn't always as wrongheaded as it's made out to be. The Vasculotide research comes courtesy of a large team based primarily at the University of Toronto. "Whether as an agent of pandemics or as a seasonal pathogen, the influenza virus exacts a heavy toll on global public health," the study notes. "Despite vaccination programs and antiviral drugs, seasonal influenza alone causes millions of cases of severe illness and hundreds of thousands of deaths annually." "There are concerns that ongoing mutation will lead to a novel strain of the virus that is both highly transmissible and highly virulent, as occurred in the 1918 pandemic leading to the deaths of 50 million people," it continues. What makes the treatment interesting—aside from, you know, working really well—is that it's not an immune system booster. Its effects inhibit "downstream" effects of the illness and the body's innate immune responses. The immune system doesn't get stronger, it just gets more time. It could make all the difference. Source: www.motherboard.vice.com

Motoring

Thursday, 18 June 2015

motoring

The Renault Captur

crossover launched in Namibia Sharon Brooks Renault's Captur has arrived in Namibia to compete in the fiercely contested and fastest growing segment worldwide for crossovers and compact SUV rivals. The Captur concept debuted at the 2011 Geneva auto show and is aimed at the growing B-segment SUV market. The range starts off with the 66kW Expression manual. Next up is the 66kW Dynamique manual and finally the 88kW EDC Dynamique. There are two petrol engines – a turbo charged 0.9-litre three-cylinder and 1.2-litre four-cylinder. All the units are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, apart from the larger unit, which gets a six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission that drives the front wheels. F1-INSPIRED 1.2 TURBO The Captur's new 1.2 litre EDC turbo petrol is a result from Renault's adaptation of its Formula 1 technology. The line-up offers two five-speed manual derivatives, namely the 66kW Turbo Expression and Dynamique, with the top-of-the-range Dynamique EDC AT equipped with a six-speed automatic gearbox. The EDC is capable of 88kW/190Nm and reaches a top speed of 192km/h, with fuel consumption rated at 5.4

litres/100km and emissions of 125g/km. The manual derivatives, powered by the 900cc three-cylinder unit borrowed from its Clio sibling, are capable of 66kW/135Nm and can reach a top speed of 171km/h, with a fuel consumption of 4.9 litres/100km and emissions of 113g/km. An ECO function modifies the engine's response to reduce fuel consumption. Stop & Start (66kW Turbo engine) automatically turns off the engine when the Captur is stopped and in neutral, cutting down on emissions and fuel consumption. The system works seamlessly and without delay or undue vibrations. STYLING At the front, it sports the automaker’s diamond-shaped badge and stylish grille with LEDs. The Captur has dualtone body colours and can be fitted with 16” and 17” alloy rims. Unlike many other city crossovers, The Captur is still able to venture off the tarmac thanks to a ground clearance of 170mm and the elevated driving position improves visibility and the overall driving experience. The Renault Captur has been an unprecedented success since its’ international debut in 2013, with over 255 000 units sold worldwide to date.

LOADS OF KIT In addition to space and practicality, the Captur also scores highly in the standard equipment department. In fact,

it's pretty much off the charts. The entry-level 66kW Expression model, for instance, boasts 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, front fog-lights, rear parking sensors, electric windows all round, electrically adjustable side-mirrors, climate control, a seven-inch touchscreen, a four-speaker audio system (with USB and aux), satellite navigation, Bluetooth, and cruise control (with speed limiter). The top trim level, featured on the mid-range 66kW Dynamique and the range-topping 1.2-litre model, adds 17-inch alloys, automatic headlights, a cornering function for the fog-lights, rain-sensing wipers, removable (and washable) seat-covers, glossy interior garnish, a leather steering wheel, rear window tints and a tyre pressure monitor. Boot space is rated at 377 litres and 455 litres with the rear bench pushed forward. With the rear seats folded, maximum boot space increases to 1235 litres.

FIVE-STAR NCAP SAFETY In 2013, the Captur achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, the 15th Renault to do so. In terms of safety it’s equipped with an anti-lock braking system, emergency brake assist, electronic stability control, hill assist, dual front and side airbags as well as three Isofix child-seat anchors. PRICES Expression – N$228 028 Dynamique – N$248 204 EDC Dynamique – N$228 035 The new Captur is sold with a five-year or 150 000km warranty, a three-year or 45 000km service plan and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are 15 000km or 1 year intervals.

IT’S ALL ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT

NEW GOtenna

1 month’s GOtv Plus

subscribtion

N$ 60 p/m more than 19 channels N$ 90 p/m more than 30 channels

For GOeazy self-service dial *142*6688*1#

http://www.facebook.com/gotvnamibia For more details, and full Terms and Conditions of use, visit www.gotvafrica.com, or inquire from your GOtv Dealer. MultiChoice reserves the right to add or remove channels. E&OE.

As seen on GOtv

Live in a world of unforgettable GOtainment!