Namib Independent Issue 165

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Issue 165 - Thurs, 10 Sept 2015 to Wed, 16 Sept 2015

"Contribution towards this recycling movement is one step closer to protecting our environment and keeping our towns clean."

But from the private sector’s point of view, employment can only be created through business expansion and growth.

Swakopmund Mayor Cllr Nehemiah Salamon, at the the official launch of the Rent-A-Drum recycling and sorting plant.

See Page 2

Heinrich Hafenini (Chairperson NCCI Swakopmund Branch) at the SWAITEX Gala dinner last Saturday.

See Page 9

Inaugural Husab marathon was a huge success

Walvis oil economy takes dip Niel Terblanche As the industrial engine of Walvis Bay grinds to a halt because of low oil prices on international markets, hundreds of skilled workers are facing a bleak future of unemployment.

Tens of thousands of oil and related industry workers have already lost their jobs in oil producing regions of the world because of the continued downward spiral of the commodity’s price, this has brought a stained and uncertain future closer to local shores.

Although Namibia is not an oil producing country, oil companies operating in the Cabinda enclave of Angola have become a lucrative

customer base for Walvis Bay based companies specialising in rendering services and technical support to many aspects of the neighbouring country’s oil producing industry.

Creating ever more and bigger dry docking facilities in the port has seen investment running into the hundreds of millions of dollars from companies like Elgin Brown and Hamer and smaller engineering and specialised companies which have mushroomed over the past three years. This trend also drove up demand for more industrial erven to support operations in the port facilities and led to the subsequent creation of a new industrial park to the east of Walvis Bay. On Monday, the Africa Desk of

the Mail and Guardian reported that Namibia’s northern neighbour risks losing investment from foreign oil companies as ever more stringent and costly government regulations and low worldwide market prices make the country less attractive to operate in.

According to the M&G report, JeanMichel Lavergne, General Manager for the country’s biggest driller Total E&P Angola, said a series of measures introduced by Angola’s government in recent years has pushed production costs up to as much as US$500 million annually. He said oil companies want talks with the Angolan government to press home the threat posed by Continued on Page 3

See Page 8

AR fires shots across the bow of the good ship Walvis Bay Niel Terblanche

The Municipality of Walvis Bay came under fire by the Affirmative Repositioning (AR) Movement for a lack of transparency and bureaucratising the process of land distribution under the Massive Urban Land Servicing Project (MULSP).

This statement was made by Job Amupanda, the leader of the AR movement during a meeting to update his followers. He said that September is the third month since an agreement was concluded with government on the need for a policy shift to address the land question.

“Walvis Bay remains problematic for a number of reasons. The implementation committee is currently looking at what is to be

done for Walvis Bay. Although there is significant and considerable progress, we are not happy with the pace of the program. We feel there exists a lack of clarity and have encountered attempts to bureaucratise the program. We are now devising plans for countering these clear stumbling blocks,” Amupanda said.

At the same meeting Amupanda proposed that Windhoek must get 50 000 serviced erven, the highest number of plots from the 200 000 to be availed under the land clearing exercise. He also proposed that Walvis should clear and service 15 000 plots while Swakopmund is earmarked for 10 000 serviced plots.

“The land clearing activities Continued on Page 3

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Thursday, 10 September 2015

Contact Us Recycling plant in full swing!

Donna Collins

Tel (+264 64) 200 497 Email info@namibindependent.com.na Sales Sharon Brooks 081 394 1235 sharon@namibindependent.com.na Rita Potgieter 081 150 5455 rita@namibindependent.com.na Gareth Amos 081 129 2157 gareth@namibindependent.com.na Editorial Niel Terblanche niel@namibindependent.com.na Design Maggie’s Attic Graphic Design sonya4maggiesattic@gmail.com 081 129 2158 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.

Within the first two weeks of the new Swakopmund Rent-A-Drum Recycling plant swinging into action, the facility has collected over 13 tonnes of recyclable waste, as well as created jobs for many former dump site foragers.

The official launch last week of this N$7-mil recycling and sorting facility marked a milestone partnership between Rent-A-Drum and the Swakopmund Municipality, who are driving the first ever initiative for the Erongo Region.

This long overdue waste management solution, has come in the nick of time as households, population growth and business expansion in the towns are putting a huge strain on the environment as well as the landfill dump sites which are rapidly reaching their maximum capacity.

The Rent-A-Drum recycling and sorting plant which is situated close to the Swakopmund landfill dumpsite, took as little as two months to build, and already with a spinoff of some 60 jobless people employed, plus tonnes of recycled waste collected from households and businesses in the area since its inception in August - the wheels are well in motion.

The recycling plant is the brainchild of Gys Louw, Managing Director of Rent-A-Drum, which in addition to Swakopmund, will also serve Henties Bay, Arandis and Walvis Bay. He says the main objective of the plant is to ensure the towns stay clean, while providing employment, especially to those who scavenge at the dump site.

The new centre consists of a large building equipped with machinery and a conveyor system, required for receiving and separating the different recyclable materials. Sorted recycled waste such as plastics are sent to Okahandja, whilst paper and cardboards are crushed and blocked for transportation to the paper mills in South Africa.

The project rolled out on 17 August in Swakopmund and the volumes collected by the end of the same month from five residential areas were, according to Clive Lawrence, the General Manager of the Municipal Health Service, "very promising", with the figures growing each week as people become familiar with the new system.

"This is just the start, and recycling gives us hope for the future, because not only does it create jobs, and reduces the waste at landfills but it rewards our planet," said Louw. "Every ton of paper that is recycled saves 17

Clive Lawrence (GM Health Services Swakopmund Municipality) with Gys Louw (MD Rent-A-Drum) during the official opening of the N$7 million recycling plant. (Photo Donna Collins) trees, and the energy we save when we recycle one glass bottle is enough to light a light bulb for four hours.

"Approximately 60% of our rubbish thrown away today can be recycled, and contribution towards this recycling movement is one step closer to protecting our environment and keeping our towns clean."

Swakopmund Mayor Cllr Nehemiah Salamon, during his opening address, urged the public to change their attitude towards waste and littering, and be aware of the impact that our throwaways generate.

"The public must make use of their orange wheel bins supplied to each household, and to support this recycling project," he stated. "The success of this project depends on the participation of

the public, and everyone must do their part to make sure that we are working together for a common goal.

It was also mentioned that the plant separates a diverse variety of recyclable materials which in turn will reduce the volumes of waste sent to the landfill dump. The modern recycling plant sorts’ materials such as discarded cardboard boxes, paper, plastics, metal cans, glass bottles, plastic bags, milk and juice boxes and other non spoilable items which can be disposed of into the Rent-A-Drum wheelie bins. The bins will be collected by the Municipality on the same day as the general refuse collection.

"Recycling is a way of life, and the need to recycle has never been more crucial than now," concluded Louw.

Another big winner with Danny’s Ten Years of Success Colin Izaaks is August’s lucky winner of N$1 000 through Danny Beukes’ “Ten Years of Success” competition currently underway in which Danny is sharing his success by giving away N$1000 to a lucky client every month for ten months.

Danny’s tip of the month: Credit insurance: Credit insurance can cost you up to 10 times more than individual insurance. What is Credit insurance?

When you buy a house, car, furniture or take up a loan, credit insurance is usually included in your premiums, without the need for medical tests.

If you are a business owner, you cannot use retrenchment and occupational disability cover even though you will be paying for it.

Although your premiums remain constant, your cover decreases each month. If you already have credit insurance, talk to us before losing more money.

You can reach us by calling 064-215311 or sending an email to dannyb@sanlam4u.com.na

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Thursday, 10 September 2015

News

3

AR fires shots across Walvis oil economy the bow of the good takes dip ship Walvis Bay Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1 talents and energy to overcome obstacles and urged them to speak openly and without fear about the movement’s goals to gain economic freedom for the current and future generations of Namibians.

The Mayor of Walvis Bay, Mrs. Uilika Nambahu during the Recent Annual General Meeting of the Namibia National Mayors Forum said that the town council needs financing for the project and that several service providers have already been approached to lend a hand with the clearing of plots. She pointed out that as soon as financing becomes available that the necessary steps will be taken At the same meeting, Urban and Rural Development Minister, Mrs Sophia Shaningwa, warned that selfdiscipline and integrity of individuals in key positions in local authorities will be the way to tackle the immense task of providing land to the landless.

“Integrity of individuals and transparent and well thought through practices of bodies such as local authorities will smooth the way to a better life for all Namibians,” Shaningwa said.

regulatory costs.

“With crude oil prices below US$60 a barrel, if there is no significant reduction in costs, everything will stop. Angola’s oil industry will disappear,” Lavergne said.

Although investment in oilfields to the north and further up the west coast of Africa has not yet come to a complete halt, production of crude oil has slowed down to a mere trickle and in some cases stopped completely. This situation has resulted in a well-known provider of offshore service vessels which focussed on Walvis Bay for its repair and maintenance needs to indicate that it will for the time being, no longer do so.

The withdrawal of Tidewater from the local engineering and service delivery economy has far reaching consequences for the town. The company has made it known that it will make use of local service providers and suppliers for its needs.

Roughly estimated the company on its own spent roughly N$20 million per month in the local economy.

Most of the local Walvis Bay companies rely on EBH for subcontracting on bigger projects as well as smaller projects at the synchro lift facility of Namport. With the withdrawal of just one of the larger clients

related to the oil industry, companies are beginning to feeling the squeeze.

Employees of Kraatz Marine were encouraged to take leave due to them because activities in their workshops and projects became sluggish.

According to Roux-Che Locke, Group Manager of External Relations of the Ohlthaver and List Group of Companies, it is normal practice that when activity is not high, employees are encouraged to take leave.

“The same applies when activity is high, the employer has the prerogative to request the employees to return from leave earlier. This is similar to the October closure period for seagoingpersonnel employed at fishing companies. As a business we adapt ourselves to market conditions.

None of the operating companies of the O&L Group has been affected in such a way that employees were forced to take leave, nor is any person’s job in jeopardy.”

Mr Arno Pretorius, a senior manager of the Wesco Group of companies, sketched a different scenario. He said that if the situation with the low oil prices continues, smaller companies will definitely be forced to start retrenching employees while weathering the storm.

“It is a reality that most of the companies involved will have to face if the current situation continues.”

In Angola the issue is of such a nature that the central bank governor of Namibia’s northern neighbour, Jose Pedro de Morais, said at the beginning of this month that the country needs to find other ways to boost economic growth to cope with the oil-price shock. He made this statement after the International Monetary Fund said in a report in August that liquidity strains might force Angola to seek external support. Oil contributes about 75 percent to the Angolan government’s revenue and more than 95 percent of exports. The country’s Gross Domestic Product tends to move in lockstep with crude oil prices.

have successfully taken off in both Oshakati and Windhoek. In Windhoek the work began at Goreangab Ext 4. The engineering work is also near completion and the actual construction of the services will commence soon. Land clearing work at Ehenye in Oshakati took off very well where more than 1 200 plots will be serviced. At the direction of the implementation committee, the Namibia Planning Advisory Board (NAMPAB) has approved the next township plans for Ompumbu in Oshakati.”

Amupanda said the movement will seek an audience with the President of Namibia to have a conversation around the first three months of the program and its implementation. He said particular emphasis will be laid on progress and the way forward.

“Our technical team of young professionals has been hard at work assisting government, through the implementation committee, to ensure that our program gains practical meaning.”

He pointed out that youth representatives have made it clear that new administrative positions should be created within the movement and that representatives should be placed in all town across the country.

“As such, we will be reviewing, expanding and restructuring our representatives in all towns to not only enable them to be conscious forces of their communities but also to make sure that the AR gospel is present in every corner of our country where the Namibian youth exists. We will seek to orientate and create a fearless youth about our collective interest and future of our country and work towards the creation of a critical mass. A clarion call to action and announcement will be made for activists to stand up, be counted and recorded as representatives of their respective towns to champion the AR program and activities.”

He said the movement will establish a bank account since there are many Namibians and people of good will who wish to assist AR financially and otherwise. He said a newsletter will also be created soon that will strive to constantly update the AR youth and the general public on programs and activities.

Amupanda applauded the Land-a-Dollar campaign by the students at the University of Namibia who have committed to collect funds that will be used to service land and support the efforts of the movement to restore the dignity of all people.

“We will be promoting the Land-a-Dollar campaign because we believe that it is revolutionary and unprecedented in the entire 25 years of freedom and independence. Plans are underway to deliver FaanBerghWinckler WincklerProjects Projectsmaintains maintainsthe themomentum momentumof ofits itsconstruction constructionof ofNamibia’s Namibia’spremier premierluxury luxurySwakopmund SwakopmundRetirement RetirementVillage, Village, FaanBergh the drums in all 14 regions and 121 constituencies with the Haven Apartments and Estate offering full and sectional title units with 24-hour frail care and assisted living services.

Since thesite site with the Haven Apartments and Estate offering full and sectional title units with 24-hour frail care and assisted living services. Since the of the Republic. We call on all the fearless youth, handover on 1 July 2015, great progress has been made, with enough drive and optimism that by 6 August 2015, ground excavations to cast the handover on 1 July 2015, great progress has been made, with enough drive and optimism that by 6 August 2015, ground excavations to cast the people of goodwill and the general public to make foundations of the Haven Phase had already begun.

Excavations continued at a steady pace with the foundations being reinforced by steel For more information visit www.faanberghwinckler.com foundations of the Haven Phase had already begun. Excavations continued at a steady pace with the foundations being reinforced by steel their contributions at the nearest drums. Their placements;FaanBergh FaanBerghWinckler WincklerProjects Projectsestimates estimatescompletion completionof ofthe theSwakopmund SwakopmundRetirement RetirementVillage Villagearound aroundthe theend endof of2016.

2016. placements; contribution is towards a just cause.”

Amupanda said the struggle to restore the dignity of landless Namibians has only just begun. He said the youth must act with determination, use their

HERE IS TO A NEW CHAPTER IN YOUR LIFE RETIRE IN SWAKOPMUND

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Thursday, 10 September 2015

Bidvest plans N$37 million processing plant Written by Staff Reporter Bidvest Namibia aims to improve their fisheries division with plans to build a N$ 37 million horsemackerel processing plant, despite a decline of 15,1% in profits in this division for the financial year 2014-2015.

The group attributes this decline mainly to Namsov receiving lower than expected horse-mackerel quota during 2014. The company is currently suing the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources for a larger quota.

The group’s revenue declined by 4.6% to N$3,5 billion for the financial year 2014-2015. Trading profit of N$415,6 million was achieved, but is lower than last year’s result of N$85,7 million (17.1%).

The main contributor to trading profit remains the Fishing division (83%) despite a decline of 15.1% in profit. The exchange rate helped significantly to offset the impact of lower volumes on revenue.

Freight and Logistics performed poorer than expected showing an 18,5% decrease in trading profit, largely due a lack of any major oil and gas projects. Monjasa, the new fuel bunkering business of Manica, performed ahead of expectations.

Food and Distribution had

disappointing results with trading profit declining by 61.1% to N$9,6 million. Caterplus recorded a significant turnaround but the Taeuber & Corssen (T&C) business declined, mainly as a result of Namib Poultry Industries terminating its distribution agreement with T&C. This action is currently being challenged legally.

In addition, certain principals were unable to supply goods on demand, resulting in supply chain shortages.

The Commercial and Industrial Products and Services performed well showing a 21.1% increase in trading profit. Steiner more than doubled its revenue and had a positive influence on the divisional result. Cash generated by operations increased by 28,2% creating further capacity for expansion.

Looking to the future The Fishing division continues to face challenges regarding accessing sufficient horse-mackerel quota to fully utilize its catching capacity.

Pressure on prices and availability of horse-mackerel quotas will continue to affect this division.

Excess capital in the business is being reduced and the overall activities scaled back. Subsequent to year-end, the Glenryck trademark was purchased which will present opportunities to market additional products.

Management have

concluded the initial feasibility study to convert the current horse mackerel finding operation to a shore based processing facility.

The board has resolved to proceed with environmental impact assessments and civil and detailed design work. First phase construction will include a jetty at the UFE premises. Strong results are expected from their commercial entities. Freight and Logistics will continue to seek project activity opportunities. The Food and Distribution division is working hard to remedy the poor performance of the past year and will continue its efforts to find innovative ways to replace the loss of the local poultry distribution.

Subsequent to year-end, the group acquired Novel Motor Company, an established motor dealership which is the main representative of Ford and the sole representative of Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo and Mazda vehicles in Namibia.

In addition, Bidvest Namibia has obtained a 49% share in Namibia Bureau de Change, further diversifying the activities of the group. Despite disappointing results in most divisions, the Bidvest Namibia team remains positive, motivated and dedicated to finding solutions for the challenges that are being encountered.

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Storage of hazardous materials is an explosive situation

Figure 3.2 -1: New Proposed Storage Facility Site: Farm 43.

New proposed storage facility site: Farm 43

Niel Terblanche Fears that the construction of a storage facility for materials used as components of explosives for mining purposes will only benefit a company owned by the Namibian Government might result in a scandal similar to the well-known Avid scam were brought to light by residents of Walvis Bay during a public meeting.

Native Venture Holdings for a second time this year tried to belay further fears that nuclear waste or related products 11 will be stored at a facility they intend to build on part of Farm 43 about ten kilometres outside Walvis Bay. The reason for a second public discussion on an environmental impact assessment (EIA) came after the company was forced to look for an alternative premises after the old communications bunker close to Narraville was shot down as a possible site by the community because it was too close to the suburb.

The company managed to secure part of Farm 43 near the NamWater reservoirs and the experimental wind turbine on the banks of the Kuiseb River close to Rooibank, from the Walvis Bay municipality since they tabled their first EIA. Native Venture Holdings received permission to store dangerous materials from the municipality on the grounds that they intend to store only large amounts of ammonium nitrate and blast caps on the site. When not used as an integral component of an explosive substance, Ammonium nitrate is fundamentally fertiliser.

As explained by the Managing Director of Native Venture Holdings, Mr Thomas Jonas, people store smaller amounts of ammonium nitrates at their houses to be used as fertiliser in their gardens. He emphasised that because the material he intends to store in his transit facility is deemed to be a component of an explosive substance it is classified as hazardous goods.

“We intend to store these hazardous materials while it is in transit to the various mines in the desert because NamPort are not allowed to store such materials for longer than a 24hour period on the harbour facilities.

Although it could amount to 8 000 tons per month that amount of goods will not be kept at the facility all at once.”

He pointed out that the new Husab Mine will according to initial estimations require about 6 000 tonnes of the material per month and that other mines in the area will make up the difference.

He conceded that the mines store these materials on their sites for the moment but that it is a logistical nightmare for the companies.

Concerned members of the public again accused Jonas of having a hidden agenda because of a list of hazardous materials in the EIA which includes nuclear waste and uranium rods used in reactors. Jonas persisted that the list is just for reference purposes and not what materials will be stored at the planned facility.

When asked about how the project will be financed Jonas said that the company have already started with negotiations with the Government Institutions Pensions Fund (GIPF) and the Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) for venture capital At the mention of the GIPF the immediate reaction of concerned residents was that another swindle similar to the Avid scam was afoot.

People also accused Jonas of acting in a nepotistic manner because he only wants to use a government owned company for the construction and asked why other construction companies will not be invited to participate in the building of the facility. Jonas stated that August 26 will be contracted to build the facility because of the company’s engineering experience in the construction of military and explosive ordinance facilities.

The Namibian Coast Conservation and Management Project (NACOMA) also came under fire because residents alleged that the institution was used

by Native Venture Holdings to get the project’s approval rubberstamped by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

NACOMA acted as the ministry’s local agent during the compilation of the EIA. Most of the concerned citizens were worried about hazardous materials ending up in the water supply of Walvis Bay and what health threats it might hold for their families. Other concerns were related to the environment as well as the fact that the facility will be situated within the boundaries of the Dorob National Park.

Thursday, 10 September 2015

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5

Positive growth leads to salt works expansion N$ 60 million invested in local economy Jacques du Toit Expansions to the salt refinery outside Walvis Bay will see Walvis Bay Salt Holdings (WBSH) remain one of the stable and positive contributors the town’s economy.

According to the Managing Director of WBSH, Andre Snyman, “positive growth” in the company has enabled the company to undertake this investment of N$60 million into the local economy.

This development will add 240,000 tons per year to the current production of 750,000 tons. Namibian companies will be utilised to construct the additional 1 550 hectares of infrastructure adding to the current 4,500 hectares. This will include concentrator ponds (1,450 hectare), crystalliser ponds (100 hectares) as well as an additional seawater intake and a feeder pipeline.

Currently most of their salt is exported to African and European markets (60%) with the rest supplying local demand for table and industrial salt.

Since his arrival at WBSH, Snyman has had his eye on markets outside of Africa and in the beginning of last year they sent their first big shipment of 52,000 tons to

Belgium.

Asked about how this market has been performing since then, Snyman, says that the European market is definitely there, adding however that the right strategies must be in place to remain in that market.

Construction on the expansion has already begun and they aim to complete it

by February 2016. According to Snyman it will still take a few months after

completion to prepare the new ponds before actual salt production will start.

The company has followed the required environmental processes, including an EIA and public participation, and an Environmental Clearance Certificate for the project was received during 2014. Being situated in a RAMSAR site and the greater Dorob National Park was considered during the EIA process.

In line with the Company’s local mineral beneficiation strategy, an investment was made three years ago in a local table salt refinery, being

Ekango Salt Refiners. Products from this refinery are distributed internationally to well-known brands like Nestlé and Unilever, and the Holding Group’s recent acquisition of the Cerebos business in South Africa will ensure much needed synergies with a top international recognised brand.

This project will impact on the normal tourist and fisherman access roads to Sandwich Harbour, especially on the eastern side of the salt works, and therefore the Company will make available suitable alternative access routes.

A Truck drives into the salt refinery outside Walvis Bay. Positive growth has helped this company to increase its production.

Photo Jacques du Toit

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Thursday, 10 September 2015

EBank launches a MasterCard Debit Card Along with using cellular phones for transactions, one of Namibia’s newest commercial banks now also offers two new card services which give account holders the opportunity to transact with millions of retailers worldwide.

EBank Namibia officially launched its EBank Easy and EBank Smart debit card offerings.

These debit cards, issued by EBank Namibia under a principal licence awarded by MasterCard not only give users access to millions of retailers but the cards also allow accountholders to use Automatic Teller Machines that accept MasterCard payment cards nationally and internationally in over 210 countries.

Inclusive and accessible banking for all “The introduction of debit cards is an essential part of our network expansion strategy and a critical step in making our services and offerings ubiquitous and accessible to all. EBank clients now have the

choice of using their cell phone to transact at the till points of any of our growing number of retail partners or, alternatively, using their MasterCard debit cards at ATMs or any point of sale device nationwide.” said Mr Mike Mukete, Chief Executive Officer of EBank Namibia during the launch.

Smart Debit Card vs Easy Debit Card EBank offers clients a choice of two Debit Cards. The EBank Easy Debit Card and the EBank Smart Debit Card. “We want to offer clients the ability to choose the functionality that they require from their debit cards and thus the costs associated with their card of choice,” said Mr Gerald Riedel, Chief Operating Officer of EBank Namibia.

He said the EBank Smart Debit Card can be used internationally for card transactions and can also be used for online purchases.

This card is ideal for use when renting a vehicle or booking hotel accommodation as it allows for reservation of funds against an account. The Easy Debit Card is restricted to card transactions

within Namibia and cannot be used for online payments or for transactions that require reservation of funds.

An EBank Smart Account holder can link up to two cards to their account, which can either be Easy or Smart Debit Cards or one of each. An EBank Easy Account holder, however, can only link one EBank Easy Debit Card to his or her account.

Easy and Hassle Free Fees The EBank debit cards offer a unique ATM transaction pricing structure that does not determine fees based on the ATM used.

“Both EBank debit cards can be used to withdraw cash from any ATM in Namibia with the cost per transaction varying from N$8.00 for a withdrawal amount between N$10 and N$500 to N$20.00 for a withdrawal amount between N$1,500 and N$2,000. This is considerably less than what some banks charge their own clients,” said Mr Riedel.

“The pricing for ATM withdrawals is affordable, transparent and exactly the same, regardless of the brand of ATM used in Namibia.”

Once linked and activated, EBank Smart Debit Card holders are not charged for point of sale card purchases within Namibia, while EBank Easy Debit Card holders will pay N$3.50 per card transaction at any retailer nationwide.

Charlton Goredema, MasterCard

Vice President and area business head for Southern Africa and Indian Ocean islands, stated: “As EBank enables its customers to benefit from MasterCard’s global payments network, we are assisting Namibia to integrate its economy with those elsewhere in the world. Importantly, we are also contributing to the financial freedom of individuals.”

“The increased number of MasterCard payment cards in Namibia means that thousands more citizens and merchants will be introduced to the safety, security, and convenience of electronic payments, while enjoying protection from the risks of and costs associated with cash.

“By reducing the dependence on and usage of cash, MasterCard and EBank will advance the adoption of formal banking products, which ultimately drives financial inclusion.”

EBank was founded in August of 2013 to provide access to a new generation of Easy, Safe and Smart Banking. The Bank received its banking licence on 28 May 2014 and was officially launched to the public on 1 November 2014,

offering two unique banking solutions, EBank Easy and EBank Smart.

The unique digital banking model allows clients to open an EBank Easy simply by dialling *140*140# from their cell phone on the MTC network.

This activation process takes no more than 3 minutes and results in an active EBank Easy solution with a transaction account and a linked 32-day notice savings account. To open an EBank Smart, clients are required to visit an EBank Ambassador or the new Wernhill Park Service Centre. Both solution sets are free to open and do not require an opening deposit or a minimum balance.

Since launch, EBank has shown steady growth, driven primarily by the easy-to-open accounts and the easy to use the Send Money solution and the convenience of doing banking while shopping. Clients can deposit, withdraw or pay for goods, services and fuel at the pay points of any Woermann Brock, Cymot, Agra, selected Engen Quickshops and at a variety of Independent Retailers, identified by their EBank branding.

With Namibia ranked amongst the top ten worldwide for deaths resulting from road and traffic accidents, it is vital to educate the population on road safety. As a result the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund in collaboration with the traffic department of the Walvis Bay Municipality has launched an educational programme for children of

all ages. Seen at the facility especially created on the grounds of the Civic Centre in the harbour town, was a group of Grade 1 learners from the Flamingo Primary School being taught

by Mr. Victor Ndimune from the traffic department. The traffic officer explained to the children how to read traffic signs and the correct way to cross busy streets.

MVA actions kids traffic education

red

power to the people

PUBLIC NOTICE ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS AND BANK DEPOSITS

Dear Valued Customers Kindly be informed that our payment allocation system is largely automated and you are therefore requested to ensure that only your complete account number as indicated on your Erongo RED statement appears as a reference on our bank statement. Any reference other than an account number will result in non-allocation of payment to your account/s.

Due date for payments is the 7th of each month by which the payment should reflect on our bank account. Kindly consider the 2-3 day delay in clearance of payments between different banks. Failure to pay an account or make arrangements by the due date will result in suspension of electricity supply and / or late payment and reconnection fees.

The Erongo RED bank account numbers are as follows:

VACANCY Manica Group Namibia is seeking to employ an experienced Human Resource Practitioner to be stationed in Walvis Bay and reporting to the General Manager: Human Resources.

Human Resource Practitioner Manica Group Namibia

Location : Walvis Bay

BANK WINDHOEK Account number 8000-630-203 Branch code 481872 or FIRST NATIONAL BANK Account number 62103311156 Branch code 282172

Minimum Requirements.. Ÿ Bcom degree in Human Resources / Industrial Psychology Ÿ Honors degree Industrial Psychology would be an advantage Ÿ 5 years proven experience in organizational development, employee relations, benefits, compliance, attraction & retention strategies and talent development; Ÿ Familiarity with labour related issues and confident knowledge of the relevant Namibian legislation;

Payment advices must be submitted via e-mail to info@erongored.com.na or via fax to 064-214649 to avoid any inconveniences. It is expected of each person making bulk payments to forward a breakdown with the proof of payment for payments to be allocated to the relevant accounts.

For account queries including balance due, please contact the nearest Customer Care office or alternatively our Call Centre on 0819600 / 064-214680 or email to support@erongored.com.na.

TEL +264 64 214600 ERONGO RED BUILDING

FAX +264 64 214601

91 HAGE GEINGOB STREET

PO BOX 2925

WALVIS BAY

NAMIBIA

erongored.com

Job Specification...

Ÿ Facilitate communications sessions; Ÿ Assistance with the monitoring and reviewing of policies; Ÿ Facilitate Industrial Relations, Disciplinary Hearings and Grievance

procedures in a unionised environment;

Ÿ Facilitate talent and performance interventions;

For more details, http://bidvestnamibia.pnet.com.na Closing Date: 18 September 2015 Bidvest Namibia is an equal opportunity employer. Remuneration packages are commensurate with qualifications and experience. Apply for this position online at: http://bidvestnamibia.pnet.com.na Register and upload your CV for alerts on future positions.

News

Thursday, 10 September 2015

7

EXCITINGOPPORTUNITIES For Bursaries through Old Mutual & NedNamibia Education Trust The Old Mutual Group, through its Black Economic Empowerment initiative, offers bursaries for higher education to members of Trade Unions and their dependants.

Bursaries consideration:

This exciting opportunity is available to broaden access

B-Tech), at an accredited Higher Institution of Learning within the

Bursaries are awarded to successful applicants selected

undergraduate degree, postgraduate degree or diploma (including

to tertiary education for members of the following participating

SADC region in the fields listed below:

Trade Unions and their dependants who wish to further their

■

Science and Mathematics Disciplines

education at a recognised/accredited institution of higher

■

Engineering and Architecture

learning within the SADC region.

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Medicine

■

Banking and Finance

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Participating Trade Unions:

on merit

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MUN (Mine Workers Union of Namibia)

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Actuarial Studies

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MANWU (Metal and Allied Namibian Workers Union)

■

Information and Communication Technology

■

TUN (Teachers Union of Namibia)

■

Other fields of studies that are regarded as scarce will be

■

NAFAU (Namibia Food and Allied Workers Union)

■

PSUN (Public Service Union of Namibia)

■

NATAU (Namibia Transport and Allied Workers Union)

Eligibility to apply for a bursary:

■

NANTU (Namibia National Teachers Union)

The bursaries are available to suitably qualified Namibians who are:

■

NAPWU (Namibia Public Workers Union)

■

A member of one of the participating trade unions;

■

NAFINU (Namibia Financial Institutions Union)

■

A solely financially-dependent child of a member of the

considered e.g. Maritime Law & Environmental Science

N$ 1299*

participating trade union and under the age of 25;

Closing date for applications: Monday, 30th September 2015. Application

■ forms

participating Trade Union offices.

A solely financially-dependent grandchild or other blood relative to the member and;

can

be obtained from: Old Mutual and Nedbank branches and

Decoder + Dish + Installation

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Under the age of 25.

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Telephone enguiries should be directed to:

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Revonia Kahivere:

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Old Mutual and Nedbank branches or

■

Melissa Goagoses:

(061) 299 3249

Email: edutrust@oldmutual.com

■

Shelley Mulenamaswe: (061) 295 2976

N$ 2999*

WALVIS BAY: 064-203318 SWAKOPMUND: 064-403418

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8

News

Inaugural marathon was a huge success Niel Terblanche

Soldiers from the Namibian Defense Force and members of the Namibian Police dominated all categories of the inaugural Husab Marathon.

Held at the B2 turn off leading to Husab’s permanent access road, the first ever Husab marathon drew a lot of attention and spectators. The event offered a great deal of entertainment while various small businesses from nearby towns sold refreshments.

According to a statement by Swakop Uranium, small businesses from Swakopmund and Arandis were allowed to sell their goods on the day of the event to allow them to get wider exposure to a larger customer base made up of spectators and participants.

At the start of the much awaited

event keynote speaker, Ms. Adelaide Kandjala, on behalf of the Erongo Regional Governor, congratulated Swakop Uranium for pulling off such a magnificent and well organised event.

“I trust that the Husab Marathon, which is envisaged to be an annual event, will grow into the biggest event of its kind in Namibia and the Southern African region,” she said.

Mr. Zheng Keping, Swakop Uranium Chief Executive Officer said: “Swakop Uranium, through the Swakop Uranium Foundation has, as part of our community and social involvement, organized the Husab Marathon and ten kilometer and five kilometer fun runs to create and build an integrated process, based on Safety, Quality and Excellence, leading to a successful event.”

Ms. Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi, as head

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Thursday, 10 September 2015

Runners taking off for the inaugural Husab Marathon and fun runs on the beautiful constructed road leading to the Husab Mine of the Swakop Uranium Board of Directors said: “I am of the opinion that the Husab Marathon and fun runs contributed to the national agenda and its positive impact on the economic and social development of Namibia in that it brings people together to share and to inter-relate with each other.

“I am also impressed that Swakop Uranium has implemented a High Performance Culture based on the Values of Safety, Transparency, Accountability, Respect, Integrity and Collaboration (STARIC) and that the Marathon and fun races were organised on these Values

Principles,” Zaamwani-Kamwi said.

Paulus Iiyambo of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) won the men’s marathon in a time of 2:26:20, while Helena Iipinge also from the NDF won the women’s race in a time of 3:03:31.

The country’s armed forces further dominated the races with Mynhardt Kuanivi of the Namibian Police (Nampol) winning the men’s 10 kilometer race in a time of 31 minutes, six seconds while Ndeshimona Ekandjo also from Nampol won the women’s 10 kilometer in a time of 37 minutes,

40 seconds.

Proudly representing Swakop Uranium, Chen Hemin in the men’s category and Winnie Mukupuki in the women’s category were among the marathon runners who finished the race.

A total of 508 entries were received in total with 57 in the marathon, 135 in the 10km run and 230 in the 5km walk and fun run.

Because 500 entries were received for the inaugural Husab Marathon, Swakop Uranium is considering to make this event an international event from next year.

News

Thursday, 10 September 2015

SWAITEX Expo lights up At NCCI gala function

Presenting the first business awards: Tarah Shaanika (NCCI CEO), Michelle Abraham (MC), with Heinrich Hafeni (Chairperson NCCI Swakopmund), Tony Raw (President NCCI Wavis Bay) hands over the Business of the Year award to Erongo Red which was received by Helena Dax, with Andre Paatjie looking on. (Photo Donna Collins) Donna Collins A total of N$70,000 was pledged by the coastal business community during a glittering SWAITEX Gala dinner hosted by the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) on Saturday night, which was the first corporate function laid on at the Swakopmund Dome Conference Centre.

In attendance were over 350 top representatives of the Swakopmund and Walvis Bay business sector, NCCI, Mayors of various towns, regional and national councillors, plus VIP guests, who turned up for the first annual Swakopmund NCCI Business Awards, which coupled as a launch platform for the upcoming SWAITEX Expo.

The evening was sponsored by Namsov, who along with the various involved stakeholders, pledged their support towards the second internationally focussed SWAITEX Expo which is taking place at the Dome Indoor Sports Centre from the 7th-10th October.

Tarah Shaanika (NCCI CEO) said that SWAITEX is evidently becoming one of the biggest and best attended trade and marketing events on the business calendar of our country, and

that the NCCI is happy to be associated with it.

"SWAITEX is also set to make the town of Swakopmund and the Erongo region in general a destination of choice for businesses and individuals during the period that it takes place, and I want to congratulate the NCCI leadership in Swakopmund under chairmanship of my colleague, Hafeni Heinrich for the foresight and excellent leadership which they have provided and continue to provide to make this event what it has become," he said.

"Our primary objective for SWAITEX remains the provision of an attractive platform at which businesses can market their products and a venue where business deals are initiated and closed. It is an opportunity to introduce new products into the market and present business opportunities for exhibitors and visitors alike."

Shaanika further stated that the competitiveness of an economy is not only a result of improved infrastructure and administrative reforms but it is heavily dependent on the innovation of the business community.

"Innovation is a key pillar of competitiveness and if Namibia wants to become a competitive economy, our people and businesses must become

innovative in developing ways and products that address market needs both domestically and internationally.

"We need to increase local production of goods and services which are able to competitively find places in the market and this requires innovation," he continued.

"As a nation we are committed to transforming and diversifying our economy to be able to efficiently deal with employment creation and poverty eradication.

"But from the private sector’s point of view, employment can only be created through business expansion and growth. There is no doubt in my mind that SWAITEX is set to make Swakopmund and Erongo Region a destination of choice for businesses and indviduals during the four days this expo takes place."

In his welcoming speech Heinrich Hafenini (Chairperson NCCI Swakopmund Branch), said that this year's SWAITEX is heading for its second and best year as an internationally focused Expo, which is fully endorsed by the national leadership.

He said that his chamber

is following the mandate to create programs that benefit the development of local economy, and thanked the efforts of the NCCI Executive committee and SME event planners Nashville Investments - an SME event planning company.

"SWAITEX is also focussed on recognising SMEs this year by giving these prospective businesses a chance - as they are able to do wonders."

He further said that by supporting SWAITEX, the business public is supporting upcoming entrepreneurs, further developing

9

the business community, creating networking opportunities and bringing together the interests of business.

The first business awards were presented to: Business of the Year Erongo Red, Business person of the Year- Mervin Dennis: Impact Gas, SME Best Service: Chris McClune of McClunes Shuttle, Governor Award: Namspace in Value addition, NCCI Merit Award: West Coast FM, Chairman Award: Pam Miller ex-NCCI chairperson and Harry Hoabeb ex-Chairman NCCI.

Heinrich Hafeni (Chairperson NCCI Swakopmund) and recipient of the business person of the year Mervin Dennis.

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”.

VACANCY HeAltH & SAfetY SuperiNteNdeNt Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to the SSHER Manager Develop, implement and maintain safety and health management systems for the mining and related operations at Swakop Uranium (SU) as per the requirements of the Safety & Health Management Plan, Radiation Management Plan, Integrated Management Systems and applicable legislation, regulations and directives.

Key performance Areas:

• Conduct risk assessments and develop and implement standard operating procedures to prevent and/or mitigate risk.

• Investigate incidents, identify causes and make recommendations for corrective action to prevent recurrences.

• Conduct inspections and audits and identify potential hazards and make recommendations for improvement.

• Enforce compliance to applicable legislation, regulations and directives.

• Advise and consult with line management, employees and contractors on safety and health practices, development and monitoring.

• Implement and manage applicable communication and training programmes for mining and related operations.

• Assist and guide line management to implement the Safety & Health Management Plan and Integrated Management System.

• Manage mining and related operations’ safety & health budget, reporting, document & data control, statistics and administration.

• Set targets and review performance of the mining operations Safety & Health team.

requirements and experience:

• Safety and Health Management Degree or Diploma NQA Level 5/6.

• Minimum of 5 years working experience in a mining or similar environment of which 3 years should have been in a supervisory capacity.

• Integrated Management System / Risk Management implementation and auditing.

• Safety and Health training.

• Code B Driver’s Licence.

• Good communication, report writing and interpersonal skills.

email: recruitment@cgnpc.com.cn Closing date: 18 September 2015 Preferences will be given to previously disadvantaged Namibians. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no documents will be returned.

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

10

News

Thursday, 10 September 2015

Marathon from Lüderitz to Walvis Bay Andrew Murray

The Namib Desert, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful and savage places on the planet, is perhaps the ultimate test of endurance for a longdistance runner, such as on the Namib 550 Desert Challenge ‘How would you ever cope if you had to do an expedition on your own?’ asked former Royal Marine Donnie Campbell. This was a fair question. After all, I am a redhaired, fair-skinned Scotsman, and I had just arrived – with Donnie – at the entrance to one of the world’s hottest deserts. Without any sunscreen.

The Namib Desert boasts, at around 400 metres in height, the world’s tallest sand dune as well as some of the most spectacular night skies on Earth. It is an area of such spectacular beauty that when veteran desert expedition organiser Dave Scott showed Donnie and myself three images of the region, and challenged us to run more than 500km from Luderitz in the south to Walvis Bay in the north, we agreed without hesitation.

No-one had run this route before and we were determined to find a way to get the job done. The Namib’s gigantic dunes formed an unbroken line across our proposed route, which was devoid of water and permanent habitation. On the other hand, we would have the potential rewards of encountering shipwrecks marooned inland, abandoned mining villages, whale graveyards and a surprising plethora of wildlife ranging from flamingos, fur seals and gemsbok to scorpions, snakes and hyenas. It was the prospect of these encounters that

motivated us to run up to 200km every week on Scotland’s rainlashed mountains and sand dunes in the months before departing for Namibia to strengthen our minds as much as our legs.

Just making the start line amounted to an impressive feat of diplomacy and logistics. Our proposed route traversed a special concession area that had not been previously accessed by foreigners on account of its diamond-rich sands. Thankfully, Tribal Chief Kooitjie proved a masterful negotiator with the Namibian government. A permit to enter the region for Donnie and myself, along with our trio of four-wheel drive support vehicles was secured for the expedition, along with the full support of the local Topnaar tribal communities.

The dunes reared into view just ten kilometres after we ran out of Luderitz. 20km later and we seemed to be lost among them.

My thermometer breached 40°C. And we had with us only a modest amount of water. Dave Scott’s warning that, ‘The desert can kill you in a day – if you let it,’ rang in my ears.

There was no sign of our support vehicles. Was our compass and GPS navigation equipment awry?

Would the vehicles appear or were they on a different bearing?

We held our ground and waited.

And waited. The sight of the first 4x4 that finally emerged over the dunes that afternoon was almost as beautiful as my wife Jennie when she walked down the aisle.

It turned out that the dunes were just as hard for the vehicles to negotiate as they had been for us. Laden down with a tonne of

water and fuel for the ten days we hoped our run would occupy, two of the three vehicles had become stuck simultaneously. Fortunately the third wagon managed to tow the other vehicles out. Maybe it is easier on foot, we thought.

On we ran, moving slowly with huge effort against a majestic backdrop of fierce orange dunes and a piercing blue sky. Pitching camp at the 60km mark, we surveyed the scene. Dunes stretched as far as our eyes could see. Two gemsbok glanced warily in our direction, as shy as Highland deer on a Scottish moor. There were no people, no shops and no services. We were now reliant on our training, our equipment and our support team, which included people from Britain, South Africa and Namibia, including the Topnaar communities.

After re-checking my gear, I lay on the ground and reflected on our situation. Although it had no physical walls, I felt as though I was sleeping in a five million-star hotel with a ceiling formed of the Milky Way. There was no sound other than an occasional murmur from a nearby tent. Although we had met our target of 60 kilometres, the tough terrain had made it feel double that.

Was our pace sustainable? Indeed, was it wise to continue, given how disorientated we had become in an uninhabited desert on the first day of the crossing?

A new day often brings with it a fresh perspective and renewed optimism. Our blisters were not too bad after all, and we had feasted on chicken and pasta the previous evening. We decided to push on. To minimise the chance of a similar situation to the previous day befalling the support team,

McCLUNE’S Shuttle Services

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

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Departure 1: 7:30 am

Departure 1: 7:00 am

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Departune 2: 14:45 pm

Departune 2: 14:00 pm

Departune 2: 15:00 pm

Dr Andrew Murray and Royal Marine Donnie Campbell at the starting blocks. we called in a fourth wagon to further reduce the possibility of every vehicle becoming marooned at the same moment. We also agreed that Donnie and myself would stay in sight of the support team whenever it was practical to do so.

The Namib shoreline has earned the moniker ‘Skeleton Coast’ on account of the multitude of shipwrecks hereabouts.

Reported sightings of the ghosts of sailors, together with the ethereal mist that rolls in from the Atlantic, adds to the mystery of this special place. To reach the coast, we had to negotiate the ‘Devil’s Workshop’. This uncompromising stretch of dunes in the stunning Namib-Naukluft National Park was the crux of our challenge. In multi-day events in temperate climates, Donnie and I normally cover around 14 kilometres per hour. On one of our two memorable days in the Workshop, that same distance took us almost four hours due to the heat and structure of the dunes.

The Workshop turned out to be a concentrated version of the overall challenge. The dunes were steep and unrelenting. The terrain gave no respite to our legs. Summiting a single dune was a drawn out affair and it reminded me of climbing a mountain at altitude.

The heat was unrelenting. When I experienced extreme cold on Alaska’s Mount McKinley, I had simply put more clothes on. But when the temperature in the Namib climbed higher than my own body temperature, dealing with the heat wasn’t just difficult, it was dangerous.

With no wind to convert body heat, and with the temperature gradient radiating heat to us, losing heat through sweat evaporation was our only option.

Each hour we drank up to two litres of fluids to replace what we had lost.

Profound nausea would sweep over me as I doubled up in an attempt to avoid vomiting the precious water and electrolytes I had just consumed. The sand absorbed every bead of sweat that fell from my clothing. I felt like a roast dinner.

With the Workshop behind us, we continued our run through the national park. Now that we had cut down to the coast for the final few days, we encountered massive colonies of Cape fur seals. We were tempted to swim with these playful creatures until Chief Kooitjie’s son, Lenny, graphically described a series of seal-related injuries suffered by tourists.

Namibia reminded us of its wild side to the very end. On our penultimate day, we rounded a 200-metre tall coastal dune. But instead of being presented with another vista of dunes, we came face-to-face with 300 kilograms of male gemsbok. Armed with rapier-like horns almost a metre in length, he gave Donnie and myself a look dirtier than any I have encountered in Edinburgh’s nightclubs. My heartbeat quickened and my eyes narrowed. Should I run away or take a photo? The gemsbok lowered its head in a final warning for us to back off. We took the hint.

Donnie and I persisted across the Langervan dunes and on to Sandwich Harbour, a wetland inhabited by thousands of bird species. It was here that we saw the first vehicle tracks not made by our support team. On day nine we arrived in Walvis Bay, and stopped running after 509 kilometres.

Our welcoming party consisted of flamingos, pelicans, Chief Kooitjie and two cold beers. Did I really want that beer, and the promised hot bath?

Or would I rather be back out in the Workshop? The eleven blisters on my feet answered my question for me.

Dr Andrew Murray is a sports medicine doctor, endurance runner and author of Running Beyond Limits and Running Your Best. He has run in locations including the North Pole, Antarctica and Outer Mongolia.

Andrew would like to thank Chief Kooitjie and the Topnaar tribal communities for their friendship and support during the Namib expedition. www.docandrewmurray.com

INVESTMENTS | SAVINGS | INSURANCE

Our contact number of +264 64 21 9700 stays the same, alternatively you can find further information on www.oldmutual.com.na, or speak to your Personal Adviser.

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How do I find Old Mutual’s New Walvis Bay Office?

WE HAVE MOVED OFFICE

12

News

Thursday, 10 September 2015

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News

Thursday, 10 September 2015

Hit and run driver leaves dog to die Donna Collins

The latest spate of dogs being run over and left to die unattended in the street, has sparked a reaction from SPCA Walvis Bay who has rolled up its sleeves and issued a warning that careless pet owners will face penalties if they do not heed to certain regulations.

There were three separate incidents of hit and run cases with two dogs reported run over on Saturday near the primary school in the harbour area, as well as early on Monday morning. In one case, the driver's car licence plate was left lying close to the dead Bullterrier's body, which had fallen off on impact. Evidence at the scene indicated that the dog was still alive after it had been run over and died from its injuries.

"It breaks our hearts to know that this person did not even care enough to see if the dog was still alive when he ran over it, and the fact that the driver did not even stop to pick up their licence plate proves that this was a case of reckless driving in

a built up area, " said SPCA Walvis Bay kennel manager Bernice Grobler "When you run over an animal, have the decency to phone the SPCA and do something to help, because the animal might still be alive and suffering from injuries,” she urged.

"Accidents like this occur on a daily basis because owners neglect to keep their pets on their premises and behind closed gates, and in most cases it is just carelessness on the part of the owners.

"In general people do not slow down for a dog in the road; they just keep on driving, which has resulted in a growing number of dogs being run over and tragically left to die. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable, and people must become more considerate towards dogs, even if they do belong to someone else."

In their statement issued to pet owners this week the SPCA spells out that if your animal is found on the street without a chip, collar, nametag and telephone number, then the animal will be rendered homeless and immediately becomes the

property of the SPCA. "If I find your dog on the street there will be penalties to pay," said Grobler.

"In order to retrieve your dog from the SPCA you must bring your Dog licence, ID and contact details when collecting an animal. A call out fee and boarding will be charged.

"If your animal is not spayed/neutered/ castrated, reassure yourself, your animal will be sterilized at an extra cost of N$900.00 for a male and N$1030.00 for a female, to prevent it from having unwanted puppies.

"Should you not want to comply with this, we will report you to animal control and to the relevant authorities and have your name published on a black list, meaning that you are never allowed to own a pet in Walvis Bay again."

She further asked the motoring public to please exercise caution when they see an animal in the road, and apply the same principal that you would a pedestrian crossing the street, and allow it to get out of harm's way.

13

A dog was left to die in the road in Walvis Bay this weekend after a hit and run motorist did not stop to help the injured animal - totalling three separate incidents "An animal is not aware that it is in the road and that it could be in danger of being run over, so it is up to us as people to use our common sense, and avoid running the dog over by driving slowly."

All matters of animal cruelty, dogs being run over, animal neglect or other related problems can be reported to the SPCA or the police.

World class training for local Sushi chefs Niel Terblanche

Chef Miya attended a Chef School in Japan (Ise Cho-Rishi Gakko in 1977), where he studied French cuisine.

He was particularly attracted to the beautiful serving styles of nouvelle cuisine, as well as the complexity and fine tastes of the food. Thereafter he studied Japanese cooking, which included the art of sushi-making.

A world renowned Sushi chef from Japan shared his knowledge and experience with local chefs during a special course to enhance their skills for the benefit of all future visitors to the brand new Strand Hotel in Swakopmund.

In a statement by the Ohlthaver and List Group the company aims to provide the very best to Namibia and its people and under the banner of “Creating a future, enhancing life” the company believes in gaining knowledge from the best in the world in order to grow the skills and abilities of local professionals.

O&L Leisure, the custodian for the Strand Hotel Swakopmund and a subsidiary of the O&L Group was proud to host world renowned Japanese Sushi Chef, Katsuhiko Miyamoto, better known as chef Miya, to train local Sushi Chefs at the new

Strand Hotel Swakopmund.

Chef Miya has been in the industry for over 30 years and is known as a master in preparing some of the best Sushi dishes in the world. He travelled to South Africa 28 years ago after he was given the opportunity to work in a Japanese restaurant that was in need of an authentic Japanese chef. He has over the years built up a loyal clientele, who would follow him wherever he goes, because they adored his tempura and sushi.

Miya’s faithfulness to the Japanese community in South Africa however remained, and he catered for various Japanese companies who preferred his sushi to that of other chefs.

There are many different sides to being a sushi chef as passionately expressed by chef Miya: “An important consideration is the person eating the sushi. The challenge is not to fill the stomach, but rather to appeal to the eye and then to the palate

Brewer reduces its need for water Niel Terblanche

With warnings of severe water shortages looming, all Namibians are urged to save water and proactive steps need to be taken to prevent a possible calamity.

SABMiller Namibia has heeded warnings and has undertaken preemptive steps towards ensuring water security and sustainability in order to stave off the effects of the country’s current water shortage.

SABMiller Namibia’s brewery in Okahandja was officially opened on 15 July 2015. Modelled on global best practices, the Namibian brewery is one of SABMiller’s most efficient and environmentally friendly breweries of its size in the world, greatly benefitting a country that has environmental sustainability at the core of its development.

Managing Director of SABMiller Namibia, Cobus Bruwer announced that the business will cut its water usage by 20 percent by the end of 2015 as the brewery ramps up its plant commissioning. He was of the opinion that further sizeable

reductions are deemed possible, should all technologies and lessons from other SABMiller breweries, especially in Australia and India, be applied.

In a statement SABMiller Namibia announced that in light of the water issues that Namibia faces as well as SABMiller’s philosophy of sustainability, the company has embarked on a nine-month Source Vulnerability Assessment that commenced in February 2015 to review the brewery’s water sources and catchment areas. Local engagement and the involvement of international experts are supporting the literature survey to the end of conducting research and running workshops on water issues and potential solutions. A comprehensive report on findings and ways forward is expected to be published during October this year.

Due to the fact that the region in which the brewery operates faces severe water challenges, the Welwitschia Brewery strategy, born from the report, will focus on the reduction of water consumption.

Namibia has a limited supply

of alternative water sources and according to the company, the brewery aims to secure national water supplies by working alongside stakeholders like NamWater and local communities tackling water risks together.

Mr Bruwer said the country has limited water resources and thus companies must ensure that their development plans do not compromise environmental sustainability.

“SABMiller, on a global level, has responsible water usage, local water security and long-term sustainability at the centre of its mandate. SABMiller has cut its international water usage per litre of beer by 28% since 2008 while still maintaining growth in its production volumes.”

With the construction of each new brewery, SABMiller is increasing its understanding of water risks, simultaneously creating partnerships to tackle these risks as well as creating a world where businesses, local communities and ecosystems all share uninterrupted access to clean and safe water.

with the taste sensation of sushi. The successful sushi chef wants to please his customer physically, mentally and psychologically.”

Strand Hotel Sushi chefs have undergone a very intense, world class yet exciting 4-day training under the magical hands of Chef Miya. The aim of the training was to showcase the skill of the sushi chefs and to ensure that they meet the high standards and skill set necessary to produce the variety of items on the sushi menu.

Rice cooking, fish cuts, fish and vegetable preparation, different sushi applications which include Maki, California rolls, Nigiri, Sashimi, as well as modern sushi applications formed

part of the training manual for Strand Hotel Swakopmund Sushi Chefs.

According to the statement by O&L the new Strand Hotel Swakopmund is scheduled to open for business next month. The hotel was built and developed to adhere to international four star standards and is destined to become a Namibian icon worthy of its unique location on Swakopmund’s historic Mole.

“It has been several years since the historic old Strand Hotel was demolished, but the elegant, sprawling new building by O&L Leisure is progressing on time for its scheduled opening.”

14

Worldwide

Thursday, 10 September 2015

Worldwide

Lost Australian sheep yields 30 sweaters worth of fleece A lost, overgrown sheep found in Australian scrubland was shorn for perhaps the first time on Thursday, yielding 40 kilograms (89 pounds) of wool — the equivalent of 30 sweaters — and shedding almost half his body weight.

Tammy Ven Dange, chief executive of the Canberra RSPCA, which rescued the merino ram dubbed Chris, said she hoped to register the 40.45 kilogram (89 pound, 3 ounce) fleece with the Guinness World Records. An official of the London-based organization did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The most wool sheared from

a sheep in a single shearing is 28.9 kilograms (63 pounds, 11 ounces) taken from a wild New Zealand merino dubbed Big Ben in January last year, the Guinness World Records website said.

"He's looking really good, he looks like a new man," Ven Dange said, as the now 44-kilogram (97-pound) sheep recovered at the Canberra animal refuge. "For one thing, he's only half the weight he used to be."

Champion shearer Ian Elkins said the sheep appeared to be in good condition after being separated from his huge fleece under anesthetic.

"I don't reckon he's been shorn before and I reckon he'd be 5 or 6 years old," Elkins said.

Chris was found near Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary outside Canberra by bushwalkers who feared he would not survive the approaching southern summer.

He was found several kilometers (miles) from the nearest sheep farm. A bushwalker named him Chris after the sheep in the "Father Ted" television comedy series.

Chris was rescued by the RSPCA on Wednesday and taken to Canberra, where he was shorn under anesthetic because he was stressed by

human company and because of the potential pain from the heavy fleece tearing skin as it fell away.

Ven Dange said he had suffered skin burns from urine trapped in his fleece and could have died within weeks if left in the wild.

"When we first brought him in yesterday, he was really shy, he was shaking, he would move his head away from people and he could barely get up and walk," she said.

"The drugs might be wearing off right now, but he's actually coming to you and actually wants a pat. He's certainly moving a heck of a lot better," she added.

She said Chris would be found a new home after vets gave him the all-clear.

Teen girl fakes pregnancy A girl is accused of buying fake ultrasounds and a fake belly from a prank website. The 16-year-old girl in Wyandotte, Michigan, could be in triple trouble after she allegedly faked a pregnancy for 10 months.

The friends and family of the unnamed girl were shocked when she announced she was pregnant with three babies, but none more shocked than her boyfriend, Jordan Wyrabkiewicz.

"I was excited, don't get me wrong, but I was scared," he told Fox2Detroit. "I started looking for jobs the best I could. I was ready to donate all my time."

The teen girl had a bulging belly and ultrasound photos of the kids, who she named Ivan, Alice and Isabella, according

to CBS Detroit.

To help the young parents get off on the right foot, relatives threw a baby shower for the girl, who also accepted thousands of dollars in gifts and donations from a local church, a nearby nonprofit and a Facebook group called Moms of Triplets.

Jordan and his mom, Krissy Wyrabkiewicz, became suspicious after nine months when no babies arrived, especially since multiple births tend to be premature. They were also unable to confirm the name of the girl's doctor, according to Newser.

Things got really confusing when a member of the Moms of Triplets group contacted the Wyrabkiewicz family with some disturbing news.

Elkins said the fleece was too long to be sold commercially. He hoped it would end up in a museum.

"I wouldn't say it's high quality, but you wouldn't expect it to be running around in the bush that long unshorn," he said.

The teen's ultrasound photos were identical to those sold at a prank website called FakeABaby.com that also sells fake bellies and DNA tests.

The girl was confronted, but insisted she was pregnant, according to Fox2 Detroit. Then, the day before she was supposed to have a C-section, she said she miscarried. She then refused to go to the doctor, according to Jordan's aunt, Jessica Adams.

"So, I told the hotline she has three babies that she's supposed to be full term with, and she won't go to the hospital and they don't have heartbeats," she told

Australian merinos are bred for wool and are shorn annually, with fleeces averaging about 5 kilograms (11 pounds).

Source: www. bigstory. ap.org the station. "So, they sent detectives over there and she finally cracked and told the detectives that she lost them at six weeks."

A man claiming to be the girl's brother told the station that all gifts and money will be returned. Police are investigating but no charges have been filed.

Meanwhile, The Daily Dot is reporting that Jordan's family is calling for FakeABaby.com to be taken down because it allowed the girl to get away with her ruse.

Source: www. huffingtonpost.com

Tiny dragon discovered in Indonesia – Draco Volans

It wasn’t exactly just discovered, but the Draco Volans, a tiny lizard that looks stunningly like a dragon, has been discovered in Indonesia.

It’s not a dragon since, you know, dragons don’t exist, but they are an incredible animal. They’ve developed the ability to fly in order to avoid predators.

Each lizard has a wing-like appendage that allows them to soar

from tree to tree, enabling them quick escapes when needed. It also helps them catch delicious insects and and attract mates. They are able to fly about 30 feet with a single leap.

Pretty impressive.

Where birds have wings covered in feathers, the Draco Volans has an elongated ribcage that they can extend and retract when needed.

Draco Volans only reach about 8

inches in length, so don’t expect it to go all Trogdor and burn down some feudal villages any time soon.

They also don’t breathe fire. That aside, they are very territorial. Their territories include usually about 3 trees and they will fight off any other little dragon who tries to encroach.

The female dracos guard their eggs after laying them in the ground for about 24 hours. After that, the kids are on their own.

Source: www. higherperspectives.com

Motoring

Thursday, 10 September 2015

Motoring

15

Best budget cars in SA in 2015 What are the best cars to buy when you are on a budget? Here are the five best value for money offerings in SA for 2015.

In a budget car we looked at features fitted as well as safety aspects and value for money. It is also important the car is fuel efficient and has a decent backup from the manufacturer should it have any issues. Price is an obvious consideration so we set the bar at R150 000 including some form of service plan – even if it is an optional extra.

Other key components that need to be installed are ABS and dual front airbags.

Without further adieu and in no specific order, here are our best budget buys.

Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL R146 400 The Suzuki Swift is an excellent drive with good road holding dynamics. It is a fun car and does not lack features. The interior is well put together and covers all the basics to connect your phone or MP3 devices. It has near bulletproof reliability but the boot is a little on the small side.

expensive Move up! The up! is a funky three-door that is cool to drive and feels upmarket inside. The options however, can be costly and VW’s tend to be pricier than the competition.

Source: www.cars.co.za

Renault Sandero Expression R129 900 The Renault Sandero offers up excellent value, space and kit. It’s built in Romania now instead of India, and apparently that has improved its build quality. It has USB and Aux support for the techies and to keep you safe there are dual airbags and stability control – quite rare in this segment.

Toyota Etios 1.5 Xs R146 500 The Toyota Etios is a much improved vehicle from the first model we tested back in 2012. Improvements to the interior have steadily improved the car whilst the 1.5-Litre petrol engine remains a strong selling point.

If you have any problems with your Toyota, there is no shortage of places to take it with its vast dealer network.

Volkswagen Take up! R137 600 Whilst the Take up! is the standard up! if you add the right extras you can get it at less than the more Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GL R126 900 The Suzuki Celerio is all about space. It is a small car that is particularly big on the inside with excellent pricing. Electric windows all round are standard as is a decent audio system with USB and Aux. Fuel consumption is claimed at 4.7L/100km so you will not be diving into fuel stations every day.

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