Namib Independent Issue 179 by The Namib Independent

Independent Namib

Tel: 064 200497

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Issue 179 - Thurs, 17 Dec 2015 to Wed, 13 Jan 2016

"The best cure for corruption is prevention, and by raising awareness and effective implementation of preventative measures"

Diamond Arrow Winner Best Community Newspaper 2014

The Trans Kalahari Corridor presents a golden opportunity for Botswana to export and import goods in a cheaper and more effective way

Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila speaking in Swakopmund last week, in commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption day.

Mr Johny Smith, the Chief Executive Officer of the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG) advised entrepreneurs in Botswana to take advantage of the Trans Kalahari Corridor See Page 7

See Page 5

Value addition suffers because of strike

See Pages 4

Xmas markets welcome in the holiday season with people exhibiting a variety of goods for last minute shoppers. (Photos Donna Collins)

Season message Geingob Says There Festive from Walvis Bay

Will Be No Secret Deals President Hage Geingob said he is unaware of any requests or plans by the Chinese to build an overseas naval base in Namibia. In an interview with BBC News, during which the Namibian leader was pressed hard on the allegations, Geingob denied such knowledge and said there will be no secret deals. “I do not know anything about such a proposal. It never came to me; maybe to the former president Hifikepunye Pohamba,” he

told BBC HARDtalk host Sarah Montague, who grilled the president about Namibia’s extreme poverty. Montague pressed on and inquired whether Namibia would in fact accept a proposal from China if such a request were made. "If they want to do it in a sovereign country like Namibia, how does that concern you?" Geingob replied. "That is for Namibians to decide, but I can assure you that there will be no secret deals. It is my country...and it does not affect

you." Rumours swirled earlier this year when the Namibian newspaper revealed details of a confidential letter from Namibia’s ambassador to China, Ring Abed, to Namibia’s Foreign Ministry. The letter describes a meeting that was being planned for late March in which a delegation from China would visit to discuss construction of a People’s Liberation Army naval base in Namibia’s Walvis Bay that would be home to as many as six Chinese warships. While the naval base plan has not been publicly confirmed by China or Namibia, Continued on Page 3

For decades Walvis Bay’s coastline has been a popular choice for visitors to soak up the sun and cool breeze, while the more adventurous at heart take on the dunes and ocean in a variety of sports and recreational activities. In the past the festive season has also seen its share of injuries and damage to property due to irresponsible behaviour and disregard for road safety and fellow road users. Such behaviour not only spoils the festive mood, but can cause the loss of lives. Similarly, the desert environment is home to many unique plants and small animals that are destroyed by such behaviour. To ensure a peaceful and safe holiday,

visitors are reminded of the municipal by-laws relating to the control of the seashore, the sea and its environment that have been in force since January 2004. The control over recreational activities and permissible routes for off-road vehicles and quad bikes as introduced by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism a few years ago remains in place. Littering Visitors are prohibited from dumping, depositing, leaving, spilling, dropping or placing anything that affects the cleanliness of beaches. This includes leaving behind bait, fish hooks or offal on Continued on Page 3

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Contact Us 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 Editorial Niel Terblanche 081 776 7076 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.

Thursday, 17 December 2015

An Independent Christmas And in the blink of an eye another year end is upon us, leaving us once again to reflect on what has been, and to look forward to what is yet to come. For the team at the Namib Independent, 2015 started off with the proverbial bang as we were voted the country’s number one community paper and our year ends in just as good a fortune thanks to the unrelenting support of the community. As the collectors and authors of the news, good or bad, week in week out, it brings pleasure to pen a piece that is reflective of that time of year when the news is, for once, overshadowed by the simple pleasures of family, friends and loved ones in the celebration of Christmas. The past year has seen many new and huge developments in and around Walvis

In the holiday season Donna Collins

Xmas markets are springing up all over the place, as people offer an alternative for that last minute shopping, and Swakopmund celebrated 42 consecutive years of traditional market tradition last week-end when crowds of yearenders flocked to the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and soak up an atmosphere of merry making. The traditional "Weihnachtsmark" open air market serves to announce the start of the festive season period, as well as welcome visitors to the coastal town with the significant switching on of the Xmas lights by the Mayor of the

t is time to relax and celebrate another year behind us. 2015 has been a rollercoaster journey and we hope everyone out there can find a place to take a well-deserved break and ease into 2016. We’re all on our way home or to one of the special destinations Namibia has to offer, so together with our strategic partners and local communities, Namibia Breweries wants to again urge everyone out there to STAY COOL! in order to ENJOY RESPONSIBILIT Y this holiday. Whether it’s driving, dining, relaxing or rejoicing, we’re here to remind you that when you keep a cool head you can actually have a good time while enjoying responsibility.

YOUR GO -TO GUIDE TO STAY COOL!

WEATHERMEN & CO

Bay, Swakopmund and Henties Bay. Deeper inland, Arandis has also taken huge steps towards development with new shopping centres opening up and the community working towards sustaining itself with various projects. In Swakopmund, the past year has seen the railway station and tracks being shifted to make space for a huge mall development. The brand new Swakopmund Strand Hotel opened its doors and is creating a huge holiday vibe at the Mole with people queuing to partake in what the new establishment has to offer. Henties Bay saw the opening of a new shopping centre and commercial banks moving to bigger and better premises to provide superior service to the growing multitude of residents in the town.

1. Unless you have someone on call - like a friend, family member or a taxi – take the safe road and never drink & drive. 2. A glass of water between drinks is a good way to stay cool throughout the night. 3. The worst guest is always the one who overstays their welcome. If you’ve had enough to drink, call it a night, you’ll thank yourself the next morning. 4. There’s a reason why we protest against any under-age drinking. Anyone younger than 18 has the ability to negatively impact their future so don’t encourage it, don’t sell it to them and keep an eye out. 5. Always remind yourself to STAY COOL! – that way you can enjoy responsibility and really relax this holiday!

town. The newly elected Mayor of Swakopmund, Paulina Nashilundo, was present for this occasion and, unlike previous years, the lights were switched on during the morning on Thursday to officially open the fair. Around 110 stalls were set up, and as always provided an opportunity for exhibitors, crafts folk, artists, SME's and food vendors with a platform to earn some extra money, whilst providing last minute Christmas shoppers with a variety of goodies for under the Christmas tree, ranging from hand-made decorations, clothing and toys to nick-knacks. As usual the many food stalls were well supported

In Walvis Bay, the new container terminal was visited by the third president of the Republic of Namibia and construction started on the new North Harbour development. And a totally new industrial area is rising out of the marshlands towards the west of the harbour town. Lastly, from an organisation whose businesses is words, the Namib Independent team would like our last words of the year to be a heartfelt thank you to our readers, the community and to our advertisers for all the support during 2015. Thank you very much and we wish you all a prosperous 2016. The staff will take a break over the holidays and the Namib Independent will be back on the streets in the second week of January 2016.

as the aroma of 'braai-vleis' and freshly rolled pan cakes fill the air. "The Christmas season is that special time of the year when friends and families get together and this event affords young and old an opportunity to come together in a wonderful atmosphere, whilst supporting the efforts of our local entrepreneurs," said the Nashilundo. "This Fair has become the highlight of Christmas shopping down at the coast, and is the success story of the Swakopmund Council who have worked tirelessly for decades to turn this annual event into the much loved start of the holidays.

" I welcome all visitors to our beautiful town with open arms, and point out that with competition still running for the 'Town of the Year', we want people to vote for Swakopmund and bring it to the first place it deserves." It was also mentioned that all people must be law abiding this festive season, and that there will be zero tolerance towards drinking and driving, negligent and wreckless driving as well as misconduct. "I want everyone to help maintain peace throughout the Christimas period, and wish you all a season filled with goodwill and prosperity."

eason Greetings from Wessie van der Westhuizen, Managing Director of Namibia Breweries Limited:

“An amazing piece of the journey is behind us - 2015 has given us the building blocks to carry our spirit into 2016 with positive momentum. We look ahead into an exciting year filled with opportunities and ways in which we can keep living out our O&L group mantra of “Creating a future, enhancing life”. We are a nation of warm-hearted, friendly and social people and isn’t that in itself already a great thing to celebrate! We need to however do a check-in with ourselves to make sure we keep to the basics of what it means to STAY COOL! This way we can enjoy every single night off, every moment with friends and family as well as every road trip to our destination and back. Thank you for your time, remember to ENJOY RESPONSIBILITY while enjoying a joyous festive season and incredibly prosperous New Year.

DRINKING & DIALLING: So you’re out with the friends and you’ve had one too many. When the party moves to the next spot, instead of taking out your car keys, make the call. We support Drinking & dialling! Dial-A-Cab: 081 127 0557

DON’T DRINK & DRIVE EN J OY R E S P O N S I B I LIT Y

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Thursday, 17 December 2015

Festive Season message from Walvis Bay Continued from Page 1 the beaches. These actions will be regarded as a health nuisance, alternatively as indecent or offensive behaviour, and carry fines of N$1,000.00 or three months imprisonment, or both. A similar fine will be imposed on those found guilty of damaging municipal property, notice boards, fences or any local authority building along the beaches. The Municipality appeals to everyone to report any vandalised, broken or damaged municipal facility by phoning 0811220888 / 0811220833. Camping Visitors are not allowed to camp on the seashore overnight. Bonfires or braais are not allowed on the beach unless suitable and removable containers are used. Do not leave ash or coals on the beach.

Fishing A fishing permit is required for recreational angling and can be obtained at the offices of the Ministry of Marine Resources and Fisheries in Walvis Bay or Swakopmund. For more information, please contact the offices in Swakopmund at 064 – 410 1000 or in Walvis Bay at 064 – 201 6111. Fishing is allowed at the Paaltjies area, and north of Walvis Bay up to the Swakop River mouth. Unwanted fish (sharks etc.) must be returned to the sea while bait and fishing tackle must be removed from the beach. Remember to use only the designated fish cleaning spots and refuse bins. Off-road Vehicles and Quad Bikes A permit is required for off-road or dune excursions by quad bike or four-wheel drive vehicles. Permits and identifying stickers are available free of charge at the Ministry of Environment and Tourism offices in Swakopmund (Tel: 064 404576) and Walvis Bay (Tel: 064 205971/2) and

Dare Devil Adventures at Langstrand. No vehicles other than emergency services are allowed to drive in vegetated and fenced-off areas. Quad bikes must be licensed and riders must wear helmets at all times. Quad bikes are only allowed in the central dune belt between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay as demarcated by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Motorbikes and quad bikes, other than registered tour operators with permission, are not allowed in the following areas: • on the beach between the Swakop River and Sandwich Harbour (including Pelican Point), between the low water mark and the first crest of the western side of the sea-facing dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay up to the Kuiseb Delta, • on any unproclaimed roads or tracks on the eastern edge of the dune belt, any gravel plains, or anywhere in the Swakop River.

Four wheel drive vehicles are allowed near the beach area north of Langstrand up to the Swakop River mouth. No quad bikes or four-wheel drive vehicles are allowed between the northern edge of the Langstrand Resort and the southern tip of the Afrodite Beach development. The central dune area between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay may be accessed from the demarcated corridors opposite Langstrand, Dolphin Beach and at Dune 7. Traffic Control The Municipal Traffic Division and Nampol Traffic will exercise strict control over road use and adherence to traffic rules and signs. Road blocks will be set up to ensure that road users adhere to traffic safety regulations. Road users are reminded to wear seat belts at all times and to adhere to the speed limits. Motorists should note that various speed limits

apply between Walvis Bay and Swakopmund. Avoid drinking or using a cell phone while driving. Also make sure that you have your driver’s licence in the car when driving as well as the required emergency triangle. Switch on your headlights between dusk and dawn, and in foggy or hazy conditions. Fireworks Residents and visitors are reminded that it is prohibited to set off or burn fireworks in residential areas. Permission to shoot fireworks must be obtained from the Namibian Police. If permission has been granted, extreme care should be taken when handling or setting off fireworks. Do not allow children to play with or shoot fireworks. More information and further clarification on pyrotechnics can be obtained from Mr. George King at 0811285491.

Geingob Says There

Will Be No Secret Deals Continued from Page 1

Chinese President Xi Jinping (center) attends a meeting with Namibian President Hage Geingob (right) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, April 8, 2014. Photo: Parker Song-Pool/Getty Images local reports said such a project would likely have significant geopolitical and economic benefits for both China and Namibia. The Namibian revealed details of another confidential letter saying Abed had met with a senior spokesman for the Chinese defence ministry, Geng Yansheng, to discuss “several issues of mutual interest and benefit.” Yansheng allegedly suggested that Namibia had problems with illegal fishing trawlers in its water and a Chinese naval presence would deter them. He also allegedly discussed how Chinese navy would help train the Namibian navy for both combat and civilian operations.

An earlier report by the Namibian, citing Chinese accounts, stated that the proposed Walvis Bay plan is one of 18 such plans for China around the world, with others eyed for Yemen, Sri Lanka and Madagascar. All would be intended to help the Chinese military patrol significant trade passages. The Walvis Bay base fits into the country’s larger plans globally and would “further enhance China’s effectiveness in taking responsibility for maintaining the safety of international maritime routes, thereby maintaining regional and world stability,” the report said. Source: International Business Times

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Thursday, 17 December 2015

Value addition suffers because of strike International hake buyers are dealing with a shortage of valueadded products, driven by issues in the main processing hubs of Latin America and fishing operations in Africa. The fishing industry strike in Namibia is also hitting hake availability. The strike started when more than 800 seagoing employees refused to report to their fishing vessels to return to sea near the end of October, when a month-long break in the hake fishing season was coming to an end. Employees are said to be dissatisfied with the long hours they are required to work - including overtime and work on Sundays, as well as poor pay, according to Namibian media. "In October, Namibia had its annual fishing closure and then in November there was the strike and processing plants did not have volumes available to work. So far, there has been almost no fishing or production in Namibia," Mansilla said. Since Fripur, Uruguay's largest processing company, shut down its operations during August due to its bankruptcy filing, the hake market is facing a shortage of value-added products, industry sources said. The closure of Fripur accentuated scarce volumes of value-added hake caused by stricken fishing company Alpesca, with hake operations reportedly inoperative.

"Fripur and Alpesca used to produce, roughly, between 8,000 and 10,000 metric tons of finished products each, a bit more than half of which was value-added," said Mariano Mansilla, founder of the Argentine firm Seaman International. On top of that, Argentina's high inflation and costs of labour have also pushed processing companies to shift from value-added to commodity production, such as hake shatterpacked fillets, Mansilla said. "With hake operations from Alpesca and Fripur shut down, there are no important players doing valueadded. This means big European clients are facing a shortage of product," he said. Italy and France are the main buyers of value-added hake, which is processed from fresh, so fish is presented boneless or in its natural shape for frozen or ready meal products. "European buyers have enough volumes to endure a time, but it's short. Buyers have quickly demanded product from Namibia and South Africa to replace volumes that used to be processed by Fripur," Mansilla said. "But processed stocks from Africa are mostly sold, so there's not much possibility to replace volumes," he said. Another hake source from South Africa confirmed this situation.

"With the long-standing customers the South African industry has abroad, the Cape hake resource we have is largely allocated to those long-standing markets," the source said. In addition, current hake catches in South Africa are lower than last year, compounding the pressure on product conversion and supply, he said. In the meantime twelve fishing companies that had sued their employees for having been on strike since the end of October in Walvis Bay and Lüderitz were granted a Labour Court interdict against the striking fishermen, two trade unions and two trade unionists. As a result of the Court ruling, the 823 employees who were accused of engaging in the unlawful strike by the 12 companies -- Hangana Seafood (Pty) Ltd, Overberg Fishing (Pty) Ltd, Rainbow Trawling (Pty) Ltd, Ekikimbo Trawling (Pty) Ltd, Embwiinda (Pty) Ltd, Tunacor Fisheries Ltd, Corvima Fishing Company (Pty) Ltd, Beluga Fishing (Pty) Ltd, Novanam Ltd, Seaflower Whitefish Corporation Ltd, Seacope Freezer Fishing (Pty) Ltd and Benguela Sea Products (Pty) Ltd. -are not allowed to incite or encourage any of the companies' employees to take part in the strike. Among the respondents in the matter at Court were The Mining, Metal, Maritime and Construction

(MMMC) Union, the Namibia National Labour Organisation (NANLO), the Office of the Labour Commissioner and over 1,000 striking fishermen. In their defence, these employees denied that their refusal to work is unlawful and highlighted that the issue is related to their working hours. The striking fishermen proved to be unwilling to return to their fishing vessels until a number of issues pertaining to their conditions of employment and wages are resolved. According to court documents they are sometimes required to work 18 hours uninterrupted and their legal representative compared their working conditions to "slave labour". MMMC Union’s Immanuel Petrus said that even if the court ruled in favour of the fishing companies, they would still not go back to work if compliance orders were not given to their Employers, the Namibian Sun reported. The unionist insisted that although it is reported that the strike is illegal, the workers are guided by the rule of law that no one should be treated like a slave. On the other hand, Court documents showed that Novanam Human Resources Manager, Francis Kawana, said in his court affidavit that he rejected claims that the fishing commission paid to fishermen was unfair.

Kawana explained the fishing commission is paid for the quantity of fish landed of the required quality and standard. It is also paid to compensate employees for work performed in excess of the maximum hours, as envisioned by the Labour Act. “This practise is in line with what happens internationally in the fishing industry. In fact, there is no other recognised fishing nation in the world where seagoing employees are specifically paid for overtime or night work,” he said. Kawana clarified that although the workers may be on fishing vessels for 24 hours, it may be that for most of the time they are actually doing nothing. Source: undercurrent news

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Thursday, 17 December 2015

Anti-Corruption takes centre stage with PM at the coast Donna Collins Awareness for the fight against corruption just days before Christmas, gave rise to the seriousness of the matter, by those who attended the International Anti-Corruption Day in Swakopmund last week, when Prime Minister Saara KuugongelwaAmadhila joined in a commemoration event. The occasion was hosted by the AntiCorruption Commission (ACC), which commenced with a march through town, a performance by the navy brass band and an earnest session at the Swakopmund Municipality, which was attended by Councillors, Mayors, members of the Swakopmund Council, Nampol, the NCCI, NGOs to mention some. In her address, the Prime Minister stated that corruption comes in various forms and that fighting corruption is the duty of all of us: private citizens, politicians and public servants. She also said that that, whilst Namibia has made commendable progress in combating corruption, we still face some tough challenges. "It is our Government's resolve to reduce poverty and inequalities on the one hand, but on the other hand continue fighting corruption tooth and nail before it becomes a vicious cycle of poverty fuelling corruption and corruption fuelling poverty." Making reference to the United Nations Anti Corruption resolution Namibia

adopted in October 2003, she said that the "The Witness and Whistleblower Protection Bill", is receiving the attention of the Government, but people should be encouraged to report corrupt practices to the authorities. "We are strengthening our public finance, public service and public procurement legislation to strengthen amongst others, the misconduct provisions, and to align sanctions for corrupt practices under the Anti Corruption Act. "The best cure for corruption is prevention, and by raising awareness and effective implementation of preventative measures can help address the risks of corruption at the root - before the crime is committed, before assets are stolen, before the public funds are misused and before bribery and other forms of corrupt practices are committed," she stated. "Corruption is the enemy of our progress and prosperity, and just like the State introduces laws and control measures to reduce the likelihood of corruption actions, so must private business prevent staff and agents from participating in corruption by improving the transparency of financial reporting, strengthening accounting audits and monitor internal control and risk management frameworks." Meanwhile, the Director General of Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Paulus Kalomho Noa, on the occasion said that corruption attacks the foundation of democratic institutions whereby, there can be no respect for

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rule of law and for fundamental human rights. "Corruption is a cross border crime that requires all nations in the world to commit themselves to the fight, and in this regard, the ACC has made recommendations to authorities to review specific laws and policies with the view to plug in the corruption loopholes," said Noa. "A substantial number of cases were referred to the ProsecutorGeneral with recommendation for prosecution, and we do not only investigate corrupt practices in the

public sector but the private sector as well. "We are strongly convinced that improvement of systems, practices and policies is the best strategy to curb corruption, and the Commission has observed a positive response from members of the public in terms of reporting and supporting the efforts of the ACC." He further stated that the National Anti-Corruption Strategy aims to introduce integrity management systems to promote ethical values

within the public institutions, and all components of the Namibian society ranging from individuals, family community, NGOs, public and private sector, religious leaders and political leaders - to form a strong network against mismanagement of public resources. "We shall not be able to accelerate the eradication of poverty and economically empower the disadvantaged members of our society if we do not tackle corruption head on."

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Helper in the port of Walvis Bay To our clients and service providers we send Holiday Greetings and best wishes for a New Year of happiness. May peace, love and prosperity follow you always. One of the real joys of this season is the opportunity to say thank you and to wish you the very best for 2016.

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Thursday, 17 December 2015

Walvis Bay opens alternative trade route for Botswana Since the construction of the Trans Kalahari Corridor (TKC), there have been several initiatives to see how best to develop the Botswana market via Walvis Bay, Namibia. Among these initiatives are the establishment of the Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS), the establishment of a Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG) office in Johannesburg, South Africa and the development of a dry port facility in Walvis Bay for Botswana. Various activities were also hosted in Botswana to create awareness for Walvis Bay as an alternative international trade route for the landlocked country. Botswana, which has a similar economy in terms of size as Namibia, is now looking stronger than ever towards the Walvis Bay Corridors as a potential trade route. The WBCG has therefore embarked on an awareness campaign beyond the capital city in Botswana to other areas which are critical for decision making in the country. An information session hosted by the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), Trans Kalahari Corridor Secretariat (TKCS) and Botswana Railways, was held in November in the mining town of Francistown.

This city is strategically located to service countries like Zimbabwe. In his discussion, WBCG CEO, Johny Smith advised entrepreneurs to take advantage of the Trans Kalahari Corridor from Walvis Bay to establish a transit hub to service countries such as Zimbabwe. “Francistown can look at establishing distribution facilities. Entrepreneurs from Francistown and the rest of Botswana can also establish offices or branches in Walvis Bay and take advantage of the current existing niches in the logistics business. There are abundant opportunities that entrepreneurs from this country can take advantage of in the logistics business in Walvis Bay,” he said. Johny further suggested that if Francistown establishes a logistics hub, it can further attract more investment in the city and thus create employment and add value to the economy. “The Trans Kalahari Corridor presents a golden opportunity for Botswana to export and import goods in a cheaper and more effective way, which would further enhance your economy. In today’s competitive logistics environment, importers and exporters are constantly looking at alternatives for their clients aimed at reducing the time and cost of doing business within the

region,” Johny said. In addition, he explained that the Trans Kalahari Corridor, which is linked to the port of Walvis Bay, has the potential to add a great deal of value to the mining sector in Botswana. “The mining sector, which forms the backbone of Botswana’s economy, can immensely benefit from the TKC and thus add value to the economy and create employment,” he said. Johny said the TKC, which links to the Walvis Bay Port, provides a short transport link across the entire breadth of Southern Africa. Compared to the traditional Southern Namibia routes that link to South Africa’s Gauteng, Smith said TKC cuts the distance by 400 kilometers, making it a more preferred route providing cost effective logistical advantages to the users. Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Neil Fitt said that corridors are important to precipitate trade and most importantly to lower transportation costs for a landlocked country like Botswana. “Botswana is a landlocked country, but through this corridor Botswana will be able to compete fairly and benefit,” he said.

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PUBLIC NOTICE HEAD OFFICE RELOCATION Dear Valued Customers Kindly be informed that the second phase renovations for the Erongo RED Head Office located at 91 Hage Geingob Street, 1st Floor will soon commence. Therefore, please take note of the relocation of the following offices to the temporary premises as indicated below: • Office of the Chief Executive Officer • Executive Management • Public Relations & Marketing These Offices will relocate to Nechvile Building,Erf 653, Corner of Hage Geingob & 11th Road, Walvis Bay. • Credit Control • Human Capital and Corporate Support Services • Finance and Administration These Offices will relocate to Yianni Savva Building, Erf 1034, Corner of Nangolo Mbumba & 11th Road, Walvis Bay. We apologise for any inconvenience that this exercise may cause. TEL +264 64 214600 ERONGO RED BUILDING

FAX +264 64 214601

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Mr Johny Smith, the Chief Executive Officer of the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG)

News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Walvis Bay

Airport receives

aerodrome licence

The Namibia Airports Company has announced recently that the Walvis Bay airport has received its Aerodrome licence. “An inspection was conducted at the Walvis Bay airport from the 13th to the 17th of July 2015 and corrective actions were implemented and evidence submitted end of November that all findings have been addressed and were found acceptable. We were then handed our licence on 30 November 2015,” said Chief Executive Officer Tamer El-Kallawi He added that NAC would continue to fulfil its duties and obligations at the airport to ensure that the licence would remain valid at all times. The continuous

improvement of safety and security of airport operations is one of the six strategic priority areas as outlined in the NAC’s Strategic Plan 2014-2017 and similar activities are on-going for the airports of Eros and Ondangwa by the end of 2015 for successful renewal of their operational licences. Once completed, the current licensing process will enhance the level of compliance of NAC’s airports to national and international safety and security requirements, ultimately contributing to Namibia fulfilling its commitment to license all international airports by December 2015 as per the Declaration adopted by all African States in Abuja (Nigeria) in July 2012.

height 140 mm - width 190 mm

We wish you a wonderful festive season, and lots of prosperity in 2016.

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Please note we will be closed from 23.12.2015 to 04.01.2016.

Chief Executive Officer Tamer El-Kallawi

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News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Chamber thanks Namibian President The Namibian President’s action plan in the fight against the scourge of poverty won the admiration of many leaders from around the world and the local business leaders have taken note of the declaration of war. In a statement released by the Walvis Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) the association says

it acknowledges that when President Hage Geingob assumed presidency earlier in the year, one of his prime fundamental ideologies was the explicit war on poverty coupled with transparent reign and administration open to criticism. “The positive results already received in President Geingob’s journey are showing clearly close to nine months into his leadership and the NCCI further

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acknowledge that under his astute and progressive leadership, we have a bright future ahead.” Transparency advocates that greater access to government information is essential to greater accountability and improved quality of government in the long term. “In essence President Hage Geingob and First Lady Monica’s public assets declaration should serve as an outstanding show

of transparency that adds clarity and accountability to a Democratic system.” President Geingob has been strong on his vision for the future of Namibia, as expressed in terms of the “Namibian house” analogy which was set out in a number of strong and well-articulated speeches such as the State of the Nation address earlier in the year. Accountability and service delivery implies that leaders, managers and top officials carry out their duties effectively in order to achieve the stated goals of their various offices, Ministries and Agencies and this is pivotal for the development of our nation as a whole. “The NCCI believes President Geingob’s performance should be portrayed as a beacon of hope to the drive against poverty because of his genuine desire to see upliftment of the underprivileged.” The drive to combat poverty should be undertaken by pooling resources and coordinating action for solidarity from the business community. Such initiatives will set an example for others to follow their lead. Businesses, individuals or companies dedicated to this cause should aim at fostering equal opportunity for every individual. The Business sector, Unions, Government and Local Authorities must pull up their sleeves and pool effort so that poverty can be defeated and Namibia can be more inclusive. “The NCCI can proudly initiate a prototype of what can be done as an organised business community by supporting our President Geingob by tendering a new vision that brings together business, society and government on the anti-poverty front. Shoulder to shoulder we must continue to march towards a poverty free Namibia. The purpose of fighting poverty is to provide our people with

access to basic essentials such as food, water, shelter, health services, education and access to employment.” In the statement, the NCCI urges people to follow the good example of the President who contributed 20 percent of his salary in order to set up a scholarship fund for impoverished children which is part of his quest to combat poverty, which cannot be achieved without sacrifices. “The Walvis Bay Branch of NCCI supports President Geingob for declaring war against poverty and strongly encourage business establishments who are willing and able to support our President in his action by contributing from N$ 250 000 to N$ 1 000 000 each to raise the N$ 600 million, which can be available to assist in the war against poverty.” As an integrated national network the NCCI should establish a committee through its various branches together with Ministry of Finance, the Office of the Prime Minister, the National Planning Commission with the Ministry of Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare coordinating action in this matter to establish this new source of financing through voluntary contribution of those who can afford, willing and able to assist fighting against poverty. In addition a certificate of Tax credit should be issued for the amount of contribution to those who contribute to this exceptional initiative. “History shows us that without these basic essentials individuals have virtually no chance of economic prosperity let alone a standard of life equality. In an inclusive society such as ours everyone has the right to live with dignity and with a sufficient standard of living and our President intends to do everything in his power to attain this goal.”

The Management and Team would like to Thank all our loyal customers for their support throughout the year and wish you and your families a pleasant Festive Season. Please take note that we will be closing on the 24th December 2015 at 12:00 and will re-open again on the 4th January 2016.

Tel: 064 27 4840 | Fax: 064 27 4841 | Email: info@samsungnamibia.com

News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

The Namibian Uranium Association announce new appointments The Namibian Uranium Association (NUA) is an independent association representing the interest of all the operating uranium mines, most of the uranium exploration companies and contractors associated with the industry. It is governed by a Board of Trustees. The purpose of the association is to promote the development of an efficient uranium industry committed to sustainable development and in compliance with Namibian laws and regulations. Mr Hilifa Mbako was elected as the new Chairperson of the NUA with effect from 1 January 2016 for the next two years. He takes over from Mr Deon Garbers, the Senior Executive Vice President of Swakop Uranium, who has led the NUA during the past two years. Mr Mbako is currently the Managing Director of AREVA Namibia and its subsidiary companies. Mr. Hilifa Mbako joined AREVA Namibia as Country

Manager in December 2009 and became Chairman of AREVA Processing Namibia in November 2011. The Association is also pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Werner Ewald as the acting Deputy Chair. Mr Ewald is the General Manager of Bannerman Resources Namibia. Mr Ewald chairs the NUA Sustainable Development Committee that leads the development of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positions on key issues affecting the expansion of uranium exploration, mining and exports. His focus during the next two years will be on the importance of water and power supply in the Erongo region. The Namibian Uranium Institute (NUI) is the uranium industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading point of contact for governments, the public, media and other interested parties. The NUI creates consultative communication platforms, set standards and provides health, environmental and radiation safety training for the

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industry. It is closely linked to the Namibian University for Science and Technology (NUST). The NUA is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Gabi Schneider as the Executive Director of the Namibian Uranium Institute (NUI) with effect from 1st of February 2016. Dr Schneider takes over from Dr Wotan Swiegers, who retires after leading the NUI since its inception in 2009. She serves on numerous platforms notably as the President of the Organisation of African Geological Surveys (2013-2016) and the Vice Chairperson of the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia. She is a Director of

the Minerals Development Fund of Namibia; the Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Namibian Institute for Mining and Technology (NIMT); a member of the Sustainable Development Council of Namibia and a member of the Benguela Current Commission. She served as a presidential appointee on the Council of the University of Namibia and its Executive Committee, and as a member of the National Heritage Council of Namibia, where she also held the post of Chairperson of the Scientific Committee. She is an honorary life member of the Geological Society of Namibia, an honorary fellow of the Geological

Society of London, and is a registered Scientist with the South Africa Council for Natural Scientists.

Happy Holidays! May this festive season be a peaceful and fun-filled time for you and your loved ones. Make this a memorable holiday by driving and using facilities with consideration and safety of others and the environment. We wish all our residents and visitors a joyous Christmas and a prosperous 2016!

ALARM Kit 2 - iNcL. iNstALLAtioN Kit includes: 1 x IDS 805 Panel, 1 x 8 Zone Panel, 4 x Detectors, 2 x Magnetic Door Contacts, 2x Panic Buttons, Transformers, 1 x Back-up Battery, Cables and Glue, Red L.E.D Light, 2 x 2 Channel Remotes, 3 x Channel Reciever.

Special applieS for: Walvis Bay, Swakopmund & Henties Bay

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Municipality of Walvis Bay Public Relations & Customer Service Division Email: pr@walvisbaycc.org.na Tel: +264 64 201 33111 Fax: +264 64 205 590

To our esteemed clients and the coastal community a great and joyous

May the spirit of giving be with all of us. Namib Diesel will be closing the 18th December 2015 and will re-open on the 4th January 2016. Emergency numbers during the festive season will be 081 374 0033 / 081 127 4922. Take care and see you back in 2016!

News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Awareness needed on international fraud Sponsored by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), International Fraud Awareness Week, was held at the end of November and the event was dedicated to fraud awareness, detection, and prevention. It is a global effort to minimise the impact of fraud by promoting anti-fraud awareness and education. Founded in 1988 the ACFE is the world’s largest anti-fraud

organisation and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education. “FNB Namibia, as the leading bank in the country, participated in this week through a country wide awareness campaign at all branches. We included staff as well as stakeholders in the training and awareness campaign as we did not only focus on fraud that impacts our customers but also possible internal fraud in which staff members could

be involved. We have put together a presentation on the various forms of fraud as well as a booklet which was handed out,” said Ingrid Katjiukua, Head of Forensics at FNB Namibia. The booklet that FNB Namibia has put together contains detailed information about all types of Fraud, ranging from ATM fraud to card fraud and skimming, cheque fraud, identity theft, phishing, internet banking, e-mail hacking,

cell phone banking, money laundering to various scams such as deposit and refund scam, 419 scam and sim-swap. “Our booklet contains information as to what exactly the type of fraud is and most importantly how to protect yourself against becoming a victim and staying money-safe. We have some golden rules in place, which, if people adhere to these and take note, they should not fall victim to any of the numerous ways of fraudsters and scammers. “ Katjiukua encouraged customers to request a booklet from FNB Namibia and to educate and inform themselves on how to protect against fraud. “While it is not possible for me to give all the golden rules that are contained in the book for the various types of frauds, here are my top ten tips that people should remember as a first step to being protected: 1. Always keep your PIN safe and do not share with anyone – make your PIN and passwords a bit more difficult and do not write them down 2. Be wary of people loitering around an ATM and strangers offering help

3. Do not disclose any personal information to anyone via phone, mail or fax 4. Do not click on a link sent via mail 5. Do not open links or documents from a source you do not know 6. Get one time PIN on your cell and PC so that you can immediately notice a possible strange transaction on your account 7. If it sounds too good to be true (money won in lottery, from deceased estate and the like) it probably is. Never provide money upfront to an unknown source as an administrative fee. 8. Do not do your banking in internet cafes or unsecure terminals – use our cell phone banking 9. Set daily limits on withdrawals and transfers – just in case. 10. Check your bank statement regularly and report any discrepancies immediately.” FNB’s 24 hour number to report any suspicious activities or to stop your card is 061 299 2999

Download the Bank Windhoek App This holiday season, make your banking a festive experience and enjoy more choice and convenience backed by service you can trust.

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Tel +264 64 200 566 Fax +264 64 200 568 Email michael@eae.com.na PO Box 1576, Walvis Bay Namibia

Ons wens al ons Kliente ‘n geseende kersfees en ‘n voorspoedige nuwe jaar toe.

We wish all our Customers a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Wir wünschen unseren Kunden frohe Weihnachten und ein erfolgreiches neues Jahr.

We would like to remind all our customers that we will be closing on the 23th of December 2015 and re-open on the 4th of January 2016 www.bankwindhoek.com.na

In case of emergency please contact Michael @ 081 127 6500 or Achim @ 081 129 9304

Erongo RED

Board of Directors, Management & Staff would like to wish the Namibian Nation a joyous festive season. Thank you for your continuous support during 2015. We look forward to working with you in 2016.

red

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Festive Season Operating Hours Dear Customers Kindly be informed that all Erongo RED Offices will be open during the festive Season except for all public holidays and the days indicated below: â&#x20AC;˘ Thursday, 24 December 2015 and Thursday, 31 December 2015 For any electricity related enquiries during the festive season, please contact the following standby numbers: Town Walvis Bay Swakopmund

Standby Number/s 081 129 3875 / 081 128 9552 081 128 5561 / 081 129 5229

Arandis

081 128 6331

Henties Bay Omaruru Karibib

081 149 0179 081 128 6338 081 128 6337

Usakos Uis

081 128 6334 081 149 0104

Credit Control Pre-Paid Customers Call Centre

081 124 5823/ 081 127 9471 081 141 2476 / 081 147 2470 081 166 5058 / 081 9600 (Toll Free) TEL +264 64 214600 FAX +264 64 214601 ERONGO RED BUILDING 91 HAGE GEINGOB STREET P O BOX 2925 WALVIS BAY NAMIBIA

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News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

MTC donates safety

equipment at roadblock Donna Collins As roadblocks around the country fill up with holidaymakers travelling to their holiday destinations, MTC has put their money where their mouth is with a sponsorship of safety equipment to the value of N$140 000 to assist towards the National Road Safety Campaign, which was officially handed over at the Swakopmund Traffic Road Block to Nampol this week. In keeping with their corporate

social responsibility, and road safety initiatives in particular, during the peak season when our country is experiencing higher levels of road carnage, has been given top priority by the company. "MTC will always stand ever ready to commit its support to road safety promotion and education in reducing preventable deaths and injuries through public education and effective interventions such as this, as we play our part in road safety awareness and promotion," said Joseph Mundjindi at the

handover. In addition, MTC has also committed to provide personnel to assist traffic and road safety ambassadors in manning both the Otjiwarongo and Swakopmund Road Blocks during the campaign. "It gives us great pleasure to commit our support to the cause of road safety - owing to the detrimental nature of road carnage in particular during the festive periods, and MTC has made a pledge to the goal that one day we will see that there are zero fatalities on our roads."

Christmas is coming at full speed…. The smallest Formula 1 style race track in Africa is ready for the festive season! You can experience what it feels like to be a race car driver on the 520 meter long circuit from the GoKart Track in Swakopmund. With a top speed of 70 km/ hr, the challenging corners of the circuit will make your adrenalin levels rush to top of the Christmas tree! Go-Kart racing is possible

for children from 10 years old and/or 1.40mtr tall. For the younger children, the Pedal Go Kart and road safety playground will ensure that they will be entertained for hours. During the 2015-2016 festive season, the Go-Kart Track in Swakopmund will, once again, keep record off the lap times to see who will be this year’s Holiday Season Champion. At the end of the season, the champion in his/her category will receive a trophy. Categories are divided in weight classes and junior / senior and female drivers.

The Go-Kart Track Swakopmund is open daily from 09:00 till 20:00 in the period of 15 December 2015 till 10 January 2016. Entrance to the playground costs N$30.00 per child and to race the 200cc Go-Karts is possible from N$120.00. Cool drinks and snacks/brötchen are available at the Land Rover Bar. The Go-Kart Track is well signposted and situated just outside Swakopmund; B2, Airport exit. For more information or bookings call 081 350 2723 or email info@ kartingnamibia.com.

MTC Manager for Sponsorship and Promotions, Joseph Mundjindi (centre) flanked by Nampol law enforcement officers Chief Inspector Langer, Chief Inspector Eberenz, Deputy Commissioner Gerber and Inspector Aocharub, at the Swakopmund roadblock during the handover of road safety equipment.

Areva stands accused of bribery International anti-corruption NonGovernmental Organisation, Sherpa, has filed a case against French-based nuclear power multinational Areva, alleging corruption related to a mining deal involving assets in South Africa, Namibia and the Central African Republic. The allegations centre on the 1.8 billion euro purchase of three uranium mines in 2007. "We have a strong suspicion of bribery," relating to foreign government officials, Sherpa executive director Laetitia Liebert told RFI on Wednesday. "We are trying to understand how these suspicious operations could escape the attention of the compliance and audit committees of the group."

Areva is 86 per cent owned by the French state. The company's offices and homes of former executives were searched by France's financial prosecutor last year. Compliance staff at Areva "should have been able to detect" suspicious transactions and "alert the judicial authorities", Liebert said. "We would like to make sure that the persons responsible are identified." Uramin's mining interests in South Africa, Namibia and the Central African Republic were bought by Areva for a vastly inflated sum, according to Sherpa. Source: Radio France Internationale

News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

FIRST BEST FRIENDS - THEN BROTHERS - NOW NEIGHBOURS

The Swakopmund Retirement Village now also offers world-class care services in partnership with GERATEC, the full-service provider of personcentred care. Visit www.geratecza.com for more information.

www.faanberghwinckler.com // info@faanberghwinckler.com or +264 (0)81 484 8133 (Daniela Vorster)

Friends since the day we met, and we never looked back. Although we’ve shared many good times, it hasn’t all been moonshine and roses. We’ve struggled and built, sweated and grew closer together until both our families became one. Now, with the two of us holding down the proverbial fort, we decided to stay close. I went for the house on the Estate because I wanted a bit more freedom. For my best mate there was a grand two-bedroom apartment, which allows him to be a little closer to the nurses and their wonderful care. He also gets his meals cooked there, and all his cleaning is taken care of. We seem to be having a lot more fun these days, still fishing and visiting our favorite café every Sunday. It’s retirement all right, but with quite the silver lining. Uschi & Diane Estate Agents Susan Curtis Estates Welwitschia Estates

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News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

Welcome to Opposite Lock Namibia Established over 35 years ago, Opposite Lock is originally an Australian wide chain of 4WD specialist accessory stores, owned and operated by genuine four wheel drive enthusiasts. Recently opened in Namibia, on the corner of Einstein and Edison streets in the new industrial area of Swakopmund, Opposite Lock offers the same comprehensive range of premium accessories and equipment to suit all popular 4x4s. Whatever you drive, wherever you want to go, Opposite Lock has a range of the best 4×4 gear that you can select from to improve your vehicle’s practicality, off-road performance and appearance to make your vehicle more capable, comfortable and enjoyable to tow, camp and tour! “At Opposite Lock, we love four-wheeldriving and we make a point of getting out there, getting around, and getting dirty absolutely every

chance we get. That’s why you can trust us, your local Opposite Lock store. We know what works and what doesn’t,” said Werner Schaap the owner of the new shop in Swakopmund. He said he believes in offering his customers the widest possible range of products and helping them make the best possible choice. “We specialise in Tough Dog Suspension systems and other well-known Opposite Lock products such as custom made bumpers, winches, and Lightforce spotlights. We also stock a wide range of Jeep aftermarket products like LED headlights, rear lights, snorkels and grills, and we also sell the full range of Snomaster fridges. Besides stocking all these well-known products we also custom manufacture aluminium canopies and do battery installations. At Opposite Lock the choice is yours.”

News

Thursday, 17 December 2015

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