Namib Independent Issue 191

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Independent Namib

Tel: 064 200497

Like a newspaper, only better!

Issue 191 - Friday, 01 Apr 2016 to Wed, 06 Apr 2016

Diamond Arrow Winner Best Community Newspaper 2014 and 2015

Everyone thinks that playing with fire crackers is harmless fun, but it is not - prohibit all fireworks from your home... it would help prevent more people from being victims of firecracker injuries like myself.

This practice has once again reared its ugly head in South Africa and might, unfortunately, also spill over to our country

Former Mayor of Walvis Bay King Mandume Muatunga

Ingrid Katjiukua, Head of Forensics at FNB Namibia on the illegal practice of SIM Swapping See Page 6

See Page 4

Burning rubber at 'Swakop Spin City'

See Page 5

Some 240 super fit Namibian men and women took part in the gruelling Two Oceans Half and Ultra Marathon in Cape Town last Saturday which saw 27 000 runners from all over the world take part, under extreme weather conditions which pitted their endurance to the max. Swakop Striders Johan Bronkhorst (centre) was the fastest Coastal runner in the Ultra Marathon, and proudly brought home a medal for an excellent time is pictured here surrounded by his team. See full story on page 10.

Scammers preying Pit-bull pup stolen on grieving next of kin from Walvis SPCA Donna Collins

Marshallino Beukes Shameless scammers are busy at the coast, trying to con unsuspected mourning families with false promises of money that must be deposited in order to receive cash, allegedly left behind

by deceased family members.

These scammers copy the contact numbers of family members from death notices in newspapers and contact them, alleging that they are from one or other insurance company. Promises of cash payouts are made, but the twist is that

this family member is requested to first deposit a certain amount of money into a bank account before the “pay-out” can realise. Some unsuspecting people are caught off-guard, only to realise afterwards that they were scammed. A Continued on Page 3

Thieves broke into the Walvis Bay SPCA on Tuesday night, and stole a Pit-bull puppy 'Bianca' from one of the kennels, leaving a trail of footprints to a high back wall where they gained entry.

This shocking turn of events has left management and kennel staff at the

SPCA feeling uneasy about the future security of their animals, and the search is on for the safe return of Bianca.

Although there is electric fencing all around the SPCA premises, a back adjacent wall linked to neighbouring premises is the loophole where these thugs gained access into the animal Continued on Page 3

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Friday, 01 April 2016

Contact Us Namibian Veteran Visual Artist Josef

Tel (+264 64) 200 497 Email info@namibindependent.com.na Sales Gareth Amos 081 129 2157 gareth@namibindependent.com.na Rita Potgieter 081 150 5455 rita@namibindependent.com.na Editorial Marshallino Beukes 085 129 2158 marshallino@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.

Madisia "remained Faithful to Himself" - Burkhard Dobiey Maria Davel-Wallis

Josef Madisia says he's ready for something new - his exhibition, “Window Frames of My Life Time", looks back on his very successful career as a graphic visual artist. Madisia had his first inclination that he wanted to be an artist when he was in his primary school years.

At the opening of Madisia's exhibition, his long-time friend, the African art collector, specialist and photographer, Burkhard Dobiey in his opening speech, said, " This "prolific, versatile self-taught artist had his first exhibition in 1983 at the National Art Gallery of Namibia, together with another great Namibian artist, John Muafangejo. He describes himself as a Namibian veteran visual artist, but this is just an expression of his modesty.

Actually he's regarded as the Nestor and Doyen of the ever-growing group of young - and very talented - black

Namibian artists. He has achieved this status, because he did not limit his talents to the creation of works of art. In the field ofarts he has always been as well an educator, an organizer, a manager and not least a community activist. He's helped with the establishment of the John Muafangejo Arts Centre, where he served as director. He was instrumental in developing the Katutura Community Art Centre, and he was a founder member of the Tulipamwe International Artists' Workshop. He served as Director of the National Art Gallery of Namibia from 2005 until 2011. As artist his personal style is easily recognisable and his works of art are a testimony that for over 30 years Josef Madisia has always remained faithful to himself. Running like a unifying thread through all his works - the drawings, woodcuts, lino cuts and especially his famous cardboard prints - show that Joe Madisia is primarily an accomplished

Madisia's exhibited works span a career of 30 years and is intricate, multi-facetted and filled with symbolism graphic visual artist, aside from being a highly talented drawer and illustrator. Like Adelheid Lilienthal put it - his works are filled to capacity - you cannot only look at them - you have to examine, inspect and study them in all their complexity. " Joe Madisia was friendly and open when he shared a few minutes with Namib Independent - he said he wanted to see where the next stretch of his career would take him.

"I am 62, and I am ready to

explore new avenues in my art - I am retired, and this exhibition is to look back on my career, and my way of expressing myself through my different media and methods....one is inclined to take from that you have already done, and incorporate it in new works - but I am ready for something new....I want to see where this path and focus will take me."

This humble, passionate artist's exhibition in the Muschel in Swakopmund will run until 16 April.

Face of Namibia Expo in full swing Absalom Shigwedha

Mary Ankonga, the founder of the Face of Namibia, an organization aimed at empowering women, is happy with the first Face of Namibia Expo, which kicked-off at Walvis Bay's Kuisebmond suburb on Wednesday.

Ankonga noted that she is thrilled with the good turn-up of exhibitors. “We did not expect such a good number of exhibitors and they are also cooperating and behaving very well,” she said. Ankongo said the community of Kuisebmond has also come to support the expo, which is aimed at empowering emerging women entrepreneurs to sell and market their products.

About 70 women are selling and exhibiting their products.

“More exhibitors are still on the way,” she added. Some exhibitors came as far as Windhoek, Arandis and Kavango.

“This Face of Namibia Expo is a good platform for women to sell their products,” said Kaino Uushona of a business called Trends from Walvis Bay, who is selling women basket bags, belts and hats.

Fiona Hove of the business Dream Fashions (from Walvis Bay) said the expo is a good initiative as apart from selling products, women are also networking as to how they can uplift their small businesses.

However, she was quick to add that it seems not many people are aware of the expo as there is not even a poster outside showing there is such an event going on. Amongst others, Hove

Ida Mugunda (left) and Mary Ankonga in a joyous mood after she cut the ribbon to symbolize the official opening of the Face of Namibia Expo. Photo: Absalom Shigwedha is selling shirts, dresses an trousers. “It is also about marketing our products,” she said.

Michelle Kamuserandu and Charmine Kuzakatjike of Heavenly Scents Investments came all the way from Windhoek to the expo and are selling oil-based perfumes made in South Africa.

They young ladies said their products are selling very well at the expo, while Rosalia Angula (from Walvis Bay) said she also doing well with the selling of her natural health forever living products.

Soini Utuhole of SU Trading Enterprises (Walvis Bay) is selling cellphones holders, suites, shoes, sandals ant t-shirts, amongst other. She said her products are also selling very well.

In her opening speech read on her behalf

by Ankonga, former Gender and Child Welfare Minister, Marline Mungunda, said both Face of Namibia and her organization Instrument of Peace Women Summit , have a divine common aim of empowering woman to help needy women entrepreneurs and to fight gender based violence against them.

She said her organization empowers women spiritually through seminars and conferences.

Face of Namibia was founded by Ankonga in 2010. Mugunda's sister and a member of the Instrument of Peace Women Summit, Ida Mungunda, cut the ribbon to symbolize the official opening of the Face of Namibia Expo, which end on Saturday this week.

News

Friday, 01 April 2016

Scammers preying on grieving Pit-bull pup next of kin stolen from

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Continued from Page 1

that the fine for such businesses is N$4000. The visibility of the police force on the streets also largely contributed to the relatively crime-free weekend, as per sergeant Shapumba.

The Erongo police are now planning to conduct meetings with alcohol sellers, in order to establish committees in the various Erongo towns. This, according to Shapumba, has proofed a successful venture in educating the shebeen- and alcohol outlet owners on being responsible business people.

Daylight savings starts on Sunday News Reporter The Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration has announced that Namibians will keep to the current tradition of switching to winter time on the first Sunday of April. This means that on April 3, the nation is expected to adjust their watches an hour behind and change it back again on September 4.

However, the ministry maintains that it will continue analysing public submissions and opinions on whether Namibia should continue with the time switch tradition. Starting Sunday, one hour of daylight is switched from morning to evening. We don't go back to Standard Time until Sunday, Nov. 4.

Credit — or blame — for the biannual shift goes back to Benjamin Franklin, who published "An Economical Project for Diminishing the Cost of Light" in a 1784 journal after he noticed that people burned candles at night but slept past dawn.

But he never saw his plan put into action. The U.S. first

implemented daylight saving during World War I as a way to conserve fuel. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed the Uniform Time Act into law.

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of setting the clocks forward one hour from standard time during the summer months, and back again in the fall, in order to make better use of natural daylight.

Less than 40% of the countries in the world use DST. Some countries use it to make better use of the natural daylight in the evenings. The difference in light is most noticeable in the areas close to the Poles, i.e. furthest away from the Earth's Equator.

Some studies show that DST could lead to fewer road accidents and injuries by supplying more daylight during the hours more people use the roads. Other studies claim that people's health might suffer due to DST changes.

DST is also used to reduce the amount of energy needed for artificial lighting during the evening hours. However, many studies disagree about DST's energy savings and while some studies show a positive outcome,

others do not.

Believe it or not, the U.S. Department of Transportation is actually in "charge" of Daylight Saving Time in the U.S. According to folks there, switching to Daylight Saving Time reduces energy use, saves lives by preventing traffic accidents and decreases crime.

Studies disagree: One Finnish study found a spike in heart attacks during the first week of the new time. Researchers associated the results with sleep deprivation, which affects heart health.

A Canadian researcher found a 5% to 7% increase in fatal car accidents in the three days after the switch to Daylight Saving Time. Other studies have seen a similar increase in accidents in the fall when we gain that hour back.

The energy savings may be mythical as well: Researchers found switching to daylight saving uses 1% less energy for lighting but 2 to 3% more for heating and air-conditioning. But getting ready for the switch a few days ahead is advisable.

A search is on for Bianca the Pit-bull pup who was stolen out of the SPCA Walvis Bay kennel on Tuesday night re-shuffle, can ill afford to beef up their security even more, and have contacted G4S Security company to assist them with spotlights linking them to their alarm.

"We are living in fear that more people will start climbing the walls to steal our dogs, and before that happens we need to put a fool proof security measure in place," Van Tonder continued, pleading with the public to assist in any way possible.

Bianca the Pit-bull pup, has been described as very friendly, and is mostly white with a brown smudged patch on her nose as well as her two ears. The two suspects were clear on the fact that they were looking for a female 'Pitty' to breed with, and every effort is being made to try and get her back.

Because of the growing number of unwanted litters of puppies and kittens, it is policy for the SPCA to spay and neuter their animals before they are re-homed.

Should anyone have any information leading to the discovery of Bianca do not hesitate to contact the SPCA at 064 204 041.

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The Head of Community Policing (Erongo), sergeant Ileni Shapumba lauded Erongo residents and visitors for contributing to a relatively quiet Easter weekend, in terms of serious crimes committed.

Shapumba noted that, in spite of the coastal towns being crowded by visitors, law and order prevailed at the end of the day and expressed the hope that this trend will continue.

He remarked that most of the

liquor outlets cooperated well with the police and imposed the stipulations of the liquor Act, but noted that some still do not get the message. Owners of shebeens and liquor outlets who did not comply with the law were fined with N$2000, while shebeens operating without a liquor licence were closed, says Shapumba. He further noted that they (police) have observed that some tuck shops tend to illegally sell alcohol from their premises and sent out a stern warning, indicating

shelter during the night.

According to Kennel Manager Jessica Van Tonder they were shocked to find her missing from her kennel on Wednesday morning, and hunted the grounds in search of her. It was only when they discovered a clear set of two different footprints leading to the high back wall, did they put the puzzle together.

"We suspect that the two young teenagers who were hanging around Bianca last Thursday and taking pictures of her came back to steal her, because they said they wanted her for their father who had a male Pit-bull.

"We explained that as teenagers they would need to bring in the parent, fill out the forms and go through the process of spaying her as well as conducting a yard check before we adopt her.

"These two boys who arrived on a red offroad bike with a black rear carrier box, spent nearly two hours with Bianca before they left the premises," Van Tonder continued, adding that the Pit-bull pup was last seen in her kennel when they locked up at 19h00 on Tuesday.

It was further mentioned that photos of little Bianca have been posted on FB and distributed in Naraville where these boys said that they lived, plus the police have been informed of the theft.

The SPCA which is undergoing terrible financial problems and an urgent committee

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Marshallino Beukes

Continued from Page 1

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Easter weekend, commendable – Shapumba

Walvis SPCA

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a rat. Namib Independent tried to call the number, but could only reach the man’s voice mail. The public are herewith once again warned to be careful and not to fall victim to these shameless and ruthless scammers, who will try anything to con unsuspected citizens out of their hard-earned money.

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her late brother’s indemnities.

He however noted that, unfortunately, her brother was in arrears and she should deposit the amount due into a bank account, in order for them to be able to release the money. He promised to send her the banking details when he gets to the office and this was when the lady smelled

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Swakopmund resident, who recently lost a family member almost fell victim to this scam this week. According to her a male person called her claiming to be an employee of a certain, well-known insurance company in Windhoek. He supposedly informed her that she was a beneficiary of one of

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Friday, 01 April 2016

Jabulani residents fedup with sewage woes

control for the moment.

Not far from Mr Jegonia’s home, in the same area (Jabulani), the newspaper noted that a contractor was busy with earthworks on a sewage pipeline. However, the open ditch in front of houses, filled with filthy water and garbage

was left unattended over the long weekend, with only a red and white reflector strip used as a barrier. “We have small kids playing around here. What will happen if one of the small ones accidentally fall into the ditch?” a concerned mother asked.

Another resident remarked that

this would not have been the case if earthworks were to be conducted in an “upper-class” suburb. “We in Mondesa are used to play second fiddle, but really, we deserve to be treated with the same respect, everybody else is treated,” another Jabulani resident moaned.

King on the mend after firework injury

Fed-up. Mr Salvanus Jegonia pointing at the sewage water.

Marshallino Beukes

(900 Mondelani Street). A visibly furious and disheartened Mr Jegonia noted that every time the sewage drain, about thirty metres from his home gets blocked the stinking, unhygienic sewage water overflows his yard and they have to put up with the unbearable stench which also causes flies to occupy his home. “Small children are living here and this situation is really unhygienic and something must be done about it, straightaway.

Swakopmund Municipality, please do your job and see to it that a permanent solution is instituted,” the distressed resident requested.

Municipality workers arrived on the scene not long afterwards and got the situation under

Repeated media reports and outcries of Jabulani residents in Swakopmund’s Mondesa suburb, regarding their sewage anguishes, seem to fall on deaf ears, as blocked sewage drains continue to flood the area.

A Jabulani resident, Mr Salvanus Jegonia (59) voiced his hopelessness and discontent with this situation and noted that the scenario is ongoing for more than five years now. When Namib Independent arrived at his home during the past Easter weekend, Mr Jegonia was busy trying to kerb the overflowing sewage water from entering his erf

red

power to the people

POWER OUTAGE NOTICE OF POSSIBLE POWER INTERRUPTIONS TO WALVIS BAY Notice is hereby given that Walvis Bay customers could experience possible power interruptions on the following date:

DATE: 03 April 2016 DAY: Sunday TIME: 06:00 - 07:00 During this time period, moderate to high risk of interruptions could occur. There is also a possibility that some residential areas might be switched off during this period. It is therefore advisable to switch off supply to any sensitive equipment.

Although Erongo RED and NamPower have taken all precautionary measures to avoid unnecessary interruptions, it cannot be guaranteed The reason for the outage is for NamPower to continue with the construction work associated with the bulk upgrade to Walvis Bay. The town of Walvis Bay will therefore be supplied with only one 66kV line from Sunday 3 April untill Tuesday 5 April .

NB: FOR ENQUIRIES DURING THE DURATION OF THE POWER OUTAGE, PLEASE CONTACT THE CALL CENTRE AT 0819600.

Erongo RED regrets any inconvenience that may result from this outage.

PLEASE NOTE: YOUR INSTALLATION MUST BE REGARDED AS “LIVE” AT ALL TIMES AS THE POWER SUPPLY MAY BE SWITCHED ON AT ANY TIME DURING THE ABOVE MENTIONED PERIOD. Issued by: Public Relations Division Benjamin Nangombe Tel: +264 64 214600 TEL +264 64 214600 ERONGO RED BUILDING

Enquiries Control Centre Stephen Muller Tel: +264 64 214 687 FAX +264 64 214601

91 HAGE GEINGOB STREET

P O BOX 2925

WALVIS BAY

NAMIBIA

erongored.com

King Mandume Muatunga former Mayor of Walvis Bay is recovering well after both hands were damaged during a firework accident on New Year's and is seen here with his sons King Peter and King Mandume Jnr (Photo Donna Collins) Donna Collins King Mandume Muatunga former Mayor of Walvis Bay, is on the mend after he sustained multiple injuries, when a fire cracker exploded in his hands on New Year's Eve. It has been three months since the unfortunate incident robbed him of finger tips on both of his hands, his two thumbs, as well as well as some damage to his one eye, but despite this he is in good spirits and feeling very positive.

During a recent interview with King in his newly renovated home in Kuisebmund, he recalls the traumatic event leading up to the fatal incident, and talks candidly about how it happened and how he is coping with his damaged hands.

He was in the presence of his two young sons King Peter (15) and King Mandume Jnr (12), who had just returned from school. The discussion was open, but clearly his accident has had an effect on their lives, in particular the media

reports, uninformed rumours, and callous social media comments that were flying.

"People went so far as to say that it served me right, because I shouldn't have been playing with fire crackers," he says, adding that he doesn't pay attention to hate mail.

"But what they don't know is that I actually took the burning rocket out of my young son's hands seconds before it exploded, because I had a hunch something was going wrong.

"As I grabbed it with both hands from him, the fire cracker exploded and instantly I knew I had been badly injured," he said, adding that he spent two weeks in Windhoek being stabilised and treated before he was able to return home.

He said that his boys had a tough time at school with the other kids pointing fingers at their dad. And nasty comments on FB where fingers were pointed at him for being in the wrong for playing with fireworks, was clearly upsetting to the whole family.

"How can all these people judge

my father when they weren't even there," implored young King Jnr, whilst holding onto his father closely.

"He was just trying to protect me, it wasn't his fault, because he came to my rescue."

Fortunately time has healed the worst part of it, and today King's progress is improving with each day.

And although the tips of those fingers are visibly missing, as well as his right eye drooping slightly, he has picked himself up and is managing well.

"I attend regular physiotherapy sessions in Windhoek to help me get the full use of my hands back, and am very grateful for the way things turned out, because it could have gone either way," he said on an upbeat note.

Today King is getting on with his life, and is able to type on his computer as he continues his political freelance writings, other published works, and talks about launching a book on the Blue Waters soccer team.

One of his past times is sorting out his large newspaper archive at his home, which stores stacks of newspapers spanning before the days of Independence, which he ultimately wants to bind as a collection of the country's political history.

When asked what lesson the family learnt from this accident, they all said firmly that the sale of fireworks and the use of all fireworks should be banned, and that people need to be made more aware of how dangerous they are.

"Everyone thinks that playing with fire crackers is harmless fun, but it is not harmless - as I found out the hard way," he said holding up both his hands.

"And if I could spread the message to the public out there to prohibit all fireworks from your home and never use them again, this would have at least driven home a valuable point for the future, prevent more people from being victims of firecracker injuries."

News

Friday, 01 April 2016

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Burning rubber at 'Swakop Spin City' Report and Photos Donna Collins

The long awaited 'Swakop Spin City' established by the Drifting Spinning & Drags Motor Club at the coast, roared into action with a milestone event during Easter week-end, where some 2 000 motorsport fans poured through the gates.

A day filled with white smoke, burning rubber, screaming engines and hair raising driving stunts welcomed some of the finest spinners in the country. This first ever spin event hosted at the new 'Swakop Spin City' was just a taste of things to come, setting the scene for the fastest growing motorsport activities in Namibia.

The spinning arena was officially opened by the Swakopmund Deputy Mayor Maria Elago who cut the ribbon in the presence of the Club's Chairperson Chris Van Rooyen, Dino Hammerschlaght , Traffic Chief Melvin Cloete, club members, participants and all those who gave their support towards making the day such a success.

A turnout of 18 spinners from Windhoek, Okahandja, Walvis Bay Rehoboth and Swakopmund turned up for a day of thrills and spills in their BMW spin cars, which included the top 'Carzilla' team from the Capital.

What has been dubbed after this weekend as the "biggest and the best" spinning track in Namibia, was the result of team effort and hard work from a dedicated group of club members, with the only spinning pitch of its kind in Namibia.

The Club which is affiliated to the NMSF (Namibian Motorsport Federation) hosted an event in a well controlled environment.

Marshalls, safety barriers, a safety fence, fire brigade, security guards, paramedics and well oiled organisation was all there.

And with exception to one of the cars losing its momentum and sliding into the PA speakers, there were no incidents and spinning frenzy continued till the sun went down.

The DS&D Motorclub were granted a huge piece of land from the Municipality

'Swakop Spin City' opened its new facility this Easter week-end where 2 000 motorsport fans were treated to high octane action from 18 of the country's top spinners.

Desert with Traffic Chief Melvin Cloete on the day

Jacques, Dino and Jody from were out in force

Chris Van Rooyen (Chairperson Drifting, Spinning & Drag Motorclub) Swakopmund with Swakopmund Deputy Mayor Maria Elago who officially opened the new 'Swakop Spin City' facility.

near the Go-Kart track this year, to encourage this fast growing motorsport activity at the coast. This was confirmed in a council meeting last month, which gave the guys only a few weeks to put the facility together.

Club members dug deep into their pockets to pave the 1 200 sq2 metre interlocked spinning pitch, as well as put up safety barriers and a fence around the spinning and pit area, with more to come as the funds are raised.

"The success of the event was beyond our expectations," said Van Rooyen, adding that 'Swakop Spin City' has been built to provide entertainment for motorsport fans at the coast, as well as provide a designated spin and drift facility which has been long time coming.

The facility will serve as a meeting place, a club house and encourage more people to practice and up the ante of the spinner's techniques for regular events.

With the basics already set up, plans are in the pipeline to build additional features to create the best spinning track in the country, and invite cross border spinning participation to take part.

It was mentioned that currently the spinning scene is more about providing entertainment to the crowds amongst the drivers, but this might change into full blown competition once 'Swakop Spin City' is fully established.

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News

Friday, 01 April 2016

Bank customers Standard Bankers on the move – be aware of SIM Swap FNB Namibia wishes to warn customers about the criminal activity of SIM swopping or swapping as it is also known.

“This practice has once again reared its ugly head in South Africa and might, unfortunately, also spill over to our country,” says Ingrid Katjiukua, Head of Forensics at FNB Namibia.

She elaborates further by saying that SIM card swopping is a form of fraud where criminals request your cell phone service provider SP to transfer your existing cell phone number onto a new SIM card by pretending to be you, or pretending to act on your behalf.

“Once they have illegally swopped your cell phone number to their SIM card they will receive all your calls and SMS notifications, which include IN-Contact and One-timepin (OTP) messages. Your phone will stop receiving any calls or messages, but SIM swop victims usually only notice this when it is too late.”

Katjiukua gave some tips and warned all bank customers to be aware of the following: “If your phone suddenly loses signal for no apparent reason don’t ignore

this. Contact your service provider immediately and find out whether a SIM swop has taken place.” She went on to say that one should always remain aware of the cell phone status and if no calls or sms’ are forthcoming for a while, something might be wrong. “Check your bank balances regularly to make sure all is correct, and familiarize yourself with the tips on phishing as fraudsters might have all your other details already and only need the cell phone number as a last gateway to your accounts.”

“Some golden rules remain – never give your login or password or other details to anyone. Do not reply to mails requesting an update on any of your bank information and never click on a hyperlink sent in a mail to answer update requests. Rather become a bit less trusting in this day and age where cyber criminals are always improving their craft and evolving their playbook. In conclusion - we all need to be more aware of what we share – and what the internet at large can find out about us. You never know, it could be you losing money in the future.”

In living up to its value of “Growing our People” Standard Bank has recently promoted a number of employees since the beginning of the year.

Ingrid van Straten - Promoted to Head Bancassurance Ingrid van Straten was Head of Private Banking at Standard Bank - a position she held since 2011. Prior to her promotion to the Private Banking Head role, van Straten was a Managing Director for Standard Insurance Brokers for three years.

Ingrid was also Manager: Personal Lines Insurance at Standard Insurance Brokers for six years.

Van Straten holds the following qualifications • An Intermediate Certificate in Insurance (UNISA); • Completed numerous leadership and technical programmes; • Currently reading for a MBA through Roehampton and BA Degree in Theology at Banton Rouge Campus.

Rejoice Itembu - Promoted to Head Personal Market Segment Rejoice Itembu has been the Head of Workplace Banking at Standard Bank since 2012. Prior to her promotion to Head Personal Market Segment, Itembu was the Manager for Public Relations and Communication at Standard Bank for two years. Prior to joining Standard Bank Rejoice worked for various Corporates in the fields of communication and media for about ten years. Itembu has also completed numerous development and technical programmes.

Itembu holds the following qualifications: • A Masters Degree in Media and Culture Studies from the University of Sussex and

BA (Media Studies and Sociology) from the University of Namibia.

• Rejoice has also completed numerous development and technical programmes.

Karen van der Merwe - Promoted into Head Business Banking Karen van der Merwe was a Relationship Manager (Client Coverage) within Corporate & Investment Banking in Standard Bank, a position she has held since 2011. Prior to her appointment Van der Merwe worked at FNB for over four years where she held the roles of Relationship Manager of the Corporate Suite and Commercial Suite, respectively. Prior to joining FNB, Van der Merwe was with Standard Bank for 18 years where she held various managerial roles such as Account Executive of Business Banking and Account Executive of Corporate Banking, respectively.

Rejoice Itembu - Promoted to Head Personal Market Segment

Karen van der Merwe - Promoted to Head Business Banking

Ingrid van Straten - Promoted to Head Bancassurance

Van der Merwe holds the following qualifications: • Completed numerous leadership development and technical programmes.

• Currently reading towards a BA Honours Degree in Business Management.

News

Friday, 01 April 2016

7

Fisheries Minister Esau FNB committed to encourages MRAC Namibian Rugby

Absalom Shigwedha The Marine Resource Advisory Council (MRAC) met at Swakopmund on Thursday last week to deliberate on the Monk Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for the 2006-2017 fishing season and other relevant matters.

Officially opening the meeting, Marine and Fisheries Minister Bernhard Esau, said the success of the meeting will depend on members’ understanding of the mandate and the role of the council members as prescribed in the

Marine Resource Act of 2000.

He explained that the MRAC was established in 2001, but it has a long history dating back to 1992 under the Sea Fisheries Act of 1992.

“The council is a legal entity as prescribed of the Marine Resource Act of 2000. Its mandate is fairly wide and non-specific,” said Esau.

He said the basis of the consideration of the Monk Total Allowable Catch by the council is found in section 38 (2) which states that (2) where, under subsection (1), the Minister decides to determine a Total Allowable Catch he or she,

Deboinairs’ delivery guy bumped A delivery man of Deboinairs in Swakopmund sustained minor injury to his hipbone after his motorbike was bumped by a BMW sedan (Windhoek registration number) last Thursday afternoon.

The motorbike vehicle accident

occurred at the August Nangolo / Rakotoka intersection.

Eagle Ambulance and Rescue Services attended to the injured at the scene before transporting him to the Swakopmund State Hospital for further medical care.

Photos: Marshallino Beukes

on the basis of the best scientific evidence available and having requested the advice of the advisory council, determine by the TAC by notice in the gazette.

“I note that to advice on different and weighty issues of the fishery is not an easy task. My presence here today is to therefore, support and encourage the council members to continue the good work you have been doing over the years,” he said.

Esau noted that some of the milestones of the council during the year 2015, was the council's deliberation on foreign flagged vessels, which is in line with the Ministry's policy of vessel ownership and the deliberation on the by-catch fees to be reviewed in order to reduce the deliberate target of by-catch species, which is also in line with stock sustainability.

Staff Reporter

First National Bank Namibia committed itself on Wednesday to a further period of four years to Namibian rugby, with an annual contribution of N$2 million to the Namibian Rugby Union (NRU).

At the sponsorship announcement, Tracy Eagles – Chief Marketing Officer FNB Namibia noted that, “As Namibians we are proud of our united sports ability and various sport codes to take on subSaharan Africa, Africa and even at the last World Cup Rugby, most valiantly and inspirationally, through our brave national team, we took on the world!”

She remarked that FNB, last year made it clear that Namibia should have Rugby on the Brain, and the great response and support the Namibian team received from fellow Namibians proved to be their strongest impetus to glory.

Eagles explained that this sponsorship commitment’ main objective is to assist the Namibian national rugby team to reach their goal of being a stronger contender at the next Rugby World Cup in September 2019 in Japan. This annual contribution will also allow the Namibian team to participate in the Currie Cup over the next 5 month period, providing the necessary competition and exposure for a stronger Namibian team.

She thanked and congratulated the NRU leadership for the job to which they have committed, that of growing the pride of Namibians in the code and for qualifying for the Rugby World Cup. “I am also thankful to you for the hard work behind us in putting this partnership agreement in place,” Eagles remarked, also expressing FNBs best wishes to the Welwitschias in the Currie Cup and their preparations for the Rugby World Cup.

Swakop Uranium, a Namibian world class uranium mining company, invites people who are self-motivated, energetic and wish to work in a High Performance Culture environment, to apply for the following role.

vAcANcY ORgANISAtIONAl DEvElOPMENt OFFIcER Location: Husab Site – 67 Kilometers from Swakopmund Reports to the Manager OD and Performance MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB Responsible for the administration and maintenance of all training and development records. Organizes and arranges bursaries, graduates and job attachments, filing and data capturing of all training records.

Implements Training and Organizational Development programs and initiatives in the organization.

Key Performance Areas: • Performs administrative duties/functions pertaining to any Cultural Programmes/Events • Performs administrative duties/functions pertaining to Training Events, and assist with Facilitation of Training Interventions • Performs Bursary and Graduate Administrative duties • Induction program efficiency and effectiveness • Schedule and Administer Psychometric Assessments • Maintain and Update the SAP Organizational Structure • Maintaining and Updating of Job Descriptions • Assists with all administration related to Affirmative Action and Understudy Development Programmes • Assist with all administration related to Skills Levy Requirements Requirements and experience: • B Degree in Human Resource Development or in Training and Development • Minimum: 3 years’ experience in Training and Development / Organisational Development field • Experience in SAP OM will be a distinct advantage • Good organising and planning skills • Good interpersonal and facilitation skills • Code B drivers’ license

Send your cv’s and other relevant documents to recruitment@cgnpc.com.cn by 15 April 2016 Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry.

Clearly indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet the criteria will not be considered.

Enquiries can be made directly to the Recruitment Team at 064 410 9000 Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no documents will be returned.

Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments.

Previously disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply.

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

8

News

NAMAs return to Capital As days are fast approaching, the glamour and glitz of the most anticipated annual event of the Namibian music calendar will yet again set Windhoek ablaze on 29th and 30th April in Windhoek, in height as the NAMA’s makes its eagerly awaited return to Windhoek.

Following successfully staging the event in the beautiful beach town of Swakopmund for the last two editions, organisers of the Namibian Annual Music Awards have promised another adrenaline-charged production as it continues the challenge of setting the bar higher in delivering the NAMAs at Ramatex Garment Industry, in Windhoek’s Otjomuize Suburb

To assist in the evolution of a well put together production, the NAMAs have assembled what is to date best presenter and hosting crew on the Namibian shores.

Consisting of an effervescent media personality, a top male model and fashionista, a recording artist, a hitmaking hip hop and kwaito artist of note, a revered versatile actor and hospitality entrepreneur, a prime time radio presenter, a television presenter, an in-training radio disc jockey and lifestyle television program are the faces that will grace the television screens during the live screening of the Nama on Friday 29th April and 30th April.

Friday, 01 April 2016 NAMA Executive Chairman Tim Ekandjo, enthused about this years’ selection of the hosts “Notwithstanding, the evolutionary, soul searching approach that characterize the Awards, this year we set out to search for the best of Namibia’ talent to host this truly magnificent show, we have as a part of a strategic deliberate plan mixed seasoned and establish host and MC’s with fresh new talents in the industry as means to provide exposure and personal growth to the presenters – which fits into the admirable stance of the NAMAs towards capacity building. I would like to commend the NBC team for having managed the auditions and for having selected our show hosts and MC’s out of hundreds of aspiring participants who participated in the auditions, those who have not made it this year must not give up”.

Introducing the NAMA 2016 hosts and presenters: Mappz Kapofi, El-Shaddai Aluteni, Uejaa Kazondunge, Mohammed Shehu, Luis Munana, Paul De Prince, Tanya Daringo, Lucy K, Pombily Shilongo, Tshopaara ‘Chops/ Chopsy” Tshopaara

News

Friday, 01 April 2016

9

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10

News

Friday, 01 April 2016

Coastal marathon runners Excel at testing Two Oceans

Kirsty Brits’s bronze medal Maria Davel-Wallis It was an elated Kirsty Brits that greeted Namib Independent on Tuesday, to share the news of her and other road runners’ performance at the Two Oceans Half and Ultra Marathons in the Cape on Saturday, 26 March. More than 27 000 people from all over the world participated in what is known as “the world's most beautiful marathons" - 11 000 participated in the ultra and 16 000 in the half marathon.

Brits was one of 240 Namibian entries and Swakop StriderJohan Bronkhorst was the fastest Coastal runner in for the Ultra with a time of 4hours 50 minutes. Brits is very happy with her results – despite knee problems she had encountered earlier. She finished the ultra-marathon in 05:44:34.

“Namibia was the foreign country with the 3rd most entries at Two Oceans, of that number 48 were entered for the 56,6km Ultra marathon,” she explained. " Runners started their gruelling journey at 06h30

from Newlands around Cape Town over Chapmans Peak and Constantia Neck ending at UCT campus in the freezing rain at 11h00.

"It is customary for runners to wear old shirts and black bags over ourselves to keep warm until we start running, as we do not want to take anything with us - and as we went along discarded them on the side of the road which was collected by homeless people who lined the roadsides.

"This year we had hard weather conditions - pounding winds that push so hard against you it felt as if you were running into a brick wall! But this did not stop us from going out there and giving it our best!”

“Several runners got their personal bests this year - basically this means the fastest you have run the race. We had a novice runner this year, Riana Scholtz, who made the 7-hour cut-off! This was her first Ultra marathon. She was beautifully supported by her husband and gorgeous kids all the way!

Riana is the organiser of the Brandberg Rhino Run and she is heading off to China to run the Great Wall Marathon in May“, enthusiastic Brits told me.

Next step for a few of the Striders now is to step up their training seriously for Comrades Marathon in 60 days’ time. It is now an exciting, crucial and incredibly hard time for them as they train 6 days a week often twice a day to ensure that we are ready to take on the gruelling 90km at the end of May. This is not only hard on us but on our families too as they have to put up with our total obsession with training! This year the race slogan is "Race as One" and this is one thing that I truly experienced at Oceans this year. “ Brits says the camaraderie and friendliness

Coastal runners at the International run, a 5,6km run that took place Friday before the marathon on Saturday. she experienced was unlike the years before.

“Runners of all different races, religions, ages and countries come together and enjoy a day together.

If someone falls (and let me tell you - it happens often), runners will always stop and help them up.

There is a common friendship and bond that is shared for that one day in such big races. At the start of the race - you have 11 000 people

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stand together as one and sing Shosholaza and the National Anthem... the deep voices of the men vibrating and the energy so high and the absolute anticipation making your skin tingle and even the most hardened person - cannot help to shed a tear... it is beautiful.”

Meanwhile, Comrades Marathon news is that the 2016 entries cap of 20 000 for

the “world’s largest and most prestigious ultra –marathon” has been reached – Brits says she will keep Namib Independent posted on the performance of the Swakop Striders who’ll be participating in the Comrades, now in its 91st year. The Comrades “Down Run” from Pietermaritzburg to Durban will be run on Sunday, 29 May.

Windhoek / Swakopmund / Walvis Bay Shuttle

Tel: +264 64 22 1713 | Fax: +264 64 22 1712 Cell: +264 81 128 7916 (Walvis Bookings) Cell: +264 81 628 5010 (Swakop Bookings) Email: mcclunes@mweb.com.na Website: www.mcclunes.com

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Bus stops at spur Restaurant in Walvis Bay

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Departure 1: at 07h30 - door pickups start at 06h00

Departure 1: at 07h00 - door pickups start at 06h00

Departure 2 *Express: at 10h00 from Bus stop/ boarding starts 09h30* Bus stop to Bus stop Express

Departure 2 *Express: at 10h00 - Bus stop/ boarding starts 09h30*Bus stop to Bus stop Express

Departure 1: at 08h00 - door pickups starts at 07h00

Departure 3: at 14h00 from Wika/boarding starts at 13h30

Departure 3: at 14h00 - door pickups starts at 13h00

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McClune`s Shuttle Started in 2009 and we have grown to be one of the most reputable, safe, reliable and economical means of passenger transport offering a shuttle service between Windhoek, Swakopmund and Walvisbay McClune`s offer a Reliable Shuttle service between Whk, Swakop and Wbay that guarantees satisfaction on a local and international scale. This is a true alternative that offers a high level of practical experience and knowledge with regards to passenger transportation services. Clients must know that by making use of McClune`s, is a professional and hassle-free way to reach their destinations safely. Our vehicles are branded and easy to identify, which expresses ownership, legality as well as professionalism. For the convenience of the constant growing population at the coastal towns, Windhoek itself and also with the positive economic development at the coast and the town’s along this route, McClunes have decided to amend its current travel time schedules to accommodate the demand for Save Public Transportation on this route. Our schedules are now ideally created in the sense that it connects well with other departing or arriving connecting transfers in Windhoek. These schedules also provide customers with opportunity to plan their trips, flights and personal appointments for whatever reasons and still return to their respective destinations on the same day. All clients are treated equally with dignity and respect, also no smoking and alcoholic drinks are allowed on the shuttles whilst travelling.

Worldwide

Friday, 01 April 2016

11

Worldwide

This dress could make its designer Man arrested for not returning

VHS rental 14 years ago

a millionaire

Oh, and it is made from 3,000 Skittles. How epic is that?

The internet fell in love with it, and it changed Sarah Louise Bryan’s life forever.

The mum of two was relying on the kindness of friends to put a roof over her head when the idea came to her while she was in ‘a dream-like state’.

A picture of the dress went viral, and was spotted by alternative clothing company Ripleys – which supplies clothes for celebrities including Kim Kardashian. Sarah, 27, from Sutton Coldfield, told the Birmingham Mail: ‘My idea came to me one night when I was falling to sleep – almost dreaming.

‘It was like a eureka moment for me – a striking dress made out of Skittles.

‘I jumped out of bed and googled the internet to see if it had been done before. I thought the dress would look incredible on Lady Gaga.

‘I got busy working on it the next day. It took months to finish.

‘I stuck a picture of the dress on social media when I finished and it just snowballed from there.’

She used 145 bags of sweets, and around 90 tubes of glue.

She said: ‘I have a sports car and can give my two children all the materialistic things I could not just a year ago.

‘I am hoping to be a millionaire in the not too distant future. I am proof that no matter who you are and how bad things can get anyone can get themselves out of a bad situation with ideas and drive.

‘Now I am mixing with celebrities and get invited

to lots of parties. It is like I am living a dream and I never want to wake up from it.’

Source: www.metro.co.uk

It is going from one bad joke to another.

A North Carolina man is speaking out after he says he was slapped in handcuffs for not returning a VHS rental more than 14 years ago — and now the movie’s star, Tom Green, is coming to his rescue.

James Meyers, 37, says he was driving his daughter to school Tuesday morning when he was pulled over by Concord police for a broken taillight.

It was that moment he was informed that there was a warrant out for his arrest, specifically for not returning the 2001 flop, “Freddy Got Fingered.”

“I thought he was joking,” Meyers said, recalling his arrest.

The flick’s comedian apparently did too.

“I just saw this and I am struggling to believe it is real,” Green tweeted.

Meyers said he vaguely remembers renting the comedy — which has a 4.5/10 rating on IMDb.com and won five Razzie Awards in 2002, including Worst Picture. Apparently when he failed to return it, a warrant was issued in late 2001.

After he was informed of the warrant, Meyers said he was allowed to continue on to his daughter’s school under the promise that he would turn himself into the police department later that day.

He thought he would arrive and it would all get sorted out. Instead, he found himself

booked for a class 3 misdemeanour, which is punishable with a fine up to N$3000.

He has a court appearance scheduled for April 27.

“For the first time, I got put in handcuffs,” he said.

Concord Police Sgt. Jonathan Hathcock confirmed Meyers’ saying, “It does not matter what kind of warrant it is, if it is a warrant we are going to serve it.”

Green, who was reached by the NY Daily News while doing a stand-up comedy tour in Australia, said he has since spoken with Meyers about the incident and has offered to do what he can to help.

“If it is N$3000, of course I will pay it for him, just for the principle of the thing,” he told the paper.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Cheeky seal snap is one of the best in the world A British snapper has been crowned champion in the world’s biggest underwater photography competition.

More than 6,000 pictures were entered for the underwaterphotography.com contests across 17 categories from above water, to wrecks, sharks and even underwater fashion featuring models.

Diver Terry Steeley, 46, only took a camera underwater for the first time just over three years ago, but the judges gave him top honours for his portfolio.

He was also awarded a gold medal for winning the over/under category with a picture of a lemon

shark in the Bahamas and silver in the freshwater category for his diver in a cave in Mexico.

Other Brits doing well were Nick Blake, who won the temperate waters category for his picture of a friendly seal off Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel, and Luke Gordon who came second in the macro category with a lizardfish having a bite to eat in Indonesia.

Website owner Tal Mor, who runs the competition, said: “Winning here, or even just being placed, is Underwater Photography ’s most coveted accolade because it says you succeeded in the most competitive environment there is, against the top talent of the

moment.

“We are so proud to be having a constant flow of new talent coming in.

“Our goal is and always has been to promote young talent and give them a stage to show off their photos and launch a career as underwater photographers.

“One of our medals is the reward for all the hard work they have put in chasing those great shots in farflung destinations.

“Each of them was up against 6,339 entries to get placed this year.”

Speaking of Mr Steeley, he added: “Terry’s images stood out in multiple categories from Wide Angle to Macro and even fashion shots.

“His portfolio is diverse and impressive and we are proud to be presenting his images.”

Other entries came from all over the world, including Bulgaria, USA, France, Canada, Sweden, Germany and Thailand.

Whales featured in some categories, with American Lauren Berger coming third in the wide angle natural light category with her beautiful picture of humpback whales in the Socorro islands off the coast of Mexico.

And fellow American Craig McInally won the wide angle marine life section with his shot of a baby humpback whale also in Mexico.

At the other end of the scale Michael Grebler came second in the wide angle divers category with three free divers posing under the ice in Canada and Bulgarian Plamena Mileva bagged bronze in the fashion section with a model shoot in Israel.

Tal added: “This photography contest is the longest running and one of the most prestigious online.

“If you want to make a name for yourself this is the place to do it.

“Every January a panel of judges select the best images entered in our online photo Contest from the previous year.

“Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded for the top three from each category in order of merit.

“Many other internationally acclaimed photographers have launched their photo careers here over the years.

“The judges comprise of industry professionals.

They are unpaid, non-affiliated, and, of course, cannot enter themselves.”

Source: www.mirror.co.uk