Namib Independent Issue 98 by The Namib Independent

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Issue 98 - Thursday, 08 May 2014 to Wednesday, 14 May 2014

HUSAB OPEN FOR BUSINESS

'build together' dropped

VAMPIRE THERAPY

LIVING MUSEUMS

Shockingly

Violent

Video by Coastal Kids Tanya Calitz A disturbing trend on the coast of kids filming violent attacks on other kids has surfaced over the past few weeks. The Namib Independent is in possession of such a video filmed in Walvis Bay. The explicit video (uploaded to the Namib Independent Facebook page) shows a group of local school kids committing grievous bodily harm on an illfated victim. In the 30 second video clip one can clearly see the hapless teen covering his face as the blows keep raining down on

him. The attacker’s friends are spurning him on while yelling to the victim to get up and fight. The events leading up to the moment of these recording moments remain uncertain, and one can only speculate how they lured the victim into the park in the first place. Also it worries the mind to think of what violence transpired that led the victim to resort to the foetal position. By any definition the attack warrants charges of grievous bodily harm with intent. The punches, kicks and knee-kicks against the teen are of such severity

that they could easily have cracked ribs, broken noses and cheek bones. Under no circumstances were the perpetrator and his cohorts seeking to innocently slap their victim about. The attack has a ferocity that would be better homed in a vicious bar brawl. According to the source who provided the paper with the video, it was sent to them from an unknown number, which they tried to phone several times, but stayed unreachable once the video was sent. The video was sent to an adult, who then contacted a Walvis Bay teacher to establish whether they know the children in the Continued on Page 3

La Mer, La Where? Siglinde de Villiers

The much contested La Mer Shopping Mall Project in Swakopmund seems to have come to a standstill, battered and beaten by the weather and its elements. Many residents wonder if construction has been stagnated and abandoned for greener pastures. Nevertheless, the developers disclosed to the Namib

Independent that they are on the verge of a springboard of activity. A year ago the Namib Independent reported that the N$310 million development by Safari Investment was due to start construction in April 2013. However, from an outsider’s perspective, the project creates the impression that it has come to a standstill, with ocean water flooding the construction site ever so often during stormy

weather. No doubt, the rough Atlantic Ocean continually surging into the development has presented quite a challenge. Yet, according to Safari Investments, this problem has been overcome. Zach Engelbrecht, Property Development Manager for Safari Investments, explained: “The major flood in August last year demonstrated that we had to lift the surface area of Continued on Page 3

2 | News

Thursday, 08 May 2014

World’s Second Biggest Uranium Mine Officially Opened for Business

Staff Reporter

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Husab Mine was formally opened on 7 May in a historic event for the coast and for Namibia. Amongst others, President Hifikepunye Pohamba and Dr. Sam Nujoma attended. The company has already begun mining and is expected to reach to full capacity in about 18 months, at which point Husab will become the world’s second-largest uranium mine. The mine and process plant are designed to produce 15 million pounds of uranium oxide a year. Swakop Uranium will have an annual turnover of about N$10 billion once the Husab mine is in full production. The Husab Project will furthermore contribute 5% to the Namibian Gross Domestic Product, 20% to the country’s merchandise exports and generate up to N$1.7 million per year in Government revenue. The project will create more than

6 000 temporary jobs during construction and about 1 600 permanent operational job opportunities. This will increase the number of people employed in the mining sector by approximately 17%. According to socio-economic studies, eight to ten spin-off jobs will be created per permanent employee, which means that up to 16 000 permanent jobs will be created by and as a result of the Husab Project. President Hifikepunye Pohamba said that the Namibian government will continue to support this project as one the major investments in our country, explaining that uranium is one of the natural resources that can contribute significantly to the social and economic development of the country. The mine’s infrastructure is well in its final stages with power lines and the permanent access road now in place while the water pipeline and reservoirs are progressing well, according to Swakop Uranium’s CEO, Zheng Keping. The

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Editorial Tanya Calitz tanya@namibindependent.com.na Design Maggie's Attic Graphic Design sonya4maggiesattic@gmail.com Address 127 Theo Ben Gurirab Street (MVA Office Complex) PO Box 5085, Walvis Bay, Namibia

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weather

contractor’s village, which will house 4 000 people, is nearing completion with the first 700 guests already on site. CEO Keping praised the Namibian government, saying that “The Namibian Government is regarded internationally as responsible, stable and predictable with a sound infrastructure, where clear and unambiguous guidelines are in place for the regulation of mining activities in the country.” He assured the attendees that the Chinese government will spare no efforts in supporting the construction and operation of the Husab Project. “Husab will become a key supply base of natural uranium products for Chinese nuclear power stations. It will guarantee the natural uranium demand of 20 million-kilowatt nuclear units for nearly 40 years, thus making an enormous contribution to China’s economic growth,” he concluded.

Swakopmund

Walvis Bay

International

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Cape Town Johannesburg Port Elizabeth Durban Luanda Harare Gaborone

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News | 3

Thursday, 08 May 2014

Shockingly Violent La Mer, La Where? Video by Coastal Kids Continued from Page 1

the construction site as well as the wall that restrains the ocean. These processes were the reason for the long delay to start with construction. “We are totally committed to this project and it does not help to start with anything if we know that the foundation is not safe,” he added. Subsequently, the concrete wall was reinforced and lifted by another 60cm and the outside loop into the sea

extended to 70m. “These changes were not completed when the flood initially hit us, but due to stabilising the groundwork to deal with such floods, the recent storm in December did not affect us as it would have previously,” Engelbrecht said. Will these adjustments be sufficient for keeping the ocean at bay in future? “Safari Investments is working with a couple of ocean and engineer professionals who

Heavy machinery stands idle at the site

video, and whether they are even aware that such videos are being sent around. “I was utterly shocked when I saw the video. We could identify some of the children in the clip and establish where they go to school. I strongly feel that this issue cannot be left, and needs to be addressed by other teachers and parents of these children who are part of it,” the distressed teacher told the Namib Independent. Speaking to other teachers the general consensus is that they have to address the issue and speak to the pupils once school starts again. None of them were in fact aware of this video, and even more so shocked to learn that this is but one of several videos circulating. Speaking to different pupils attending different schools in town, they all seemed very surprised that the paper got hold of the video, and proclaimed that the video is merely one of many doing its round and being shared among each other. “I have seen several other videos of the same nature, this one is only the latest,” one pupil said. According to the pupils these videos should never have made their way to an adult in

the first place, and were only meant for them. The pupils also confirmed that this was not an isolated incident, but that this video is just the latest one of several others circulation among their friends. “Out of fear we make sure that these videos are only circulating among our friends.” None of the pupils the paper spoke to were prepared to share the other videos. According to a media specialist on the coast, technology has made it so easy for kids these days to share this kind of thing. “With today’s various social media apps it is instant, easy and free to spread these clips. It is far removed from the goodold-fashioned school yard fights, but more so about creating entertainment,” she said. She added that creating one’s own entertainment can become addictive, and the thrill of it pushes the person to more extreme levels. These kinds of trends are nothing new, and started with the infamous ‘Happy Slappy’ videos where tyrants would walk up to random people in the street, shops or parks, and slap the unexpecting victim in the

face, while others film the ordeal and spread it on various social media platforms, like Facebook, YouTube or WhatsApp. Our expert explains that these videos end up on our kids’ phones. After watching them over and over, they become desensitised, and move into a new realm by making their own local videos, this provides them with the additional thrill that the videos become personal in that the victims and perpetrators are known. Naturally, the weak become the objects of the attacks. “These kinds of trends and selfmade entertainment can be very dangerous. As with any thrillseeking activity the associated danger needs to be continually exculpated in order to achieve the same entertainment result. What we are seeing in this video is the precipice… where to from here offers only a bleak outlook,” explained the expert. Teacher and parents are encouraged to visit the Namib Independent Facebook page to better understand these terrible transgressions in order to collectively address the issue before, pardon the pun, someone does lose an eye.

Workmen sitting and playing games

Continued from Page 1 specialise in constructing waterfronts. They have a lot of experience from projects all over the world and are advising as well as helping us with the groundwork,” Engelbrecht answered. At the moment, the building plans have been submitted to the Swakopmund Town Council to make sure that they are in line with aesthetic approval. “We are expecting the goahead this week and will soon commence with construction,” Engelbrecht said. However, he also mentioned that Safari Investments is busy with an ongoing debate as to whether they will complete the project in one go or in several phases. “We have to look at the tenant requirements along with the current market trends,” Engelbrecht clarified. “We might have to finish one part of the building before we move on to the next part. We will be making these decisions in the course of the next two months.” According to Engelbrecht, they have good indications of businesses that will move into the La Mer Waterfront. “We will only start with construction once 80% of the area has been booked for lease. We invested a lot of money into it and want it to be secure. At this point, we are confident that construction will start in the next two months. Once construction starts, it is envisaged that the whole project would be completed within a time period of one year,” he concluded.

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News | 5

Thursday, 08 May 2014

Low Cost Housing Project ‘Build Together’ Dropped

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Tanya Calitz Several residents from Narraville on the waiting list for the low cost housing project ‘Build Together’ say they are confused and in the dark after waiting for nearly eleven years to move into their low cost houses ,which they are constantly told will be completed soon. A puzzled resident from Narraville told the Namib Independent this week that he has waited for over ten years for his low cost house to be completed. “I applied for a loan from the municipality to buy one of these low cost houses for about N$40 000 in 2003. Shortly after, they told me that I qualified and that the Ministry of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development (through the local council) will build me a low cost house in Narraville. I am still waiting,” he said. Other residents on the approved waiting list also expressed their confusion over the delayed project, saying they were told that they would be able to move into their one bedroom, 37 square metre houses by the end of 2013, but this has not realised. Not knowing exactly what the issues or delays are with the project, the community members started speculating as to why they have not received their promised low cost housing, and why it seems that

all construction has come to a halt this year. “Maybe the money for the project has been stolen, or maybe the contractors have not been paid by the municipality or Government yet, and that is why the contractors stopped building our houses,” the general accord under the residents was. The Namib Independent decided to speak to the ‘Build Together’ team about this project, and either confirm or rebuke the claims made by the disgruntled residents. According to the Community & Economic Development Department (CEDD), who are managing this project for the Government, the project has been discontinued, and that the remaining applicants for ‘Build Together’ low cost houses will be handed over to the NHE group to remain in the process of receiving low cost housing loans. “Unfortunately, the project had to be stopped due to the mass housing project on the coast, which has won over the Governments favour,” a representative of CEDD said in an interview this week. In response to this statement by CEDD the residents claim that they hold no knowledge about this decision to abort the project. Public Relations Manager, Kevin Adams from the Walvis Bay Municipality, said that the already approved applicants for the 33 low cost houses in Narraville behind

the sport stadium will still receive their unit under the ‘Build Together’ project. “These units should be done by the end of May.” According to CEDD, the last 33 houses for Narraville and last 66 houses for Kuisebmund will also still be completed under the ‘Build Together’ project, but this will be the last phase. “The project proved to be successful in the beginning, and we have managed to build several houses in Narraville and Kuisebmond over the past ten years, but sadly this initiative has come to an end,” Adams said. In regards to the delays of the last and final phase of the low cost housing project in Narraville, CEDD confirmed that the construction is temporarily paused due to unforeseen challenges. “Some of the materials used to construct the units are out of stock, as well as some of the machinery used in the construction of the units are broken, but we are confident that these issues will be sorted out shortly, and the last and final phase will be completed by end of May. Once we have completed the Narraville phase, we will immediately continue with Kuiseb’s last and final phase of constructing the remaining 66 units,” CEDD said.

www.mtc.com.na

6 | News

Thursday, 08 May 2014

Successful Easter Weekend at Coast Siglinde de Villiers Local residents in Walvis Bay have expressed their concerns that the Easter and long weekend was not as successful as in previous years. The Namib Independent decided to follow up this claim and enquired at some local accommodation facilities as well as tourist activity centres how busy they were this year. The Easter weekend attracts people from near and far to spend some time at the sea. In view of more difficult economic times and increasing fuel prices, it would naturally seem that the amount of visitors to the coast would be on the decline. Nevertheless, according a spokesperson from the Lagoon Chalets in Walvis Bay, they were fully booked. “There were a lot of people that we were not able to accommodate,” she said. The Municipality accommodation facilities in Swakopmund experienced something similar. “We were just as busy as last year and there were many people that we could not help,” the receptionist told the Namib Independent. These

comments reflect similar sentiments from several other guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts as well as hotels at the coast. Even tourist activities offered by various local activity centres received their fair share of visitors. Despite the fact that South Africa’s holiday season did not coincide with this year’s Easter weekend as it did last year, it did not affect local businesses negatively. “We cater for quite a big South African market,” Johan Oberholzer from Dune 7 Adventures said. “Due to South Africa having a few days holiday, then a few days school followed by the Easter weekend, we thought that we would have fewer clients than last year, but this was not the case. In fact, we actually improved on last year’s figures.” According to Oberholzer, they were still quite busy until Monday, this week. “On the marine side everybody was just as busy,” Daniela Jansen van Vuuren from Catamaran Charters said. “I think that because this year’s Easter weekend was spaced better than last year’s, we fared much better than last year,” she concluded.

Uranium Institute Weighs in on Rössing Cancer Report Controversy Tanya Calitz Following the controversial report on ‘Rossing Mine Workers Dying of Cancer’, reported on in the Namib Independent a couple of weeks ago, the paper decided to ask the Uranium Institute to shed some light on the hot topic. Speaking to Namibian Uranium Institute (NUI) Executive Director, Dr Wotan Swiegers, it is apparent that one cannot see the information in the preliminary report as the alpha and the omega. Indeed, an extensive in-depth study of the matter would have to be done in order to conclude the effects the mining environment had on the workers’ health during their time at the mine. Not diminishing the report, Swiegers explained that to really have a conclusive fact-based report, one would have to conduct an exhaustive study consisting of more than questionnaires, and also including and considering personal lifestyles and other counter

effects to establish the true causes for the diseases suffered by ex and current Rössing uranium employees. On top of that, one needs to understand the history of the industry as well as take into consideration the Uranium industry and how it has developed and adapted over the years, Swiegers explained. “Back in the late 1970s and early 1980s I was asked by the uranium mines to please come up with a health system that was on par with the international health standards when it came to the mining of uranium. I did that and as far as I could see, Rössing managed to implement and maintain the system well,” Swiegers explained. “Now for me as a doctor and scientist, I have to keep a cool head about this and try to seek out the truth, and recognise my objectives. And my objective is to create a system that can be in place and implemented so one day we can measure all the events, and by doing this make a meaningful contribution to the industry and all involved in it,”

Swiegers said, explaining his and the Uranium Institute’s role in the mining industry. Thus, the Uranium Institute’s role is to develop and put systems in to place, which the mines can implement and maintain to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties involved. “Our challenge is to recognise the possible health hazards, and then to put a system in place that can have a positive impact, but the fact of the matter is that we as health industry experts cannot immediately measure the effectiveness of our systems. Only after collecting data and information over the years can we measure our successes and shortcomings. We call this the Genesis time – from implementation to measuring period.” “The time is now ripe to do a proper in-depth study of the industry and its health risks,” Swiegers said. However, he is of the opinion that reports like the one released by Ejolt and EarthLife are good to keep the industry on its toes.

First Ever Namibian-Owned Fishing Vessel Launched Siglinde de Villiers On Thursday, the largest ever, first Namibian-owned fishing vessel was officially launched at Namport. Invited guests were taken on a guided tour and had the opportunity to hear remarks from the owner of the vessel, the Minister of Fisheries, as well as the Chinese Ambassador. The FV Leader was purchased by Atlantic Pacific Fishing (APF) for NAD200 million in a joint venture between Namibia and the Republic of China. “This is a significant achievement that we are witnessing today,” Raonga Andima, Director of APF, said. “It is the accepted norm on a global scale that economic growth is dependent on foreign investments. Therefore, it is critical that local investors play a key role in creating employment for Namibians. Against this backdrop I am very excited to be part of a joint venture initiative that reinvested its profits to purchase this fishing vessel, which is 100% Namibian ownership.”

Andima further said that APF is committed to not repeat mistakes of the past, especially those where profits support the lavish lifestyles of a few members of society. “We believe that this is a longterm investment that will benefit Namibia in job creation,” Andima added. He stated that one of APF’s main objectives is to train local crew with the potential to become senior officers, especially in the marine environment. The FV Leader currently employs a crew of 110 people. “We have taken advantage of the expertise and skills of our Chinese shareholders in achieving this milestone,” Andima concluded. The Ambassador of China, His Excellency Xin Shun Kang, said that he is very excited to have witnessed three major milestones within a period of three days. “One of those milestones is this proudly owned Namibian vessel to be launched today,” he said. “I am very happy and proud that China is able to support and help Namibia economically. We continue bringing the two sides of Namibia

and China closer to each other, remaining loyal and trying our best to support Namibia to our full capacity.” He then made the surprising announcement that the Chinese government has decided to donate a further NAD105 million to Namibia. The FV Leader is over 120m in length and has a gross register tonnage of 6,144. The vessel is most suitable for fishing Horse Mackerel and processes and freezes the catch at sea to maintain freshness and high quality. According to Andima the FV Leader has successfully harvested 20 000 tons of horse mackerel towards the end of 2013, which demonstrated her readiness to complete her first year fishing in Namibian waters.

Thursday, 08 May 2014 One of the world’s foremost emerging uranium companies, Swakop Uranium, is focused on developing and operating the world's third-largest known primary uranium deposit near the town of Swakopmund in Namibia. We need energetic, self-motivated and confident people to apply for our roles and we regard you as our “Employee of Choice”.

VACANCY - Fitter Mining Maintenance

VACANCY - Millwright

Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to: Team Leader - Maintenance Workshops

Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to: Team Leader - Shovel & Drill Maintenance Workshop

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

To provide Fitting and General maintenance work in the Mining maintenance department on planned or unplanned basis to support the maintenance function towards maximum equipment availability and optimum cost including adherence to job safety and good housekeeping standards.

Key Performance Areas: • • • • • • • • • •

Performs planned and unplanned maintenance tasks within set time limits and to OEM/Owner specifications. Performs analytical and pro-active maintenance Hydraulic systems maintenance Uses Computer skills for equipment problem analysis Attend equipment training as identified or as required Perform standby duties on regular basis Ensure quality workmanship and maintenance improvement training to the assistants Pre –maintenance risk assessments to ensure safe work completion Technical advisory to the supervisor Supports the Safety, Health & Environmental systems

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

To provide Electrical and Mechanical maintenance and support services to the Shovel & drill maintenance as well as mining operations functions including all 6.6Kv applications and trolley systems in order to achieve maximum equipment availability at optimum cost including adherence to all related SHE standards.

Key Performance Areas:

• • • • • • • • •

Ensure quality workmanship and maintenance improvement within maintenance schedules Technical advisory to the supervisor considering trends and continuous improvements Advanced technical fault finding application on equipment and MV applications Maintenance compliance and improvement within OEM equipment specifications The proactive advice and guidance on the effective repair and maintenance of equipment Continuous technical training assessment and recommendations Pre –maintenance risk assessments to ensure safe work completion Supports the Safety, Health & Environmental systems Liaison with OEM Technicians/Electricians

Requirements and experience:

• • • • • •

• • • •

•

Recognized Trade Diploma in relevant field with 4 technical theoretical subjects at N3 Level Grade 12 passed Post-apprenticeship experience: 5 years Experience in cost control, maintenance and Analytical fault finding Experience in SAP-PM related modules Experience in heavy mining equipment fitting and component replacements Previous maintenance experience on Komatsu or Caterpillar equipment will be a distinct advantage Driver’s License

VACANCY - Diesel Mechanic Mining Maintenance

•

• •

Recognized Trade Diploma in relevant field (Electrical, Millwright) with 4 technical theoretical subjects at N3 Level Grade 12 passed Post-apprenticeship experience: 5 years Experience in SAP-PM related modules Experience in Medium Voltage (MV) current applications including excellent working knowledge of transformers, circuit breakers, compressors, motors and switchgear. Previous maintenance experience on Siemens AC/DC wheel motors and large alternators will be a distinct advantage, incl Driver’s License CE

VACANCY - Boilermaker/ Welder Mining Maintenance Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to: Team Leader - Boiler Shop

Location: Husab Mine, Swakopmund Reports to: Team Leader - Maintenance Workshops MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB

To provide mechanical and general maintenance work in the Mining Maintenance Department on planned or unplanned basis to support the maintenance function towards maximum equipment availability and optimum cost including adherence to job safety and good housekeeping standards.

To provide boilermaker, welding and general repair maintenance work in the Mining Maintenance Department on planned or unplanned basis to support the maintenance function towards maximum equipment availability and optimum cost including adherence to job safety and good housekeeping standards.

Key Performance Areas:

• • • • • • • •

•

Performs planned and unplanned maintenance tasks within set time limits and to OEM/Owner specifications. Performs analytical and pro-active maintenance Hydraulic system maintenance and adjustments Uses Computer skills for equipment problem analysis Attend equipment training as identified or as required. Perform standby duties on regular basis Ensure quality workmanship and maintenance improvement training to the assistants Pre –maintenance risk assessments to ensure safe work completion Supports the Safety, Health & Environmental systems

•

• • • • •

Perform planned and unplanned maintenance tasks within set time limits and to OEM/ owner specifications. Performs manufacturing and fabrication work on ground engagement equipment and workshop environment. Performs welding work for repairs and equipment refurbishments compliant to SU standards. Attend equipment training as identified or as required. Operate all equipment maintained with training received. Perform standby duties or shift work on regular basis. Supports the Environment , Health and Safety Systems

Requirements and experience:

• • • •

• • • • •

•

Recognized Trade Diploma in relevant field with 4 technical theoretical subjects at N3 Level Grade 12 passed Post-apprenticeship experience 3 years Experience in OEM electronic monitoring/fault finding systems ( Link1, Mine care) Previous maintenance experience on Komatsu or Caterpillar mining equipment will be a distinct advantage Driver’s License

•

Recognized Trade Diploma in relevant field with 4 technical theoretical subjects at N2 Level Grade 12 passed Post-apprenticeship experience: 3 years Previous certification as coded welder Experience in welding repairs on large mining equipment components Previous maintenance experience on Caterpillar or Komatsu loading equipment will be a distinct advantage Driver’s License BE

Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry. Interested persons should submit their CV and relevant supporting documents to EngJobs@swakopuranium.com.na OR on Jobportunities.net website by 23 May 2014 Previously disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply. Clearly indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet this criteria will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no documents will be returned. Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments. For more information on the company, please visit www.swakopuranium.com

Passionately Energise our World

8 | News

Thursday, 08 May 2014

“Woolies” Parking to Remain Intact Lavrenty Repin

Two years after Swakopmund residents held a protest to stop development at the parking lot in front of Woolworths, the Municipality indicated in its last Councillors meeting that the application for further development has been rejected, but that it may be up for reconsideration. In December 2012, a petition with over 1200 signatures was handed to the municipality, followed by a street protest. At the time, the municipality maintained that the development of the plot, owned by Woermann Brock before being sold to the Municipality, will continue. However, two years later it seems that the protestors have been successful at last. One protest organiser, who chose to remain anonymous, called the surprising turn-around “a victory”, but remained sceptical on the reconsideration. An application for a kiosk was also denied on the grounds that there are no water and toilet facilities at the site. At present the parking bay, which holds 116 parking spots, will remain untouched. The development, which was sold to Fiscon Investment 23 cc in early 2008 was planned to house a hotel, office space, shops, an arcade and underground parking. Intended to replace the current parking, it was speculated that the underground parking had to be paid for. The Municipality chose to provide additional parking across from the Ocean Basket restaurant while the project was underway. In the process, the Traffic Department was moved to a different location, and the parking space still remains as is. However, many Swakopmund residents were up in arms, calling the replacement “inconvenient” because of its distance to the CBD area, which may explain why the area is seldom utilised to

its potential. At the time of the protests it was reported in a national paper that Swakopmund CEO, Eckart Demasius, said that “Swakopmunders are very comfortable. They want to park right in front of the shop instead of walking a little bit.” Another parking lot is also available behind the amphitheatre by the State house, but rarely are more than one or two cars parked there. Parking has been a growing pain for Swakopmund locals, especially during the festive season, as the Municipality continues to promote the coastal town as an international tourism destination. A local resident pointed out that the central parking was vital, and should not be replaced. “So where must we park? Every time I go there [Woolworth parking], the parking is always full, but I take the chance just to see if it’s my day,” she exclaimed. The decision to cease development at the parking lot, was, according to Municipality Communication Officer Ms Ailie Gebhardt, imposed by the Ministry of Regional Local Government and Housing. She admitted that limited parking also played a factor in Council’s decision to deny “mobile caravan” applications, but added that although there are no plans to install water/sewage facilities in the area, Council may consider food stalls if more kiosk applications come in. Before publication, the Municipality responded via a statement: “There is a misunderstanding regarding this item. We will revert shortly, it’s an item you must follow with its whole background.”

Living Museums: Why Swakopmund Needs One Lavrenty Repin Last week I had the opportunity to visit a Damara Living Museum in Twylfelfontein, Damaraland, and what I experienced was a vibrant method of cultural preservation and historical representation of proportions unmatched by anything that I have seen or heard of before. I rarely make such flamboyant observations, and this one is further driven by the sad fact that living museums are still alarmingly uncommon in multicultural Namibia, with only five in the country. However, last year Mayor Kambueshe hinted towards establishing a multi-tribal living museum as part of his tourism market expansion of the town, near the Martin-Luther historic museum on the outskirts of Swakopmund. In a short speech, he hoped to see all tribes in separate living museums, where tourists could visit and experience their culture, without the need to travel long distances. Although the idea was always a novel one, after my experience, the benefits of such a project seem immensely rewarding. Perched in-between two mammoth cliffs, like something out of J. R. Tolkien novel, the small part-time village sits 100m from the gravel road, in the heart of Damaraland. The entrance fee is N$70 per person, and you are greeted by an ironic scene of a semi-naked woman collecting your money into a safety box. But that is where the 21st century ends. Your guide also serves as your translator as she takes you through what would have been a variant of traditional

village life for the Damara tribe. Everyone speaks their mothertongue fluently, and with beauty that you normally would not recognise. They teach you how to make a fire from scratch, show you an assortment of traditional medicines that cure a variety of ailments from heartburn to infidelity and explain the rules of a rather complicated mathematical game that Chiefs would use to settle disputes. Dressed to the nine, the “actors” perform a dance and bid you farewell, but not before you browse through their local made jewellery, which buying from them feels a lot better than from a sleazy salesman. But at 5 o’clock, when their shift ends and the entrance is closed, the staff of 25 dress in ordinary attire and head back to their lives, not as traditional country-dwellers but as men and women surviving in a progressive and turbulent society. They speak good English, keep a stable job and meet new people, but they also retain a dying culture, for themselves and for their visitors, to remind us of where we once were and where we are now. Ironically I met one of the guys from the museum at a local shebeen, dancing, dressed up and jolly, telling me of his aspirations to be a Kwaito musician; he produced a curious contrast. As culture preservation it is second to none, because it provides economic opportunity while retaining historic authenticity – it is like a loophole in a world rapidly moving away from tradition, where holding on to it usually means poverty. As a tourist attraction, its success speaks for itself; the five museums, employing 180 actors, received more than 10,000 visitors in 2012. Locally, an

estimated 1500 people in Namibia profit indirectly from the work of the Living Culture Foundation, which is responsible for overseeing the living museum project. Economically, the handful of museums generated N$1,5 Million in 2011. A Swakopmund resident of 25 years, who visited the living museum in Damaraland, said that for the first time she understood the Damara culture and background, and felt ashamed for having poked fun at her Damara-speaking friends’ accents. That alone encompasses the vitalness of living museums as a tool to connect and make sense of the present, by understanding our past. Swakopmund already has the Ovahimba tribes situated outside the Mole, who draw a lot of attention from tourists, but unfortunately lack proper facilities or schedule. So when the idea was unofficially announced at Councillors meeting last year, it was met with enthusiasm. But when the Namib Independent contacted the Municipality for an update, they denied any plans of establishing a living museum in Swakopmund, and instead explained that “Swakopmund is a town full of history and is regarded as a living museum town,” followed by a list of tourist attractions available in the self-proclaimed international tourism destination. It is unfortunate to see that so far little consideration has been given to this, perhaps because there is little financial gain for the instigator. The mayor, right before publication, went on record and said that this is something he is interested in launching, and that he is aware of the necessity to preserve history “when

there is culture change taking place.” He stated he would like to create a museum in Mondesa, where elderly residents can tell the township's history through first-hand accounts, while the living museum idea, too, sparked his interest. By helping people help themselves, at minimum cost (no infrastructure input), which protects traditions, economically and sociologically empowers the local community and exposes rare and unique cultures to the outside world while serving

as an easy but important tourist attraction, it becomes progressively more difficult to justify why so few living museums have been opened in our country and our attractive coast. The Namib Independent is in full support of establishing a living museum(s) in Swakopmund and encourages the Municipality and/or any other developer to work towards making this exciting project a reality. We’d be glad to help, if such a development was initiated, to the best of our capacity.

News | 9

Thursday, 08 May 2014

Theo Ben Gurirab Str. & Hanna Mupetami Road P.O.Box 499, Walvis Bay

Phone +264 64 205136 • Fax +264 64 205137

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There’s a new branch ashore. FNB Namibia is excited to announce the opening of the new full service FNB Kuisebmond Branch on 07 May 2014 at Shop 4 & 5, Nathaniel Maxuilili Shopping Centre, Nr.9 Nathaniel Maxuilili street, Kuisebmond.

Feel free to call the FNB Kuisebmond Branch at Tel: (064) 280 500 or Fax: (064) 280 501. Visit www.fnbnamibia.com.na for more information.

10 |News

Thursday, 08 May 2014

ANNOUNCEMENT Netmetering Connections NamPower is the national power utility of Namibia and specialises in the generation, trading and transmission of electricity. As the engine that drives progress, our main objectives are the availability, affordability and accessibility of electricity to as many Namibians as possible within the shortest possible time. There has recently been much debate about “Netmetering” connections, including an initiative by the Electricity Control Board (ECB) to regulate such connections. Netmetering is defined as “owner produced excess energy, offset against imported energy from the grid”. (Visit http://www.ecb.org.na/pdf/NET_METERING_Draft_RULES_V5.pdf for further information). NamPower eagerly awaits the rules to be issued by the ECB and for them to be seamless and equitable across Namibia. NamPower’s view is towards uniformity in the industry. As an interim measure, NamPower will allow customers to connect a Photovoltaic (Solar PV) roof-top system on a first-come, first-served basis until 15% of the Maximum Demand of the main feeder line serving a specific group of customers is reached. On the Customer side, the connected system must not be greater than 80% of their contracted breaker size. Primarily for the safety of our staff and network, all NamPower customers must notify NamPower in writing of their intention to connect such a system to allow NamPower an opportunity to inspect the existing grid connection prior to the addition of the PV system. NamPower will then advise the customer in writing of the next steps to be followed including any costs and meter changes. Once effected, the ECB’s Net-metering Policy will take precedence over these interim arrangements and customers will have to pay for any modifications required by the ECB. Please note that these measures will only be considered for “roof-top solar PV” systems and until the ECB has established and promulgated a net-metering policy for Namibia. NamPower will therefore not compensate customers for any energy exported (fed-back) to the NamPower network at this point in time. Should you require further information or clarification, please feel free to contact NamPower at: Netmetering@nampower.com.na. Issued by: Office of the Managing Director Corporate Communications & Marketing P. O. Box 2864 Windhoek Tel: +264 61 205 4111 Fax: +264 61 232805

Worldwide News | 11

Thursday, 08 May 2014

W o r l d wid e Pig Heart Transplants 'Vampire Therapy' for Humans Could Be on the Way Could Reverse Ageing, Scientists Find

About a year ago, scientists grafted genetically modified pigs’ hearts into baboons. And now, the team reports that the baboons and their pig hearts are doing just fine. The engineering grafts have not been rejected, and ones like it may be ready for humans with end-stage heart failure one day soon. The biggest challenge with transplants using animal organs (or xenotransplantation) is preventing the hosts from seeing their donor parts as foreign. In the past, organs that have not been genetically tweaked last no more than six months in primates before they are rejected. One of the reasons pigs were chosen for this study is because their anatomy is already compatible with humans; pig valves are already being swapped for human heart valves. To further help pig parts evade our immune systems, a team from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the U.S. National Institutes of Health added several human genes to the pig genome - while removing (or knocking out) genes that would trigger immune responses in humans. The modified pig hearts were then transplanted into the abdomen of baboons alongside their own hearts. The baboons were treated with drugs that suppress their immune systems. So far, the combination of donor genetic modifications and host-targeted immunosuppression seems to work: Four xenografts have survived in the baboons for

over a year. This is already twice as long as previously reported. The next step is to actually replace the original baboon heart with pig hearts to see if they can provide full life support. In case you want to know the specifics about the genetic modifications made in the 4- to 6-week-old piglets: They are alpha galactosidase transferase knockout (GTKO), pigs expressing the human complement regulatory gene CD46 (hCD46) and the Thrombomodulin (hTM) molecule. As for the immunosuppression: The baboons were receiving drugs that suppressed both T and B immune cells, as well as antiCD40 and CD154 antibody and conventional non-specific immunosuppressive agents. Both of the control (unmodified) xenografts were rejected within one day of transplantation. The eight GTKO grafts expressing human CD46 molecules and receiving the anti CD154 antibody survived an average of 70 days, with the longest survival of 236 days. The antiCD40 treated baboons with immunosuppression survived for an average of 84 days. The four grafts from the GTKOhCD46-hTM pigs along with a higher dose of anti CD40 have the longest graft survival: still surviving as they approach the one-year mark (as of the abstract submission date). It has been over 500 days now. The team believes that using animal parts may solve the shortage of organ donors. In the U.S., for example,

approximately 3,000 people are on mechanical assist devices waiting for a heart transplant -- about 2,000 donor hearts become available every year. "We are hopeful that we will be able to repeat our results in the life-supporting model,” NHLBI’s Muhammad Mohiuddin says in a news release. “If successful, this method could change the current transplant paradigm, eliminating the shortage of donor organs including hearts, livers, kidneys, intestine, as well as insulin producing cells for treatment of diabetes.” The technique also means that fewer potentially toxic immunosuppressive drugs will be needed. Researchers will only move on to human trials if it works in baboons. But aside from concerns over GE animal parts, the technique could one day be surpassed by regenerative medicine using stem cells, tissue engineering, and lab-grown parts. However, “I think we are a long way off from being able to genetically engineer a whole heart through stem cells so this could provide a good stop-gap,” Chris Mason of University College London tells the Telegraph. The latest findings were presented at the 94th American Association for Thoracic Surgery meeting this week in Toronto. The work was first published in the American Journal of Transplantation last year. Source:

http://www. iflscience.com/

A transfusion of youthful blood may halt or even reverse the ageing process as two studies find that the chemical make-up of younger blood has surprising health benefits. It may seem the stuff of gothic horror novels, but transfusions of young blood could reverse the ageing process and even cure Alzheimer’s disease, scientists believe. Throughout history, cultures across the globe have extolled the properties of youthful blood, with children sacrificed and the blood of young warriors drunk by the victors. It was even rumoured that the North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il injected himself with blood from healthy young virgins to slow the ageing process. Now scientists have found that young blood actually ‘recharges’ the brain, forms new blood vessels and improves memory and learning. In parallel research, scientists at Harvard University also discovered that a ‘youth protein’, which circulates in the blood is responsible for keeping the brain and muscles young and strong. The protein, known as ‘GDF11’, is present in the bloodstream in large quantities when we are young but peters out as we age. Although both the discoveries were made in mice, researchers are hoping to begin human trials in the next two to three years, in studies which could bring rapid improvements for human longevity and health. “This should give us all hope for a healthier future,” said Prof Doug Melton, of Harvard's Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology. “We all wonder why we were stronger and mentally more agile when young, and these two unusually exciting papers actually point to a possible answer. “There seems to be little question that GDF11 has an amazing capacity to restore aging muscle and brain function.” Last year the team discovered that the protein could repair damaged hearts. But the new study showed that that raising the levels of the GDF11 protein in older mice improved the function of every organ in the body. Harvard stem cell biologist Prof Lee Rubin added: “We do think that, at least in principal, there will be a way to reverse some of the decline of aging with a single protein. "It isn't out of question that GDF11, or a drug developed from it, might be worthwhile in Alzheimer's disease.” It is likely that the protein is at least partly responsible for the parallel finding by Stanford University that young blood can reverse the signs of ageing. In the study, the blood of three-month-old mice was repeatedly injected into 18-month-old mice near the end of their natural life span. The "vampire therapy" improved the performance of the elderly mice in memory and learning tasks. Structural, molecular and functional changes were also seen in their brains, the study

published in the journal Science found. If the same were seem in humans, it could lead to new therapies for recharging our aging brains and novel drugs for treating dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease. “We’ve shown that at least some agerelated impairments in brain function are reversible. They’re not final,” said Dr Saul Villeda, of Stanford’s School of Medicine. Ageing mice given eight infusions of young blood over three weeks improved their performance in mental tests of fear condition and locating a hidden platform in a water maze. Evidence was seen of new connections forming in the hippocampus, a brain region vital to memory and sensitive to ageing. Dendrites - finger-like extensions from the branches of neurons that are thought to play a role in memory formation - also became denser. Infusions of blood from other elderly mice had no effect, the study, published in the journal Nature, found. “This could have been done 20 years ago,” said lead researcher Dr Tony Wyss-Coray of Stanford. “You don’t need to know anything about how the brain works. You just give an old mouse young blood and see if the animal is smarter than before. It’s just that nobody did it.” "Our data indicate that exposure of aged mice to young blood late in life is capable of rejuvenating synaptic plasticity and improving cognitive function. "Future studies are warranted in aged humans and potentially those suffering from age-related neurodegenerative disorders." Dr Eric Karran, from the dementia charity Alzheimer's Research UK, said: “This technically complex study looks at the effects of exposing old mice to blood-borne factors from young mice on age-related cognitive decline. “Although the treatments tested here rejuvenate certain aspects of learning and memory in mice, these studies are of unknown significance to humans. “This research, while very interesting, does not investigate the type of cognitive impairment that is seen in Alzheimer's disease, which is not an inevitable consequence of ageing.” Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk

12 | Lifestyle

Thursday, 08 May 2014

LIFESTYLE Christopher Aiff's What it Really Means to Haunting Story be in Love

Lavrenty Repin Death is inevitable; as we toil through life most of us try our best not to think too much of its inevitability; even as it lingers (constantly) somewhere in the dark regions of our brain, we almost negate its looming, pretending, hoping, that when it happens to us we will somehow be “prepared” or “sufficiently fulfilled.” Christopher Aiff was an avid football player and made the regionals in Namibia. While in university, Christopher became progressively uneasy on his feet, until the point he sought out medical advice. They discovered a tumour, a biopsy confirmed it was cancerous. At age 21 Christopher was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer. After nine cycles of chemotherapy and one surgery to remove the tumour in his leg he was pronounced cancer free. Three months later when he went for his first check-up, what used to be three tumours in his lungs had become 50. At this point there was no chance of eradicating the illness. In the middle of 2011, doctors told him that he had between six months and two years left to live. Christopher was put on to chemotherapy, which prolonged his life, but caused severe insomnia and nausea. “I had felt what I think death feels like,” he had said. In a brave decision, he stopped chemo and instead, with the help of his family, identified the things that was the most important to him, and created a bucket list. But to embark on his journey, his mother had to let him go. “I think as a parent, there can be no greater sacrifice than that,” Christopher said. This is when he uploaded, with the help of “My Last Days,” a Youtube video. What followed next was a young man’s travels that inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world through his loving words, positive outlook and courage. Christopher reminded people what love can truly do for this world. Below are a few quotes from the young man. Christopher’s thoughts were deep, but always tainted with happiness. “The decision to be positive is not one that disregards or belittles the sadness that exists;

Taking you in the

it is rather a conscious choice to focus on the good, and to cultivate happiness, genuine happiness.” He travelled with his beloved sister. “The cancer in a weird way has given us (me and my sister) the platform to express (my relationship with my sister) further, together, and travel the world and do things that most people don’t get the chance to do…it’s just sad, that the cost for that is so high.” But he also made many wonderful friends on his journey. “Every day since I made that decision [to travel] has reinforced and validated it. It’s all been love-focused and friendship focused.” And although there are things he lacked, love was not one of them. “While I’m sad that I might perhaps not get the chance to experience love in any romantic capacity, I have loved and been loved more than most people will ever in their life time, and of that I have no doubt.” People from around the world have adopted this quote, many as a tattoo. “Happiness is not a limitless resource.” He had courage. “I was just going to be the best patient there was.” Courage, even when death was near. “Dying doesn’t need to be a bad thing; it is indeed a necessary thing. I want to be remembered as someone who did their best.” And he humbly held on to hope. “I will love my family always, I would never lose sight of what they did for me during this time and for what this time and this illness has brought to our family. It would be amazing if I could use that gratitude and that reference point and that perspective still in this life and if by some chance the world does not feel it is necessary to terminate my life to get that message across, I would be greatly appreciative.” Christopher, above all, had a purpose. “When I die, that represents the end of my journey, but then that represents the starting point of another journey for everyone else; what a wonderful purpose then, to have. To be the reference point that enables people to expand their capacity to love and to be happy; I think ultimately, that is the purest form of purpose.” On May 4th 2014, Christopher Aiff passed away as a result of his cancer.

While many of us may have sensed it intuitively, there is now science behind the statement that "love is all you need." A 75-year longitudinal study by Harvard researchers suggests that love is indeed key to a happy and fulfilling life. While love seems to be a universally valued attribute, defining it in behavioural terms can be a challenge. As the Harvard study's lead researcher, Dr. George Vaillant, wrote of his team's findings, two essential ingredients are proven to correlate with a happy existence: "One is love. The other is finding a way of coping with life that does not push love away." While many of us believe we would like to be in love, we face many hurdles in taking the actions that allow love to flow freely throughout our lives and relationships. We have many ways of defending ourselves against love and can struggle to give and receive love with ease, openness and vulnerability. With love being so closely connected to meaning and fulfilment, it is valuable for each of us to define love as an action or series of actions we can take to bring us closer to the people we value. In a romantic context, some essential characteristics that fit the description of a loving relationship include: • Expressions of affection, both physical and emotional. • A wish to offer pleasure and satisfaction to another. • Tenderness, compassion, and sensitivity to the needs of the other. • A desire for shared activities and pursuits. • An appropriate level of sharing of possessions. • An ongoing, honest exchange of personal feelings. • The process of offering concern, comfort, and outward assistance for the loved one's aspirations. • So how well do we meet these standards for being loving? When we think about a relationship that is meaningful to us, we have to ask: • Do we both behave in ways that nurture each other? • Do we take actions to make the other person feel good? • Do we consider what lights that person up, separate from our own interests? Too often, we think of love as an almost passive state of being, as opposed to a conscious choice we make. When we regard love as something we simply fall into, we can easily slip into routines with the person

we value or lose a sense of separateness and respect. Instead, we view that person as a part of us. We then run the risk of creating a fantasy bond, an illusion of fusion in which real feelings of fondness and attraction are replaced by the form of being in a relationship. In other words, we come to see ourselves and our partner as a single unit. We then fall into roles rather than appreciating each other as individuals and experiencing the exciting, loving feelings that result. A fantasy bond offers a false sense of security—the illusion that we are no longer alone. However, when we connect to someone in this way, we lose our sense of vitality, and we give up significant aspects of our relationship. The behavioural operations of love are replaced with a fantasy of being in love, which does not nurture either partner. Relationships tend to go south when we stop taking actions that our partner would perceive as loving and instead start looking to our partner solely to meet our own needs. It is important to distinguish emotional hunger from real love. Have you ever witnessed a parent hugging a child and wondered whether the hug was intended to comfort the child, offering reassurance and care, or to soothe the parent, taking something from the child? When we reach out to our partner, it can be valuable to examine whether our behaviours are for them or for ourselves. Are we looking to them to fulfil us in some way that is unfair to them? Are we hoping they will make up for an emptiness or hurt from our past? Love should never be an act of manipulation. It is not a mark of ownership over another person, but the exact opposite—a genuine appreciation of a person as a separate individual. When we see a person this way, we allow ourselves to fully value them for who they are and for the happiness they bring to our lives. We are driven to be generous toward the person, to show compassion and kindness in a way that both they and the outside world would view as loving. As we reflect on these behaviours, we learn a lot, not only about how we interfere with our naturally loving feelings for others, but about the negative ways we feel about ourselves. It is difficult to express love outwardly when we do not feel our own sense of self-worth. One of the biggest reasons we shut out love is because we feel unworthy or self-denying. Therefore, to have a loving relationship, we must challenge our negative self-concept, or critical inner voice. When we do this and take the loving actions that contradict our critical self-image, we enhance our own sense of worth and are able to get closer to the people we love. Source:

http://www.psychologytoday. com

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Lifestyle | 13

Thursday, 08 May 2014

Aspartame: The Bitter Truth Behind

This Toxic Sweetener

Where do we even begin when it comes to Aspartame? The artificial sweetener has been banned twice by the FDA, and there are numerous studies clearly outlining the dangers associated with it. So ask yourself, why and how is this product, which is found in over 6000 products worldwide, still legal today? A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology determined that sugar sweetened soda increases the odds for kidney function decline. 3318 women participated in the study for a number of years as they consumed

diet soda that contained artificial sweeteners, most notably Aspartame. Two or more diet drinks a day led to a doubled risk of fast-paced kidney decline. The study was conducted by scientists from Brigham and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital in Boston. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that aspartame is linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukaemia. A study out of Arizona State University that was published in the Journal of Applied Nutrition determined that Aspartame causes brain damage by leaving traces of Methanol in the

blood. Another study published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine determined that long term consumption of Aspartame leads to an imbalance in the antioxidant/prooxidant status in the brain. A study published by Washington University Medical School outlines a possible connection between aspartame and brain tumours. A new study observing over 60,000 women found that diet drinks containing aspartame consumed at two or more per day increased the risk of heart-related illness by 50%. This is added to the list of studies that have shown aspartame causes fast paced kidney decline, brain and neurological damage, and is linked to increased rates of leukaemia and lymphoma and more. Source:

http://www.collectiveevolution.com/

Why drive if you could fly? For Learners, Students & Senior Citizens only

Ondangwa N$800 One Way / N$1600 Return (All Taxes Included)

Special available only on

EROS-ONDANGWA (Departure 13:40 Arrival 14:45) ONDANGWA-EROS (Departure 15:15 Arrival 16:20) 17 and 22 April 2014 Terms and Conditions apply: Proof of Student (max 25 Yrs) / Pensioner (65 Yrs +) Status & Age required Book and pay same day / Tickets are non-refundable/ Date changes not permitted Bookable at Air Namibia Town Office and Ongwediva Office

Visit: www.airnamibia.com.na

Limited seats available - Book early! For bookings, please contact Tel. 061 299 6111 or 065 238 014 Easter_Special@airnamibia.aero Ongwediva@airnamibia.aero or visit our Windhoek Town Office or Ongwediva Office to book.

14 | We've Got Mail

Thursday, 08 May 2014

we've got

No Improved Service with KFC Upgrades

I am not certain whether I should rejoice or fear the new building developments at KFC in Walvis Bay. Having to burn the candle at four ends, cooking at home remains a looming threat on the horizon, threatening to crash my whole world from its razor–edge balance. Nothing comes handier than a quick meal in a matter of minutes. From all the places to choose from in Walvis Bay, KFC dropped to the bottom of my list months ago. I simply couldn’t stand the intensifying frustration of trying to decide what I want to pick from the menu on display only to find that what I wanted is ‘out of stock’ or ‘not available’. Once I had to repeat this cycle three times and enough was enough. I vowed to myself never to return. Not even the smell of KFC wafting through the streets at lunchtime could convince me to go back. Gritting my teeth I moved on to the next place. How surprised was I when the building closed down for a month and upgrades started. The interior received a new

look punctuated with au courant décor. Consequently I thought that perhaps, just maybe, the service would have been upgraded as well. Soon I found myself paving my way into a long row until one person stood between me and the counter. “Can I have some ice cream,” I overheard the lady with the long blond hair in front of me. “Sorry we do not have any,” was the curt reply. The alarm bells started to ring in my head. The lady at the counter was just as shocked. For a long period of silence she did not move. “We might have again at 14h00,” the cashier said apologetically. Who in their right mind is going to wait around for three hours for some ice cream? Needless to say, then and there I turned on my heels and walked out. I should have stuck to my vow. Even upgrades do not miraculously improve service quality. I guess that one can whitewash graves as much as one wants, the core remains rotten. Sandra Pietersen

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Motoring | 15

Thursday, 08 May 2014

MOTORING Street Legal

Batmobile

Goes on Sale for

US$1 Million A replica of the 'Tumbler' Batmobile used in the Christian Bale-starring Batman movies costs US$1m, but is legal to drive on ordinary roads. It is every Batman fan boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dream: driving around Gotham fighting ne'er-do-wells and perhaps wearing too much eye shadow. Now the fantasy becomes near-reality, as a replica of the 'Tumbler' Batmobile used in The Dark Knight movies goes on sale for $1m. Appearing on the James Edition luxury goods website, the seller says that "we have built this

insane vehicle to be street legal, however, please understand that this is not a daily driver!" Its specs include four 44-inch tyres with custom rims, a stereo with Bluetooth and iPod integration as well as a CD/DVD player, and five driver assist cameras for those tricky supermarket parking spaces. It has an eight-cylinder engine, though UK drivers may be dismayed to learn it is only in left hand drive, as well as the fact it has no weaponry. Echoing Christian Bale's famous paint job demands, it comes in one colour: black.

If it is not to your taste, James Edition has paintjob, a snow-camouflaged Hummer some other eye-catching vehicles, including with its own drone helicopter, or a â&#x201A;Ź2.1m a Dodge pickup with 9/11 memorial campervan.