RDJ Briefing - May 2022.pdf by RDJ Briefing

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY Facts & Analysis

MAY, 2022

Endangered Species

Saving Rhinos

The R D J B riefing and it's analysis is writt e n a n d a u t h o r e d t h r o u g h coll a b o r a tion with RDJ Consulting Service s C C b a s e d i n W i n d h o e k , N a m i b i a .

MICT Courtesy Visit 2022

Having had the privilege of visiting with and being allowed to introduce the RDJ Briefing and RDJ Publishing Pty (Ltd) to the Honourable Minister and Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Information and Communication (MICT), we now feel ready to meet the objectives of supporting governments in informing and providing factual information and data to the public. We kindly extend our gratitude to the Ministry of MICT for welcoming us to a courtesy visit on 11 May 2022.

EMAIL: info@rdjpublishing.africa

TEL: +264 81 750 3010

Facts & Analysis

From The Editor Did You Know?

04 05

Economy at Large

Oil & Gas

Mining

14 16 19 21 22 28 29 31 33 35 37

Electricity Renewable Energy Water The Environment Roads & Transport ICT & Telecommunications Women In Industry Youth In Action Tenders and Careers Contributing Authors

C ONT E NT S

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY

MAY 2022

FROM THE EDITOR RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is the publishing home of the RDJ Briefing, written and authored through the collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za).

PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA

Telephone +264 81 750 3010 EMAIL briefing@rdjpublishing.africa WEBSITE www.rdjpublishing.africa

RDJ Consulting Services CC is an advisory consultancy to the Energy, Water and Transport Sectors with a focus on sustainable operations and renewable energy.

ENDANGERED SPECIES & CONSERVATION Dear Reader, As we joined the United Nations in observing the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action for April 2022, we are also extremely happy to inform you that your monthly publication, the RDJ Briefing was officially Launched in Windhoek, Namibia under its new home at RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd successfully before selected stakeholders on the 11th of April 2022. Now under our new Leadership of RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd, we now approach the month of May as another milestone since we proudly celebrate publishing our 60th publication online, while at the same time commemorating the Endangered Species Day on the 20th of May 2022. Hence, this publication is specially dedicated towards raising awareness about protection of threatened and endangered species and their habitats, as well as looking into the sustainable conservation of these species. We hope that in reading this month’s publication, you will also be informed about how conservation efforts have been enhanced by Renewable Energy, as well taking a deeper look into the conservation work being done in Namibia through an exclusive interview by RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd with the Save the Rhino Trust.

Other relevant industry topics covered are: Banking and Roads - Is there a Future? Botswanan Diamonds shine - The Karowe Mine Upgrade Synthetic Fuels and Africa’s Future To find out more, please enjoy your reading. Do stay safe and feel free to comment, compliment and subscribe to the following email if you are a new reader: briefing@rdjpublishing.africa or reach me directly editor@rdjpublishing.africa Stay tuned!

WATCH THIS SPACE Enjoy, #Stay Safe and a happy 2022 to you….

(David A. Jarrett) Editor

Authors RDJ Interns*

This report is a FREE Publication written and authored through collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia. The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

? w o n k u o y d i D Namibia hosts 34% of the world’s remaining black rhino population, and 90% of the south-western subspecies.

Courtesy: Save the Rhino

Quick Facts 1. There are two species of African rhino: White rhino and Black rhino. 2. The southern White rhino can be found mostly in South Africa, with smaller translocated populations found in Kenya, Namibia and Zimbabwe. 3. The southern White rhino has a population between 17 212 and 18 915.

4. There are fewer than 5 630 Black rhinos left in the wild, but the last remaining free-ranging population live in the Kunene and Erongo regions of North West Namibia. 5. As of 2021, there are three times more rhinos than in 1982 globally.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY , 2022

ECONOMY AT LARGE Endangered Species Economics AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting

Courtesy: Wildlife Justice Commission

rom an African perspective, every year on the third Friday in May since 2006, as the world celebrates Endangered Species Day we take time to learn about and to take action to protect threatened and endangered species. As you know, an endangered species is an animal or plant that's considered at risk of extinction. Let’s take an everyday reality check and look at the economic value that they really bring to us.

But why is it so important to protect these species? In the protection of endangered species, there are various steps that are taken based on the obligations and

commitments made by countries. Some of these are borne out of self preservation and others based on international agreements and conventions. No doubt, extinction is a natural phenomenon of nature but due to some other reasons, extinction is increasing decades in decades, but scientific evidence suggests that the current rate of species extinction is much higher as compared to the background rate of the past. One such legislation designed for the protection of endangered species is the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 which is the primary law in the United States (US) for protecting endangered species. As a result of this act,

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

99% of species listed on it have avoided extinction. The Act prohibits importing, exporting, taking, possessing, selling, and transporting endangered and threatened species (with certain exceptions). ESA also provides for the designation of critical habitat and prohibits the destruction of that habitat. Another means of protecting vulnerable and endangered species is through conservation. Thanks to the foresight of conservationists past and present, many of the most endangered animals in Africa are being protected in reserves and national parks. The Black Rhino, which is found only in sub-Saharan Africa for example, is deemed Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) because between 1960 and 1995 rhino populations dropped by a surprisingly 98% due to illegal rhino poaching, taking the species to the brink of extinction. The decline of the black rhino mirrors the elephant; there could have been up to 850 000 black rhinos during most of the 20th century, but demand for rhino horn reduced their numbers to the several thousand that exist today.

So, what economic benefits does protecting endangered species bring? To determine the value of saving a species, economists look at benefits described as “ecosystem services”, which include all the functions performed by nature and that provide benefits to humans. A 2011 study prepared for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a governmentaffiliated conservation group, tabulated the total value of ecosystem services at about $1.6 trillion annually in the U.S. as part of revenue generated from the protection of endangered species, the study looked at economic benefits drawn from: The willingness-to-pay by residents and visitors to conserve various species, The revenue accrued by visits to natural areas, and Property values that are impacted by proximity to protected and natural areas.

Protection of vulnerable and endangered species is fundamental for the survival of the entire food chain in which all human, animal and plant populations are part of. Chilombo (Olga) Priscila

Protection of vulnerable and endangered species is fundamental for the survival of the entire food chain in which all human, animal and plant populations are part of. Losing even a single species can have disastrous impacts on the rest of the ecosystem, because the effects will be felt throughout the food chain. In fact, initiatives that deal with protection of rare species save native fish, plants, and other wildlife from going extinct, because once gone, they're gone forever, and there's no going back. When it comes to the value of individual endangered species, a good example would be the Pangolin. Globally, all eight species of pangolin, of which four live in Africa, are under enormous threat as they are the most trafficked animal in the world. In Africa, the pangolin is on the brink of extinction, relentlessly hunted for their scales which are believed to have ‘medicinal purposes.’ Pangolins are killed and sold on the black market for up to USD 3000.00 per kilogram – their meat is eaten while the scales are used for alternative health treatments. From providing cures to deadly diseases to maintaining natural ecosystems and improving overall quality of life, the benefits of preserving threatened and endangered species are invaluable. Another methodology that has shown both economic and social benefits has been the designation of areas into protected lands. Namibia is a clear example of this through its Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme which the government accepts provided significant economic development. Beyond the economic value of species preservation, there’s the value of being good stewards of our planet. The conversation continues and we can be reached at briefing@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings: https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/the-endangered-speciesact-q-a https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/the-us-endangered-speciesact#:~:text=Passed%20with%20bipartisan%20support%20in,listed %20as%20endangered%20or%20threatened. https://www.jagranjosh.com/general-knowledge/nationalendangered-species-day-1557990895-1 https://nywolf.org/2018/07/economic-value-of-protectingendangered-species/ https://africantravelcanvas.com/news/the-5-most-endangeredanimals-in-africa/ https://thomsonsafaris.com/blog/africas-endangered-species-bythenumbers/#:~:text=The%20lion%2C%20leopard%2C%20African%20b uffalo,them%20all%20in%20one%20day.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

OIL & GAS May 2022 Fuel Prices Update

Namibia

South Africa

Effective as of 5 May 2022

Effective as of 4 May 2022

N$ 17.90

R 21.84

per litre 95 Octane Unleaded Petrol

N$ 19.93

R 22.16

per litre Diesel 50ppm

PETROL

BY 120 CENTS PER LITRE

PETROL

DIESEL

BY 30 CENTS PER LITRE

DIESEL

www.rdjconsulting.co.za

BY 12 CENTS PER LITRE BY 92 CENTS PER LITRE

MAY , 2022

Synthetic Fuels and Africa’s Future AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting

Petroleum and other liquids production and consumption in South Africa. Courtesy: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-term Energy Outlook, September 2017

frica has without a doubt the potential to be a leader in economic growth and expansion. However, this growth will require large quantities of energy and this energy needs to be flexible and responsive to the growth demanded. Enter synthetic fuels which can be produced in a variety of ways that can either help with climate change mitigation or creation of new renewable industries. One type of synthetic fuel is also referred to as “synfuel” which is a liquid or gaseous fuel derived from syngas, which itself is a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. Syngas is usually derived from gasification of solid feedstocks such as coal or biomass or by reforming natural gas and studies indicate that it can be used as a substitute for oil or natural gas. Synthetic fuels are made with the help of energy sources that provide for a human directed process resulting in a fuel source. The process involves producing hydrogen from water, and then adding carbon to this to produce a liquid fuel. Note that this carbon can be recycled from industrial processes or even captured from the air using

filters. Combining CO₂ and H₂ then results in the synthetic fuel, which can be gasoline, diesel, gas, or even kerosene. Synthetic fuel technology has been used commercially since the 1940s when Germany was using the FisherTropsch process that allowed the conversion of plentiful coal deposits into gasoline. In Africa, synfuels are not new either because it has been produced for many years now. However, it not common because very few countries in produce it. In South Africa for example, PetroSA refinery at Mossel Bay which was commissioned in 1992, is the world's first gas-to-liquids (GTL) process with production capacity of 7000 m3 per day (45 000 barrels per day) of crude oil equivalent. In addition, the country has a sophisticated synthetic fuels industry, producing gasoline and diesel fuels from the Secunda coal-to-liquids and Mossel Bay gas-to-liquids plants. In fact, Secunda is one of the world's largest coal-based synthetic fuels plants and is operated by Sasol. With its most advanced plans in Nigeria, Uzbekistan, Canada and

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

the United States, Sasol stands to be the leading company in the commercialization of synthetic fuel. The company has been producing synthetic fuels for more than 60 years, mainly using coal as feedstock. The plant produces approximately 24 000 m3 of oil per day (150 000 barrels of oil a day equivalent) to meet 28% of South Africa's annual fuel needs. Chevron Corp and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corp (NNPC) began delivering synthetic fuels converted from natural gas since 2005. Namibia, which is currently not a fuel producing nation has started to grasp the potential of becoming a green hydrogen hub, and also a synthetic fuels industry powerhouse in Southern Africa as stated by Mr. James Mnyupe - the Presidential Economic Advisor and Hydrogen Commissioner. This objective has a great potential especially with the renewable energy potential that Namibia has. With a focus on developing its green hydrogen resources, and its attainment for this, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, in partnership with GIZ’s Green People Energy Project Namibia, hosted the first Renewable Power-to-X training in March 2022. This follows a successful bidding process that resulted in a feasibility study underway by Hyphen Industries. Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a record surge in fuel

prices which drives up already steep energy costs. Therefore, it is crucial that any investment is made towards sustainable alternative fuels to diversify the energy mix and alleviate fuel cost burden on consumers. Synthetic fuels are expected to become a major source of the energy supply in the future and major sources of synthetic fuels will be coal, shale oil and tar sand. Synthetic fuels do not mean a choice between fuel tank and dinner plate, as biofuels do. And if renewable energy is used, synthetic fuels can be produced without the volume limitations that can be expected in the case of biofuels because of factors such as the amount of land available. As usual, the conversation continues and we can be reached at briefing@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings: https://www.sasol.com/innovation/overview https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/synthetic-fuelproduction https://ptx-hub.org/ptx-training-in-namibia-a-country-rich-inmany-renewable-resources/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetarysciences/synthetic-fuel

Courtesy: www.iea.org

www.rdjpublishing.africa

PRESS RELEASE RDJ Publishing officially Launched Start// 19 April 2022- Windhoek

n the 11th of April 2022, RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd. had its official launch to the public. Since

2016 the RDJ Briefing, has been published under the umbrella patronage of RDJ Consulting Services CC. The newly created RDJ Group proudly announced that the RDJ Briefing publication has now been given a new home with RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd. The RDJ Briefing is a Namibian based Business to Business (B2B) “niche” monthly publication. The publication is focused on delivering up to the minute factual information based around the Energy and Sustainability sectors in Africa, and is not focused on reporting of current news events. Rather, the publication's aim is to provide a unique analysis that informs investors worldwide as to the realities of Namibia and Africa at large. The RDJ Briefing provides interested investors, businesses and researchers with clear facts, analytical content and a way forward on matters of Energy and Sustainability Fields and as such seeks to become the ‘trusted’ source of current data and information. The publication specifically analyses matters such as: the Economy at Large, as well as specializations such as: Oil and Gas, Mining, Electricity and Renewable Energy, Water and the Environment, Roads and Transport, ICT and Telecommunications, finally, lifestyle pieces focused on the achievements of ‘Women in Industry’ and ‘Youth in Action.’

The event was attended by the public and private sector representatives of organizations namely:

The RDJ Briefing Publication hopes to continue benefiting from the technical insight of its collaboration with both those in attendance of the event and future entities. The Publication continues to receive technical support from RDJ Consulting (Namibia) as authors and as part of the RDJ Group. About RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is a 100% Namibian owned and operated publishing house. RDJ Publishing (Pty) Ltd is currently the publishing home of the RDJ Briefing, written and authored through collaboration with RDJ Consulting Services CC (www.rdjconsulting.co.za) based in Windhoek, Namibia. RDJ Briefing focuses the reader on the Southern Africa and Namibian Energy and Sustainability space with context spreading across Africa as a whole. It does so by providing current information on the developments, opportunities, challenges and key stakeholders with analytical and factual references. The RDJ Briefing is issued FREE monthly. To subscribe: briefing@rdjpublishing.africa https://www.rdjpublishing.africa/ End// Enquiries: Amakhoë //Hoabes, Sales and Business Development Consultant +264 81 750 3010 rdjpubsales@gmail.com sales@rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

MINING Another Botswanan Diamond- The Karowe Mine Upgrade AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting

Courtesy: lucaradiamond.com

here is no need to inform the reader that Africa is a major producer of several key commodities, with bountiful reserves such as gold, diamond, cobalt,

bauxite, iron ore, coal, and copper across the continent. As with other major mining countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe who have a diversity of minerals, Botswana's mining industry consists mainly of diamonds, and its mining accounts for approximately a third of government revenue. Other mined minerals include nickel-copper, coal, soda ash, gold, silver, semi-precious stones, and granite. Revenues from diamond mines, combined with sound

economic policies, have helped build infrastructure and kept the economy stable. In fact, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that Botswana is one of the few countries in sub-Saharan Africa that has truly benefited from its mineral wealth because diamonds have helped the country transition from poor to a now highmiddle-income status. Recently, Botswana has commissioned the upgrade of one of its major diamond producing mines – the Karowe Diamond Mine. The Karowe diamond mine, located in the Orapa Diamond Field of Botswana, is a state-of-the-art mine which was first commissioned in October 2011 and achieved commercial production in July 2012. The mine which is 100% owned by Canada’s Lucara Diamond Corp.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

("Lucara"), is an open pit with hard rocks and a depth of 324 m below surface, and was expected to remain operational until 2026. Due to the mine’s significant underground potential, the mine owners have now decided to extend the operation’s mine life to 2040 through the Karowe Underground Expansion project (“UGP”). The Project is now targeting the substantial diamond resources remaining below the current economic extents of the open pit in the South Lobe. A 7 200 tonnes per day (tpd) shaft operation utilizing long hole shrinkage (LHS) mining is seen to provide an additional 13 years of mine life to the Karowe operation after a five-year enhanced construction period. With a throughput of 2.5 to 2.8 million tonnes per annum (mtpa), the transition to underground mining was crucial to ramp-up production, and also as an essential stay-in-business initiative, since the current open-pit operation will reach the end of its life in 2026. After being in a fully financed position in 2021, the Karowe UGP began through a shaft pre-sinking process, and was completed at the end of February 2022. At the moment, the actual shaft sinking process at the mine is underway and is scheduled to be complete in 2024, while the rampup to production from the underground operation is scheduled for the second half of 2026.

What does this investment mean financially for Botswana? Karowe, which means precious stone in the local language, is a large-scale asset with tonnage and throughput upside and is one of world’s foremost producers of large, high quality, Type IIA diamonds in

excess of 10.8 carats, including the historic 1,758 Sewelô, the 1,109 carat Lesedi La Rona and the 813 carat Constellation. With approximately 13 additional years of life after 2026 and a 600 m to 750 m depth, Lucara reported that the new underground mine will involve a capex of US$534 million and is forecast to contribute approximately US$4 billion in additional revenues, starting in 2026 (using conservative diamond price assumptions). Like many other businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the UGP project schedule, however, no material variances between the 2019 Feasibility Studies and the current execution plan have resulted. Rather, during this period in 2020 and 2021, all critical path items were addressed, and a concerted effort was placed on detailed design, engineering and procurement which have helped to significantly de-risk the project. Therefore, this industry is the backbone of Botswana’s economy and needs to be wisely explored further to mantain and improve the status quo of the global mining industry.

Readings: https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2018/09/05/na090518Botsw ana https://lucaradiamond.com/operations/karowe-mine/ https://www.debeersgroup.com/media/companynews/2022/production-report-for-the-first-quarter-of-2022 https://www.mining-technology.com/analysis/a-brilliant-recoverythe-global-diamond-industry-report-2021-2022/ https://www.awdc.be/sites/awdc2016/files/documents/A%20Brillia nt%20Recovery%20Shapes%20Up.pdf https://www.engineeringnews.co.za/print-version/pre-sinkingcomplete-at-karowe-mine-2022-04-01-1 https://www.miningreview.com/diamonds-gems/mining-elites-inafrica-2022-runner-up-stay-in-business-strategy/

Courtesy:lucaradiamond.com

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

ELECTRICITY Electrification rolls on AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant @ RDJ Consulting

he target community of Mangetti Dune in the Otjozondjupa Region of Namibia celebrate the arrival of the national grid after years of being an

“off-grid” community. This achievement was celebrated by the immediate and the surrounding communities with attendance from The Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy (Hon. Kornelia Shilunga), the Regional Governor (Hon. James Uerikua) and other senior political and administrative officials. This achievement was celebrated by the immediate and the surrounding communities with attendance from The Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy (Hon. Kornelia Shilunga), the Regional Governor (Hon. James Uerikua) and other senior political and administrative officials. As the Deputy Minister pointed out:

The project was executed by CENORED with funding from the Ministry of Mines and Energy by extending a 125 km, 33 kilovolts (kV) medium voltage overhead line, from Maroelaboom to the Mangetti Dune settlement in the Otjozondjupa region and the installation of the low voltage networks in the three localities to enable the households, businesses and government institutions to get power from a reliable grid for the first time.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

Remarks by Hon. Kornelia Shilunga, MP. 12 April 2022

MAY, 2022

The extension of the national grid now supplies the District Hospital in Mangetti Dune and the Primary Health Care Centre for the entire Tsumkwe Constituency along with 183 households. Education facilities in all three localities of Rooidag Hek, M’kata and Mangetti Dune Primary Schools benefitted, which included the hostel with 293 learners, will now have reliable electricity to allow these students to study at night and enhance their learning experience. The police stations at Rooidag Hek and Mangetti Dune along with several businesses were also electrified. What is further significant about this occasion other than the electrification itself, is the proximity now of the national grid to the off-grid solar hybrid mini-grids of Tsumkwe and Gam, which are also operated by the Cent-

ral Northern Regional Electricity distributor (CENORED). The Deputy Minister highlighted the benefits of the Tsumkwe and Gam systems which ironically led to the grid extension project. Gam had seen an additional 410 households connected. The resultant therefore is clearly shown that the utilization of both on and off-grid methodologies, can benefit communities from technology and advance economic growth. CENORED continues to be a leader in the off-grid space in Namibia and we would like to see other electrification providers step into the off-grid space to enhance their service delivery. However, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa.

Powerline Zambezi (Picture for Illustration Purpose Only) Courtesy: RDJ Consulting

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

RENEWABLE ENERGY Conservation Efforts improved by Renewable Energy AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting

Wild Dog Courtesy: Flickr

n recent years there has been an increase in the uptake of renewable energy particularly solar technologies, and this has consequentially impacted conservation foundations. Given the impact of fossil fuels on the environment and the current understanding of its effects on climate change on both flora and fauna, it comes as little surprise that renewable energy would be considered as part and parcel of conservation efforts. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF), one of the key organizations in animal protection and conservation, has called for cities, companies and homes to move towards renewable energy in an effort to turn around the effects of climate change. Some significant projects have started to use renewables, and these include those piloted by the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) which has over 50 solar projects in various countries including Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Niger, Tanzania and Zimbabwe to name but a few. WCN specifically created a

“Solar Project” under which they have been providing solar energy to conservations around the world for close to 20 years now. These projects have succeeded in providing stable supplies of energy to the often-remote areas. It is generally accepted that conservation sites are remote and have placed a special focus on supporting conservancies where animals are most vulnerable or endangered. The endangered and vulnerable animals positively impacted by their solar projects to conservancies include the Ethiopian Wolf which is listed as Africa’s most endangered carnivore, the North African ostritich and the dama gazelle which are also critically endangered, the painted wolf which is Africa’s most persecuted predator and cheetahs which are catergorized as vulnerable. One of the largest “Solar Projects” to date under the WCN

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

is the use of solar to power a mobile hatchery for the Northern African ostrich. This enabled consistent heat for the incubators. With only eight breeding pairs left in the wild, it is essential that the hatchery’s implemented are reliable and able to meet the project aims of increasing the percentage of hatched eggs and in turn increasing the rate of survival of wild ostritches in North Africa. Solar thus was up to the task and met project needs proving the versatility of renewables. Some of the other “Solar Projects” have included: Electrifying the conservation buildings to ensure reliable power for research ( Botswana) Tagging and tracking of elephants and lions with solar trackers (Kenya and Mozambique) Electrifying conservation buildings for greater energy stability(Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, etc) Solar is being incorporated in various dynamic ways such as with the tagging and tracking of elephants and giraffes, the lighting of fish nets to prevent turtles being captured and fox lights to scare off lions and elephants to prevent human and wildlife conflict.

Read more on these technologies powered by solar in our ICT and Telecommunications section later in this edition. The RDJ Briefing - your “trusted source” of all things Energy and Sustainability welcomes your engagement as we continue to keep you abreast with the latest updates globally.

Readings: https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/wwf-and-renewable-energy https://climatechange.lta.org/renewable-energy-deployment/ https://rris.biopama.org/sites/default/files/201903/zakouma_business_plan2018-2022.pdf https://wildnet.org/protecting-wildlife/solar/ https://wildnet.org/wildlife-programs/ethiopian-wolf/ https://saharaconservation.org/ https://wildnet.org/wildlife-programs/painted-dog/ https://paintedwolf.org/ https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2018/02/26/african-ostrichspecies-fighting-extinction-with-portable-hatcheries-bay-area/ https://wildnet.org/solar-power-offers-new-hope-for-northafrican-ostriches/

Dama Gazelle Courtesy: Our Endangered World

www.rdjpublishing.africa

RDJ CONSULTING SERVICES CC. Energy & Sustatinability

WHAT WE OFFER EXPERIENCE Utility and Mining, On grid and Off-grid, Rural community understanding (Africa, Asia and Caribbean) PROJECT Assessments and supervision, including procurement (bidding / tender documentation) ESS Environmental Impacts along with scoping and site assessment DATA Data collection, data verification, modelling and referencing against national data sets TRAINING Onsite, Offsite and planned training modules to align people with project objectives PUBLICATIONS Blog sets, Weekly summaries and Monthly "briefing" publications

MAY, 2022

WATER Dam Levels Update for Namibia - 9 May 2022 AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting

The graph is the author's representation comparison of the present and last season's present of individual dams full capacities in Namibia. SOURCE: NamWater's weekly dam bulletin - dated 9 May 2022

BASED ON THE GRAPH:

Omatjenne Dam does not have abstraction facilities. The dam contents are according to the latest dam basin surveys. The inflow that is reflected in the bulletin does not take into account evaporation and abstraction of water.

Swakoppoort Dam data for last week was 1134.39 m, 58.911 Mm3, 92.8 %. Transfer from Omatako Dam to Von Bach Dam took place. No water level reading received for Otjivero silt Dam. Neckartal Dam data is for last week.

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

THE ENVIRONMENT The Oldest Desert and Marine Ponds: Diversity at its Best! AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting

Mine Liezl Water Maritz Courtesy: Enjoying her Veolia workWater in Salt Technololgies, Marshes. (Senior Inc.Environmental Officer at Namdeb Diamond Corporation) Courtesy: Chamber of Mines

o when you think biological diversity, mining is definitely not on that list in a positive way. Further, mining activity and the fostering of biological diversity are not two things one might think works in unison. However, that is exactly the case for Namdeb Diamond Corporation (Proprietary) Limited ('Namdeb') and its salt marshes. Salt marshes also known as marine ponds are defined as coastal areas that are regularly filled with salt water and contain some form of aquatic life. Recently, marine ponds along the Namibian coast created by the mining activity of Namdeb were the central focus of a research study. When mining takes place in former surf zones, then not only are the mining areas expanded but it also results in the creation of marine ponds. Ms. Liezl Maritz, a Senior Environmental Officer at Namdeb Diamond Corporation (Namdeb) conducted research on the ponds and it was the first ever investigation of the ecological viability of marine ponds created by diamond mining activities along the coast of the southern Namib desert. The area where the research was conducted is part of Namdeb’s largest Southern Coastal licensing area, ranging 75km in length and covering 150 marine ponds. The research she conducted sought to understand

whether the ponds were an important ecological site worth preserving. Her methodology was based on factors such as assessing the age of the pond, its physical properties, the amount of salt marsh vegetation, visiting bird species and fish benefiting from the pond. The findings were overwhelmingly positive showing that not only do salt marshes support and attract biodiversity but the area surveyed was on par with other regions classified as “Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas”. Thirty-six different bird species were sighted during her investigations which is telling of just how life-giving salt marshes and marine ponds can be. The studies have also found that salt marshes are important for biodiversity conservation particularly for migratory birds and fish. Salt water marshes have also been found to be important filtration systems capturing excess nutrients and thus helping maintain the water quality in coastal bays. Additionally, salt marshes help sequester and store carbon dioxide at a rate that is 10 times higher than that of tropical forests, making it vital in moderating the effects of climate change. It therefore comes as little surprise that countries such as South Africa and Namibia have made it a point to protect salt marshes in various laws such as, the National Water Act (1998) South Africa,

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

Integrated Coastal Management Act (2008) South Africa, the National Biodiversity Act (2004) South Africa and the Wetland Policy (2004) Namibia. Identifying the value of marine ponds spans beyond national policies with private companies as seen with Namdeb’s support of the research project conducted by Ms. Maritz. Investing in the conservation of the natural world is nothing new to Namdeb as seen under their Sustainability and Ethics section of its website. A very clear focus of protecting the environment in the face of its mining operations is shared in the following statement by Namdeb,“We believe in the importance of forever. So we set aside and actively manage 200,000 hectares across southern Africa for conservation, and we undertake ground-breaking conservation programmes to protect the species in these reserves...” As with the marine ponds created in Namibia under Namdeb’s directive it raises the question whether businesses should look for opportunities to foster biological diversity? Industries that are especially reliant on water for their operations such as with mines, factories and agricultural farming all have an opportunity to explore avenues to mitigate environmental degradation and support projects that bolster biological diversity.

As usual, the conversation continues. We can be reached at briefing@rdjpublishing.africa Readings: UCT:https://www.news.uct.ac.za/images/userfiles/downloads/me dia/2020_12_10_NamibDesertResearch.pdf Namdeb:https://www.debeersgroup.com/creating-stories/2017/ihave-had-some-wonderful-opportunities https://www.debeersgroup.com/creating-stories/2021/top-100young-african-conservation-leaders Chamber of Mines: https://chamberofmines.org.na/blogpost/marine-ponds-namdebs-on-shore-diamond-mines-supportecological-biodiversity/ https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/1994/0324/report.pdf https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s41204-016-00116.pdf https://www.planetgold.org/sites/default/files/202008/Otchere,%20Veiga,%20Hinton,%20Farias,%20Hamaguchi.%202 004%20Transforming%20open%20mining%20pits%20into%20fish %20farms.pdf https://environment.bm/saltwater-ponds https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027277141930 9369 https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-andanalysis/articles/2021/03/01/11-facts-about-salt-marshes-andwhy-we-need-to-protect-them

Liezl Maritz Enjoying her work in Salt Marshes. (Senior Environmental Officer at Namdeb Diamond Corporation) Courtesy: Chamber of Mines

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

Conservation & Black Rhinos – A Treasure for Namibia Interview with Lorna Dax Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting)

Courtesy: Istock Photo

ommunity-Based Natural Resource Management conservation efforts and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) are an important part of ensuring the survival of species that face the threat of extinction either due to poaching or the encroachment of human industrial activities into their natural habitats. One such organization operating within Namibia is the ‘Save the Rhino Trust Namibia’ (SRT). Ms. Lorna Dax, the Program and Partnership Development Assistant at the SRT, takes us through the organization’s background and their efforts.

About the Save the Rhino Trust Namibia In fact, Blythe Loutit and Ina Britz created the SRT in 1982 as Namibia’s first rhino conservation project, and stands as the only NGO that has a memorandum of understanding with the Government for the monitoring, research and protection of black rhinos. With currently supporting over 60 Conservancy Rhino Rangers (CRR) for rhino monitoring, the SRT’s field office

“Mai-go-ha” is based in North-west Namibia, and this is where their teams are deployed from, and monitoring of data is captured.

What are some of the results of the Save the Rhino Trust Namibia conservation efforts? Namibia is home to the world’s last population of free roaming black rhinos. After reaching the lowest point of near extinction, we have since seen an increase in the population of black rhinos in Namibia with efforts from our team and stakeholders. During their 40-years of existence, SRT has been instrumental in bringing this important population of black rhinos back from the brink of extinction. In the early eighties there were only a few dozen black rhinos remaining in the west Kunene landscape, and today that number has more than quadrupled. Community engagement has been a foundation of their success and

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

the rhino ranger programme epitomizes this. The SRT supports local rangers to conduct rhino patrols and pay incentives to them for their effort. This cash injection into the local community has improved the value that local people place on wildlife, particularly rhinos. They have supported several tourism enterprises focused on black rhinos and have helped communities to benefit from black rhino tracking activities. These enterprises have brought millions of Namibian dollars into local conservancy coffers. In recognition of such significant efforts, Simson UriKhob, SRT Chief Executive Officer was awarded the Prince William Lifetime Achievement Award for his lifetime commitment and contribution to African conservation. The award ceremony, which is now in its ninth year, was attended by Tusk’s Royal Patron – the Duke of Cambridge, who personally handed over Simson’s award. In fact, each year, the awards recognize and honour the important work that African Conservationists do to protect wildlife and biodiversity. Arguably one of the most prestigious awards on the continent, the lifetime achievement award is a nod to Simson’s unwavering passion shown over 30 years of protecting black rhinos in Namibia's north-west regions. Finally, the importance of pride and respect for nature are aspects of community conservation that are often overlooked. The SRT has worked with partners to develop rhino youth clubs and other outreach activities which aim to bolster a sense of pride in rhinos in the local communities. A good example of this is the ‘Rhino Friend Forever’ campaign which has successfully managed to

reduce poaching up to about 80% over the past 5 years, with the support of their partners, local communities, conservation NGOs and the Namibian government at large. Together with their partners including local communities, the Namibian government and conservation NGOs they have managed to dramatically reduce poaching in the landscape by close to 80% in the past 5 years.

What are the most effective technology and strategies being used for protecting Black rhinos in Namibia? The SRT's success over the years has been because of the strong relationships they have built with different stakeholders such as the Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MEFT), conservation NGOs and the local communities within the rhino range conservancies. As a rhino protection strategy, the SRT has a team of trackers who come from the local communities and possess a deep knowledge of rhinos and their surroundings. Covering an area of 25 000 km, their skills are tested during long patrols, on foot on rough terrain in an area with no national park status, no fences and no control over who enters and exits. In fact, the SRT patrol team comprises a minimum of three members and spends 20 days in the field on patrol. In 2021 their patrol teams have recorded a record of 44 405 km on foot, which surpassed their targets for the year. Our “boots on the approach has been the major contributor towards our decade’s long success.

Courtesy: Marcus Westberg Photography

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

We will not be able to achieve our vision as SRT alone. Conservation is a collective effort, and the public can help by being our eyes and ears, and say no to poaching. -Lorna Dax

Courtesy: Marcus Westberg Photography

In addition, the STR introduced the Conservancy Rhino Ranger (CRR) programme in 2012, which employs rhino rangers deployed to conduct rhino monitoring patrols in their respective communities. The teams are deployed with Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology (SMART) enabled devices which collect all rhino motoring data. The SMART database serves as template and exemplary model for which the MEFT National Rhino Coordinator recommended to all individual-based rhino monitoring programmes. The SRT’s SMART database continues to be managed collectively by an onsite data management officer at their field office, with oversight and quality control made on monthly basis.

What does the future of conservation in Namibia looks like? With growing support from the government and conservation NGOs, conservation in Namibia is growing positively. Communities are engaged and different avenues are used to have active youth involvement as well. The future of conservation in Namibia looks bright and will have even more support from communities.

is a collective effort, and the public can help by being our eyes and ears, and say no to poaching.” She added that “They can help us keep ‘boots on the ground’ by giving inkind or monetary donations.” Furthermore, the SRT runs an ‘adopt a rhino’ programme where interested individuals can donate to their cause in helping communities and rhinos. It is important to recognize that poaching not only affects rhinos but the national economy at large since tourism is a cornerstone of the Namibian economy. “Less wildlife in Namibia means less tourists visits, which in turn means less money into our economy and fewer jobs.” Said Ms. Dax.

Conclusion Conservation is key to the economic development of Namibia; the tourism industry is highly dependent on conservation of wildlife. “Without any wildlife, no one will visit our country which will affect the economy.” Said Ms. Dax. Black rhinos are listed as an endangered species which means that they are more likely to become extinct in the future. It is only through conservation efforts done by SRT and stakeholders that the black rhino will be preserved for future generations.

Kindly describe how the general public can support the Save the Rhino. In response to this inquiry, Ms. Dax said that “We will not be able to achieve our vision as SRT alone. Conservation www.rdjpublishing.africa

Courtesy: http://www.savetherhinotrust.org/

MAY, 2022

ROADS AND TRANSPORT Banking and Roads-Is there a Future? AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting

CO-AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant @ RDJ Consulting

315 km to LVRSS every year at a cost of N$923 million annually, in order to arrest the rapid deterioration and reclaim the gravel road network to acceptable condition. This means that it is expected to cost approximately, N$2.93 million per Km but there likelihood is that each specific road network or sections thereof will have a unique cost based on its structure. The methodology to be used or strategy will focus on highly trafficked gravel roads so as to maximise the benefit of any funds spent per kilometre of travel by road users.

Courtesy: RDJ Consulting

amibia has approximately 49 000 km (48 899.89Km) of road networks as of November 2020 which using 2020 values, is valued at N$101 billion (RDJ Briefing, Nov 2020 - RA). Of this, some 90% of Namibia’s road network is unpaved roads classified as salt roads and gravel roads, which mean they are not of a bitumen standard. With its roads ranked number one in Africa, and 21st in the world, in terms of road quality and road infrastructure maintenance, this is a major fete and a costly exercise. The country therefore has taken a strategy to upgrade the quality of the non-bitumen roads by a method called Low Volume Road Sealing. The Low Volume Road Seal Strategy (LVRSS) intends to upgrade highly trafficked gravel roads to a low volume bitumen seal. LVRSS is an alternative maintenance strategy to optimize the available funding by doing more road maintenance work with limited financial resources. It is estimated that 75% of the gravel road network is projected to be in a poor-to-very poor condition by 2025. Current estimates indicate that Namibia should upgrade

As a result the Road Fund Administration (RFA) has approached a local lender to provide a source of funding for the initial strategy approach. This call has resulted in Nedbank Namibia providing resources based on the fact that “Nedbank is informed that although the initial outlay of upgrading to LVSR (at approximately N$ 2.5 to N$ 3 million per kilometer) is higher than the cost of conventional gravel repair and re-graveling (N$ 500,000 per kilometer), the long-term benefits are greater for the LVSR, of which the conventional maintenance needs to be repeated periodically and making it uneconomical over a 15 year life cycle. This is in line with the global and regional shift of upgrading gravel roads to LVSRs, which cost approximately 25% of the cost of standard bitumen roads. The benefits lie in significantly lower maintenance costs, while the value of the road after the 15-year period remains high.” As always, the conversation continues. reached. briefing@rdjpublishing.africa

We can be

Readings: https://issuu.com/rdjbriefing/docs/rdj_briefing__november_2020_compressed https://www.africa-press.net/namibia/all-news/90-ofroads-unpaved https://www.rfanam.com.na/nedbank-namibiaadvances-loan-of-n350m-to-rfa/ https://thebrief.com.na/index.php/component/k2/item/ 974-rfa-secures-n-350m-nedbank-namibia-loan

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

ICT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS Solar Technologies Changing Conservation as we Know it AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting

t comes as little surprise that conservation efforts are successful in part largely due to the wide variety of technology used to monitor and track species due to the often remote and large landscapes wildlife is located in. In recent years there have been several innovative measures developed to ensure wildlife populations are maintained and safe guarded. When it comes to wildlife human-wildlife conflict which is a pressing issue due to human populations expanding into animal habitats and are further exacerbated by climate change which is reducing water availability and increasing desertification on rangelands. Countries such as Kenya

struggle with this but fortunately through partnerships with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and funding by the German government have introduced ways to reduce human-wildlife conflict by investing in innovative technology, such as predator deterrent lights. These predator deterrent lights also known as fox lights are being rolled out under a Climate Change Adaptation project started in 2020 and set to continue for the next 10 years. In principle, these lights are motion activated and automatically turn on during the night, providing protection in the installed areas, typically on farms and homesteads to local people so as to scare off large

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

animals such as lions, leopards and elephants. The lights have been developed to flicker on and off imitating the flickering of a weapon and thus scaring off animals. Innovations such as these have been especially helpful to farmers who would typically lose a high percentage of their crops due to crop raids by animals such as elephants and buffalos. Elephants account for the largest share of crop attacks46.2% while leopards account for the highest number of livestock kills - 7.2%. Similarly, solar predator lights are used by the Niassa Carniovore Project in Mozambique. These measures help protect humans as well as domesticated animals and in turn reduce the economic burden due to losses associated with human-wildlife conflict.

And away from land… Looking to our oceans for conservation centered technology there has recently been promising developments. As of 2020, solar powered LED lights have been designed to be attached to fishing nets. These fishing nets with light attachments are meant to prevent sea turtles from being caught up in fishing nets due to commercial fishing. Protecting turtles is particularly

important given that 6 of the 7 turtle species are classified as threatened or endangered. It is estimated that 60 - 95 percent of turtles and other sea animals can be deterred from entering fishing nets and becoming accidental “bycatch”. As of 2022 the idea is more readily being picked up by manufacturers as some variations of the nets are now available for sale. Whether these nets will be taken up by fishing companies we are yet to see but as always, the RDJ Briefing will keep you up to date with the latest facts and data. As always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa

Readings: Fox Lights- scaring off lions and elephants https://www.devex.com/news/solar-predator-lights-reducinghuman-wildlife-conflict-in-kenya-101867 GPS trackinghttps://www.ucd.ie/newsandopinion/news/2020/july/30/solarpoweredanimaltrackertransformshowresearcherscollectdataonani malsinwild/ http://niassalion.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2019-NCPAnnual-Report-1.pdf Sea turtle nets- fishing https://www.worldwildlife.org/magazine/issues/spring2020/articles/how-led-nets-help-sea-turtles-swim-free http://www.bonaireturtles.org/wp/explore/why-are-sea-turtlesendangered/

Courtesy: www.worldwildlife.org

www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY Women in Conservation Interview with Lorna Dax Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting)

ommunity-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) as a practice of conservation has been an instrumental part of environmental management, and the sustainable use of natural resources in Namibia since Independence in 1990. We spoke to Ms. Lorna Dax the Program and Partnership Development Assistant at The Save the Rhino Trust to further explore her journey into CBNRM and her work with the local communities that share the responsibilities and benefits from such management.

Personal Journey Ms. Dax graduated with a Diploma in Travel and Tourism Management from Namibian University of Science and Technology (former Polytechnic of Namibia) in 2009. After she pursued a few a certificate in Banking, Credit and Finance from the Institute of Bankers and a certificate in Transformational Leadership from the African Leadership Institute (ALI) Ms. Dax's first job was a receptionist at a courier company. After which she www.rdjpublishing.africa

was part of the opening team for the Hilton Hotel in Windhoek, where she worked as a housekeeping coordinator. Her responsibilities included basic administrative work such as stock ordering, human resource responsibilities such as scheduling leave days for colleagues, and booking rooms for guests. After her time at the Hilton, she joined the First National Bank of Namibia in November 2011 where she worked as a teller up to April 2015.

MAY, 2022

I want to be part of the team that will always find ways to improve and strengthen our monitoring efforts and change Namibia's conservation approach.

with support from her employers, she continues to attend workshops and short courses to equip herself and grow professionally.

Ms. Lorna Dax

What motivates Miss. Dax's drive to continue working in conservation is seeing the positive impact conservation of rhinos and other species have on the livelihoods of people and the country at large.

In 2016 Ms. Dax stepped into conservation, as a Conservancy manager for the ≠Khoadi //Hôas Conservancy. A role that created a passion in her for conservation and working with communities. As a manager she was responsible for the day-to-day administration of the conservancy office. Ensuring that policies, guidelines and procedures were adhered to. She was the liaison between the conservancy and various stakeholders such as the Ministry, NGO’s and Lodge Management partners. She was part of the conservancy team until December 2021. In January 2022, she joined Save the Rhino Trust (SRT) as the Program and Partnership Development Assistant. Her role is to maintain long-term donor and stakeholder relations, effective marketing of our field programmes by sharing our conservation stories with the world. “Being part of the SRT team is an exciting opportunity as it allows me to engage with various communities across the rhino landscape.” Said Ms. Dax

Challenges Coming from the central part of Namibia (Rehoboth) Ms. Dax said she had no experience and knowledge of conservation and working within these communities. This would sometimes affect her confidence in the workspace. Additionally, “Moving into an industry that is mostly believed to be male dominant was a challenge at the beginning.” Said Ms. Dax. However she experienced people in the conservation Industry that were so welcoming and eager to develop future leaders such as herself and

Motivations

Growing up as a child Ms. Dax always loved the idea of nature and traveling. However, she did not know much about conservation back then and so opted to study towards Travel and Tourism with a dream of becoming a tour guide or a travel consultant in the future. During her years at the conservancy she had a very close working relationship with conservation NGOs especially SRT through the Rhino Ranger program. “Seeing the way conservation changed livelihoods and the passion that the rangers have for rhino monitoring attracted me to be part of SRT today.” Said Dax

Achievements Ms. Dax says although she had just recently joined the SRT team at the beginning of the year making 4 months with SRT in May 2022. She is proud to say she feels like she's been part of the team for a much longer time. Since joining SRT she has been entrusted with responsibilities that would challenge her to think and grow in her career. “My team has always been there to guide me and values my opinion". Said Ms. Dax. She would be asked by her superior to draft reports and proposals and giving an input on submissions made her feel her contribution was valued and added to her pride in being part of the SRT team. Additionally, Ms. Dax was introduced to various SRT community engagement projects such as the Reading with Rhinos and Rhino Cup Youth Champions League, and contributing to the successful www.rdjpublishing.africa

implementation of makes her proud.

these

projects

Future Goals "There is a lot of growing and learning opportunity within the conservation space and especially at SRT, I would like to improve myself academically with plans to enroll for a course next year and continuously refine my skills set through short courses in marketing, fundraising and communications as these are very crucial skills towards the success of our projects.” Said Ms. Dax. She hopes to be part of SRT for many years to come and to contribute positively to the conservation of Black Rhinos in Namibia. “ I want to be part of the team that will always find ways to improve and strengthen our monitoring efforts and change Namibia's conservation approach.” said Ms. Dax Over the years conservation and Community-Based Natural Resource Management in Namibia has grown significantly, Ms. Dax however would like to see members taking more ownership of the program and being capacitated equally to understand how the program works. The program should aim to improve the understanding of each member on how a conservancy/NGO for instance generates their income, how these funds are spent and how they as members can support conservation to be sustainable. “I would like to see strong stakeholder collaboration with growing direct engagement of communities on the ground.” Said Dax.

Conclusion In Conclusion Ms. Dax warmly encourages women to go for a career in conservation. She added that “It is an exciting career where you can change livelihoods of people, protect our rhinos and wildlife for future generations. We can be the change we want to see by letting our voices heard and being the front runners of conservation.”

MAY, 2022

YOUTH IN ACTION Interview with Mr. Antonio Hilzebecher Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting)

ealthy innovative activities result in creating more employment opportunities, better working prospects and societal development. There is a serious need for African Countries to understand the vital role youth can play in this regard and therefore a push for more investment in the area. In this article we caught up with Antonio Hilzebecher, the WorldSkills Africa Gold Medalist, as we delve into his personal and inspiring journey.

Personal Journey Antonio completed his secondary education at Jan Mohr Secondary School in Windhoek in 2018. He then went on to apply for several bursaries, finally being successful with a bursary from the national electric power utility company of Namibia NamPower in 2019. Where he completed his National Trade certificate (N3). Antonio is currently waiting to participate in the WorldSkills Shanghai competition. After which he hopes to further pursue his career in NamPower as an Electrician. He also hopes to further his Electrical studies next year by getting a N6 qualification.

Motivations On what Motivates such a young man. Antonio says he does not want to be limited, he wants access to as many opportunities as possible. www.rdjpublishing.africa

MAY, 2022

“I want to make the most out of the time I have. I want to pursue everything I set my mind on” Said Antonio. He also credits The fact that NamPower has given Him an opportunity to better his future. "NamPower really made a big impact on my life as they have not only ensured that I receive access to the best training Vocationally and also with preparations for Worldskills but they have ensured that I'm well taken care of and ready for what is to come." Said Antonio. Furthermore, he adds that another big motivator is the responsibility he feels towards his family “They are the ones that keep me going.” Said Antonio. As the eldest child as well as a mindset shift after the loss of his great grandmother Antonio feels responsible to achieve his goals and make his family proud.

Challenges One of the challenges Antonio faces as a youth are the many expectations placed on him to succeed. Particularly with his participation in The WorldSkills series, as those in his life expect him to win without understanding the several hours of preparation and dedication required of him personally. Another challenge that he faces is that people look down on Vocational Training, with negative assumptions such as those who pursue vocational training did not have the grades to pursue anything better. However, Antonio wants people to know that there is no limit to what people can do in whichever career they pursue.

Achievements Antonio proudly says his biggest personal achievement currently was winning Gold at the WorldSkills Africa series in Swakopmund Namibia in March. "The biggest achievement for me was knowing that I not only won the Gold medal for myself but for everyone around me, the people that were rooting and cheering for me, the ones that made sure that I was set and ready to compete and the ones that made everything possible." Said Antonio, He adds "Just standing on that stage and thinking about how hard we have worked to gain the number one spot in Africa really brought light to the saying that goes "Remember why you started". Antonio says winning gold in the African skills competition is but just a glimpse of what is still to come and he plans on giving it his all in the next competition and bringing the gold home again.

WorldSkills Africa Competition The project Antonio presented at the Worldskills Africa competition is an Electrical Installation. The installation consisted of two modules one module consisting of a domestic and commercial installation and programming and the other module consisting of fault finding, testing, and reporting. Where the domestic and commercial module includes lighting circuits, power outlet circuits and motor control, the Programmable Logic Controller or PLC is used. While the fault finding, testing, and reporting module consists of electrical and

I not only won the Gold medal for myself but for everyone around me, the people that were rooting and cheering for me. Antonio Hilzebecher

www.rdjpublishing.africa

visual faults that have identified and reported.

Antonio believes that the Worldskills projects will bring improvements to electrical standards for both domestic and industrial installations as the competition allows him to gain more experience and insight on how more advanced technologies operate, he also get exposure as to what the different technical needs are and what the more technical advancements would look like. As a Namibian Youth Antonio would like to see more opportunities for youth to showcase their ideas in order to secure funding for their innovations. He would also like to see more collaborative platforms for young creators to work together on projects, so that new ideas do not fall to the wayside because a creator may not have the engineering background. As to the future of the project, Antonio is currently preparing for the International WorldSkills competition in Shanghai. "I need to go for further training in South Africa which will allow me to take part in Worldskills Shanghai competition as we as competitors are required to have certain experience and qualifications in order for us to take part in the competition." This training will help participants gain the experience and exposure needed to be successful competing in the tense environment of the International competition.

Conclusion In conclusion Antonio would like other young people to know that anything they have set their mind to is possible “You are your only limit.” Said Antonio. He encourages youth to not be afraid of stepping up and challenging the status quo. Finally, he says to never give up on your dreams no matter how long it may take to achieve them.

MAY, 2022

TENDER Windhoek International School Description:Windhoek International School (WIS) hereby invites suitably qualified and experienced contractors to submit a bid for the supply and installation of a grid feeding solar system of ±50kWp power supply to Windhoek International School. Location of delivery of goods and services: Scheppmann Street, Pioneers Park, Ext. 1. Closing Date: 20 May 2022 Nored Electricity Description: Nored Electricity (Pty) Ltd hereby invites bids from qualified, experienced and reputable Electrical Engineering Consulting Firms to conduct network studies on Nored Okangwati distribution network in the Kunene Region: Nored Okangwati Network Studies Power Factor Correction. Closing Date: 20 May 2022 The Namibia Training Authority (NTA) Description: The Namibia Training Authority (NTA) hereby invites bids for the following: Replacement of dilapidated existing roof structure with new

lightweight steel including new roof covering and minor renovation of building at Okakarara Vocational Training Centre in Otjozondjupa Region. Bid closing date: 30 May 2022 The University of Namibia Description:Proposals are hereby invited for the following: Consultancy service for drafting of fire water reticulation plans for the Windhoek Main Campus and Hage Geingob Campus. The objective of the consultant will be, but not limited to: • Drafting a Fire Water Reticulation Plan (plans, product information, and hydraulic calculations). Closing Date: 26 May 2022 Namdia Description: Bids are invited through for the following: Development of a Crisis/Emergency Communication Strategy Closing date: 27 May 2022

CAREERS Government Institution Pension Fund Position: Chief Audit Executive Closing Date: 20 May 2022 National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) Position: MANAGER: HUMAN AND INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY PROMOTION Paterson D2 Closing Date: 13 May 2022

Neo Paints Factory (Pty) Ltd Position: MERCHANDISER – MPS TSUMEB (6 Months Contract) Closing Date:13 May 2022 National Commission on Research, Science and Technology (NCRST) Position: MANAGER: INNOVATION AND INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH, Grade D2 Closing Date: 13 May 2022

The Namibian Oncology Centre Position: Credit Controller (Half-day) Closing Date:13 May 2022

Welwitchia Health Training Centre Position: Marketing and Brand Officer Closing Date: 13 May 2022

Potentia Namibia Recruitment Position: Registered Nurse- Acute Oncology Ward Closing Date: 13 May 2022

Alexander Forbes Financial Services Namibia (Pty) Ltd Position: Pension Fund Administrator Closing Date: 12 May 2022

Deloitte and Touch Position: HR Administrator | People & Purpose Closing Date: 13 May 2022

Hollard Insurance Namibia Position: Legal and Compliance Officer Closing Date: 13 May 2022

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The scope of this assignment, more specifically, includes the following:

The bidder is expected to develop: Task 1: a website that will show how to interact news and information with international company exposure Task 2: website support for a minimum of 12 months and training of its use As a result, an Expression of Interest in writing is being sought from interested parties. The submission should contain: Item 1: Trading name/ BIPA Certification copy Item 2: NAMRA Certification copy Item 3: Listing of three latest completed websites and traceable references Item 4: A methodology and costing indication based on task 1 and task 2 above Please note that this Expression of Interest is restricted to offers led by Namibian firms. Deadline for submission as a PDF document: Friday, 20th May 2022 at 17h00. RDJ Publishing Pty. Ltd has spun off from RDJ Consulting (www.rdjconsulting.co.za) as of October 2021. As a consequence there is now a need to develop a RDJ Publishing dedicated website. RDJ Publishing through its flagship, RDJ Briefing, which is a Namibian based “niche” monthly Magazine covering the Energy and Sustainability sectors caters for Business to Business (B2B) market and seeks to attract investors worldwide to Namibia and Africa (doing so since 2017). RDJ Publishing also seeks to expand its publishing house with other publications, events, conferences, workshops, expos and training sessions in the future. To make this possible, we need a dynamic website that is up to international standards and will give us a competitive advantage in the market.

MAY, 2022

CONRIBUTING AUTHORS

DAVID JARRETT Editor

NICOLE FELIX CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA Designers/Layout

RENEE JARRETT Group Executive

AMAKHOE //HOABES Sales & Business Consultant

DAVID JARRETT (Managing Consultant) RDJ Consulting Services CC

CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA (Operations Manager / Economist) RDJ Consulting Services CC

KINA INDONGO (Communications Contributor) RDJ Consulting Services CC

HANNAH BRENDELL (Policy Specialist - Intern) RDJ Consulting Services CC

DOES YOUR BUSINESS NEED EXPOSURE? EMAIL: info@rdjpublishing.africa

TEL: +264 81 750 3010