RDJ Briefing - January 2020

JANUARY, 2020

The Namibia

ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY News & Analysis

Import / Export Dilemma Are We Too Dependent?

IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE: Trade Ties between Namibia and China

Namibia Electricity Update and its Link to South Africa

Women In Industry Youth In Action (NEW Sections of the Briefing)

The NAMIBIA Country Briefing of RDJ Consulting

Namibia Country Briefing of RDJ Consulting Subscribe for FREE, And Never Miss Out Again.

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C O N T E N T S 4

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FromTheEditor

Quick Facts

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Economy at Large

Oil & Gas

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Uranium

Electricity

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Renewable Energy

Water

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The Environment and Sustainabilty

Roads and Transport

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"Women in Industry"

"Youth in Action"

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Tenders and Careers

UpNext

27 Contributing Authors

JANUARY, 2020

From the Editor Are We Too Dependent?

Dear Reader,

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

PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA

Telephone +264 61 400 171 EMAIL briefing@rdjconsulting.co.za WEBSITE www.rdjconsulting.co.za

Welcome to another year and another decade that will present us with new opportunities. Our greatest hope is that the information and conversations provided in 2019 has been resourceful, and we count on your continuous support throughout this new year.

We would like to thank you for supporting the RDJ Briefing team who have dedicated themselves to increasing our coverage to SADC for this new decade. As mentioned, we will now have two Briefing ezines going forward. Thus, we ask that you stay tuned to our monthly publications throughout the year 2020.

Just as the 2020 started, Namibia is currently contemplating the ending of its electricity off-take contract with Eskom in March 2022. Knowing that Eskom supplies the country with about 200MW of electricity (http://www.eskom.co.za) to cater for the additional demand, consumers are right to be concerned. It’s thus hoped that the new Modified Single Buyer (MSB) steps taken by the authorities will help to bridge this gap. With this in mind and the need for increased national productivity which will require energy, are we thus relying on one major import (energy) and one major export market (China)?

As usual, our hard working intern teams have provide a publication that looks at a number of interesting factual stories and studies such as: Oil Spill Fines Increased to N$1m MET Signs a Land Lease Agreement with Diaz Wind Power for a Wind Farm Seven-Seater Taxi’s Fate Undecided AfDB Striving to Merge Financing Gap Between Men and Women

Trade Ties between Namibia and China Waste Management – A Close Look at the Structure and Functionality of the Kupferberg Landfill

Please enjoy and join our conversations online at twitter and wordpress as we keep you engaged. We also hope that you enjoy our TWO NEW sections namely “Women in industry” and “Youth in Action”.

Further, if you are new to the RDJ Briefing, subscribe to this FREE Publication at briefing@rdjconsulting.co.za and freely share the link with others that will benefit from its contents.

Enjoy….

( David A. Jarrett) Editor

Authors RDJ Interns*

This report is a FREE Publication and was prepared by RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia.

The content is collected from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

quick facts Population size: 2.3 Million Employment: 66.6% Literacy rate: 89.0% GDP Growth (2018): -0.1% Repo Rate: 6.50 % Interest rate (Prime): 10.25% Inflation (CPI): 2.6% Industries: Tourism, Mining, Fishing Telecom (sophistication): LTE Mobile - cell phones: 2.575 million Subscribers Water availability: 8 800 000 cubic litres/capita Electricity Gen. (Local): 484.000 MW Electricity Demand (all): 629.000 MW www.rdjconsulting.co.za

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JANUARY, 2020

ECONOMY AT LARGE A Look Into Namibia’s Annual Inflation Trend

Building of the Central Bank of Namibia Image Source: https://www.bon.com.na

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nflation is the persistent increase in the general price level of goods and services over a certain period of time and is determined using a "consumer basket" of goods and services. This basket of goods is a fixed set of consumer goods and services valued on an annual basis.

Namibia’s annual inflation has drastically decreased from 5.6% that was recorded in November 2018 to 2.5% in January 2020, while the monthly basis stood at -0.1% compared to the 0.1% registered in the preceding month.

This was announced by Namibia Statistics Agency in the

Namibia Consumer December 2019.

Price

Index

(NCPI)

Bulletin

of

The graph BELOW shows Namibia’s monthly inflation rates for the year 2019.

According to NSA, the drastic decrease in the annual inflation is brought about by a decrease in transport, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, health, food, non-alcoholic beverages and housing sectors. The graph on THE NEXT PAGE depicts the change in Sectoral NCPI for 2018 and 2019.

The graph BELOW shows Namibia’s monthly inflation rates for the year 2019.

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JANUARY, 2020

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Figure: Author's representation of Namibia Consumer Price Index (NCPI) for different sectors of the economy.

Price fluctuations have been increasing moderately, ranging from 4.7% to 2.6% as recorded in December 2019.

Economically speaking, the moderate price growth represents a healthy, growing economy however, this seems to not be the case for Namibia, since the economy still recorded a contraction in the second quarter of 2019.

The overall change in the cost of a basket of goods and services are also still low. As the overall economy tries to expand, the average household income expands too. This therefore causes an increase in demand, and in turn, drives up prices, prompting suppliers to respond.

Inflation is the persistent increase in the general price level of goods and services over a certain period of time and is or determined using a 'consumer basket' of goods and services.

Readings:Â Â https://www.namibian.com.na/86418/read/Annual-inflation-dropsdrastically https://d3rp5jatom3eyn.cloudfront.net/cms/assets/documents/Nam ibia_CPI_bulletin_December_2019.pdf https://www.namibian.com.na/86418/read/Annual-inflation-dropsdrastically https://www.namibian.com.na/87085/read/Low-inflation-still-alifeline-for-depressed-demand

Standard Bank Sets up a Food and Infrastructure Index

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he Standard Bank of Namibia has set up two indices to track the price movements of 10 staple foods, as well as the movement of infrastructure projects in Namibia to better understand the market dynamics around the two. The organization will produce quarterly analysis reports on food index and an annual one on infrastructure.

The bank has selected a basket of staple foods which includes brown bread, maize meal, tinned beef, tinned pilchards, cooking oil, tinned beans, onions, tomatoes and white sugar. The main aim for these indices is to highlight how the cost of living, in relation to food, differs across the country. The information is important and usable by consumers, policymakers, investors and other stakeholders as it may greatly help them make informed decisions and implement appropriate actions.

As for infrastructure, the index is designed to serve as a tool for analysts, policymakers and investors alike to provide an accurate and up-to-date picture of the current state of Namibia's infrastructural development and as a platform for policy dialogue and guidance for resource allocation.

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JANUARY, 2020

Are we Human?

Photo by Lenin Estrada on Pexels.com

Photo by Dazzle Jam on Pexels.com

January 22, 2020 by RDJ Consulting

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o here we are AGAIN! mass quantities produced by machines was the start of the #Industrial #Revolution. However, the push to have #AI do even basic tasks (such as vacuuming a room) is in my book is a step too far.

Those that see these “anti-human” uses of AI as progress need to take a step back and ask themselves serious questions.

Colleagues and readers, the use of AI with even its purest of intentions means rendering the use of a #human being in that context meaningless.

I refer here to tasks such as driverless vehicles, teacherless classrooms and most recently doctorless diagnosis of cancer but to name a few.

Where will we stop?

This question is asked in the context of unemployment, poverty and homelessness.

Those with #jobs, #money and #developed#countries won’t fully relate.

living

in

The conversation continues at: office@rdjconsulting.co.za http://www.rdjconsulting.co.za

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JANUARY, 2020

OIL AND GAS Oil Spill Fines Increased to N$1million

Credit: RDJ Photo

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he new amendments done in December 2019 to the Prevention and Combating of Pollution of the Sea by the Oil Act passed has now increased to N$1 million or a prison term of up to 25 years for any owner or master of a ship, tanker or offshore installation found guilty of spilling oil into any part of the sea considered a prohibited area.

The act reads as: “Any person convicted of an offence referred to in section(s) 2(1) or 13(6) or subsection (1)(b)(i) or (b)(ii), shall be liable to a fine not exceeding N$1 million or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding 25 years or to both such fine and such imprisonment.”

The transfer of any oil or harmful substance from a ship or tanker to another ship or tanker is illegal unless one holds an expression permission from the appropriate Ministry.

The amended act defines a harmful substance as ‘any oilbased substance which, if introduced into the sea, is likely to create a hazard to human health, harm any living substance, resources or marine life, damage amenities or interfere with other legitimate uses of the sea’. This includes mixtures of oil with water or any other substance that may be detrimental to human or marine life.

Therefore, all the public and exploration firms are encouraged to take note of this, and ensure to abide by the law in order to protect the nation’s resources in the sea.

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JANUARY, 2020

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Cows Come Home

Cows Come Home

January Fuel Prices Update

January 15, 2020 by RDJ Consulting

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nflation is the persistent increase in the general price level of goods and services over a certain period of time and is determined using a "consumer basket" of goods and services. This basket of goods is a fixed set of consumer goods and services valued on an annual basis.

This in principle is true to a point but deep down their progress has been anchored by clear policies to which coal has been an effective but “poisonous” tool.

Namibia’s annual inflation has drastically decreased from 5.6% that was recorded in November 2018 to 2.5% in January 2020, while the monthly basis stood at -0.1% compared to the 0.1% registered in the preceding month.

This was announced by Namibia Statistics Agency in the

here is a constant argument around the use of coal in energy generating. This has gotten to the point that various views have been put forward that economic growth of developed countries would not have been possible without coal.

Hence we as a global society should be focused on policies and thus “fuel switching” is adaptation and evolution in the making.

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The conversation continues at: office@rdjconsulting.co.za http://www.rdjconsulting.co.za

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JANUARY, 2020

URANIUM Trade Ties - Namibia and China

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he Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) reported in December 2019 that Namibia sells most of its unprocessed copper and uranium to China, who in turn processes it into finished goods. Trade with China contributed about N$14.7 billion to the country’s earning.

Synthetic Diamond Vs the Natural Diamond Market

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ccording to the Namib Desert Diamonds (Namdia)’s report for the 2018/19 financial year, synthetic diamonds might gain popularity over the market of

According to the 2019 third-quarter trade statistics, Namibia’s top exports were: copper at N$5.3 billion, precious stones and metals at N$4.3 billion, fish at N$2.4 billion, ores at N$2.1 billion, and live animals at N$532 million.

In as much as the exports declined from 25% in the first, 20.1% in the second and 23. 8% in the third quarter, when it came to Copper and Uranium, China remained Namibia’s largest export destination.

According to the Statistician General of Namibia Statistic Agency (NSA), Namibia imports copper from Zambia and as far as Bulgaria and Peru in order to maintain and strengthen the trade relationship with China.

natural diamonds as they have passed from the introductory stage to the growth stage, and the cost of production has reduced.

A synthetic diamond, also known as a man-made diamond, is created in a lab. According to Namdia‘s Chief Executive Officer, the demand for natural diamonds might fall due to the increase in the demand for synthetic diamonds which are relatively cheaper than natural diamonds. However, due to saturation of the synthetic diamond demand market, the market is expected to stabilize and therefore making the demand for natural diamonds to increase again.

Readings: https://nsa.org.na/page/publications/ https://www.namibian.com.na/86536/read/The-copper-game

Readings: https://www.namdia.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/NAMDIAAnnual-Report-2018-2019.pdf https://www.capetowndiamondmuseum.org/blog/2018/06/realdiamonds-vs-synthetic-diamonds/ https://www.namibian.com.na/86603/read/Synthetic-gems-eatinto-natural-diamonds-market

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JANUARY, 2020

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ELECTRICITY Namibia Electricity Update and its Link to South Africa

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amibia imports up to 70% of its electricity from South Africa (Eskom), and other countries within the region, such as Zimbabwe (ZPC). With this, the

633MW

country also has a special agreement made between NamPower and Eskom in South Africa.

The Power Purchasing Agreement (PPA) for five years signed between Namibia and South Africa, is ending in March 2022. The South African Power utility enables Namibia to buy and utilise the surplus energy from SA at affordable rates. However, South Africa has been hit by an energy crisis which has made it unable to meet the growing demand. This crisis is inevitably expected to spill over to Namibia.

As of February 2019, Ruacana, Anixas, ZESCO, ZPC and other Renewable Energy plants contributed a total of 250MW, 22.5MW, 50MW, 80MW and 117MW of energy to Namibia respectively, while Eskom supplied about 200MW. Namibia’s total electricity demand is currently estimated at 633MW per annum, and this demand is expected to grow at about 5% per annum. The country’s generation capacity currently stands at approximately 589MW of which about 460MW is base/mid-merit, thereby rendering a deficit in local production.

Erongored says Namibia will have to look at alternative sources and start standing on its own feet. Although Namibia doesn’t entirely depend on Eskom for power, there is still a deficit that needs to be accounted for.

Total Energy Demand excluding Skorpion

589 MW Local Generation incl. RE Plants

460MW NamPower Fleet

400MW Supply Agreements

options Namibia could direct its focus on is the Kudu Gasto-Power Project, Epupa Baynes, other renewables and also encourage more Independent Power Producers IPPs. Readings: https://www.erongored.com/electricity-in-namibia/ https://neweralive.na/posts/calm-down-nampower-tells-nationover-eskom-crisis https://www.doingbusinessnamibia.com/energy

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JANUARY, 2020

RENEWABLE ENERGY Solar Roof – The Way to Saving More in Electricity Expenses Author: David Jarrett RDJ Consulting

Figure : Solar Roof (Alensy Energy Solutions (PTY) LTD)

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here has been a great deal of expectation when TESLA promoted the concept of their Solarglass roof. The market globally is still waiting for the breakthrough due to various barriers (trade and design) that prevent widescale commercialization.

A local Namibian company has taken another approach and finished the construction of a 471 kWp Integrated Solar Roof. The project engineer (Mr. Lohann Vermeulen) describes the project via his Linkedin page as having the entire roof built out of solar modules, eliminating the cost for a conventional roof. He further iterates that their client is experiencing huge savings on their electricity bill and great returns on their investment.

He lists the EPC Company as Alensy Energy Solutions PTY LTD, of Windhoek, Namibia.

MET Signs a Land Lease Agreement with Diaz Wind Power for a Wind Farm

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ith a push to reduce the importation of energy, the Ministry of Environment And Tourism (MET) signed a land lease agreement with an Indepen-dent Power Producer (IPP) called Diaz Wind Power, a subsidiary of the United Africa Group, for the establishment of a 44-megawatt wind farm in Luderitz.

According to the United Africa Group’s chairperson who made the announcement, the project which is part of the NamPower’s new five-year Corporate Strategy and Business Plan, is estimated to cost N$1.5 billion.

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JANUARY, 2020

WATER Namibia Rainfall Update

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fter a long period without rain, which led to water scarcity and caused environmental damages in some areas, there are rays of hope for recovery now, especially since most parts of the country have received relative amounts of rain since the end of 2019.

The three surface reservoirs supplying water to Windhoek and the central parts of the country, namely Swakoppoort Dam, Von Bach Dam and Omatako Dam currently hold 23.8 million cubic metres of water, compared to 54.7 million cubic metres of water from last season.

The Khomas region recorded the highest and heaviest rains at about 97.5 millimeters. The southern part of the country received below average rainfall, while the central and northern parts reported above average. The eastern areas of the Zambezi region reported below average rainfall, but the bulk of the country reported aboveaverage rainfall with isolated patches of below average rainfall within the central-northern regions. The diagram ABOVE represents records of rainfall received in different regions of the country recently in millimeters.

The Southern African Development Community weather monitor has predicted flash flood danger possibilities for countries in the region, and this includes Namibia, Angola, South Africa and parts of Botswana.

Despite good rainfall records, the dam bulletins provided by the Namibia Water Corporations (NamWater) show that the dam levels do not surpass the last recorded levels of 40% during the same period last season in 2019.

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The Windhoek-Goreangab Dam Ctredit: RDJ Photo

JANUARY, 2020

A Review of Livestock Loss in the Aftermath of the Drought

A dead and abandoned animal found in one of Namibia's farms - drought impact Credit: RDJ photo.

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tatistics from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) show that more than 90 000 livestock have succumbed to drought since October.

The ministry revealed this information through a report titled ‘Agricultural Inputs and Household Food Security Situation’ compiled by the Namibia Early Warning and Food Information Unit (NEWFIU).

According to the report, over 56% (49 235) of the deaths reported were cattle, followed by 31% of goats, 12.3% of sheep and less than 1% of donkeys and horses recorded for each.

Grazing conditions have been deteriorating over the years throughout the country and poor rainfall performance as well as uncertain weather patterns are said to have worsened the situation. This led to farmers losing their livestock as a result of poor grazing and unavailability of water. The meat markets are flooded with animals during the drought period, but the aftermaths are brutal, comprising of high prices for both suppliers and consumers.

Readings: https://allafrica.com/stories/202001080596.html

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JANUARY, 2020

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

David Jarrett Author Consultant@RDJConsulting.co.za

Waste Management – A Close Look at the Structure and Functionality of the Kupferberg Landfill

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aste managementeven with effective controls ultimately require landfills or other such storage sites for solid and other waste. Windhoek is no exception and so the main landfill site serving an estimated 900 000 households is located currently (January 2020) at the Kupferberg Landfill site. Kupferberg is located along the C26 road and some 13 km from the city centre/Central Business District (CBD) and is slated to have started operation in 1984. The City of Windhoek (which is the local municipality and operator of the site, CoW) notes that solid waste management has improved over the years to be now run on sustainable principles.

A waste site is only legalized once the Minister responsible for the Environment has followed a consultative process and declared the site via a regulation or the Gazette [Environmental Management Act 7 of 2007, Section 5 (2)].

The National Solid Waste Management Strategy (2018) identifies waste disposal as the main problem faced. Thus, its objective is the need to strengthen institutions, organisations and legal frameworks. Fines not exceeding N$500 000 or imprisonment or both can be levied against people who contravene the EMA 2007.

The City of Windhoek is pushing a reduce, reuse and recycle philosophy that will help reduce the demand for Kupferberg. A project has been investigated to look at methane recovery and power generation at the Kupferberg Landfill site since 2011/2012 but has not materialized due to undisclosed barriers.

According to the City of Windhoek handbook (info booklet), each household is entitled to have 240 litres (The size capacity of a “wheelie” bin) of household waste that will be collected on a weekly basis. This means that there is a potential for around 21.6 million litres of waste to be collected weekly (1.1 billion litres per annum). This is estimated while noting that some 30 % of the households are not City of Windhoek registered as these are informal structures and thus do not have an individual wheelie bin. In 2018, City of Windhoek allocated N$ 72 million to bring the Kupferberg site up to “code” as required by the national strategy.

Image showing Kupferberg landfill site Credit: Google Earth map Date Obtained: January 2020

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JANUARY, 2020 Readings & Notes https://allafrica.com/stories/202001080596.html http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/pdf/Councillor%20Ogranogram%20 2016.pdf https://cdm.unfccc.int/filestorage/0/1/K5PONHGIWD6BF71MYA2ET43 SL9ZJ08.pdf/PDD.pdf? t=ZWN8cTRpdG1ofDBRukk2NFavoWJ6Wuz4J71H http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/pdf/citi_projects/InfoBookletSolidW asteManagement.pdf Environmental Management Act 7 of 2007, The National Solid Waste Management Strategy (2018) page 4 http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/depa_infrasolid_waste_management.php https://cdm.unfccc.int/filestorage/0/1/K5PONHGIWD6BF71MYA2ET43 SL9ZJ08.pdf/PDD.pdf? t=ZWN8cTRpdG1ofDBRukk2NFavoWJ6Wuz4J71H http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/pdf/citi_projects/InfoBookletSolidW asteManagement.pdf Waste internationally is generally referenced in kg or tonnes. http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/pdf/Councillor%20Ogranogram%20 2016.pdf Remmert,D. and Ndhlovu, P. (IPPR), HOUSING IN NAMIBIA: RIGHTS, CHALLENGES ANDOPPORTUNITIES 2018 http://www.ippr.org.na/ https://www.thevillager.com.na/articles/12917/cow-set-aside-n72m-to-align-kupferberg-landfill-/

Sand Mining - Policies and Regulations Author: David Jarrett Consultant@RDJConsulting.co.za

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and mining is an everyday activity that ultimately has an environmental impact. Sand mining can be defined roughly as the utilization of a non-renewable resource as its utilization rate is faster than its renewal rate especially in the river ecosystems from which the sand originates. How do we know this? The answer lies in the many laws and regulations that govern the activity based on its potential impacts when not carried out responsibly. The Environmental Management Act No. 7 of 2007 (‘EMA’) came into force on 6 February 2012. This Act has a significant impact on mining in Namibia.

Further, the demand for sand is large as it is used in all forms of concrete related construction providing us with our schools, hospitals, roads, bridges and homes.

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With constant calls for new buildings and other infrastructure, then that demand is increasing and will continue to increase for the immediate future.

Sand mining occurs via different mining methods dependent on the type and location of thesand to be mined. In Namibia, most sand mining occurs from the seasonal riverbeds that crisscross the country based on the geology. The impact on the topography and environment occurs during the mining “production” phase. The production phase of mining can be described as; actively extract and process the mineral resource.

Direct impacts of sand mining can be listed as Dust pollution, destruction of vegetation, removal of topsoil, diversion of waterways, intentional and unintentional flooding. The indirect impacts result in increased evaporation rates, water pollution and increased sedimentation in water sources.

Environmental impact itself is defined by the EMA 2007 as; "having, or likely to have, a consequential qualitative or quantitative impact on the environment, including changes in ecological, aesthetic, cultural, historic, economic and social factors, whether directly or indirectly, individually or collectively;" Sand mining therefore has to be carried out responsibly and in conformation of existing laws and policies that govern mining to ensure that the resource is not abused or made to contribute to degradation.

Readings & Notes Padmalal, D., Maya K., Sand Mining,2014 Springer Netherlands CoW Sand Mining Policy (June 2017) http://www.windhoekcc.org.na/pdf/busi/CoW%20Sand%20Mining% 20Policy%20-%20Final%20Policy.pdf https://www.lac.org.na/laws/2012/4878.pdf https://www.thinknamibia.org.na/environmental-law/chapter13 Padmalal, D., Maya K., Sand Mining, 2014 Springer Netherlands http://www.environmentguide.org.nz/activities/minerals/miningmethods/ https://www.lac.org.na/laws/annoSTAT/Environmental%20Manage ment%20Act%207%20of%202007.pdf

Sand mining in Namibia Credit: RDJ Photo

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JANUARY, 2020

ROADS AND TRANSPORT Seven-Seater Taxi’s Fate Undecided

AUTHOR: Ms. Naemi Shoopala Researcher @ RDJ Consulting

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The drivers of these seven seaters are devasted by the nintended unemployment that can accrue considering the economic juncture at which the country currently stands.

Other things to be taken into consideration are also the lack of transportation for persons to access education, health, work opportunities and many other needs. The action in the Kunene and Omusati regions through the curbing of the seven seaters taxis automatically creates a shortage in the already constrained transport services for the people.

EDITOR: Mr. David Jarrett

amibia's public transport is controlled mainly by private operators who utilise low cost vehicle operation such as via five-seater sedan and seven seater cars and who in some cases are represented by various bodies. The urban taxi industry has until recently been mostly dominated by sedan cars. The utilization of seven seater cars has increased and even created conflict with mini-buses that ply inter-urban routes. This use of the seven seaters was considered contrary to their road permits which restricted use to urban centres. Within the last one to two years, there have been requests for the government to allow the introduction of the seven seater vehicle on the roads as inter-urban taxi.

Discussions concerning the operation of these seven seaters taxis are still ongoing (January 2020), despite receiving negative feedback on their legalization. The government itself has not released any official ban notice on its use as a taxi to date. However, there exists a special operation in place to curb the illegal use of these vehicles.

Such operations include removal of these vehicles used in the Kunene and Omusati regions, as well as the imposition of fines for the drivers of up to N$4000 for operating on the national road.

Nevertheless, the spokesperson for the seven seaters drivers, Namibia Transport and Taxi Union (NTTU) President Werner Januarie has appealed to the Ministry of Works and Transport to allow either; all those that satisfy and fulfill the permit requirement to be given an opportunity to acquire permits and be allowed to operate or all permits be cancelled but not a combination resulting in discriminatory practices.

NTTU President Werner Januarie, in an exclusive interview with RDJ Briefing reported that for now, the seven seaters with permits are given a period of six months to rectify route certification of their permits. This period is estimated by the NTTU to end by July 2020 or latest August, 2020.

Readings & Notes http://www.mwt.gov.na/documents/98944/100185/Media+Release+Taxi+demonstration%2CJune+18%2C2019%2C+Windhoek.pdf/ae4c e414-98aa-4af1-935a-e9dfc5480305 https://www.namibiansun.com/news/taxis-at-war https://www.nbc.na/minibus-and-7-seater-operators-tension https://www.namibiansun.com/news/taxis-at-war https://www.nbc.na/minibus-and-7-seater-operators-tension https://www.namibian.com.na/194050/archive-read/Seven-seaterdrivers-want-ban-lifted https://www.namibian.com.na/86594/read/Confusion-reigns-overlegality-of-seven-seaters

Photo showing the new Seven Seater Vehicles parked. Credit: RDJ Photo

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JANUARY, 2020

INTRODUCING

"WOMEN IN INDUSTRY"

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ender equality and equity is a basic human right.

However, there is strong evidence that gender imbalance in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields exists and RDJ Briefing in our quest to provide balance has now included a “Women in Industry” section.

“Think equal: how women’s ideas are transforming our world” as pointed out by the UNDP in their piece for International Women’s day, has become a motivational tool and When it comes to inspirational people who are making a mark in their communities, Namibian women are definitely at the forefront and driving forward the message that women are indeed a force to be reckoned with.

The Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) has taken concrete steps to provide women with equal rights as assigned in the nation's founding 1990 constitution which through Chapter 3 and its various Articles guarantee women equal protection under the law and prohibits any form of gender discrimination. In the past decade (2010 – 2020), there has been a significant increase in the representation of women in various industries and the governing structures via the parliament.

Empowering women to participate fully in economic life across all sectors is essential to build stronger economies,

achieve internationally agreed goals for development and sustainability such as is expected under the Sustainable Development goals (SDGs), and improve the quality of life for women, men, families and communities.

This section is therefore an effort to further recognise the important role played by females in the various industries and sectors of the economy. The objectives of this section are therefore: To create awareness to the public To raise the profile of women within industries Recognize and follow the progress of women in industry Promote and encourage excellence amongst women We therefore invite women and girls across all sectors covered by the RDJ Briefing to share their inspiring stories with us and the world via office@rdjconsulting.co.za or even have a chat with us at +264 61 400 171. WhatsApp calls and interviews can be arranged also on request.

Readings & Notes https://naerjournal.ua.es/article/view/271 https://feature.undp.org/future-is-female/ https://www.lac.org.na/laws/annoSTAT/Namibian%20Constitution. pdf https://www.unwomen.org/en/digital-library/videos?id=59ff24839ae8-4291-be09-cb87a87fb873

Stay Tuned to this Page for More Information on Women Making a Difference in Industry.

JANUARY, 2020

AfDB Striving to Merge Financing Gap Between Men and Women

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lack of empowerment for women and urged his fellow African policy makers to focus on how to fast-track economic, social and political opportunities for women, and girls as well as solutions for the gender disparities that affect women.

According to data provided by the AgriBank of Namibia early in January 2020 on how the bank has disbursed its loans in relation to gender, age and groups from 2010 to 2018, females are trailing in terms of loan beneficiaries since 2010.

Readings & Notes https://www.namibian.com.na/86486/read/African-women-battleto-access-finance https://www.namibian.com.na/86486/read/African-women-battleto-access-finance https://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/april-2009/doesfinancing-benefit-african-women

Image (logo) Source: https://www.afdb.org/en

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he African Development Bank (AfDB) president reported that the African continent has a US$42 billion financing gap between men and women, and this leaves about 70% of women excluded financially.

Given this, the AfDB therefore decided to launch the Affirmative Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) intended to bridge the gap facing women entrepreneurs in Africa.

The targeted funds are aimed at financing women-led enterprises, providing technical assistance and strengthening the enabling business environment in favor of women.

Decades after the world officially recognized a human right to gender equality, women remain largely excluded from the upper ranks of government and business, earn less than their male co-workers and face an array of customs, traditions and attitudes that limit their opportunities. This was reported by the United Nations’ Africa Renewal publication.

Today, despite women’s right already being implemented widely, African women still battle to access finance. The AfDB president also said that the challenges are not only gender related but also about under-representation and

Tika Invests in Human Capital Development

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ince opening its doors in 2014, the TIKA office in Windhoek has been developing projects in all regions of Namibia in the areas of healthcare, capacity building, education, training and agriculture, amongst others.

The six-week programme, established in 2019 has already trained 75 young women, 30 of which have been able to secure employment. Turkish ambassador said at the handover event that Turkey is not one of the richest countries in the world but is considered the most charitable nation.

This is in line with their mission to contribute to the sustainable social and economic development of partner countries. The beneficiaries receive basic cooking and baking, financial literacy, hygiene, etiquette and emotional intelligence upskilling, amongst others. At the end of the free programme they receive certificates of completion.

Share Your Story With Us Today.

E: office@rdjconsulting.co.za / T:+264 61 400 171

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JANUARY, 2020

INTRODUCING

"YOUTH IN ACTION"

Welcome to the new “Youth in Action” section of the RDJ Country Briefing!

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he RDJ Team addresses the unique need to celebrate, recognise and acknowledge youth input into the Economy and Society, and also seeks to encourage, motivate and inspire the youth to build themselves up so they become the inspiration they seek in others.

The revised national youth policy of Namibia defines youth as individuals between 16 and 30 years. The Government of the Republic of Namibia (GRN) and the public have invested into equipping the youth to become better leaders and future personnel.

Since independence, the government has empowered, encouraged and supported the effective and constructive participation of the youth in the economy. This has been achieved through the National Youth Policy which was first written in 1993, and later revised in 2006 under the National Youth Council of Namibia (NYCN). The NYCN offers national youth services in which youth are provided with skills, training and personal development programmes. The Council also runs the Namibia Youth Credit scheme which offers micro credit to young entrepreneurs to enable them to start their businesses.

Apart from the NYCN, the Directorate of Youth within the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service (MSYNS) is also responsible for addressing the challenges, opportunities and obstacles facing young people in Namibia.

We often hear “children are the leaders of tomorrow”, but what type of leaders are we looking forward to having?

According to education.stateuniversity.com, the answer lies greatly in the upbringing, grooming and parenting of the mentioned children. Additionally, social, religious and academic environment also impact children.

"We therefore invite the youth across all sectors to share their inspiring stories with us and the world via office@rdjconsulting.co.za or even have a chat with us at +264 61 400 171.

WhatsApp calls and interviews can be arranged also on request."

Readings & Notes http://www.lac.org.na/laws/2009/4276.pdf http://www.nys.com.na/ http://www.mti.gov.na/downloads/MSME%20Policy%20Zero%20Dra ft.pdf http://www.msyns.gov.na/youth https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/8-things-rememberchild-development/ https://education.stateuniversity.com/pages/cw64nusuk6/HumanGrowth-and-Development.html

www.rdjconsulting.co.za

JANUARY, 2020

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CAREERS

TENDERS

NAMDEB

NAMCOR

Post: Accounts Technician-services (Based in Orangemund) Closing Date: 30 January 2020

Tender Name/Description: The construction of the fuel station forecourt works for NAMCOR in Karasburg, Namibia Closing Date: Friday, 14 February 2020 @12.00 PM

DEBMARINE NAMIBIA

Tender Name/Description: The supply, installation, implementation and testing of a converged data centre virtualised server infrastructure at NAMCOR headquarters and disaster recovery site.

Closing Date: Friday, 14 February 2020 @12.00 PM

Post 1: Basis Administrator Post 2: Asset Management Assistant Closing Date: 31 January 2020

PETROFUND

MTC NAMIBIA

Post: Company secretary, Risk Compliance & Legal advisor, Grade: D upper Closing Date: 23 February 2020

MTC NAMIBIA Post: Basis Administrator Closing Date: 31 January 2020

Tender Name/Description: Supply and delivery, Installation, Commissioning and maintenance of solar photo voltaic roofs for MTC Closing Date: Friday, 7 February 2020, 14:30

Tender Name/Description: Chief Technical Officer Closing Date: 31 January 2020

DELOITTE NAMIBIA Post: Financial Planners (Windhoek & Swakopmund) Closing Date: Thursday, 30 January 2020

NAMIBIAN COMPETITION COMMISSION (NCC) Post: Administrative Assistant: Economics and Sector Research Division Closing Date: 30 January 2020

SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE UPDATES

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UpNext 2020 SADC Briefing Release The RDJ Briefing will now be covering SADC. Stay alert to our SADC Publication which will be released on Friday, 31 January 2020 on our website: https://issuu.com/rdjbriefing/docs

Research Camp Date: February-March 2020

RDJ Team Retreat Date: 28 March 2020

JANUARY, 2020

CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS

David Jarrett (Managing Consultant) RDJ Consulting Services CC Priscila Chilombo Olga (Economist) RDJ Consulting Services CC Naemi Shoopala (Researcher) RDJ Consulting Services CC Misozi Mugala (Research Intern) RDJ Consulting Services CC

www.rdjconsulting.co.za

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