ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY News & Analysis
MARCH, 2022
The Future of Water? The Briefing and Analysis of RDJ Consulting (NAMIBIA) Windhoek, Namibia
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News & Analysis
From The Editor Quick Facts
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Economy at Large
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Oil & Gas
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Mining
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Electricity Renewable Energy Water The Environment Roads & Transport ICT & Telecommunications Groundwater Women In Industry Tenders and Careers Contributing Authors
C ONT E NT S
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY
MAR 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.
The Future of Water? Dear Reader, Welcome to the March 2022 Edition of the RDJ Briefing as we dedicate the edition to celebrating World Water Day. Centred around access to freshwater and in particular to raise awareness of the 2 billion people today who do not have access to safe water. This is also a time where emphasis is placed on reaching Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) SDG6 for water and sanitation for all by 2030. For this year, the emphasis of World Water Day is anchored around GroundWater and particularly “making the invisible visible”. As a result, we have dedicated two articles to the topic of Groundwater. The two articles feature a leading female hydrologist in Namibia who specializes in groundwater during her work under the Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform and in our Economy at large section around replenishing aquifers in Namibia in seasons of good rainfall. As you would expect, we have articles that cover a variety of topics focused on water in the various sector’s such as the use of remote
sensing in floodplain mapping, the applications of renewables in fresh water supply, and anti-pollution measures in Namibia’s wastewater. Not to leave you hanging and as promised, we also continue to keep you abreast of the oil finds off the coast of Namibia with facts from NAMCOR. Please enjoy, 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
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 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 2.3M
Population Size
66%
LTE
Telecom (sophistication)
2.575
Million Mobile(cell phones) Subscribers
Employment (2021)
Tourism, Mining, Fishing Industries
89%
2.25%
GDP Growth (2021 NSA)
7.75%
Prime Interest rate
Literacy Rate
8.8M
Water availability (cubic litres/capita)
4.7
Local Electrical Energy Production (TWh)
688.000
Electricity Demand in MW (all)
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4.60%
Inflation (CPI)
4.00% Repo Rate
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MARCH, 2022
ECONOMY AT LARGE Groundwater – Making the Invisible Visible AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting
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he World will celebrate “World Water Day” on the 22nd of March 2022, with a focus on Groundwater. This time around, the United Nations (UN) Water Members and Partners have chosen to celebrate this occasion under the theme “Groundwater – making the invisible visible”. Despite it being invisible, groundwater is a treasure that cannot be left out of the discussions involving water supply and economic sustainability. As climate change impacts take hold, groundwater will become more and more important as climate change takes hold since it is the only source of freshwater that is not highly affected by evaporation as is the case with surface water systems and stores. The NamWater 2019/20 Annual report notes that rain is the country’s primary source of water, while lakes (oshana’s), groundwater and rivers are secondary sources. Understanding that Namibia being a country that receives relatively lower volumes of rainfall in
comparison to its bordering neighbours such as South Africa, Zambia and Angola, it is crucial for the country to make good use of rainwater during rainy seasons to aid secondary sources of water in times of water scarcity. Between 2013 and 2017, Namibia saw severe water scarcity due to a rainfall drought, which was especially harsh in its central regions. Other contributing factors to this drought although not a surprise included low overall precipitation in consecutive years and high evaporation from surface water around the central areas of the country, including Windhoek – the capital city. It is however important to note that Namibia does have water intensive economic sectors currently such as irrigation agriculture, mining, and construction. According to statista.com, the agriculture sector is among the top three sectors that contributed to Namibia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report further indicates that agriculture alone contributed 9.15% of the country’s overall GDP in 2020.
Amarika Desalination Pilot Plant Courtesy: RDJ Consulting
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Further supporting this information carried by Statista is the Kunene River Awareness Kit (Kunene RAK), which indicates that agriculture is the most water intensive activity in Namibia and yields a contribution to GDP of around 10 %, while using over 60 % of the nation’s water annual demand. The value-added per cubic metre of water in agriculture, and more specifically irrigation, is very low compared to manufacturing and service sectors, at N$7.2/m³ compared to N$272/m³ and N$574/m³ respectively. However, from 1997/98 to 2001/02, improvements in water productivity occurred in other sectors too including diamond mining (14.4%), manufacturing (2%), services (4%), and government (11%). Beverages increased with 43% during the 4-year period. Fish processing decreased the water productivity in the manufacturing sector (DWAF 2006). In response to the City of Windhoek’s (CoW) water resource challenges during the 2013-2017 droughts and regional challenges overall, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry provided the funds to implement the CoW’s 2015 emergency water supply initiative called the Windhoek Managed Aquifer Recharge Scheme (WMARS) to improve the City’s water supply security, and consequently, avert a bad situation. This is a rational idea as artificial recharge is the process of spreading or impounding water on land to increase the infiltration through the soil and percolation to the aquifer or of injecting water by wells directly into the aquifer.
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In fact, the WMARS primary objective is to increase the internal long-term sustainable water supply capacity of the City by injecting water into an aquifer during times of high rainfall and abstract it under controlled conditions during times of drought. By doing so, the Windhoek aquifer would be used as a water bank, whereby treated surface water is recharged down to the aquifer for safe storage for later use as needed. The Namibian Economist Newspaper reported in 2016 that the aquifer allows for long term safekeeping of water with limits of losses up to approximately 5% compared to conventional dams with losses up to 50%. Given the good rains being received since February 2022, is it time to start acting as a country to make use of every drop of water we receive and make the invisible groundwater more visible in times of need? The conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa and of course comments and reviews are welcome.
Readings: https://www.statista.com https://www.kunene.riverawarenesskit.com/KUNENERAK_COM/EN/MANAGEMENT/VALU E_OF_WATER/ECONOMIC_VALUE/NAMIBIA.HTM https://economist.com.na/15772/headlines/windhoek-plans-to-tap-into-aquifer/ https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4441/10/10/1366/htm#B38-water-10-01366 https://www.un-igrac.org https://www.nap.edu/read/4780/chapter/3#16 https://www.worldwaterday.org/
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OIL & GAS 2022 MARCH FUEL PRICES NAMIBIA
N$ 17.15 per litre 95 Octane Unleaded Petrol
N$ 17.28 per litre Diesel 50ppm
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MARCH, 2022
Namibia’s Oil Exploration future AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant at RDJ Consulting
Official Visit: Courtesy: Namibian Presidency Facebook page
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n quick succession, Namibia has been the recipient of two oil finds in the southwest of the country’s coastal waters. Both these finds are considered to be substa-
-ntial, especially in light of Namibia’s clear desire to become an oil producing nation. Acting under the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act of 1991, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia – (NAMCOR) has a mandate to carry our reconnaissance, exploration and production operations. Added to this is the clear intention of the country’s leadership with an official visit of the Namibian President, His Excellency, H. G. Geingob to the Gulf State of Qatar. President Geingob met His Highness, the Amir of State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for official talks. During the session, the two sides discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and the aspects of
developing them in various fields, especially in the field of investment and energy. They also discussed a number of issues of common concern which most likely included the oil find, capacity building and of course oil trading do’s and don’ts. Courtesy of the Namibian state-owned oil company, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia – (NAMCOR), RDJ Briefing has been reliably informed on the following facts related to the recent discoveries: The Graff-1 well has proved a working petroleum system for light oil in the Orange Basin, offshore Namibia, 270 km from the town of Oranjemund. Drilling operations commenced in early December 2021 and were safely completed in early February 2022. This block has a Joint Venture group comprising NAMCOR, Shell Namibia Upstream B.V and Qatar Energy,
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The Venus-1X discovery is located approximately 290 kilometres off the coast of Namibia, in the deep-water offshore exploration block. The well was drilled to a total depth of 6,296 metres, by the Maersk Voyager drillship, and encountered a high-quality, light oil-bearing sandstone reservoir of Lower Cretaceous age. This block, Block 2913B (PEL 56) comprises of a Joint Venture group that includes TotalEnergies (40%), QatarEnergy (30%), Impact Oil and gas (20%), and NAMCOR (10%).
This then brings the real question. Will Namibia benefit? The IMF in its analysis of oil production on oil producing nations found that the volatility of oil prices brings around major challenges. One of the challenges for the Namibian government will be looking at how the 10% stake it has in both wells/finds can be materialized to not only meet economic demands locally but the “great expectations” of the public. IMF research/data shows that historically, oil has a volatility that can be unpredictable.
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Such as oil prices plunging to around US$12 per barrel in late 1998, surging to US$30 per barrel in late 2000 to fall back to US$20 per barrel in early 2002. This volatility can translate into significant fluctuations in fiscal revenue. Further, as oil is a non-renewable resource, then over reliance on its revenue should be avoided. Lessons have been clearly learnt from the fishing and mining industries on both spectrums – jobs and revenue/taxes. Having said that, it is also important that “hybrid” energy use or an effective energy mix be maintained. This speaks also to the move to alternative fuels and technologies that Namibia and Southern Africa by extension move to urgently as it “weans” of fossil fuels. As always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
Readings: https://www.qatar-tribune.com/news-details/id/230309/amirnamibian-president-discuss-ways-to-boost-ties https://www.namcor.com.na/media https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/nft/2003/fispol/
Courtesy: National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia – (NAMCOR)
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MINING Mining and Water: Sustainability and Reliability AUTHOR: Renee Jarrett Group Executive at RDJ Publishing
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s we continue to look at our sectors that impact water use during the Water Action Month, we take a look at water use in mining. Water just like energy is an integral part of Mining operations and endeavours worldwide. Mines use water for a variety of operational needs such as dust control, high pressure drilling and cooling of equipment, transport, separation of minerals, as a solvent and cleaning of equipment. Most mines both consume and produce water, which often must be imported for operating purposes from locations remote from the mine or transferred as surplus mine
water from within the mine to a treatment and/or discharge location. Mines that are water deficient need to rely on water imports. Ironically, mines also need “de-watering” so as to reduce water levels in mine excavations as was / is the case at the Kombat mine (refer to RDJ Briefing, February 2022), Namibia removing mine water to prevent flooding in 2006, and / or in tailings to reduce stress or subsidence on pits such as occurred in Brazil in 2019 called the “Brumadinho Dam” disaster.
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Sources of water for mines include all sources such as groundwater, surface dams and rivers and generally hovers around 3 – 6% of national demand. Water used in mineral processing, dust suppression, slurry transport. Mine sites are often located where water is scare for drilling and dust control.
which provided high-level guidance for responsible water management. This will be achieved through: • Transparent reporting • Collaboration on equitable access • Increasing water efficiencies • Pro-active engagement with other users
For example, the Trekkopje mine in Namibia uses 14 million m3/year of high-quality water that must be free of any salt. As is well understood, water is a scarce commodity globally and particularly so in Southern Africa with Namibia and Botswana being severely water stressed at times. So, for these water stressed areas, groundwater is the main source of water for the mines, thus Namibia has seen the use of desalination to complement groundwater.
So, just imagine a world without water after using and abusing it unsustainably with the impact on life and industry?
Sadly, dewatering of groundwater or surface water systems also reduce water levels to other non-mining water users such as farms etc. and the discharge may have high levels of contaminants such as acids or heavy metals. Establishing Proper disposal of mining water is essential to ensure the protection of water resources thus in these cases water treatment is also required adding to the economic cost of mine operations.
https://issuu.com/rdjbriefing/docs/_e-rdj_briefing__february_2022 https://www.pressreader.com/namibia/rdj-briefing-9y2b/20220201 https://www.mining-technology.com/features/feature-managingwater-consumption-mining-globalshortage/#:~:text=Mining%20uses%20water%20primarily%20for,th rough%20commercial%20water%20service%20suppliers. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_supply_and_sanitation_in_Na mibia#:~:text=Mining%20in%20Namibia%20makes%20extensive,pr ocessing%20using%20alkali%20heap%20leaching https://www1.eere.energy.gov/manufacturing/resources/mining/p dfs/water_use_mining.pdf https://www.watertechonline.com/industry/article/14207319/6ways-to-improve-water-conservation-in-mining-operations www.wsp.com www.sulzer.com https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030324342030 0192 https://www.namibian.com.na/index.php?page=archiveread&id=38825 www.mining-technology.com https://ourworldindata.org/water-use-stress http://www.igbp.net/globalchange/greatacceleration.4.1b8ae2051 2db692f2a680001630.html
Mining companies spend a lot of time and money seeking to secure water sources and also in trying to minimize or conserve its use in operations. This also leads to more energy intense operations and the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) which describes itself as an international organisation dedicated to a safe, fair and sustainable mining and metals industry points to need for mines to become more sustainable. The ICMM has developed a Water Stewardship Framework
Let’s continue to preserve our environment and as always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa and we welcome comments.
Readings:
Global water resources are under increasing pressure and it is widely recognized that a holistic approach to water management is required to achieve resource sustainability and secure future access.
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info@icmm.com www.icmm.com
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ELECTRICITY Electric Vehicles, Electric Aviation Future proof? AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting
Future of cargo Courtesy: DHL Express (Press Release: Bonn/Arlington, August 3, 2021)
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lectric mobility (e-mobility) is gaining traction and of course, recent moves to increase the availability and access of charging points adds to this popu-
larity. One of the drawbacks for e-mobility is the rate of charging up once batteries are depleted and also the added complexity of the limited range that most affordable versions currently can do when compared to internal combustion engines. A number of applications for electric vehicles are being well advertised and as such the public is focussing on these developments. However, we feel that there is a missed opportunity especially in Southern Africa to improve our links between population centres while reducing the reliance on imported fuels. Now the same can be said for road transport but with the state of roads as they are, costs for road upkeep and the impact of climate change, the use of air travel could greatly improve the economic outputs of nations, while reducing road traffic and saving time for commutes.
Enter the future….…. One of the image problems for e-mobility is the sustainability push with a decarbonization label that has been placed at the forefront and the need for various industry tools to tackle climate change. This makes the whole matter seem like a scientific solution awaiting “reality checks”. Let’s discuss what the world could really look like without just climate change over our heads. With a need for key stakeholders from government and the private sector realising that an electrified world is possible and public policy to support this.
“We firmly believe in a future with zero-emission logistics,”
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John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express
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Internationally, the private sector is starting to take the necessary steps to incorporate e-mobility into air transport. DHL (Deutsche Post AG) through its DHL Express unit has ordered 12 fully electric planes from Eviation, one of the leaders in electric aviation technology. DHL describes this as: “……… a future with zero-emission logistics,” says John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. Thus, these types of aircraft could be used for “feeder routes” such as described by Pearson and his team, thus bring Africa closer to modernized and efficient travel. Currently drone uses are now commonplace and as with some keen day to day technology driven on the back of military experiences. The drone industry in Africa is maturing with the use of drones to deliver medicines, map inhabitable terrain and provide long distance communication.
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Can we thus not develop frameworks and a pathway for emobility to also exist in the passenger and cargo aviation sectors in Africa? Let’s continue to preserve our environment and as always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa and we welcome comments.
Readings: https://www.dhl.com/za-en/home.html https://www.eviation.co/ https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home/press/pressarchive/2021/dhl-express-shapes-future-forsustainable-aviation-with-the-order-of-first-ever-allelectric-cargo-planes-from-eviation.html https://www.do4africa.org/en/the-drone-industry-inafrica/9032/ https://www.tritonev.co
The future is here! Courtesy: Eviation
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Press Release
Africa Energy Indaba 2022 Hybrid Event A Resounding Success Packed with invaluable insights and opinions that are sure to shape the future of the continent’s energy landscape, the Africa Energy Indaba (AEI) once again lived up to its reputation as the leading African energy conference for presenting novel and fundamental advances in the field of energy. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Cape Town, 14 March, 2022; The Africa Energy Indaba 2022 was hosted as a hybrid event in Cape Town on March 1st – 3rd and delivered a physical in-person exhibition under COVID-19 conditions. In their successful execution of a hybrid event, the Organisers enabled a vast number of attendees, both in-person and virtually, to assemble, learn, network, and exchange insights pertaining to the dynamic realm of African energy. For the first time since 2020, the energy sector came together to attend this most notable African event and the exhilaration over the reunion was pulpable. As Host City Partner of the AEI, Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis welcomed speakers, delegates, exhibitors and visitors to the AEI event. He underscored the importance of energy security and the City’s plans to realise this as quickly and sustainably as possible – especially as residents continued to suffer owing to unreliable, unsustainable, and unaffordable electricity. He stated that renewable energy sourced from Independent Power Producers was at the core of Cape Town’s strategy in its quest to minimise the impact on climate change. In this respect the City is clearly a leading player in the national climate effort. Expressing support for this project, Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe delivered his keynote address, emphasising that notwithstanding the vast individual energy resources across the continent, including mineral resources that were catalytic for a low carbon and environmentally sustainable world, energy poverty still prevailed. He further called for Africa to define its own Just Energy Transition that would economically empower and enable the continent to grow with its own agenda and execution. Participants made intensive use of the three-day conference to advance future projects, share information and not only establish new but maintain existing networks. Speakers and luminaries from the energy landscape gathered to discuss, debate, and pursue lasting solutions to enable adequate energy supply across the continent. Expert advice and insights were imparted concerning the opportunities available in the Just Transition to sustainable energy systems with the expectation of addressing the challenge of energy poverty. The conference covered highly relevant topics of energy policy and the role of government, energy funding, green hydrogen, grid technologies, renewable and cleaner energy, energy storage, energy for transport and energy efficiency. Further, the AEI served as the ideal platform to not only unite the African energy sector but demonstrate cutting-edge innovation, thereby providing a stage for knowledge transfer and business opportunities for industry stakeholders.
Hosting world-class industry organisations, the energy exhibition demonstrated its commitment to providing the solutions Africa requires to meet its growing energy demands. The exhibition proved especially valuable to enterprises wishing to showcase solutions for the benefit of Africa. Moreover, because of the hybrid functionality, exhibitors were presented with the opportunity to promote their companies to business counterparts, global investors, buyers, and governments worldwide. The event fostered essential communication among energy stakeholders, providing them with access to relevant networks. Furthermore, attendees were not only exposed to industry trends and emerging technologies, but also content and ideas that will ultimately empower individuals and energy enterprises to thrive in this intensely competitive sector. The AEI 2022 event represented an important node for energy industry professionals to exchange knowledge, experience and information and confirmed AEI’s commitment to meaningfully contribute to the development of the African energy sector for the benefit of all Africa’s people. Ends www.africaenergyindaba.com For media enquiries, please contact: Qondakuhle Dwangu Email
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MARCH, 2022
RENEWABLE ENERGY Desalination and Renewables: Its time! AUTHOR: Chilombo (Olga) Priscila Economist @ RDJ Consulting
Diagram showing global installed desalination capacity, 2010–2016. Sourced from IEA-ETSAP and IRENA 2012
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n light of “World Water Day”, it is important to have an open discussion on how sustainability and “green energy” can be incorporated in the production and supply of freshwater to enhance access to water for livelihoods. Southern Africa is well known as the “dry south” due to the reduced or erratic rainfall and the heavy reliance on rainfall for agriculture and other human needs.
committed to addressing climate change challenges while carrying out its economic activities and to decrease as much as possible its environmental footprint. In fact, National regulations such as the Harambee Prosperity Plan II (HPPII) articulates under its Economic Advancement Pillar, the development of a blue and green economy that will drive the country’s economic recovery encapsulate this.
As you know, it is a common say that “Namibia is an arid, water deficient country with high solar radiation, low humidity, and high temperatures.” In this statement we notice a problem of water scarcity, and also a resource that is sunlight. The question is now is what can and is being done with such free and precious resource? South Africa and Namibia being good examples of countries with scarce water resources, they have taken the rationale steps to use desalination to avert water crises especially related to either industry or urban demands.
Real case studies include the Orano Desalination Plant which was commissioned by AREVA in 2010. In fact, Orano Desalination Plant is a very significant source of water supply to the Namibian coastal areas because it provides about 75 percent of the water for consumption to Swakopmund and surrounding communities as well as uranium mines. With this “success”, the Government of Namibia has recently announced its intention for the construction of a new desalination plant in addition to the private sector owned and operated Orano Plant, already in existence.
Like many countries around the world, Namibia is well www.rdjpublishing.africa
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Guidelines For Building In An Energy Efficient Manner
This approach by the Namibian government to utilise desalination in such a mainstreamed manner is aligned with findings and summary around potential on Water Desalination Using Renewable Energy by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) 2012, Technology Brief report. It is also accepted that large amounts of electricity is needed to drive the desalination process and adds to the already pressured demands. According to the report, renewable energy technologies that are suited to desalination include solar thermal, solar photovoltaics (PV), wind, and geothermal energy. Solar technologies based on solar heat concentration, notably concentrating solar power (CSP), produce a large amount of heat that is suited to thermal desalination. With Namibia being a country with known high solar irradiation levels, this seems to be a viable way of pursuit. The use of solar desalination is not a new concept. Australia for example, is reported to have successfully tested a solar-powered desalination unit designed for remote communities in its Northern Territory similar but more successful than Namibia’s Akutsima desalination facility. Therefore, instead of soil, pesticides, fossil fuels and groundwater, Sundrop Farms in Australia has been using only solar power and desalinated seawater to grow
tomatoes across 49 acres since 2016. In this way, the desalination plant is said to produce more than 118 million gallons of freshwater each year, while simultaneously displacing the use of more than 2 million liters of diesel a year. Given further the recent announcement in October 2021 by NamPower to develop a Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant with a capacity of up to 130 megawatts, is solar desalination, with additional wind power support especially around the coastal areas, a clear pathway for Namibia? The conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa
Readings: https://neweralive.na/posts/nampower-progresses-onconcentrated-solar-power https://allafrica.com/stories/202106070114.html https://www.sa.areva.com/EN/news-8350/namibia-arevainaugurates-first-seawater-desalination-plant-in-southernafrica.html https://www.erongo.com.na/news/new-desalination-plant-fornamibia-2021-06-06 https://neweralive.na/index.php/os/posts/opinion-namibia-poisedto-become-african-renewable-energy-hub https://www.wasserressourcen-management.de/en/592.php
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WATER Dam Levels Update for Namibia - 28 February 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 28 February 2022
BASED ON THE GRAPH: From the figure above, it is evident that the country's water sources are currently low in comparison to last season's quanities, with the exception of the Goreangab, Hardap and Olushandja Dam which are close to or slightly higher than last seasons levels. The overall reduction in dam water levels is largely due to the lowered rainfall received this season. With regards to these observations, it is also important to note the following:
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.
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Transfer from Omatako Dam to Von Bach Dam took place. The Otjivero Silt water level is for 20/01/2022.
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THE ENVIRONMENT Safeguarding water: Anti-pollution measures CO-AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting
“Good water quality is essential to human health, social and economic development, and the ecosystem”. UN-Water Courtesy: RDJ Consulting
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hile we have been discussing water sources quite liberally, most people will not think that wastewater systems are also a source of "water" which can be used in all aspects of our lives.
It is even more important to safeguard clean water sources, and this has become increasingly critical worldwide due to the ever-growing pollutant loads as population activity and economies grow and the associated waste levels continue to rise.
Wastewater management is thus a crucial step to secure global water supplies and maintain water quality as well as the commensurate sustainable development goals (SDG’s). The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimates that water pollution and eutrophication will cost the world between $6 to $16 billion in economic losses and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 3 million deaths per year globally.
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UN Water has noted that in many countries, handling of wastewater and protection of water sources does not receive the level of action that is required. Southern Africa has its challenges but has also at the same time shown some clear examples of good legislative and on the ground practice. Namibia is no exception, having to develop regulations and implementation strategies as an action to offset the effects of pollution in its various water sources and surface waterways.
many developing countries, all these efforts continue to struggle with ensuring they are effectively implemented.
Despite the challenges faced concerning wastewater and similar issues, in Southern Africa, policy relating to wastewater has a human rights approach, focused on an alignment with international human rights standards and directed to promoting, protecting and implementing them. In Namibia, the Government has identified various areas of concern and the need of industry specialists required to ensure water quality standards. They have also outlined the positions needed to be filled and the necessary numbers in the Integrated Water Resources Management Plan for Namibia leading up to 2030.
Often the public is not environmentally aware of the magnitude of harm that can be caused due to pollution in water sources including wastewater streams. Public awareness actions can also help mitigate and reduce pollution levels as well as instill “community spirits”. Furthermore, there has been a lack of clear guidance and enforcement concerning wastewater standards which has meant that companies have often failed at compliance. The need to properly educate and inform both the public and private companies to ensure effective anti-pollution efforts is essential.
Currently water anti-pollution measures are outlined in various legislation for Namibia and South Africa which cover areas such as Water Services Act (1997) – South Africa, Water Resources Management Act (2013) - Namibia, the Integrated Water Resources Management Plan for Namibia (2010), the Namibia Water Sector Support Program (NWSSP): Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), the Namibia Water Sector Support Program (NWSSP) and the National Marine Pollution Contingency Plan.
So as always, the conversation continues rdjbriefing@rdjpublishing.africa and we welcome feedback, comments and inputs.
These various instruments have shown promise although in the case of Namibia, the government is aware of its objectives and seeks to establish and strengthen higher education related to wastewater and sanitation, making it easier for more people to enter fields related to water management. In terms of monitoring, more policies are making it clear that the public needs to be better educated on water conservation and that monitoring should more heavily rely on specialists, monitoring equipment and frequent testing of water quality. But like
In recent studies conducted in Windhoek, it was established that there was a lack of inspectors to ensure wastewater quality standards were being met. This lack of availability of skills related to anti-pollution methods in wastewater means that violations of water quality standards can go overlooked.
Reference: https://www.unep.org/resources/report/good-practices-regulatingwastewater-treatment-legislations-policies-and-standards Identifying Opportunities to Reduce Water Pollution and Encourage Voluntary Compliance in Windhoek, Namibia https://web.wpi.edu/Pubs/E-project/Available/E-project-050814051919/unrestricted/City_-_Final_IQP_Report.pdf National Marine Pollution Contingency Plan https://mwt.gov.na/documents/576663/953972/NMPCP.pdf/99dbca19-d85f06c4-75d3-7ede6c9fa930 Water Resources Management Act 2013 https://www.ecolex.org/details/legislation/water-resources-managementact-2013-no-11-of-2013-lex-faoc134273/? https://www.afdb.org/sites/default/files/documents/environmental-andsocialassessments/esmf_summary_for_namibia_water_sector_support_program_ -_phase_1.pdf) https://www.afdb.org/sites/default/files/documents/environmental-andsocialassessments/esmf_summary_for_namibia_water_sector_support_program_ -_phase_1.pdf http://extwprlegs1.fao.org/docs/pdf/nam176575.pdf
Courtesy: RDJ Consulting
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MARCH, 2022
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ROADS AND TRANSPORT Transport: Is funding of the future beckoning? AUTHOR: David Jarrett Managing Consultant at RDJ Consulting
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s the world grapples with rising energy prices and associated inflation, can we then use the opportunity to rethink the way we do literally
“everything”?
Futures only exist if enabled by the Present! Taxation and subsidies of fossil fuels either at source or at end-user entry points are supported by time tested systems and procedures. However, with the introduction of erratic changes both in terms of fuels (switching from fossils to new alternatives) and pricing strategies (electric or hydrogen or even hybrid vehicles), these fund mechanisms are now under attack unintentionally. Section 18 of the Namibian Road Fund Administration Act, 1999 provides for Determination of Road User Charges and lays out the in accordance with such principles as may be prescribed, impose any one or more of the following road user charges for the achievement of the objects of this Act Section 18 (1) The Act goes on to focus on user charges arising from fuel use with direct mention of petrol and diesel. This is a concern as with modern technologies and alternative, non-fossil fuels, the opportunity to raise funds for road maintenance financing to carry out infrastructure maintenance and buildout, safety measures and training. Funding is mandated by legislation and in response, the African Road Maintenance Funds Association (ARMFA) being a 34-member, non-political and non-profit continental body was established in Libreville in 2003 as a platform and network for sharing experience, knowledge and information on the best practices of financing road maintenance in Africa; supporting the promotion and strengthening of ties between African Roads Funds; and
e-vehicles and cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles, require innovative and alternative sources of road financing… International Road Federation
ensuring the sustainability and advocacy with governments and road sector institutions towards adequate financing of road maintenance. Namibia is a member of ARMFA and the Chief Executive Officer of the Namibian Road Fund Administration (RFA), Mr. Ali Ipinge, was recently elected as the President of the ARMFA, to serve for a two-year period. At the handing-over ceremony, Mr Ipinge expressed his delight at the honour bestowed upon Namibia to lead ARMFA, especially during these uncertain and challenging times posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr Ipinge noted that “the challenges of declining funding from traditional sources such as fuel levies, as well as issues arising from road maintenance backlogs, aged road infrastructure, the increasing cost of road construction materials, amongst others, need a concerted effort from all stakeholders”. This shows that the problem is real and although we are not placing any quantitative illustrations, the natural progression of energy efficiency and energy transition will need new methods of equity fees and innovative collection methods that the public can accept. The move by South Africa in regard to a New Energy Vehicle (NEV) draft policy is another example of new trends that will impact current user charging methods. Is it really possible to look at charges differently? As always, the conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa and your comments and feedback are very welcome.
Readings: e-vehicles and cleaner, more fuel-efficient vehicles, require innovative and alternative sources of road financing… International Road Federation. https://www.imf.org/external/pubs/nft/2003/fispol/ The Namibian Road Fund Administration Act, 1999 https://www.rfanam.com.na/armfa-president/ https://www.ssatp.org/sites/ssatp/files/publications/HTML/AFERA/ AFERA.htm https://www.irf.global/africas-road-funds-under-pressure/ https://www.businessinsider.co.za/governments-plan-to-sell-moreelectric-vehicles-in-south-africa-2021-5 http://www.thedtic.gov.za/wpcontent/uploads/EV_Green_Paper.pdf
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MARCH, 2022
ICT & TELECOMMUNICATIONS ICT used for flood mitigation in Northern Namibia AUTHOR: Hannah Brendell Policy Specialist - Intern @ RDJ Consulting
Courtesy: Swiss Re Institute
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s climate change takes hold, Namibia is no stranger to frequent floods, with north-eastern and north central Namibian regions being the most flood prone. This tends to occur specifically in the Kwando Zambezi plains and Cuvelai basin forming small tributaries called “Oshana’s”. The results of floods span much broader than just property damage but have adverse impacts on social structures such as agricultural activities, with crops and animals being affected as well as human health in terms of nutrition and disease outbreak. It is estimated that the flooding in this region of Namibia affects up to 30 percent of Namibia’s, making it not only a regional issue but one that is relevant countrywide. Enter the use of modern technology to carry out “remote sensing” which can be defined as “acquisition of information about the land, sea and atmosphere by sensors located at some distance from the target of study” (Haines-Young, ScienceDirect). The use of remote sensing has made great strides in the field of hydrology.
Remote sensing has improved the collection of data through the monitoring of hydrological states such as water quality, and in this case, floodplains mapping. As you can imagine, this helps in mitigation strategies such as in times of flooding. Remote sensing allows for data to be collected instantaneously which has the potential to be used in flood assessments. Remote sensing is nothing new in Namibia as various studies and even pilot projects have been done with the aid of remote sensing.
Courtesy: www.researchgate.net
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MARCH, 2022
A form of remote sensing that has proved to be quite effective has been Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). SAR has been used in years prior to evaluate flooding range and damage caused. It acts as an all-weather, all-day tool for imaging potential flood occurrences at near real-time. Studies that used the SAR technique allowed for a study and data collection of the extent of flood events in the then Caprivi and present Zambezi, Namibia in 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2013. The research done through various studies has laid the groundwork for the potential of remote sensing in addressing some of the challenges brought about due to flooding in Namibia. Despite these efforts to collect data and assess the extent of floods in Namibia and initial advances in monitoring systems the country has not yet implemented a Monitoring and Early Warning System that speaks specifically to flood and drought challenges faced. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has aimed to support the Namibian government in addressing this by building on the regional effort already made through the "African Flood and Drought Monitor" (AFDM). In mid 2021 they held a workshop with these key objectives: (1) Launch the pilot Namibia Flood and Drought Monitor for the management of potential flood and drought risks. (2) Assess the gaps and needs country-wide to improve disaster risk management..
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(3) Finalize the proposal for a community-centered decision-support-system for monitoring and early warning of climate risks in Namibia. The desired impact according to UNESCO is to improve the national agencies and stakeholder’s capacities to manage climate information for flood and drought monitoring and forecasting by establishing the Namibia Monitoring and Early Warning System. Can Namibia capitalize on these gains to help not only mitigate but adapt to climate change realities? The conversation continues briefing@rdjpublishing.africa and of course your views and comments are welcome too.
Reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetarysciences/remote-sensing https://www.researchgate.net/ https://lup.lub.lu.se/luur/download? func=downloadFile&recordOId=3015096&fileOId=3015121 https://en.unesco.org/news/namibia-flood-and-drought-monitorand-early-warning-participatory-workshop-addressing-disaster https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261208903_The_Namibi a_Early_Flood_Warning_System_a_CEOS_pilot_project file:///C:/Users/rdjec/Downloads/The_Use_of_Remote_Sensing_in_ Hydrology.pdf https://mapscaping.com/remote-sensing-in-flood-management/ https://lup.lub.lu.se/luur/download? func=downloadFile&recordOId=3015096&fileOId=3015121 http://earthwise.bgs.ac.uk/index.php/Hydrogeology_of_Namibia
Courtesy: Kunene River Awareness Kit
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MARCH, 2022
GROUNDWATER A Woman's perspective AUTHOR: Kina Indongo Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting
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eeping abreast with the 2022 World Water Day theme ‘Groundwater’, we examine Namibia's groundwater landscape. We have the pleasure of gaining insight from Ms. Reginalda Joseph a dedicated and experienced Geologist with 6 years in the groundwater industry. Groundwater provides almost half of all drinking water worldwide, about 40% of water for irrigated agriculture and about 1/3 of water supply required for industry. It sustains ecosystems, maintains the base flow of rivers and prevents land subsidence and seawater intrusion according to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Women, and particularly young girls, who shoulder the burden of bringing drinking water closer to home, are often key target beneficiaries of improved services.
An Industry View Namibia has various sources of fresh water namely rivers, dams, ground water, fountains, seawater desalination and recycled water. The country has 5 perennial rivers and about 20 ephemeral rivers and 18 dams with the Neckatral being the largest. The country's groundwater resources are closely associated with the underground rock types that vary according to the geological structures that are unevenly distributed across the country. “Namibia only has a few favorable places where high volumes of groundwater can be sustainably
abstracted” Said Ms. Joseph. The major aquifers in Namibia are located in: Karst, Otjiwarongo, Omaruru Delta (OMDEL), lower Kuiseb, Windhoek, Stampriet, Koichab and Ohangwena II.
The country has also invested in remote groundwater monitoring technology such as Telemetry stations for better management.
However, Ms. Joseph believes that Namibia has efficient fresh water sources, that the groundwater Aquifers which most of the Namibian population depends on are currently efficient to support the growing population. Additionally, there are surface water sources such as dams, rivers and lakes, which are also largely used by the country's population. The country’s fresh water sources are sufficient in terms of quantity but in quality as well. “The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform being the custodian of water resources in the country have invested in not only the management of water but also its sustainable use” Said Ms. Joseph
The one thing Ms. Joseph would like to see change about how Fresh water is used in Namibia is a heightened sense of water conservation not only in times of drought but as a lifestyle. “I would like to change the fact that people in Namibia wait for drought alarms in order to start using water sustainably.” Said Ms. Joseph She believes governmental and private entities should employ water saving campaigns as a daily reminder and not only during drought warnings. Water is a basic human need, required for drinking and to support sanitation and hygiene, sustaining life and health. The access to both water and sanitation are human rights. However, Ms. Joseph believes that water should also be viewed as a valuable economic resource. The availability of water runs an economy as all industries depend on water for business. “I believe it's crucial that [] industries invest in the sustainable use and management of water.” Said Ms. Joseph.
Industry Innovations Ms. Joseph believes that Namibia has kept up to date with new innovations in the industry. This is evidenced through the functioning desalination plant in the coast as well as defluorination plant in the North of the country. In the country's capital the Windhoek Aquifer Artificial Recharge is being operated to replenish underground water. As well as the construction of dams to contribute to groundwater recharge such as the Omdel dam from the Omaruru river.
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Water as a Lifestyle
As to the Future of water in Namibia, Ms Joseph says that naturally as the country's population grows the demand on the water sources will also grow. In addition to climate change, unpredictable rainfall and the high evaporation rates of surface water, the need for stricter water control will become essential.
MARCH, 2022
“I believe it's crucial that [] industries invest in sustainable use and management of water." MS. REGINALDA JOSEPH
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MARCH, 2022
WOMEN IN INDUSTRY Interview with Ms. Reginalda Joseph Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Contributor - RDJ Consulting)
Personal Journey Ms. Joseph holds an honors Degree in Geology and a Masters in Petroleum Geology from the University of Namibia. Additionally she holds a certificate in International Water law and the Law of Transboundary Aquifers from the University of Geneva. She started her career journey as a Project Hydrogeologist for the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry and Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resource (DWAF/BGR) ‘Groundwater Investigations and Management in the CEB Project .’ Which ended in 2019. She is currently employed as a Hydrogeologist in the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform.
Other Involvements Ms. Joseph is part of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Groundwater Management Institute’s Young Professional Program. As well as the Namibian Hydro-geological Association (NHA).
Motivations On what motivates her to pursue her goals, Ms. Joseph says she is motivated by the desire to improve the livelihoods of the Namibian
people. “I want that the basic needs of the Namibian child ( water, food and a place to stay) are sufficiently met.” Ms. Joseph considers herself lucky to be in an industry where she can enact real change in people's lives. “My position in the industry has given me not only the platform to be part of the process of change but an opportunity to contribute to that change.” Said Ms. Joseph.
Challenges
Ms. Joseph said her biggest challenge in the beginning of her career was a lack of experience that affected her confidence in the work space. She says that she was fortunate to enter a work space that held very few gender biases and she herself has not faced any challenges based on her gender. Her initial struggle was overcome by her making the decision to actively equip herself with the skills she lacked by signing up for short online courses on groundwater studies and management, reading as much as possible as well as attending as many conferences and workshops as possible.
Conclusion In conclusion, Ms. Joseph encourages women to go for a career in Hydrogeology “It's an amazing career that helps improve the livelihood of people.” “There is so much room for research and growth in the
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Hydrogeology industry.” Adds Ms. Joseph. She encourages young women to get themselves mentors and to equip themselves with the necessary tools to achieve their goals, such attending educational, networking seminars, workshops and conferences, "This will not only capacitate you but it will build your confidence, and once that happens nothing can stop you." Said Ms. Joseph. Finally she encourages other women to pursue their Degrees, Masters Degrees and Doctorates. “If you can dream it, you can have it but you must be prepared to work for it.” Said Ms. Joseph
“My position in the industry has given her not only the platform to be part of the process of change but an opportunity to contribute to that change." MS. REGINALD JOSEPH
MARCH, 2022
"If you can dream it, you can have it but you must be prepared to work for it.” MS. REGINALDA JOSEPH
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MARCH, 2022
TENDER SACREE Description: Call for Proposals for Engineering, Procurement and construction of (EPC) in Zambia Bid Closing Date: 28 March 2022 Description: Call for Proposals for Engineering, Procurement and construction of (EPC) in Botswana Closing Date: 18 March 2022 Description: Call for Proposals for Engineering, Procurement and construction of (EPC) in Namibia Bid Closing Date: 15 March 2022 Description: SADC RENEWABLE ENERGY ENTREPRENEURSHIP SUPPORT FACILITY 1st CALL FOR APPLICATIONS (WITH FOCUS ON WOMEN AND YOUTH LED ENTERPRISES) Bid Closing Date: 14 March 2022 Description: IEA SHC Solar Award: Call for Nominations 2022 Bid closing date: 1 April 2022
CAREERS Description: Ashden Awards 2022 climate action work: Calling all Trailblazers Bid closing date: 15 March 2022 Ministry of Higher Education Description: Tenders are hereby invited for the following: Consultancy on Mandates of Higher Education and TVET Governance Bodies. The main objective of the consultancy is to review the current governance structure of the Namibian TVET sector and propose a possible realignment of the mandates of relevant regulatory bodies. i.e. Namibia Training Authority(NTA) Closing Date: 15 March 2022 Green People-s Energy (GPE) Group Description:Tenders are hereby invited for the following: Consultancy Services: Assessing PreFeasibility of a Joint Venture Solar PV Plant to Support the Operational Costs of Ombonde People's Park and Otjindjerese Conservancy for the Green People's Energy (GPE) Project in Namibia. Closing Date: 14 March 2022
SWAKOPMUND MUNICIPALITY Position: Traffic Officer Closing Date: 25 March 2022 VKE Namibia Consulting Engineers (Pty) Ltd Position: Manager: Finance Administrator Closing Date: 28 March 2022
TAEUBER AND CORSSEN Position: Fleet Administrator Closing Date:23 March 2022
RED TRADING RESTAURANT CC Position: Restaurant manager Closing Date: 31 March 2022
Deutscher Schulverein Windhoek (1949) Position: Educator Child Care Centre Closing Date:15 March 2022
FIRST NATIONAL BANK HOLDINGS Position: Collector Closing Date: 18 March 2022
DAN VILJEON Position: Manager: Chef Closing Date: 14 February 2022
Position: Credit Risk Manager Closing Date: 18 March 2022
NAMIBIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY Position: Employee relations Officer Closing Date: 25 March 2022
OK Foods Luderitz Position: Butchery Blockman Closing Date: 18 March 2022
Development Bank of Namibia Limited Position: Legal Officer Closing Date: 25 March 2022 NAMIBIA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Position: Driver Closing Date: 18 March 2022
Joe's Beerhouse Operations (Pty) Ltd Position: General Cleaner Closing Date: 25 March 2022 Position: Trainee Cook Closing Date: 25 March 2022
WE ARE LOOKING FOR A
PERSONAL ASSITANT/ RESEARCHER IF THIS IS YOU Send us your CV and Cover Letter E-mail: hr@rdjconsulting.co.za Due Date: 17 March 2022 FOR MORE INFORMATION ON REQUIREMENTS ANDRESPONSIBILITIES, EMAIL HR@RDJCONSULTING.CO.ZA OR CALL 0817503010 ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED!
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CONRIBUTING AUTHORS
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NICOLE FELIX CHILOMBO OLGA PRISCILA Designers/Layout
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AMAKHOE //HOABES Sales & Business Consultant
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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
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