SEPTEMBER, 2020
The Namibia
ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY News & Analysis
HOPE FOR THE ECONOMY
IN THIS MONTH’S ISSUE: Namibia’s International Tourism Revival Initiative and its Amended Protocols
Walvis Bay Port – Finally a Regional Logistics Hub
Africa Water Week and its Realisation in Namibia
Botswana-Namibia to Establish Solar Project
The NAMIBIA Country Briefing of RDJ Consulting
C O N T E N T S 4
5
From The Editor
Quick Facts
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9
Economy at Large
Oil & Gas
10
11
Mining
Renewable Energy
12
15
Water
Environment & Sustainability
17
18
Roads and Transport
Telecommunications
20 Financing
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24
"Women in Industry"
"Youth In Action"
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27
Tenders and Careers
Contributing Authors
SEPTEMBER, 2020
From the Editor HOPE FOR THE ECONOMY 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
Dear Reader, As the daily trend for new Covid-19 cases keep declining at a slightly faster pace in Namibia, strict rules and regulations are also being amended, allowing more busines activities to run smoothly, with all precautionary measures in place. From the looks, it seems that business norms are not going to be the same anymore, as this is a beginning of new season which entails change in the way in which activities are run. Obviously, the world is going through an economic "reboot” which can hopefully bring about positive changes. This month, we observe the changes experienced by various sectors, signalling some hope for the economic revival in this era. Sectors include Tourism and Hospitality, Transport, Energy, Water and Sanitation and other, with some already displaying positive responses and results. The following topics and more are covered: ENERGY: Botswana – Namibia to Establish Solar Project WATER: Africa Water Week and its Realisation in Namibia SANITATION: Ongwediva New Reception 3 Awarded with Free Sewer Connection TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY: Namibia’s International Tourism Revival Initiative and its Amended Protocols TRANSPORT: Walvis Bay Port – Finally a Regional Logistics Hub To find out more, please enjoy reading this Publication which was carefully prepared for you by our interns and do join our conversations on Twitter and Wordpress . And, 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, #Stay Safe and Comments are welcome….
(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.
89%
Literacy Rate
-1.1%
GDP Growth (2019)
3.75% Repo Rate
66.6%
Employment
2.3M
7.50%
Interest rate (Prime)
2.4%
Population Size
Inflation (CPI)- July 2020
quick facts
8.8M
LTE
Telecom (sophistication)
Tourism, Mining, Fishing Industries
2.575
Million Mobile(cell phones) Subscribers
Water availability (cubic litres/capita)
484.000
Electricity Gen. in MW (Local)
629.000
Electricity Demand in MW (all)
6 SEPTEMBER, 2020
THE ECONOMY AT LARGE Inflation Continues to Decline
The Diagram is a representation of price statistics data, July 2020, NCPI - NSA Data
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ccording to the Namibian Statistic Agency (NSA), due to a decline in the price levels of most items, Namibia saw a decline in its annual inflation rate
for the month of July 2020. Inflation is an indicator that refers to the rise in the prices of most goods and services of daily or common use, such as food, clothing, housing, recreation, transport, consumer staples, etc. It measures the average price change in a basket of commodities and services over time. In as much as the monthly rate remained constant at 0.2% compared to the previous year, the annual inflation reduced from 3.6% to 2.1% on the back of Transport, Clothing and Footwear, Education, Hotel, Cafes and Restaurants and housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuel price declines. According to the Bank of Namibia Governor (Mr. Johannes Gawaxab), overall inflation for 2020 is now projected to average around 2%. Information provided by the NSA’s Statistician General
and CEO, Alex Shimuafeni pointed out that, the inflation rate is vital for purposes of economic policy-making, especially the formulation of monetary policy and to inform consumers in general. He also explained that based on their data, the index for goods and services for the month of July 2020, stood at 141.9 and 138.7 compared to the corresponding indices of 138.5 and 136.5 recorded during the same period last year. The monthly and annual inflation rates for goods were 0.3% and 2.4%, respectively, while for services the inflation rate was 0.1% and 1.6%.
Readings: https://cms2.my.na/assets/documents/Namiibia_CPI_bulletin_Jul y_2020.pdf https://www.financialexpress.com/what-is/inflationmeaning/1618981/ https://neweralive.na/posts/inflation-continues-downward-trend https://economist.com.na/55264/extra/inflation-remains-at-ahistoric-low-level-bon/ https://neweralive.na/posts/inflation-continues-downward-trend
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 7
Repo Rate Cut Another 25 Basis Points
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Data Source: Bank of Namibia Monetary Policy
he Bank of Namibia through its’ Monetary Policy Committee (18th August, 2020) reduced the repurchase (repo) rate by 25 basis points from
4.00% to a now historical 3.75% and thus the commercial lending prime rate from 7.75% to 7.50%. This however was inevitable seeing as the Reserve Bank of South Africa in July 2020 reduced their repo rate to 3.50% and Namibia being in the Common Monetary Area (CMA) needed to maintain the “one to one” connection between the Namibian dollar and the South African Rand.
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With most economic activities across the globe experiencing either lockdowns or restrictions due to the novel Corona Virus, a contraction in the growth of the economy globally and locally has been noted since February 2020 and hence the decision for the monetary policy committee to utilize tools such as rates so as to encourage more economic activities with the hope of reviving the economy.
Readings: https://www.resbank.co.za https://www.bon.com.na
NAMDIA Experiences a Decline in Profits n the financial year 2019/2020, the world diamond industry was faced with a lot of challenges such as lack of bank financing, the depreciation of the Indian
diamonds. The firm actually trades as a private company and is governed by the local Companies Act.
rupee, lower profit margins and the competition of synthetic diamonds. Other indirect factors that negatively affected the diamond industry were related to macroeconomic and interstate like the US-China trade war, the aftermath of the Hong Kong protests and certain macroeconomic issues affecting consumer confidence in India. At the beginning of 2020, most economic trade of most goods became slow or on halt globally as a result of the Coronavirus, the diamond trade also declined.
According to NAMDIA’S Annual Report for their Financial Year which ended on 31 March 2020, after tax profit for the year ended amounted to N$95.2 million, which is a 41% decrease from N$161.9milion recorded in the NAMDIA Experience a De cline in Profit syear. For the year ended, NAMDIA made US$133million (about N$2 Billion) from ten (10) sales of about 25,073.37 carats of diamond at an average price of US$528.64 per carat.
With all the negative activities around the world, Namib Desert Diamonds (Pty) Ltd (NAMDIA) saw a decline in its profits which was inevitable. NAMDIA is a cutting-edge diamond marketing and sales company, established in 2016 by the Government of the Republic of Namibia with the focus of creating a sustainable route to market a portion of Namibia’s unique and highly sought-after
The report also explained that NAMDIA paid the government N$80 million as dividend, N$63 million in taxes, N$19 million as export levy and also donated N$15 million to the drought relief fund. In as much as there was a drastic decrease in the profits, NAMDIA’s Management still described its overall performance as good.
Readings: https://www.NAMDIA.com/annual-reports/
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8 SEPTEMBER, 2020
Resource Curse: Namibia Falling Prey?
AUTHOR & GUEST WRITER: Ms. Jessica D.N Ndjadila Economics Student
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of RDJ Consulting or any of its writers. Their appearance on this Publication does not also imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.
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oomed as the infamous phrase of ‘paradoxical plenty’, Mittelman (2017) describes the resource curse as an unfortunate situation experienced by
countries rich in natural resources. The term was first introduced in 1993, after a series of noticeable trends was traced with many developing countries inability to further develop their economies despite having abundant natural resources. The resource curse is a common developing nation’s dilemma that still exists and remains valid with nations falling victim to it, even in the 21st Century. With hosting more than 30% of the world’s resources, Africa remains the richest continent with both known and unknown natural resources. However with reality sipping through, it is still one of the poorest continents in the world receiving financial aid and loans. How is this possible? Factors such as corruption, nepotism and improper government planning are to blame for the resource curse within the African continent. Countries such as Angola, Zambia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone are first hand primary examples of the modern day resource curse; with Namibia being no exception. In connection with countries that have abundant resources but extreme poverty, the resource curse is not fully existent within Namibia’s borders. The 2019/2020 Fraser Institute index substantiates this by ranking Namibia as having the 14th best mining jurisdiction out of 76 countries in Africa, with an impressive score in transparency and soundness of resource management, in various economic sectors within the country. Unfortunately, this sounds too good to be true as empirical evidence suggest otherwise for the Land of the Brave.
Namibia is one of the most leading diamond exporting nations that possess a comparative advantage in its exports. Recent statistics states that roughly about $914 million worth of diamonds was produced last year, with diamond production accounting for approximately 10% of GDP, 40% of export revenue, and 7% of annual government revenue (Laniado, 2020). In spite of that, Namibia is too dependent on mineral extraction and lacks diversification for export earnings and fiscal revenue, as previously stipulated by the 2020 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). This lack of proper diversification and careful monetarism in other economic sectors is noted as a key element in the recent ‘Fish rot Scandal’ that took place within the Fishing industry. Many Economists attribute that the corruption scandal within the Fishing Industry easily went un-noticed for years due to Namibia only focusing on one main industry (diamond sector), instead of re-directing and re-shifting its focus on all economical sub-sectors within the nation. This lack of diversification and poor governmental sectoral planning is attested to the resource curse, something that Namibia seems to be slowly shifting into. Such a daunting thought at first, but this could soon become Namibia’s reality if diversification is not implemented immediately. Benjamin Graham once said and I quote, ‘diversification is an established tenant of conservative investment’, if we want to dodge the resource curse bullet before it’s too late, diversification has to take place in each and every sector of the economy immediately. Botswana has done it successfully! Its economy is astonishing and exemplifying especially for a developing nation. What’s stopping us? If Botswana can do it, what more of Namibia?
Credit: Namib Desert Diamonds (Pty) Ltd (NAMDIA)
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AUGUST, 2020
OIL AND GAS
SEPTEMBER 2020 FUEL PRICES
N$ 11.65 per litre 95 Octane Unleaded Petrol
N$ 11.98 per litre Diesel 50ppm
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10 SEPTEMBER, 2020
MINING Pre-Feasibility Study on Tumas Project Underway
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eing a country ranked as the world’s 4th largest producer of uranium, responsible for almost 6% of global uranium output, Namibia has attracted many
foreign companies to explore its resources. Deep Yellow Limited (ASX:DYL) is one of them who also commends Namibia for its Triuranium octoxide (U3O8) excess production of about 350Mlb over the last 45 years the Erongo Region. Deep Yellow Limited (ASX:DYL) is an Australian uranium exploration company with a focus on Namibia, and presents a great investment opportunity. In September 2020, the firm announced in a statement that it has resumed drilling on its Tumas Project, located on Exclusive Prospecting License (EPL) 3496 in Namibia, and is currently busy completing a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for the Project whose results and samples collected will be key to an anticipated future Feasibility Study. According to the company the drilling programme will involve drilling approximately 90 Reverse Circulation (RC) holes for 1,800m commencing 7 September and is expected to be completed during October 2020. This work has multi-facet objectives including; collection of a
minimum of 1,000kg RC drill chips samples for further metallurgical test work in view of the recently announced determination that RC chips were suitable for future metallurgical testing in place of the more expensive diamond core option; in addition to the routine downhole gamma logging, also carry out downhole imagery scanning using optical borehole scanner (OPTV) technology to differentiate lithologies in particular the coarse pebble/conglomerate grain size distribution; and consolidation of the resource base relevant to the Tumas PFS area of influence. For the meantime, the company has appointed a Project Manager to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and prepare the project’s EIA document. Other than that, the company’s Managing Director also informed that “The environmental baseline studies are well underway with groundwater baseline information established and fauna and flora surveys completed. The radiation and air quality surveys have commenced”.
Readings: https://deepyellow.com.au/projects/namibia/ https://www.miningweekly.com/article/deep-yellow-launchesnamibian-pfs-2020-01-21
Credit: RDJPhoto
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 11
RENEWABLE ENERGY Botswana Namibia to Establish Solar Project
Credit: RDJPhoto
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ith the clear advantage of Botswana and Namibia being hot and dry for much of the year, the two countries have indicated they are
planning on setting up solar plants to achieve an aggregate capacity of 5 Gigawatts making them exporters of solar driven electricity. Renewable Energy would help both countries seeing as Namibia currently imports up to 70% of its electricity at times from neighbours such as South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe while Botswana depends on large scale thermal coal power plants utilizing domestic coal from reserves estimated at 200 billion tonnes. According to the Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy (Hon. Tom Alweendo), the southern African countries are working with Power Africa which is an initiative of the United States of America government to aid developing the structure of the project. He also added that an agreement to be signed will facilitate a full feasibility study to determine the size and the location of the various powerplants, cost sharing and other technical
details. Another point he mentioned was that the electricity will serve Namibia and Botswana and also be exported across the southern African region from this 20year project. It is anticipated that the activity will occur over three phases covering 300 – 500 MW, 500 – 1000 MW and then wrapped up with 1000 – 3000 MW accessing the regional power pool.
Readings: https://constructionreviewonline.com/2020/08/namibia-botswana-to-build5gw-solar-power-project/ https://www.usaid.gov/powerafrica https://www.namibiansun.com/news/namibia-botswana-to-build-solarproject2020-08-24/ https://ieefa.org/namibia-botswana-joining-forces-in-effort-to-develop5000mw-of-solargeneration/#:~:text=August%2024%2C%202020-,Namibia%2C%20Botswan a%20joining%20forces%20in%20effort%20to,5%2C000MW%20of%20solar% 20generation&text=Bloomberg%3A,their%20mostly%20flat%2C%20sunny% 20landscapes. https://www.pv-magazine.com/2019/09/04/namibia-and-botswana-mull20-year-5-gw-solar-push/
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12 SEPTEMBER, 2020
WATER Africa Water Week and its Realisation in Namibia
Logo Source: https://africawaterweek.com
Image Credit: RDJ Consulting
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he Africa Water Week (AWW) Conference is a biennial event that seeks to build momentum on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to water security and sanitation by 2030 and the 2025 Africa Water Vision, and actualizing Africa’s Agenda 2063.1 The conference is usually organised by the African Ministers’ Council on Water (AMCOW), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and other development partners.
Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR), the eighth AWW conference is set to be held in Windhoek, Namibia over a period of 5 days, from the 8th to the 12th of February 2021. This conference will be held under the theme “Water Security for Development and Human Health”, with the objective to enhance Water and Food Security through Sustainable Groundwater Development in the SADC Region.
AMCOW was created 18 years ago in Abuja, Nigeria with the objective to advance social and economic development, security, cooperation and to eradicate poverty by successfully managing Africa’s water resources and the supply of water.
This platform creates an opportunity for various governments, regional institutions, international partners, the private sector, the scientific community, civil society, the media from all over the world as well as African Citizens at large to come together and converse about different methods and approach that can answer to the continent's water and sanitation challenges.
In fact, the first AWW took place in Tunis, the capital and largest city of Tunisia in March 2008 and was organised by the African Development Bank (AfDB), together with the AMCOW, while the latest (seventh) AWW celebrated in 2018 took place in Libreville, Gabon under the theme “Toward Achieving Water Security and Safely Managed Sanitation for Africa”.
One of the main aims of the AMCOW is to help achieve the 2025 Africa Water Vision, therefore, the Council believes that adequate and equitable access to water and sanitation makes a critical contribution to Africa's progress in achieving Sustainable Development.
After its 7 cycles which passed through countries like South Africa, Gabon, and others, the eighth AWW is now going to be hosted in Namibia. According to Namibia’s
Readings: https://en.unesco.org/news/call-proposals https://africawaterweek.com/aww7/
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 13
The End of Drought and a Hope for Productive Farming in Northern Namibia
Image Credit: RDJ Consulting
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n area experiencing months or even years of abnormal dryness because of the lack of rain or simply average rainfall that is below normal is considered to be hit by a drought. Drought has many negative impacts such as low crop production, loss of livestock and severe socio-economic disruptions to humans. In Namibia, the Agriculture sector is known to be one of the country’s primary industries, with potential to boost agricultural productivity and therefore contribute much more to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Despite this potential, the sector’s performance over the years has been minimal as a result of among others, arid conditions, combined with low and delayed rainfall in most areas of the country. The Democracy Report of February 2020 states that the sector contributes only 3 to 5 percent (on average) to the national GDP, of which 70 percent represents the output of the livestock sub-sector. Fortunately, the year 2020 has turned things around for the better. This was after good rains recorded in many parts of the northern region, resulting in good and larger grazing areas after the rainfall season at the beginning of the same year. According to the Bank of Namibia (BoN) Economic Outlook for July 2019, overall production of crop decreased in 2019, with the highest deficit recorded during the 2018/2019 period. After this decline, improvements were then recorded during the 2019/2020 period as a result of more forecasted rainfall for the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020. Consequently,
cultivation during the same period improved especially in the northern regions of the country. In fact, the Namibian Newspaper informed the public on the 15th of January 2020 that areas including Outapi, Okongo and Oshikuku received above-average rainfall figures of 60mm, 20.06mm and 5mm respectively for 25 consecutive days in January 2020, which was followed by more rainfall that time. This change in events brought hope to the farmers of these areas since access to water and grass for their livestock could last them until the following rainy season. In addition, earth dams and oshanas still carry plenty of water for livestock and communal grazing and are reported to be in a good condition. Thus, this is all credited to the good rains that many parts of the northern regions of Namibia received earlier in 2020. Achieving food security no longer seems far-fetched because of the good rainfall received in the various areas with abundant harvest of mahangu, cowpeas, melons, and watermelons. After persistent drought conditions in the past year, the Omusati governor during the week ending 7th of August 2020 established with gratitude that there is now sufficient water and grass for livestock in the area. Furthermore, the councillor for Uuvudhiya constituency voiced that the circumstance in the constituency is uplifting. He is therefore confident that abundant grass pastures, full dams and flood-plains will last them till the next rainy season.
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14 SEPTEMBER, 2020
Ongwediva New Reception 3 Residents are Awarded with Free Sewer Connection
A typical Informal Settlement in Namibia. Image Credit: RDJ Consulting
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ngwediva a, town situated in the Oshana Region in the north of Namibia, neighbours with Oshakati with just approximately 8km. With the persistent Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with socio-economic uncertainty, the Ongwediva Town Council, led by Mayor Angelina Angula initiated a project that will help the New Reception 3 – one of the informal settlements in the town, flatten the curve. During the financial year of 2019/2020, the town Council took it upon themselves to allocate a generous contribution towards this project, in order to provide New Reception 3 with a sewerage reticulation. According to The Namibian newspaper, the sewer reticulation plant is valued at N$2.5 million. The project forms part of the council's efforts to improve service delivery, such as the provision of toilets in informal settlements, and aims at also providing residents with access to toilets and promote hygiene. Locals that made their way to the town council’s office to apply for sewer connections were already awarded with
these connections at no cost, as it is reported that more than 113 plots have already benefited from this new establishment. According to the town’s Mayor, locals can still apply for free connections during the period of 3 August 2020 till 29 January 2021. The Council previously expected the inhabitants to settle an amount of about N$2 169.80 for the connection from the sewerage pipeline to each individual household but now those fortunate do not have to settle this bill during the set period. The Mayor however urges residents to not become too comfortable to a point where they do not honour their monthly municipal bill, as it may limit the Council to function and carry out required Municipal services across the town.
Readings: https://informante.web.na/free-sewerage-connections-inongwediva/ https://www.namibian.com.na/203391/archive-read/Ongwedivawaives-sewer-connection-free https://www.nbc.na/news/sewer-reticulation-plant-completedongwedivas-new-reception-3.34985
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 15
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY Namibia’s International Tourism Revival Initiative and its Amended Protocols
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fter a long time without a single tourist visiting the country due to the National Lockdown which was driven by the spread of Coronavirus, a major
economic loss was experienced in the Tourism Industry. To revived the industry and avoid further losses , the Government of Namibia, through the Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) implemented the International Tourism Revival Initiative which allows international tourists to come to the country via the Hosea Kutako International Airport, and be kept under close surveillance while following specified regulations. The basis for launching this initiative was to get the critical Tourism and Hospitality sector back up and running by putting in place necessary measures and good practices to regulate sector in the context of Covid-19. The new initiative protocol was set to come into effect from 01 September 2020, which signaled the re-opening of
the Airport to International tourists, however, the tourism industry has not seen any bookings since then because other countries in the region such as South Africa, have also opened up for tourism with less restrictions, putting Namibia at a disadvantage. The previous protocol required the tourists to isolate themselves for seven days upon arrival before engaging in any planned activities. Hence, in order to keep the sector competitive and allow tourists to come through without so many restrictions, the Government amended the Initiative’s protocols through the MEFT as shown in the diagram below.
Readings: www.namibiatourism.com.na http://www.met.gov.na/news/192/government-announce-newimplementation-protocol-for-international-tourism-revival https://www.atta.travel/news/2020/09/namibia-s-international-tourismrevival-initiative-namibia-stops-enforcing-mandatory-quarantine-fortourists/
The figure shows the amended protocols of the International Tourism Revival Initiative. Application forms and further information are available on the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) website at www.namibiatourism.com.na www.rdjconsulting.co.za
16 SEPTEMBER, 2020
MEFT Attends to the Rescue of Stranded Hippos
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fter a report from an unidentified manager of the nearby Livingstone Wildlife Camp about a lot of hippopotamuses being stuck in a shrinking pool of mud and water in a game reserve in Namibia and are at risk of dying of hunger and thirst, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) looked into the matter and has explained that the situation was not as severe, but needed immediate intervention. The pond, which is located in the Wuparo Conservancy, about 900 kilometres northeast of Windhoek, was nourished by a nearby river but an elongated drought has dried up the source. In fact, animals are defenceless, it remains the responsibility of people to consider the value of preserving and saving nature for the future generation. Hence, the MEFT spokesperson reported that a new borehole was drilled by the conservancy recently, and is currently pumping water to the pond, which now contains a higher water level that would cater for the existing wildlife in the area. He additionally said that the ministry intends to replace the previously donated solar panels to Wurapo Conservancy with a generator and a bigger pump to increase the water supply in the pond in the near future.
Readings: https://af.reuters.com/article/namibiaNews/idAFL4N2G207H https://www.thejakartapost.com/life/2020/09/06/dozens-ofhippos-at-risk-in-dried-up-water-hole-innamibia.html#:~:text=The%20pool%2C%20in%20the%20Wuparo,fo r%20months%20in%20the%20pool
Namibia Implements a Conservation Fee for Parks
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frica is home to its natural beauty which does not cease to attract tourists from all over the world, and hence contributing a good deal to its economic development. However, preserving this natural beauty comes at a cost since not everyone takes responsibility of maintaining a clean, and healthy environment for its unique landscapes, exotic plants and unique animal species.
To achieve the above-mentioned need, many countries have banned the use of plastic on Parks and restricted areas and implemented a conservation fee to protect and preserved wildlife. South Africa for example, has since November 2019 been charging a conservation fee from visitors to any of its National Parks for every day spent inside the parks. In fact, Namibia has not done any different. In addition to existing Park Entrance Fees, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has also introduced the payment of a Conservation Fee which is payable by visitors to National Parks and Game Parks, except for children under the age of sixteen (16). The fee was approved by the Namibian Cabinet early in July 2020, and according to MEFT Press Release dated 24 July 2020, the fee is intended to supplement the current costly exercise for the maintenance and upgrading of infrastructure in the national parks catered for through the development budget of the MEFT.
Readings: https://www.places.co.za/html/parks_conservation_fees.html http://www.met.gov.na/news/191/-cabinet-approvesconservation-fee-for-national-parks-and-game-parks https://neweralive.na/posts/parks-to-charge-conservation-fees
Image Credit: RDJ Consulting
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 17
ROADS AND TRANSPORT Walvis Bay Port Finally a Regional Logistics Hub
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he Port of Walvis Bay in Namibia is the only deepwater port capable of handling large ships, and therefore serves as the logistical backbone for
several industries in the country. Other than benefiting the country, Namibia had set to become a Regional Logistic Hub through its long-term Vision 2030. This was to be made possible by the construction of a new container terminal at the Port of Walvis Bay which began back in 2014, and was successfully finalised in 2019. In fact, the terminal had been constructed on a 40 hectares of land reclaimed from the sea, which was expected to lead to more and sustained trade between countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the rest of the world. Supported by a loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) at a cost of nearly $300 million, the terminal, commissioned in August 2019, is now fully operational, according to a report by the AfDB published on 3 September 2020. In fact, the report considers the project to have successfully achieved its goal, after terminal’s capacity was increased from previously 355,000 TEUs (20-foot equivalent unit) to now 750,000 TEUs yearly. The terminal is also reported to have also reduced vessel waiting time to less than 8 hours and cut container transit time from 14.5 days to 9.5 days.
During all the work done, seven pilots and 26 ship-toshore crane operators were trained, of which one was a woman. Furthermore, its expansion has steered Walvis Bay towards becoming a logistics hub for southern Africa that aims to meet the growing demand for freight, while promoting new maritime access to serve the landlocked countries SADC, as lined up in the country’s Vision 2030. The report further indicates that demand for services from the port of Walvis Bay has increased by about 8% following the commissioning of the new terminal. Cargo volumes, revenues and income from other services (maritime, port, berth and light dues, and other storage and handling fees) are expected to increase by at least 8% in 2020 and 2021, and will be followed by a further growth of about 5% yearly as projected by the report. Activities completed during the implementation of the entire project are shown in the diagram below.
Readings: https://www.namport.com.na/news/834/MIL-OSI-Banking-Namibia-WalvisBay-Port-now-a-regional-logistic-hub-as-new-container-terminal-fullyoperational/ https://www.afdb.org/en/documents/namibia-new-port-walvis-baycontainer-terminal-project-project-completion-report https://foreignaffairs.co.nz/2020/09/09/mil-osi-banking-namibiawalvis-bay-port-now-a-regional-logistic-hub-as-new-containerterminal-fully-operational/
The digram is a representation of specific activities carried out during the project's at the Port of Walvis Bay in Namibia.
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18 SEPTEMBER, 2020
TELECOMMUNICATIONS NUST and MTC Partner for Education Technology Development
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donation of Computer and audio-Visual equipment was recently received by People’s Primary School (PPS) in Katutura from Mobile
technologies in weekly ideation, design and prototyping sessions.
Telecommunication Limited (MTC) in conjunction with the Namibia University of Science of Technology (NUST). The purpose of this contribution is to make sure the students are up to date in this era of technology, as it is now a vital part of our daily lives and education.
The NUST Professor further explained that remote learning tools, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and mobile applications have shown promising results in improving learning experiences. The technological innovations have been made within the conditions of an interactive tech Library which the PPS pupils created and has a full architectural plan. The concept of the Library is made up of thematic areas like a hotel, a beach, and the ocean with spring boat and reading corner called ‘Kishikishi’.
MTC and NUST partnership dates back to 2009 when MTC first funded the NUST Faculty of Computing and Informatics. Over the years the partnership has expanded as it is no longer only concentrated on a financial relationship but also encompasses other activities such as internships, technology events and joint projects covering ‘big data’ and ‘cloud computing projects’. According to Professor Heike Winschiers-Theophilus from NUST, the education sector needs technology innovations as they are vital in the effort to make a better learning experience at the moment, and in the near future. He also added that a number of PPS pupils and NUST design students, with the help of teachers, artists, and other experts from overseas, have been innovating educational
The manager of special projects at MTC, Adolf Ndafenongo explained that MTC started the realization of technology innovation by engaging NUST in what can be called industry-academic collaboration to boost innovation. He also added that the equipment will expose PPS with different learning experiences with other international schools as we live in a global village.
Readings: https://www.namibiansun.com/news/nust-and-mtc-partners-foreducation-technology-development2020-08-25/
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20 SEPTEMBER, 2020
FINANCING
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Korea Funds Borehole Rehabilitation in Namibia n initiative under the theme “Improving water access in the drought-affected regions of Namibia” was made possible by the Government of the
Republic of Korea and the Namibian Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR), with technical assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) to assist local communities impacted by the drought faced by the country since 2016. By that time, the Namibian Government had issued a State of Emergency due to prolonged drought, and several relief projects were then initiated to help lessen the impact of drought on vulnerable communities, of which the Korean Government later initiated one as well. For this project, the Korean government made a contribution of about U$200 000 (N$3 million equivalent). The project initially started in 2018 with the objective of not only helping various communities with access to safe, affordable and reliable water sources, but to also improve the lives of its residents. In fact, various communities in the Erongo, Kunene and Omusati regions such as Uberhunis, Khoro-Aus, Khoro-Aus Pos and Doeie-See are amongst the beneficiaries of the project. The project has so far resulted in a total of eight boreholes rehabilitated in Erongo and Kunene – four boreholes each, as well as an upgrade of four hand-dug
wells in Omusati to solar powered water pumping system. As a result, the upgraded boreholes are reported to now be fully equipped with a solar system that will help pump water to two large tanks placed a few metres away from it. Implementation of the project in these areas was much needed because of the few ephemeral rivers in their surroundings, as well as the severe drought that hit the country. The prolonged drought period and lack of grazing and access to adequate water resulted in the death of many livestock in these areas. The living livestock in these areas now have a watering trough to drink form; residents no longer have to dig deep in their pockets to acquire water for their personal needs and that of their animals. According to a representative from the Directorate of Water Supply and Sanitation Coordination (DWSSC) within the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Land Reform (MAWLR), the communities that benefited from the this project were amongst those hardly hit by the drought dilemma in the country, and did not receive much rainfall over the past five to seven years. Therefore, this new funded project gives the residents and their families hope for survival and that of their livestock.
Readings: http://www.fao.org/namibia/news/detail-events/en/c/1304081/
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SEPTEMBER, 2020 21
Malta Assists Namibia in Bringing About Food Security
Image Credit: www.maltatoday.com.mt
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n response to Namibia’s president – His Excellency Dr. Hage Geingob's concerns about the country’s lack of food security caused by drought, which is most likely
to worsen due to the Corona virus, a small Mediterranean country called Malta which had an excess stock of potatoes this season, has donated 500 tonnes of potatoes valued at US$195, 000 to the Namibian government. The donation was made through the Maltese High Commission in London, and was received by Neville Andre Erongo governor in 20 refrigerated containers and in good condition on 15 August 2020 at the port of Walvis Bay. The potatoes are to be distributed to approximately 160 000 people residing in vulnerable communities in Erongo and Khomas regions.
The Erongo region governor, on behalf of the Namibian government expressed his gratitude to the government of Malta, and pleaded with the people benefiting not to sell the potatoes as Namibia is experiencing a serious need for food security.
Readings: https://www.namport.com.na/news/823/Maltese-potato-shipmentarrives-in-Namibia/ https://www.namport.com.na/news/830/VULNERABLECOMMUNITIES-IN-THE-ERONGO-KHOMAS-REGIONS-TO-BENEFITFROM-POTATO-DONATION-FROM-MALTA/ https://economist.com.na/55554/extra/vulnerable-communitiesin-the-erongo-khomas-regions-to-benefit-from-potato-donationfrom-malta/ https://www.namibian.com.na/93936/read/Maltese-potatodonation-arrives-in-Namibia
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Meet Women & Youth That Inspire!
24 SEPTEMBER, 2020
YOUTH IN ACTION Power Pad Girls Interview with Ms. Hildegard Titus Interviewed by Ms. Kina Indongo (Communications Specialist - RDJ Consulting)
T
his month, we had the honour of speaking to Ms. Hildegard Titus. In this article, we get insight into the extraordinary acts of advocacy and dedication of this young woman who is truly a selfless individual.
Personal Journey Ms Titus has a a Bachelor of Arts in Photojournalism (Honours) from the London College of Communication and a Diploma in Media studies from the South Thames Collage in London. She is a freelance Photojournalist and an Artist, Curator, Filmmaker and Activist. Aside all these, Ms. Titus occasionally performs Stand Up Comedy to let off some steam and enjoy herself.
Power Pad Girls Ms Titus is also the founder of Power Pad Girls, which is an organisation that aims at providing comprehensive knowledge on sexual education, reproductive health and rights to Namibia’s youth. The initiative also advocates for free reusable menstrual products for all Namibian school children. The reusable menstrual products are fundraised and distributed across the country by the organisation. “‘Period poverty’ affects the quality of education that girls receive, as they stay away from school when they are on their period because they can’t afford menstrual products. Menstrual hygiene is essential to their wellbeing and dignity, and ultimately we want to help bridge the gap", says Ms. Titus.
“Believe in yourself and share your gifts". Ms. Hildegard Titus
So far, Power Pad Girls has donated over 250 reusable menstrual kits to girls around Namibia, and has also distributed more disposable pads to Karasburg, Gibeon, Driompsis, Omatako, and Onaanda. Apart from donations, the organisation also held menstruation and sexual health workshops with over 1000 school www.rdjconsulting.co.za
children. Through her advocacy, The Power Pad Girls' met Joss Stone (Grammy award-winning singer) in 2017 and spoke to her about the work Power Pad Girl is doing. The organisation was also awarded the Commonwealth Point of Light 136, an award that showcases volunteers
SEPTEMBER, 2020 25 around the Commonwealth. This being a great achievement in that put the work they do on the global map however, Ms. Titus considers it a success whenever the organisation is able to distribute reusable pads or host sexual health and reproductive health workshops. This is due to their ability to reach the youth and it also allows the organization valuable insight into the problems on the ground. Ms. Titus says” the work we able to see the direct impact of our work has in the lives of the youth. And teaching them about their reproductive health and justice." Ms Titus says she is deeply inspired by her fellow Power Pad Girls, namely Martha Asheeka, Manuela Lima, Nsozi Mwazi, Ndapandula Hamunime and Lucy Hopwood, as well as other activists such as Deyonce Naris, Beauty Boois and Ndiilo Ntengwe, Venicia Shanjenka, Florence /Khaxas, Irene //Garoës, and so many more. “Namibia is filled with so many powerful young women who are making an active change.” said Ms Titus. She attributes her motivation to help others based on a sense of empathy and duty. “I think that as human beings, we all have a responsibility to assist vulnerable people in our societies”.
Life is unpredictable and we don’t know what circumstances you can find yourself in, so I believe we should treat others with kindness and dignity regardless of what we have and what we don't” she says. Ms. Titus believes that all individuals have skills, gifts, talents and resources to share with one another, therefore ultimately one should always help when and where they can. “As humanity we are more connected than we realise. If one of us is suffering, it affects all of us and I believe that there are more than enough resources to ensure that we are all living a healthy and happy life", says Ms. Titus.
Challenges Despite all success, it is a fact that none of that comes without challenges. One of the biggest challenges they face is getting the team out to remote regions of the country, to do workshops and deliver pads. Additionally, as they are all volunteers, finding free time to travel can be difficult - “balancing our hectic schedules and doing this important work can also be taxing.” Although they are all aware that they will never be able to give every child in Namibia menstrual products, they do hope that the workshops can reach as many children as possible, and that they
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can conduct enough research and acquire data which would convince Namibian leaders of the importance of this initiative. “Ultimately, we want menstrual products to be free to all Namibian school children and ensure that they know their sexual and reproductive health rights and bodily autonomy" because problems such as gender based violence, sexual violence, unwanted teenage pregnancy are mainly attributed to lack of resources and factual information about reproductive health. The lack of knowledge on these topics leads to the youth being exploited by those who use their innocence to their advantage. In conclusion Ms. Titus imparts the youth with sentiments that each individual is talented and gifted more than they know. “Share your gifts with your community to make it a more just and equal society.” She believes that each individual has their own contributions to make to bettering their communities and world around at large. “Believe in yourself and share your gifts", she concludes.
Follow @Power Pad Girls on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
26 SEPTEMBER, 2020
TENDERS
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DEUTSCHE GESELLSCHAFT FÜR INTERNATIONALE ZUSAMMENARBEIT (GIZ)
MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT Description: Director Grade 3 Location: Windhoek Closing Date: 09 October 2020
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Description: Test Analyst (Senior) Energy Researcher Grade 6 Location: Windhoek Closing Date: 09 October 2020
Description: Nampower hereby requests qualified, competent and registered companies to submit proposals for the revamp of interior and exterior of Ruacana Eha Lodge. Bid closing date: 09 October, 2020 ERONGO REGIONAL COUNCIL Description: Construction and Assembling of PreCast Concrete Structures in Karibib, Daures, and Walvis Bay Rural Constituencies, Erongo Region. Bid closing date: 09 October, 2020
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AUGUST, 2020
CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS
David Jarrett (Managing Consultant) RDJ Consulting Services CC Chilombo Olga Priscila (Operations Manager) RDJ Consulting Services CC Misozi Mugala (Research Intern) RDJ Consulting Services CC Kina Indongo (Communications Specialist) RDJ Consulting Services CC Lydia Kalilo Namutenya (Research intern) RDJ Consulting Services CC
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