RDJ Briefing - May 2018

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

ENERGY &

Country Briefing

May 2018

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News & Analysis

Namibia

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SUSTAINABILITY


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Quick Facts Population size Employment Literacy

2.30 million 62.7%1 89.00%

GDP Growth 2018(P) 1.4% Repo Rate 6.75% Interest rate (Prime) 10.50% Inflation rate 3.60% Budget (Current) N$65.0 Billion2

Geographic size 824,292 km²

Free vector map of Namibia outline - by One Stop Map

Industries Telecom (sophistication) Mobile - cell phones Water Availability / capita3 Electricity Gen. (Local) Electricity Demand (all)

Tourism, Mining, Fishing LTE 2.575 million subscribers 8, 800, 000Litres/capita 484.000 MW 629.000 MW

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Namibia Labour Force Survey (NLFS) of the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) http://www.mof.gov.na/documents/27827/506801/Budget+Speech+2018.pdf/3f0b42f6-2c2d-4502-bca8b84f5d6951cc 3 2005 Figures https://www.greenfacts.org/en/water-resources/figtableboxes/aquastat123.htm

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018 COVER PAGE IMAGE RDJ Photo

This report is a FREE Publication and was prepared by RDJ Consulting Services CC based in Windhoek, Namibia. The content is collated from publicly available information and so its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

Advertising aligned with our objectives of Sustainable Resource usage is welcome. Contact Details; RDJ Consulting Services CC PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA

Editor: David Jarrett Author: RDJ Consulting Interns*

Telephone: +264 61 400 171 Email – briefing@rdjconsulting.co.za RDJ Consulting Services CC is an advisory consultancy to the Energy, Water and Transport Sectors with a focus on sustainable operations and renewable energy.

*see Error! Reference source not found. for full details

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Visit our website www.rdjconsulting.co.za for more information.


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Table of Contents Economy at a glance ............................................................................................................................... 8 2018 Budget Framework..................................................................................................................... 9 April inflation update ........................................................................................................................ 10 Afrobarometer survey outcome ....................................................................................................... 10 Namibia Sectoral Employment Overview ......................................................................................... 11 Private sector called for employment creation ................................................................................ 11 A glimpse at the future ......................................................................................................................... 12 Active Traffic Management (ATM) for traffic congestion problems................................................. 13 Oil & Gas ............................................................................................................................................... 14 May 2018 Fuel price increase ........................................................................................................... 15 Usakos storage facility in progress.................................................................................................... 15 Namcor partners Calima Energy in petroleum deal ......................................................................... 16 Uranium ................................................................................................................................................ 17 Namibia’s top five Imports from and Exports to China .................................................................... 18 Uranium Sector Output Overview .................................................................................................... 19 Marenica acquires 100% of Mile 72 Uranium Project ...................................................................... 19 Electricity............................................................................................................................................... 20 Approved Electricity Tariffs (2017 – 2018) ....................................................................................... 21 Net Metering ..................................................................................................................................... 21 Electricity tariff to increase by 5% .................................................................................................... 22 Power inter- connection in Africa ..................................................................................................... 22 The 1million LED Campaign: Phase 2 ................................................................................................ 23 Upukos settlement to get electricity ............................................................................................... 23 2016/17 Rural Electrification Beneficiaries....................................................................................... 24 Renewable Energy ................................................................................................................................ 25 Sunref Green credit line launched .................................................................................................... 26 Renewable Energy Grid-Connections ............................................................................................... 27 PREN Project to solar electrify two rural schools ............................................................................. 27 Possible Baynes Hydropower implementation ................................................................................. 27 Water .................................................................................................................................................... 28

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Water availability .............................................................................................................................. 29


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Water master plan for capital ........................................................................................................... 30 City sewerage plans - not yet approved ........................................................................................... 30 Erongo Region plans for one more desalination plant ..................................................................... 30 Diversified utilisation of Cuvelai water ............................................................................................. 31 Omauni's pump out of service .......................................................................................................... 31 The Environment and Sustainability ..................................................................................................... 32 Solid Waste Management and the Economy: Public Lecture and Outcome .................................... 33 Infrastructure development needed in Kasika and Impalila............................................................. 36 Germany Supports Namibian Biodiversity ........................................................................................ 36 A river walk for Windhoek? .............................................................................................................. 36 National Clean-Up Campaign Outcome ............................................................................................ 37 

Rent-A-Drum and Plastic Packaging ...................................................................................... 37

Recycle Namibia Forum (RNF) .............................................................................................. 37

Telecommunications ............................................................................................................................. 38 MTC reaches out to Engobe Village .................................................................................................. 39 Telecom Namibia services Otuani Village ......................................................................................... 39 A new mobile phone hits the Namibian market ............................................................................... 39 Roads and Transport ............................................................................................................................. 40 Road User Charges Increase ............................................................................................................. 41 Mass Distance Charges Overview ..................................................................................................... 42 Namibia Transport Sector Management flux ................................................................................... 42 Financing ............................................................................................................................................... 43 The Sunref Programme launched ..................................................................................................... 44 DBN releases additional N$150 million for ErongoRED .................................................................... 44 PREN Project to fund electrification of two rural schools ................................................................ 45 Tenders ................................................................................................................................................. 46 NAMPOWER ...................................................................................................................................... 47 Careers .................................................................................................................................................. 48 PRESS RELEASE ................................................................................................................................. 49

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EDITORIAL TEAM ............................................................................................................................. 53


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Advertising Notice Dear Reader: As you know, The RDJ Briefing is a free publication produced by the interns of RDJ Consulting as part of their training and exposure on a monthly basis. As the RDJ Briefing is free, we ask that everyone who enjoys the Briefing takes note of the availability of advertising space in the monthly Briefing as this will aid us in accommodating the needs of the interns and improving the future of the RDJ Briefing. Thank You. To request advertisement rates, contact via: briefingadvert@rdjconsulting.co.za

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

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Coaching, Mentoring and Team working… …For the best outcome!


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Figure 1Sustainable Development Goal 8

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Economy at a glance


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

2018 Budget Framework4

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inance Minister, Calle Schlettwein delivered the 2018/2019 budget speech in March 2018 under the theme “Shared Prosperity”. Some of the key economic issues highlighted were as follows:

 A budget deficit equivalent to 3.6% of GDP is projected for 2017/18, representing an improvement from deficits of 6.3% and 8.3% of GDP in 2016/17 and 2015/16, respectively.  The public debt stock is expected to stabilise at 41.9% of GDP in 2017/18, a marginal fall from its 2016/17 level of 42.1% of GDP. Debt is projected to fall relative to GDP in subsequent years.  Total public expenditure is budgeted at N$62.5 billion for 2017/18, representing an increase of 1.7% from the revised 2016/17 budget of N$61.5 billion. Expenditure will remain flat in subsequent years, at N$61.9 billion in 2018/19 and N$62.7 billion in 2019/20.  Public revenue for 2017/18 is projected to reach N$56.4 billion, growing by 9.7% from the N$51.5 billion of revenue estimated to have been collected during 2016/17. This improvement in revenue is expected to result from stronger-than-anticipated SACU receipts. Specification

Revenue as % of GDP Expenditure as % of GDP Budget Balance as % of GDP

Estimates 2016/17 (in N$ millions) 51,512 32.5% 61,496 38.8% -9,984 -6.3%

Estimates 2017/18 (in N$ millions) 56,425 33.0% 62,541 36.6% -6,116 -3.6%

Estimates 2018/19 (in N$ millions) 57,192 31.1% 61,861 33.6% -4,669 -2.5%

Estimates 2019/20 (in N$ millions) 60,795 30.5% 62,720 31.4% -1,925 -1.0%

“This budget calls on the collective support for all Namibians, and, more than ever before, the contribution of the private sector to the national development objectives.”

Courtesy of PwC Namibia

Hon. Minister of Finance, Calle Schlettwein – Budget Speech: 7 March 2018

https://www.pwc.com/na/en/assets/pdf/2018-pwc-budget-review-presentation.pdf 4

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http://www.mof.gov.na/documents/27827/345303/Budget+Highlights.pdf/b802f012-f4dd-43d0-bc351c198b3c6e8e?version=1.0


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

April inflation update5

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he annual inflation for April 2018 stood at 3.6% compared to 6.7% for April 2017. Despite this rate being lower that of the preceding year, it was actually a 0.3 percent (30 basis points) increase from the recorded rate of Mach 2018.

As outlined in the April NPCI document of the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), the decrease is attributed to the price levels of housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels (9,4% to 3,4%); furnishings, household equipment and routine maintenance (5,8% to 1,1%); hotels, cafes and restaurants (8,3% to 2,4%); food and non-alcoholic beverages (5,8% to 2,9%); communications (5,9% to -0,2%), and clothing and footwear (1,5% to -5,8%), respectively.

Afrobarometer survey outcome6

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he most recent Afrobarometer survey which was led by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), was conducted between 5 and 27 November 2017.

For the survey, a sample of 1200 adults were interviewed to find out their opinion on government performance in handling the economy. A sample of this size (1200) yields country-level results with a margin of error of +/-3% at a 95% confidence level. Results revealed that:  A significant number of Namibians think the economy is doing poorly  Almost two-thirds of the people said the government is doing a bad job of managing the economy  There was a 33% (from74% in 2014 to 41% in 2018) decrease in the number of citizens who rate the country’s economic condition as ‘fairly good’ or ‘very good’.  In terms of movement, the study revealed that:  6% of citizens are said to be preparing to leave the country, while 26% say they are planning to move within the next year or two  The youth see their living conditions as good 55%, while elders see that at 48%  The youth are less likely to approve of the government’s performance on the economy than the elders (31% vs. 40%).  The survey observed that the domestic economy has been crippling in the last eight quarters with two consecutive negative quarters in the Gross Domestic Product, consequently contracting by 0.8% in 2017.

https://www.namibian.com.na/67344/read/Monthly-inflation-up-by-03pct https://economist.com.na/34896/headlines/consumer-confidence-at-historic-low-afrobarometer/

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

According to a study conducted by the Namibian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) on the 'Challenge of unemployment and employment creation strategies', the 20 000+ potential employment opportunities slated for 2020 would add to the already existing 254 245 direct and indirect jobs within the sectors of mining, agriculture, fishing, tourism, construction and manufacturing.

Private sector called for employment creation8

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he Labour Minister calls for the private sector to adequately utilise the conducive investment environment created by the government to deal with the high unemployment rate. He urges more partnerships between the private sector and the government in looking for tangible solutions for jobs creation and calls for innovations in the private sector as a way they can beneficiate business in their companies and the economy at large.

However, only the mining, fishing and tourism sectors are expecting to create employment of 4 052, 9 000 and 15 000 respectively during the period under review. With regards to mining, the report stated that “an upsurge in commodity prices and

The Namibia’s Employers Federation (NEF) president, highlighted that there are a number of constraints which are not only prevalent in the private sector, but in the public sector as well.

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https://www.namibian.com.na/66503/read/Majo r-sectors-expect-28-000-jobs-in-two-years

https://www.namibian.com.na/67452/read/Priva te-sector-challenged-on-employment-creation

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ajor sectors in the Namibian economy are expecting potential employment to be recorded at only 28 052 by 2020, while the unemployment rate is 34%, with an employment figure of 676 885.

exponential demand for 'battery minerals' has led to renewed investor interest in exploration and the opening of new mines.”

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Namibia Sectoral Employment Overview7

May 2018


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Effective energy management in transport tackles 70% of our imported liquid fuel needs in Namibia. Point to Note (RDJ Quote)

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A glimpse at the future


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Active Traffic Management (ATM) for traffic congestion problems

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ith progressive urbanisation, cities today face a variety of challenges. Traffic congestion problems is one of them that cannot be denied. Congested roads are a strain on the environment, the economy and the overall quality of life, and if the issue is not properly managed it may lead to a wide range of problems. But, not to warry because there are currently new technologies in place that can help subside the matter, and this includes using Active Traffic Management (ATM) strategies. Active Traffic Management (ATM) is the ability to dynamically manage recurrent and non-recurrent congestion based on prevailing and predicted traffic conditions. Focusing on trip reliability, it maximizes the effectiveness and efficiency of the facility. ATM approaches focus on influencing travel behaviour with respect to lane/facility choices and operations9. There are many ATM Strategies to implement in mitigating traffic congestions.  Adaptive Ramp Metering10  Adaptive Traffic Signal Control  Dynamic Lane Reversal  Dynamic Lane Use Control  Dynamic Merge Control  Dynamic Shoulder Lanes  Dynamic Speed Limits  Queue Warning  Transit Signal Priority11 United Kingdom (UK)12 has already embraced ATM Systems on its Highways as a Traffic Management methods. In November 2005, an active traffic management (ATM) system was piloted as a method of tackling the extremely variable traffic flow of the M42 {M6}, which handles over 120,000 vehicles per day in UK – Birmingham. Variable Message Signs (VMS) are displayed over each lane to allow the speed and lane use to be varied, and specifically to manage traffic flow and lane use at peak times and in response to traffic incidents to combat congestion. During peak hours, speed limits can be reduced using the VMS, so increasing the carrying capacity of the road. ATM signals alert drivers of congestion and incidents ahead, giving motorist’s time to choose alternative routes. The overall system was developed for five times less than the cost of a conventional widening of the motorway according to the Automobile Association. Emissions from vehicles also fell by 10% due to the traffic’s faster travelling speeds and lower fuel consumption when changing gears. Although ATM may not be suitable for all highways, it can offer a cost-effective method to tackle congestion for more developed road systems. 9

https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/atdm/approaches/atm.htm http://www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freewaymgmt/ramp_metering/index.htm 11 https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/arterial_mgmt/traffic_sig.htm 12 https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2014/07/seven-ways-cities-around-world-tackling-traffic/

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May 2018 Namibia has no refinery capacity to-date

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Oil & Gas Page

Country Brief – NAMIBIA


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

May 2018 Fuel price increase13

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he Ministry of Mines and Energy has announced that diesel pump prices for June 2018 increased by 60 cents per litre from the 6th of June 2018. The prices are now as follows:  Petrol (95 Octane) - N$ 12.30 /L  Diesel (500 PPM) - N$ 12.63 / L  Diesel (50 PPM) - N$ 12.68 / L

Namibia currently ranks 14th in the Fraser Institute Global Petroleum Survey, 2016 of small reserve holders, placing Namibia 5 places ahead of South Africa. www.fraserinstitute.org

Usakos storage facility in progress14

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s previously mentioned in the November, 2017 RDJ Briefing (Pg. 10), the MDL International Trade is now in the process of physically setting up the storage facility worth N$700 million with a capacity of over 200 million litres at the town on 15 hectares of land. With unemployment at the town believed to be 60 percent this is expected to create additional direct and indirect new employment opportunities apart from the 120 direct and indirect jobs already created.

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http://www.mme.gov.na/files/publications/1b2_Fuel%20Media%20Release%20June_%202018.pdf https://www.namibiansun.com/news/usakos-oil-storage-facilty-to-create-1-600-new-jobs2018-05-10/

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

The entire MDL International project consists of two phases15:  Phase 1 - The construction of a temporary logistic base to sell and transport petroleum products to the SADC countries. This temporary base has been constructed and it is expected to start operating within 90 days.  Phase 2 - This is the construction of a storage facility in Usakos. In April 2016 MDL International Trade appointed OAS - Engineering and Construction Namibia (Pty) Ltd as a main contractor and to Design the Preliminary Conceptual Plan. Feasibility studies as well as preliminary designs have already been completed. The land purchase and environment impact assessment are underway. Construction is expected to start in the next 12 months. The Governor of Erongo confirmed that the company has already started with phase one of the “logistics centre” and phase two which encompasses the “construction of the actual storage terminal,” is expected to begin in due course. The Governor said that, “the whole investment by the company will amount to over N$43 billion after completion. The construction of the storage facility will take about 18 months.” He outlined that, the project falls within government’s strategic plan to align the country as a strategic logistics hub and gateway to other Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries for trade by the year 2022. Fuel and gas imports will be transported from the Port of Walvis Bay and stored at the facility before being transported to other SADC member states.

Namcor partners Calima Energy in petroleum deal

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he National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) and Calima Energy, an Australian company are now partners in a petroleum agreement for offshore Block 2813B in the Orange River Basin.

Calima16 has entered into a Petroleum Agreement for offshore Block 2813B covering an area of 5 344 km2 in the Orange River Basin of Namibia. The contract, which was awarded as a result of a direct application to the Government, has an initial investment term of four years. During the initial term Calima has committed to acquire seismic data and undertake a detailed prospectivity review. After conducting a more thorough review of the available data Calima proposes to acquire new seismic data over Block 2813B to further demonstrate the prospectivity of this acreage. Based on the work done to date it is expected that the source rocks encountered by the Moosehead-1 well should be present and mature over a significant part of the block and there appear to be a number of potential reservoir sequences which should be able to receive an oil charge from these intervals. The interests in the Block 2813B Petroleum Agreement are:  Calima Energy (Namibia) Ltd 56% (Operator)  Trago Energy Pty Ltd 20%  Harmattan Energy Ltd 14%  NAMCOR 10%

http://www.mdlinternationaltrade.com/lb_usakos.html http://www.calimaenergy.com/namibia/

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Uranium


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Namibia’s top five Imports from and Exports to China17

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rom 2004 to 2017 the total value of Namibian exports to China totalled slightly more than N$21.3 billion while during the same period Namibian imports from China stood at N$29.8 billion. Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) indicates Namibia’s top five Exports by value to China in 2017:

Uranium ores and concentrates Zinc, not alloyed N$1.3 billion

Zinc ore and concentrates N$911 million

Marble and travertine cut into N$377 million blocks N$160 million Dredgers N$94 million

On the other hand, the top five Namibian Imports by value from China during 2017 included:  Grinding balls for mills, forged or stamped, of iron or steel: N$446 million  Other special purpose motor vehicles such as breakdown lorries: N$278 million  Photosensitive semiconductor devices, including light emitting diodes: N$233 million  Sodium hydroxide, caustic soda: N$194 million  Munitions: N$192 million Other top imports from China included parts of airplanes or helicopters, cast steel articles for mills, dumpers for off-highway use, machines for mixing, kneading, crushing or grinding and semi or whollymilled rice.

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https://www.newera.com.na/2018/04/11/uranium-and-zinc-remain-namibias-top-exports-to-china/

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Uranium Sector Output Overview18

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he Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Chamber of Mines of Namibia said at the recent at Mining Expo that close to 17 000 people were employed by the Mining Sector in 201719. The Mining Sector is expecting to create employment of 4 052 by the year 2020.

The data released by the Chamber of Mines indicated that Uranium output was as follows:  Rössing uranium mine increased output by 14%, from 850 tonnes in 2016 to 2 110 tonnes in 2017.  Langer Heinrich Uranium mine dropped output from 2 236 tonnes of uranium in 2016 to 1 526 in accordance with its plan to reduce output by 20% in 2017 and 2018, in attempt to streamline operations in a persistently low uranium price environment.  Swakop Uranium produced 1345 tonnes of uranium oxide in 2017, following production of its first drum of yellow cake on 30 December 2016. By schedule, the company expects to reach full capacity by 2019.

Marenica acquires 100% of Mile 72 Uranium Project20

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arenica Energy Limited has signed a binding agreement to purchase the Mile 72 Uranium Project (EPL3308) from Metals Australia Limited. This complements its major focus of developing its proprietary with a U-pgrade technology.

The calcrete-hosted uranium project covers 2 692 hectares and is located in the world class Erongo uranium province in Namibia, some 30 kilometres outside Henties Bay. The Namibia Stock Exchange (NSX) announced In May 2018 that the agreement will see Marenica acquire full ownership of the project, and the company is subject to obtaining any regulatory approvals that will be required in Australia or Namibia. The NSX reports that past test work on these projects has confirmed the amenability of U-pgrade and indicated that the U-pgrade process potentially reduces the project development costs by about 50% and the operating costs by about 50%. Moreover, It is expected that the Mile 72 calcrete mineralisation will respond to U-pgrade the same as all other Namibian calcrete deposits tested and produce a low mass concentrate for leaching.

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http://www.observer.com.na/index.php/business/item/9708-uranium-sector-worries-chamber https://www.namibian.com.na/66858/read/Mining-employed-nearly-17-000-in-2017 20 https://www.lelamobile.com/content/74780/Marenica-Energy-acquires-Mile-72-Uranium-Project/

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May 2018

Figure 2 Sustainable Development Goal 7

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Electricity


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Approved Electricity Tariffs (2017 – 2018) Area Provider

Tariff Schedule (Web Link)

CENORED

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/CENORED_2017.pdf

City of Windhoek Erongo RED

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/COW_2017.pdf http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/Erongo_RED_2017.pdf

Keetmanshoop http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/Keetmanshoop_2017.pdf Mariental

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/Mariental_2017.pdf

Nampower

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/NamPower_2017.pdf

NamPower Transmission NamPower TOU NORED

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/NamPower_Transmission_2017.pdf

OPE

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/OPE_2017.pdf

Regenstein

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/Regenstein_2017.pdf

SunGate

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/SunGate_2017.pdf

http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/NP_TOU_TARIFFS_2017.pdf http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/2018/Nored_2017.pdf

Net Metering

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The original can be found at http://www.ecb.org.na//images/docs/Tariffs/documents/Net_Metering_Avoided_Cost_1617.pdf


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Electricity tariff to increase by 5%

Power inter- connection in Africa22

he Electricity Control Board (ECB) has approved a 5% bulk tariff hike effective from 1 July, following a request by NamPower21. The increase entails the current N$1.61 in bulk tariff per kilowatt (kWh) hour to N$1.69.

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t present, electricity in Africa can only be transmitted and distributed through projects such as the interconnector project which is currently being driven by The Southern African Power Pool (SAPP).

NamPower applied for an increase of 6.56%, which would have seen the bulk tariff hiked to N$1.72 per kWh for the current financial year.

On one hand, these projects aim to link or strengthen power interconnections between the various SADC countries. On the other, the projects give an effort to try to create a large power pool that will offer SADC countries with a power deficit, the facility to import power, and those with excess power various options for exporting their surplus energy.

Consumers will be informed about tariff increases through their various distributors after 1 July, when the NamPower tariff has been implemented.

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http://www.ecb.org.na/images/docs/Tariffs/NP_P ress_Release_1819.pdf

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https://economist.com.na/35070/speak-yourmind/finding-the-connection-for-power-supply-inafrica/

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The increase is expected to affect all the NamPower bulk customers, such as regional electricity distributers, local authorities, regional councils and mines. The respective bulk customers will individually apply to the ECB for tariff increases that will be applicable to customers.

An interconnected power pool is a complex system that requires careful planning and development. The SAPP Co-ordination Centre has numerous responsibilities – and importantly though not limited to – these include:  advising on the use of the SAPP Operating Guidelines  monitoring the operation of the power pool, and  report on the control performance criteria to all the Operating Members other responsibilities include evaluating the impact planned future projects may have on the operation of the power pool – and member utilities who intend on expanding their own networks (generation and transmission) may also need to consider the impact of such projects on a regional level.

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The CEO of ECB said that the 5% increase is below the projected inflation of approximately 5.3% for the 2017/18 period and it is therefore foreseen that the impact on inflation will be minimal. Moreover, the approved 5% increase help NamPower optimise its operational costs.

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

The 1million LED Campaign: Phase 2

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t was previously highlighted in the May/June, 2017 RDJ Country Briefing (Pg. 7) that NamPower was to carry out Phase 1 of its 1million LED Campaign which ended in June 2017. Through the campaign, NamPower expected to replace one million critical incandescent bulbs in the residential sector. The project consists of the following four main streams which facilitate the smooth implementation of the campaign: 1. LED bulbs Supply chain 2. LED champions (LED bulbs Installation) chain 3. Public Awareness Information Campaign 4. Measurement and Verification chain The 666 800 procured LED bulbs for the 1 million LED Campaign was envisaged to reduce peak by approximately 20 MW with an associated annual energy impact of 29.2 GWh. NamPower 2017 Annual Report revealed that “based on the 181 995 lighting retrofit claims, the campaign to date has resulted in the overall Demand Savings of 2.460MW during weekday evening peak and an overall Total Energy Impact of 3 314.980MWh.” Now, NamPower has announced that it expects to start the second phase of the 1million LED campaign. The campaign’s first phase in which 452 369 LED bulbs were distributed across the country, ended in June 201723. The power utility said that the project, which falls under the Short-term Critical Supply Programme is specifically targeting households (a total of 56 towns, settlements and villages from all regions) that have been not received bulbs during the initial phase of the campaign.

Upukos settlement to get electricity 24

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he Upukos settlement, located in the Karibib Constituency will soon be electrified through Erongo Red’s “power to the people” Rural Electrification Project. Currently, an Environmental Impact Assessment is being carried out by Junior Baiano Industrial Consultants to minimise any negative impact the project might have, while the total cost of the project is yet to be established. The residents welcomed the electrification project, after having been living without electricity for a long time. http://en.chinagate.cn/2018-05/16/content_51337468.htm https://www.newera.com.na/2018/05/15/upukos-settlement-to-get-electricity/

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

2016/17 Rural Electrification Beneficiaries25

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amPower in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB), spent N$61 million on the rural electrification of 10 regions. About N$40 million came from NamPower, while the EIB pumped N$21.6 million into the project. The Ohangwena, Omusati and //Karas Regions are reported to have been largest beneficiaries of NamPower's Rural Electrification Project for 2016/17.

2016/17 Rural Electrification Funding Zambezi

Beneficiaries - Regions

Oshikoto Omusati Omaheke Ohangwena Kunene Kavango West Kavango East //Karas Hardap N$ 0.00

N$ 5,000,000.00 N$ 10,000,000.00 N$ 15,000,000.00 N$ 20,000,000.00

Expenditures Expenditure - Funded by NamPower (N$)

Expenditure - Funded by European Investment Bank (N$)

The 2017 NamPower Annual Report reveals that the Ohangwena Region benefited with N$5.2 million, and an additional N$7.1 million funds from EIB, whereas the Omusati region received N$4.4 million and an additional N$14.5 million worth of electrification from EIB. The report also accounted 70% of the budget to have been allocated to areas where Regional Electricity Distributors (REDs) are operational, with the resulting infrastructure being donated by NamPower. The Managing Director revealed that, NamPower had cut electricity imports from 63% to 57% due to the integration of renewable energy into the national grid through the renewable energy feed-in-tariff (RETIF) programme.

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https://www.namibian.com.na/67274/read/N$61m-spent-for-rural-electrification


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

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Renewable Energy


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Sunref Green credit line launched

T

he Minister of Environment and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, officially launched the Sustainable Utilisation of Natural Resources and Energy Financing programme (Sunref Namibia) at Windhoek, Safari Hotel on Thursday, 24 May 2018.

The three-year SUNREF programme, developed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), known as the French Development Agency, will mobilise private Namibian banks to finance privatesector investments in green technologies in the sustainable agriculture, sustainable tourism, renewable energy and energy efficiency market segments. These, according to Shifeta, are critical green economy sectors that will open up considerable investment and employment creation opportunities in the country. The program is set-up as follows. Project developer:

Project host:

Credit providers

Technical assistance providers: The Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia

AETS

Cardno

RDJ Consulting Services CC. (the local partner)

Shifeta said that the programme, is worth 45 million Euro (N$670 million). Under the programme, the Namibian equivalent of 15 million euro is disbursed to the three of the local commercial banks mentioned above, and a one million euro grant has also been made available to the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia to set up a Technical Assistance Facility that will simplify interactions between project sponsors and banks. During his speech, he emphasized on Namibia's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement as embodied in the cabinet-approved Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) document of 2015, due to the fact that Namibia currently suffers immense losses due to the impacts of climate change in various sectors of the economy.

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The event saw the showcasing of similar projects financed through SUNREF South Africa and selected projects that had been financed by the Namibian commercial banks through the initiative. Since 2006, 42 SUNREF projects have been successfully implemented, in partnership with 70 local banks in some 30 countries of operation, for a total commitment of over 2.5 billion euro of loans allocated by AFD, of which 1.2 billion euro has been disbursed.


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Renewable Energy Grid-Connections26

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he government through the Interim Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff Project (REFIT), has managed to connect nine of the 14 projects to the national electricity grid.

The interim REFIT projects managed to feed a total of 93 GW of electricity into the national grid in 2017. The Minister of Mines and Energy said that “The REFIT programme was initiated by the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Electricity Control Board and NamPower in 2015, with the intention to reduce our electricity imports and attract private investment in the development of renewable energy resources in Namibia.” Furthermore, the minister hinted that the government’s commitment to a sustainable energy in the long run in the country is seen in the national energy policy and national renewable energy policy. Moreover, he continue to call for the private sector’s role.

PREN Project to solar electrify two rural schools27

A

German-Namibian foundation through its rural electrification project called Promoting Renewable Energies in Namibia (PREN), will electrify to two rural schools in the Ohangwena Region with solar energy. The Omuuni and Ondjabayonghalu combined schools will soon have access to electricity after many years of being without this essential service.

Possible Baynes Hydropower implementation28

T

he chief of the Kapika royal house, Hikuminue Kapika called on government to urgently implement the Baynes hydropower project in order to have development in the Ovahimba community. According to NamPower, the potentially identified hydro-electricity generating project, is a very valuable generation asset and has the potential to supply Namibia and Angola with reliable, clean electricity for generations to come, at an estimated investment of US$1.2 billion. Despite Epupa site being technically preferable due to greater storage capacity, Baynes site was chosen over it because the project’s site would be less disruptive to the life of the indigenous Ovahimba, and would have lesser environmental impact.

26

https://www.namibian.com.na/66964/read/Nine-renewable-energy-projects-connected-to-grid https://www.namibiansun.com/news/power-transforms-rural-schools2018-05-22/ 28 https://www.namibian.com.na/67758/read/Chief-Kapika-calls-for-implementation-of-Baynes-hydropowerproject

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Water demand in Namibia is met via surface and artesian sources.

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Water


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May 2018

Water availability29

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he diagram below shows comparisons of the 2017 Dam Levels to 2018. The information clearly shows that there was lesser water volume in April 2018 than it was recorded during the same period in 2017.

Dam levels comparison: April 2017 Vs April 2018

Water Volume in Millions m3

450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Dam Levels 24 April 2017

Dam Levels 23 April 2018

Present Volume: April 2017 Vs April 2018

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https://www.namwater.com.na/images/data/dam_bulletin/_Dambulletin2018-04-23.pdf

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

The tender closed on 18 April 2018. The bidders are an assortment of local water engineering consultants joined by consortia and joint ventures from Angola, Austria, Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Italy, Kenya, Portugal, South Africa, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The consultancy is to be funded by a grant received by the Namibian government from the African Development Bank. The objectives of this project are to develop a strategic master plan to assist the municipality in mobilising the necessary resources for ensuring sustainable water supply and sanitation for the next 20 years. The consultancy is to run over a 30-month period.

City sewerage plans - not yet approved31

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he plan for a waste water treatment plant at the site of the proposed Ziveli Lifestyle Village south of Windhoek has not yet been approved by the City of Windhoek. In fact, the development is situated in the heart of Windhoek's groundwater protection zone on Farm Aris No 29, where no highdensity developments are allowed. City of 30

https://www.namibiansun.com/news/watermaster-plan-for-capital2018-05-08/ 31 https://www.namibian.com.na/67104/read/Cityhalts-townships-sewerage-plans

Erongo Region plans for one more desalination plant33

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part from the existing desalination plant in the Erongo Region, owned by French company Areva, the Region’s governor, Cleophas Mutjavikua reported that there are plans to construct a second desalination plant. This time however, it will be constructed with the assistance of private investors from Israel, and the plant is to be set in Swakopmund in due course. The plans for the construction of the plant are driven in response to the increasing water supply demands in the coastal areas and the ever-growing concerns that fresh water supplies in the entire Erongo Region which are insufficient. Private Israeli investors are also keen in assisting Namibia to set up a green scheme project that will also ensure food security, and at the same time meet Erongo’s water demand.

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April’s CoW Council minutes https://www.newera.com.na/2018/05/11/israeli s-plan-desalination-plant-for-erongo/ 33

30

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he City of Windhoek has received 28 tender bids for the development of an Integrated Water and Wastewater Master Plan.

Windhoek32 did not approve the plan because According to, plans for the waste water plant for the township were rejected because the proposed location of such a plant posed a pollution risk to the aquifer in the area. Moreover, there is the risk of pollution to the aquifer in the event of systems failing and the risk of pipeline leakages contaminating the aquifer, where the residents of nearby farms, as well as the Luiperds Valley military base, draw water from.

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Water master plan for capital30

May 2018


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Diversified utilisation of Cuvelai water34

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he CuveWaters project ran which from 2004 to 2015 has now been published in a book format. The book is titled “CuveWaters: Integrated Water Resources Management in Central Northern Namibia (Cuvelai Basin) in the SADC region” and is authored by 25 researchers. The book’s main focus is the use of water from multiple sources in the Cuvelai drainage system that originate in Angola before terminating in Lake Oponono and Etosha in the southern part of Owamboland.

The goal of the CuveWaters project was to identify applicable harvesting and storage techniques to enable the population in the four regions to utilise the available natural water in such a way that it can be used throughout the year. The project ran under the auspices of the Institute for Socio-Ecological Development (ISOE) in close collaboration with the Technical University of Darmstadt, and working together with local partners, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, the Outapi Town Council and the Desert Research Foundation of Namibia. The project work was transdisciplinary, described by the authors as indicative of how science, technology and society could be linked to establish a so-called multi-resource mix for water use to sustainably improve people’s living conditions in the project area. The aim of the book is to share with researchers, professionals and practitioners the lessons learned during the project and provide guidance for replication.

Omauni's pump out of service

T

he Okongo constituency councillor said that residents of Omauni and nearby villages such as Oshalumbu, Onghalulu, Oshushu and Oshamukweni in the Ohangwena Region have been without water since February 2018, after their community borehole's water pump broke. The borehole's pump broke due to over-use and undue pressure caused by an increase not

only in residents at Omauni, but also higher numbers of livestock. An employee from the Omauni's agriculture office who spoke on the condition of anonymity said that borehole breakdowns are regular occurrence due to the ever-increasing pressure on the machine as there are too many people to serve. The employee said that the pump is old and needs to be replaced with a bigger one to properly support the community's numbers and animals.

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https://economist.com.na/35295/environment/diversified-utilisation-of-cuvelai-water-covered-byresearchers-in-book-format/


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May 2018

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The Environment and Sustainability


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Solid Waste Management and the Economy: Public Lecture and Outcome

S

olid Waste (SW) is a serious and growing problem as research shows, with prominence in the cities of the developing and lesser developed nations. SW creates both short and long-term problems and commensurate with its management is faced with a number of challenges. This is the issue that interns at RDJ Consulting Services CC. in Windhoek, Namibia looked at and in collaboration with the University of Namibia held a public lecture to discuss. The public lecture was held at the University of Namibia (UNAM)35 - Windhoek Main Campus which was hosted by the faculty of Economics and Management Sciences on Friday, 27 April 2018, followed by an interview at the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC TV)36 on Saturday, 28 April 2018 to discuss the matter and provide awareness. Both the Public Lecture and Interview were based on the Theme: Solid Waste Management (SWM) and the Economy: Benefits and Challenges. The main objectives of the action were to;    

Allow real world experience and interaction for the interns of RDJ Consulting. Encourage discussion on social and economic ramifications for future solid waste impacts Create awareness of the latest knowledge and trends in the field of solid waste Educate others of the economic and social benefits as well as challenges to solid waste management

Figure 3 https://www.vectorstock.com

Presenters included Mr. Fares Shipaxu (Economist Intern), Ms. Aili Iipinge (M.Sc. Biodiversity Management and Research Student at UNAM and intern at RDJ Consulting), Ms. Hilma Hatupopi (Bachelor of Accounting Student at UNAM and intern at RDJ Consulting), Ms. Magdalena Amashili (Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies Student at UNAM and intern at RDJ Consulting) and Ms. Chilombo Olga Priscila (The Manager-Internships at RDJ Consulting).

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https://www.facebook.com/univesityofnamibia/photos/a.124125484318037.18870.124093930987859/1764 872460243323/?type=3 36 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qxkwyiwXcg


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

During the discussions, stakeholders showed their appreciation for having the public lecture on such an important topic and have contributed by providing updated information on new trends being undertaken to solve the growing issue of solid waste and landfill problems. Stakeholders came from a varied background and included representatives from:         

African Expert Federation (www.african-expert-federation.com) City of Windhoek Solid Waste Management Division (www.windhoekcc.org.na) Imperial Crown Consulting Engineers KFW (https://www.kfw.de) Namibia University of Science and Technology (www.nust.na) Rent-A-Drum (http://www.rent-a-drum.com.na) The general public University of Namibia - both Lecturers/Professors and Students (http://www.unam.edu.na) RDJ Consulting (www.rdjconsulting.co.za)

Figure 4 Presentation team: (L-R) Vistoria, Matheus, Hilma, Fares, Magdalena, Lukas and Aili

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The turnout for the Public Lecture was excellent and found to be correspondingly informative, because through the discussions, the objective of encouraging open discussions on Solid Waste Management (SWM) was achieved. Awareness raising happened in a manner more than was expected as it attracted the attention of the media and a television interview. Matters discussed resulted in informative and mind-opening dialogues that created awareness of the latest knowledge and trends in the field of SWM. Through the live interview held at NBC, a real-world experience and interaction for the interns of RDJ Consulting was realised and awareness on SWM was created to the public.


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

During both activities, the public was invited to co-operate with the municipalities, Regional and Local Councils to facilitate the Management of Solid Waste by doing the following37: 1. Avoid: Avoid producing waste in the first place 2. Reduce: Minimize the amount of waste you do produce 3. Re-use: Re- use items many times 4. Recycle: Recycle as much of the waste as possible 5. Dispose: Dispose of what is left in a responsible manner

For further information, please contact the following: Prof Roman Grynberg Tel: +264 (0)61 206 4613 E-mail: rgrynberg@unam.na

Mr. David Jarrett Tel: +264 (0) 81 356 9120 E-mail: consultant@rdjconsulting.co.za

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City of Windhoek: Waste Reduction Strategy & Plan, 2016


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

Germany Supports Namibian Biodiversity39

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he 22nd of May 2018 marked the International Day for Biological Diversity. It was proclaimed by the United Nations in December 2000 in order to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. This aims to commemorate the adoption of the text of the convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity. On the bilateral level, Germany has been continuously supporting Namibia's efforts to improve environmental management and resource protection through the framework of its bilateral development cooperation. The German Ambassador to Namibia Christian Schlaga said that Germany stands ready to continue assisting and accompanying Namibia

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https://www.newera.com.na/2018/05/02/kasika -and-impalila-cry-loud-for-infrastructure/

A river walk for Windhoek?

T

he mayor of Windhoek, Muesee Kazapua wishes for Windhoek to have a river walk as that of San Antonio city, southcentral of Texas in the US. Kazapua, who was leading delegation of city officials to the US in May 2018, said that he plans to launch a public-private partnership to enable Windhoek to build the river walkinspired attraction which will include restaurants and hotels. While acknowledging the challenges that would come with plans, the mayor believes that the city of could bridge the gap in this kind of attraction in Africa. He, however, said Namibia was adopting solar power, and collaborating with the San Antonio Water System to develop a water reclamation system that could potentially be used for the project. Although the plans for the city to have a river walk have been tabled in the past by Barnard Mutua of creating spaces for coffee and jewellery shops, and food stalls, it is not clear on the methodology (the latter’s or the San Antonio’) the mayor would follow.

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https://windhuk.diplo.de/na-en/aktuelles//2085992

36

T

he people in the settlements of Kasika and Impalila in the Zambezi Region want the government to prioritise infrastructural development as they are currently compelled to use boats to access basic amenities (including shopping, medical services, etc.) at the nearest border town of Kasane in Botswana. Kabbe South Constituency Councillor said seven people have died, while three were attacked by crocodiles this year alone whilst crossing the waters.

on its sustainable development path to both conserve its unique natural environment and fight poverty. During the last Government Negotiations on Development Cooperation in September 2017, the German side has almost doubled its commitment to Namibia from almost 75 to more than 133 million Euros (N$ 2.2 billion equivalent) for 2018, of which 38.5 million Euros (N$ 570 million equivalent) were allocated for the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, she added.

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Infrastructure development needed in Kasika and Impalila38

May 2018


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

National Clean-Up Campaign Outcome

D

uring the inauguration of the City of Windhoek Head Office on 5 October 2017, President Hage Geingob announced his intention to set aside a day on which all Namibians will roll up their sleeves and engage in a nationwide clean-up campaign. The President emphasized that the aim would be to make Namibia the cleanest country in Africa. At the same meeting, the President expressed his decision that a National Clean-up Campaign be held on 1 May 2018, which was later rescheduled to the 25th of May, 2018. The campaign was led under the theme “Namibia, Healthy and Clean” and was carried out across the country on the set date. Some of the outcomes are outlined below.

 Rent-A-Drum and Plastic Packaging40 Rent-A-Drum and Plastic Packaging donated the first Mobile Recycling Centre. It was received by His Excellency Dr Hage Geingob on 25 May 2018 at the opening ceremony of the National Clean-Up Campaign. Details of where it will be placed are yet to follow. Rent-A-Drum reported to have collected a total of 40 Tons of recyclable waste during the National Clean-Up Campaign. The outcome was less than expected according to them, because most recyclable waste was going into the black plastic bags instead of the clear bags.

 Recycle Namibia Forum (RNF) The Schools Recycling Project competition of the RNF started in 2009, with 10 participating schools and a mere 15kg of waste per learner was collected by then. According to RNF, the competition grew and now sees around 50 schools participating annually, and it had the following outcomes over the years, including the 2018 National Clean-Up Campaign.

Total Waste Collected Amount of waste in Kg

160,000

Total Waste Collected

140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Years Figure 5 Authors' analysis based on RNF Data

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http://www.rent-a-drum.com.na/

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May 2018

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Telecommunications


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

MTC reaches out to Engobe Village41

congratulated Telecom Namibia for deploying ICT services in Otuani and the surroundings.

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A new mobile phone hits the Namibian market43

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new mobile phone (katoshe D30) is expected to hit the Namibian market in June 2018. The founder of the phone who also owns Elephonic Mobiles, Kennedy Liswani, confirmed that the mobile phone features five Namibia's indigenous languages, namely: Oshikwanyama, Otjiherero, Afrikaans, Rukavango and Silozi.

he Minister of Information and Communication Technology recently launched the long-awaited Telecom Namibia’s telecommunication services in Otuani Village of Opuwo Rural Constituency in the Kunene Region. These include a fixed broadband and 3G service.

The phone functions like any other with a phonebook, messaging, a call history, and surprisingly enough, even WhatsApp. Other features include a one-megapixel camera, a wireless radio and an expandable memory of up to eight gigabytes. The battery's standby time is up to 15 days.

The residents have long called for telecommunication services in the community. Hence, the ICT Minister expressed his joy and

The phones are currently only available through pre-sale orders at www.elephonicmobile.com. And the retail price for a Katoshe D30 is N$350.

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https://www.namibian.com.na/67507/read/MTC -081Every1-in-full-swing 42 https://www.newera.com.na/2018/05/22/simat aa-unveils-ict-infrastructure-at-otuani/

https://www.namibiansun.com/news/the-manbehind-the-katoshe-d30-phone2018-05-23/

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Telecom Namibia services Otuani Village42

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he Engobe village in the Oshana region benefitted from Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC)'s plans of erecting new towers to boost network coverage with a network tower which was officially launched on 18 May 2018.


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

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Roads and Transport


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Road User Charges Increase44

A

ll Road Users Charges Increased by 6.5% Effective 1 May 2018. The introduction of these increase should hopefully see increased resources put into making roads safer and more sustainable. Roads and Transport have a clear overlap between the Sustainable Developmental Goals (SDG’s) and strategy being SDG’s 8, 9, 11, 13 and 17. The increase applies to the following:  Cross Border Charges (CBC)  Mass Distance Charges (MDC)  Fuel Levies (FL)  Abnormal Load Fees (ALF) and  Annual Vehicle Licence and Registration Fees (AVLRF).

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https://rfanam.com.na/

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Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Mass Distance Charges Overview COMPARISON: 2015 and 2018 Mass Distance Charges (in N$) for Different Types of Vehicles 50 2015 - MDC N$ per 100km

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2018 - MDC N$ per 100km

40

Charges in N$ (Km)

35 30 25 20 15 10 5

Charge Level

1

1

2

2

3

3

3

4

Truck-tractor

Truck-tractor

Truck

Truck-tractor

Truck

Bus, or bus-train

Truck

Minibus

Truck

Minibus

Vehicle Description

0

4

5

Charge Level per Type of Vehicle

Figure 6 Authors’ analysis based on Road Fund Administration data

Namibia Transport Sector Management flux45

T

he president of Namibia Bus and Taxi Association (NABTA), accused some members of the association of engaging in fraudulent activities, and misrepresenting the public.

Meanwhile, the Namibia Transport and Taxi Union (NTTU)’s president, highlighted the challenges that long-distance bus drivers face, which include no security for the drivers, and a lack of communication between the Ministry of Works and the union over drivers' plight. He also blamed the Road Fund Administration, the Roads Authority and the National Road Safety Council for not doing enough to stop illegal taxis from operating in the transport sector. He therefore calls for the Ministry of transport to remove all sedan cars from operating on long-distance routes. 45

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https://www.namibian.com.na/67295/read/Chaos-rocks-Nabta-management


May 2018

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Financing Page

Country Brief – NAMIBIA


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta hoped that the country would turn new corners when it comes to promoting renewable energy investments in tourism with the launch of the programme. An amount of N$218 million will be financed to projects in the sectors of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Agriculture and Sustainable Tourism within Namibia by three local commercial banks, which are: Bank Windhoek, Nedbank and First National Bank. The minister further urged “the FDA and relevant funding agencies to support further the second phase of the programme to maximise efforts to make Namibia energy selfresilient.”

DBN releases additional N$150 million for ErongoRED47

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he Development Bank of Namibia (DBN) has provided an additional N$150 million for coastal electricity distributor ErongoRED. The amount will be used to finance the additional second phase electricity distribution requirements for the Swakopmund mass housing development, and for the waterfront. The CEO of DBN said it was necessary that high quality supply of power through enough finances and because the region is a major transport and logistics gateway to Namibia. In fact, mining which is another major industry, also falls under the region and it contributes enormously to the economy. The region is also a major attraction in terms of tourism, which contributes to national revenue.

Meanwhile, the CEO of the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia, Benedict Libanda, said the total debt raised by a beneficial client to finance a single eligible

Generally, all these activities require electricity which can be ensured if enough finances are provided for its supply.

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https://www.namibian.com.na/67802/read/Shif eta-launches-N$670m-energy-programme

https://www.namibian.com.na/67848/read/DBN -releases-additional-N$150-million-for-ErongoRED

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T

he N$670 million Sunref programme which aims to promote investments in the energy sector and push through selected financial institutions and provide concessional loans from the French Development Agency (FDA), was launched on 24th May 2018.

investment should not exceed N$100 million. He also said the eligible investment financed under the facility should account for a minimum of 20% of the total raised by the beneficiary client to fund a possible investment project.

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The Sunref Programme launched46

May 2018


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

PREN Project to fund electrification of two rural schools48

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German-Namibian foundation through its rural electrification project called Promoting Renewable Energies in Namibia (PREN), will electrify to two rural schools in the Ohangwena Region with solar energy. The Omuuni and Ondjabayonghalu combined schools will soon have access to electricity after many years of being without this essential service. This was made possible by the Hanns Seidel Foundation which invested over N$500 000 and bought three different 3-kilowatt solar-powered systems. In addition, N$80 000 has been used to contract the installation company. The foundation’s representative, Rodney Seibeb said if the systems are used effectively they will last up to 30 years. He added that the solar systems are unique, in that they can be expanded, which then increases their efficiency and lifespan. The Ohangwena deputy director of development planning, was pleased and he applauded the efforts of the Hanns Seidel Foundation.

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https://www.namibiansun.com/news/power-transforms-rural-schools2018-05-22/

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May 2018

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Tenders Page

Country Brief – NAMIBIA


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

NAMPOWER49 Bid Number Bid Type Clarification Closing Date Bid Closing Date Summary

Description

Contact: Tel:

Email:

15 Jun 2018 at 12:00 Namibian Time NamPower hereby invites competent, well established and registered Namibian companies to submit their Bids for the following: Construction of the Medium Voltage and low voltage Networks in Zambezi Region Construction of the Medium Voltage and low voltage Networks in Zambezi Region Johannes Shivute Tel: +264 61 2052312/2396/2258 Fax: +264 61 2052312/2396/2258 bidclarifications@nampower.com.na

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http://www.nampower.com.na/bids.aspx

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W/ONB/NPWR-03/2018 Open National Bidding 08 Jun 2018 at 12:00 Namibian Time


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Employment

creation – a need

for Economic

Growth

Editorial team

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Careers


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018 Friday, 08 June 2018

PRESS RELEASE 2018 Intern intake RDJ Consulting Services CC50 (RDJ) is proud to congratulate the 2018 intake of new interns in the following fields:  Marketing/Communications,  Statistics,  Research and PA  Special Projects - Accounting. RDJ through its wide range of consulting services, coupled with experience in Africa, the Caribbean, Asia and Europe allows broad based thinking. With that knowledge RDJ has created a 12 Month Volunteer Internship Program which assists university students and recent graduates to have applied experiences that will help enhance their skills, primarily focussed around the areas of Energy and Sustainability for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s benefit. The aims of the program seek to realise professional graduates that fit into National and International Markets. Furthermore, it will provide the interns with career related experience, practical knowledge, opportunities to explore career avenues and further enhance conventional classroom learning.

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RDJ Consulting is based in Windhoek, Namibia and is a 100% Namibian owned business. www.rdjconsulting.co.za


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

The 2018 new interns are;

Ms. Josephina Hishidimbwa Qualification: Bachelor of Science: Applied Mathematics and Statistics (4th Year) Institution: Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) Intern Position: Statistician

Qualification: Bachelor of Marketing (3rd Year) Institution: Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) Intern Position: Marketing and Communication

Ms. Magdalena Amashali Qualification: Bachelor of Arts: Media Studies (3rd Year) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Marketing and Communications

Ms. Hilma Hatupopi Qualification: Bachelor of Accounting (4th Year) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Special Project in Accounting

Mr. Matheus Shitjeni Ndingoya Qualification: Bachelor of Science: Media StudiesMajor in Public Relations (4th Year) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Marketing and Communications

50

Qualification: Bachelor of Integrated Environmental Science (Graduate); M.Sc. Biodiversity Management and Research (1st Year) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Researcher

Ms. Amakhoё //Hoabes

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Ms. Aili Ipinge


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

Ms. Vistoria Nuumbala Qualification: Bachelor of Science: Physics and Geology (Graduate); M.Sc. Of Science in Renewable Energy (1st Year) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Special Projects for Research

Mr. Fares Shipaxu Qualification: Bachelor of Economics- Honours (Graduate) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Researcher and Personal Assistant

May 2018

Mr. Lukas Sizaro Qualification: Bachelor of Science: Applied Mathematics and Statistics (3rd Year) Institution: Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) Intern Position: Statistician

Ms. Naomi Tjipombo

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Qualification: Bachelor of Science: Statistics (Graduate) Institution: University of Namibia (UNAM) Intern Position: Special Projects in Statistics


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Figure 7 Intern presenting at a public lecture -April 2018 (RDJ Photo)

Learner centred approaches are paramount for experience dissipation. Hence, the program is designed to fit around the needs of the intern so that it provides an enhanced learning environment. At the conclusion of this program each intern will be awarded a Certificate of Internship and be provided with a letter of recommendation. The Interns earn this award by having also completed an article of their choice, to provide proof of learning development and exposure.

Mr. David Jarrett

Manager – Internships RDJ Consulting Services CC Tel: +264 (0) 81 736 0202 Email: rdjintership@gmail.com

Managing Consultant RDJ Consulting Services CC Tel: +264 (0) 81 356 9120 E-mail: office@rdjconsulting.co.za

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Ms. Chilombo Olga Priscila

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For more information or interest please contact:


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

EDITORIAL TEAM RESEARCHERS: Fares Shipaxu Chilombo Olga Priscila

WRITER: Fares Shipaxu Chilombo Olga Priscila Amakhoё //Hoabes

LAYOUT: Chilombo Olga Priscila Amakhoё //Hoabes

EDITOR: Chilombo Olga Priscila David Jarrett

PUBLISHER: RDJ Consulting

CONTACT: RDJ Consulting Services CC PO Box 23738 Windhoek, NAMIBIA Telephone: +264 61 400 171 Email – Briefing@rdjconsulting.co.za

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

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Visit our website www.rdjconsulting.co.za for more information.


Country Brief – NAMIBIA

May 2018

Energy & Sustainability

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In Action


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