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The Best of 2023
Issue 25 | December 2023
OUR MINING EFFORTS ARE FOR THE GOOD OF OUR COMMUNITIES We work with our stakeholders to ensure that communities thrive, sustainably, through enabling quality healthcare and education. At Namdeb, we are about more than mining. We are about mining for good. NAMDEB. GOOD TODAY. BETTER TOMORROW.
From the Publisher
Stories in FlyNamibia Magazine.
FIRE
This is us. Namibia Travel News
www.travelnewsnamibia.com
FISH RIVER CANYON
“But how could you live and have no story to tell?” - Fyodor Dostoevsky
A
is for Awesome... and Ads. To advertise in FlyNamibia magazine contact fly@venture.com.na.
Venture Publications (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 21593 Windhoek Namibia info@venture.com.na
SUMMER 2023/24 | Vol 32 No 1
Conquering the
Read this issue online!
extraordinary Namibian stories. publishing. content generation. content marketing. print. film. digital.
CONTENT IS
are compiled by Venture Media’s content team, in partnership with Tribefire Studios and freelance contributors.
Hiking SORRIS SORRIS
Khaudumand Nyae Nyae
The Last True Wilderness
VOLUME 32 No 1 SUMMER 2023/24
Aawambo Pottery | KAZA Elephant count | Zambezi Birding N$45.00 incl. VAT
CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA 2023
T H E G R E AT E R E T O S H A C A R N I VO R E PROGRAMME A TRIUMPH FOR
THE STORY OF NAMIBIAN BUSH
GIRAFFE C O N S E R VAT I O N I N NAMIBIA
TURNING PROBLEMS INTO OPPORTUNITIES
T H E N YA E N YA E PA N G O L I N P R O J E C T N A M I B I A’ S C L I M AT E
A N D T H E N E E D T O A D A PT T O A N U N C E R TA I N F U T U R E
and also
by Tribefire Studios
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
1
OUR STORYTELLERS Meet the voices behind the incredible stories we share with Namibia each month. The pages of FlyNamibia are a collaboration of Namibian minds and passions and we hope you find a narrative that speaks directly to you amongst them.
40
56 Rukee Kaakunga
Kirsty Watermeyer
Elzanne McCulloch
A Windhoek-based communications specialist, blogger and freelance fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com
Media & communication consultant, storyteller & writer. A Multi-media producer, presenter, voice artist & curious wellbeing enthusiast.
Writer, editor and publisher of Stories that Matter. Managing Director of Venture Media.
21
12
43
David Bishop
Broadcast Editor, voracious reader, sometime writer, cyclist, swimmer, climber, family man, and coffee lover.
2
28 62
Charene Labuschagne
Art director, writer and presenter, she tells stories out of pure necessity for expression. Namibia is her favourite subject.
Dr. Daleen de Lange
Specialist Psychiatrist who is passionate about mental health and about every visiting individual with his/her own needs within a unique personal context.
Table of
CONTENTS 09
12
24
28
Content is Fire
01
FlyNamibia Magazine’s Storytellers
02
Welcome on Board
09
Love Local
10
10 Minutes with Local Tastemakers
12
Implementing value-added features to local products
17
Face of FlyNamibia 2023
18
Reflections: A News Editor's View
21
The story of ONGUZA Bicycles
22
A collaboration between local and international artists
24
Empowering the Visually Impaired
27
HOME
28
Swakop’s iconic footwear
36
Fashion Fierce: Lioness
40
Wellness: On the importance of context
43
Baker’s Bay Artists’ Retreat Exhibition
44
99FM Royal Hustlers” Rodney Feris
47
Mondesa Youth Opportunity
48
More than just a number
51
Happy Kids Kindergarten
52
Omake Moment
55
Charting sustainable features with Namibia Trade Network
57
The Brief
60
30 never looked so good
62
Economic Pulse
65
Did you Know?
67
Love Namibia
68
62
22
Need To Knows. with FlyNamibia
How to buy
a ticket online www.flynamibia.com.na
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Cash payment at: Eros Airport, Ondangwa Airport, Oranjemund Airport
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FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
5
DOMESTIC & SAFARI FLIGHTS Katima Mulilo Ondangwa
Skeleton Coast Park
Bwabwata National Park
Rundu Mokuti
Etosha National Park
Otavi
Nkasa Rupara National Park
Khaudum National Park
Tsumeb
Ongava
Mudumu National Park
Grootfontein
Twyfelfontein Otjiwarongo
Waterberg Plateau Park
Dorob National Park
REGIONAL FLIGHTS
Okahandja
Swakopmund
Windhoek
Walvis Bay
Gobabis
NamibNaukluft Park
ANGOLA Mariental
ZAMBIA
Keerweder (Sossusvlei)
ZIMBABWE
NAMIBIA Keetmanshoop
Walvis Bay
Windhoek
BOTSWANA
MOZAMBIQUE
Lüderitz
Ai-Ais/ Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
Oranjemund
SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town
with FlyNamibia Contact The Call Centre | +264 83 339 0011 Schedule as per date of going to print. Please check the FlyNamibia website to stay updated on flight destinations, routes and schedules. 6
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS DEPARTURE
FROM
TO
ARRIVAL
DAYS
07:30
Eros - Windhoek
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
08:30
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
09:10
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Eros - Windhoek
10:10
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
16:00
Eros - Windhoek
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
16:50
Fri, Sun
17:40
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Eros - Windhoek
18:30
Fri, Sun
07:30
Eros - Windhoek
Rundu
09:00
Mon, Wed, Fri
16:00
Rundu
Eros - Windhoek
17:30
Mon, Wed, Fri
11:00
Eros - Windhoek
Katima Mulilo
12:25
Wed, Fri, Sun
13:10
Katima Mulilo
Eros - Windhoek
14:40
Wed, Fri, Sun
07:00
Eros - Windhoek
Oranjemund
08:15
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
13:15
Oranjemund
Eros - Windhoek
14:30
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
08:45
Eros - Windhoek
Lüderitz
09:45
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
15:20
Lüderitz
Eros - Windhoek
17:10
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
07:15
Eros - Windhoek
Lüderitz
08:15
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
13:30
Lüderitz
Eros - Windhoek
14:30
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
From 16 November 2023 - 6 December 2023
From 7 December 2023 onwards
REGIONAL FLIGHTS DEPARTURE
FROM
TO
ARRIVAL
DAYS
07:30
HKIA - Windhoek
Cape Town
09:30
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
18:10
Cape Town
HKIA - Windhoek
20:10
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
15:00
Walvis Bay
Cape Town
17:00
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
10:20
Cape Town
Walvis Bay
12:20
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun
SAFARI FLIGHTS DEPARTURE
FROM
TO
ARRIVAL
DAYS
10:00
HKIA - Windhoek
Keerweder
10:55
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
11:20
Keerweder
Swakopmund
12:10
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
12:50
Swakopmund
Twyfelfontein
13:30
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
14:00
Twyfelfontein
Ongava
14:40
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
15:05
Ongava
Mokuti
15:30
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
16:00
Mokuti
HKIA - Windhoek
17:00
Tue, Thu, Sun
10:00
HKIA - Windhoek
Mokuti
11:00
Tue, Thu, Sun
11:30
Mokuti
Ongava
11:55
Tue, Thu, Sun
12:20
Ongava
Twyfelfontein
13:00
Tue, Thu, Sun
13:30
Twyfelfontein
Swakopmund
14:10
Tue, Thu, Sun
14:50
Swakopmund
Keerweder
15:40
Mon, Wed, Fri
16:05
Keerweder
HKIA - Windhoek
17:00
Mon, Wed, Fri
*HKIA - Hosea Kutako International Airport
8
Welcome Aboard FlyNamibia
Dear Passenger, As we embrace the festive spirit this December, all of us at FlyNamibia are thrilled to have you onboard. As 2023 draws to a close, we reflect on a year of progress and set our sights on a future filled with exciting developments. We extend our warmest Christmas and New Year greetings to you and your loved ones, wishing you joyous and safe travels during this festive season. NEW HORIZONS: WINDHOEK TO VICTORIA FALLS We are excited to announce the launch of our newest route, connecting Windhoek Hosea Kutako International Airport with the majestic Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Starting on 4 April 2024, this route will operate three times a week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It's not just a connection between two destinations; it's an opening to a world of breathtaking scenery and adventure tourism, enhancing regional tourism and fostering economic ties between Namibia and Zimbabwe. CUSTOMER SERVICE AT ITS BEST: NEW FLYNAMIBIA CALL CENTRE We're also proud to introduce our new FlyNamibia Call Centre, operational daily from 05:00-19:00. This initiative is part of our commitment to providing you with seamless, efficient, and friendly service. Whether it's for bookings, inquiries, or support, our dedicated team is just a call away to assist you with your travel needs. SEASON'S GREETINGS AND SAFE TRAVELS As we wrap up this year, we thank you for choosing FlyNamibia for your travels. We're not just an airline; we're your partner in creating memorable journeys. Here's to a season filled with peace, happiness, and safe travels. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and to being a part of your travel stories in the coming year. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year! Sincerely, The FlyNamibia Team
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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LO C AL O V E
Unique local lifestyle brands we're loving, and why you should too
DROOMBOS
We love their unique approach to events. Picture this: you’re hosting a conference, and Droombos’ dedicated team turns your vision into reality, infusing the gathering with big ideas and smart applications. With their bespoke menus and catering options, state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities, unique team-building activities, and indoor and outdoor spaces, Droombos sets the stage for conferences, corporate functions, launches and much more. Stunning on-site accommodation rounds off their offering, ensuring your event at Droombos is more than just a meeting – it’s an experience. +264 81 872 2613 / +264 83 288 8352 / +264 61 250 238 reservations@droombos.com.na / events@droombos.com.na www.droombos.com.na
EMSSENCE We love the facial serum from their PURE skincare range. Often referred to as liquid gold by thier clients, this naturally fragranced oil formula is great as a nighttime moisturiser, and the perfect everyday serum for drier skin types. Rosehip and pomegranate marry to boost collagen and hydrate skin, and applied with a gentle yet firm upward-massage, the PURE facial serum leaves you feeling dewy and uplifted. Paired with the PURE facial cleanser, toner and Kigelia cream, it offers a four-step skincare regime of perfection. Shop Emssence products at the Droombos Gift Shop and Maerua Superspar m@emssence.com @ems.sence @emssence
10
IETSIEMEER We love their setting for corporate team-building retreats. With exclusive use of the property for 24 guests, Ietsiemeer Beach House exudes a homely ambiance, creating an ideal setting for team building that feels less like work and more like a coastal getaway. Imagine waking up to the sound of the Atlantic, engaging in cookoffs in the spacious kitchen, finding zen with yoga in the courtyard, or spiking up the team spirit with beach volleyball tournaments. Located in Henties Bay, Ietsiemeer is the perfect secluded sojourn for your corporate escape, fostering team building through relaxation. mariannel@scsi.com.na www.ietsiemeer.com @ietsiemeer
THE VILLAGE We love The Village Garden’s wide range of vegetarian options. With an inviting outdoor seating area and a chic indoor space, this eatery dishes up scrumptious breakfasts and lunches for our veggie friends. Try the Asian bowl, a symphony of textures and tastes featuring cucumber and carrot ribbons, pickled peppers, cabbage and cashews with a sesame, soy and ginger marinade. Sink your teeth into the bonsai burger with its chickpea and bean patty, loaded with mushrooms and accompanied by delectable sweet potato fries. Or tuck into the falafel wrap with fresh goodness inside, including a tangy tzatziki. Offering these and many more delights, The Village Garden will be your go-to for vegetarian meals that are packed with flavour, paired with a lively atmosphere. The Village, Liliencron Street, Windhoek @village_garden_whk Mondays 07:30 - 15:00 | Tuesday - Friday 07:30 - 17:00 | Saturday & Sunday 09:00 - 15:00
Are you a Nam or SA based lifestyle brand? List your label with us for only N$1,000 per month for 6 months | fly@venture.com.na
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
11
10 minutes
with local taste makers
Shafa 12
Y
ou might not know it just yet, but if you happen to fall within the Millennial or Gen Z brackets, odds are you’ve attended an event organised by Shafa. The mastermind behind some of the country’s most iconic music festivals and parties, Shafa Shaimemanya needs no introduction.
Evolving from his career-catalysing stage presence as Ace Da Bass, he now simply goes by the name Shafa – a change he considers essential in communicating his proud Namibian heritage from the get-go. The DJ, events connoisseur and upand-coming producer finds his greatest source of inspiration from his home continent. While he’s had stints in the dubstep, trap, house and techno genres, Shafa says he is increasingly gravitating towards Afro-centric sounds. It’s this itch to venture deeper into indigenous melodies that bred Shafa’s newest brainwave and love child, Casa De Afro. In one way or another, Shafa has been running the circuit ever since matriculating. Starting out as a bartender at the legendary Zanzibar, his manager allowed Shafa a few hours of practice before and after shifts. With little experience,
these brief moments behind the decks before bartending laid the foundation for the DJ he would become. A stroke of luck, paired with relentless dedication, brought Shafa a golden opportunity, the stuff musicians can only dream of – a bursary to study sound engineering in none other than Malaysia. Returning to home soil after four years and with a swanky qualification under his belt, Shafa stepped onto the local music scene with full force. However determined he was to make DJing a career, the scope for full-time musicians was, and still is, a fable of struggling artists. Rather serendipitously, Shafa landed a day-time gig in marketing and events coordination for big-name liquor brands, and so his knack for planning the country’s hottest parties manifested. He is also an effortless and authentic networker, paired with some kind of magical predisposition to land in the right room at the right time. It is this skill that has landed him gigs in Cape Town at Pangea Festival, at Artheater in Cologne and Ganz am Wasser in Munich and brought us unforgettable events like The Social Club, a regular migrating music event in the capital playing hip-hop, R&B, deep house and anything your heart desires.
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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14
You won’t find him frequenting the Windhoek social scene, spinning disks in every club on any given weekend. Not anymore. Shafa is rather particular about where and when he gets behind the decks, adding that endless Fridays spent DJing for the same crowd is not the reason he became a disk jockey. Shafa plays when and if he is ready to share his deepseated passion for beats, to get heart rates pumping and feet moving authentically on a dance floor, all through the chemistry that is music. Oftentimes when we do what we love every day, and it becomes our bread and butter, the novelty wears off, the passion fades and – in the case of DJs – they become crowd pleasers. For Shafa there is nothing quite as magical as planning the event, getting people excited and finally stepping on stage to entrance you in a mix he’s been fine-tuning for months. Shafa’s proudest product to date is BAR-HP – short for between a rock and a hard place. This two-day music festival, which saw its first official event rake in 600 guests in May of 2022, originally started as a camping trip. Between Shafa, Melkies Ausiku and Eloise Sitler, the group chat quickly grew to 50, subsequently a ludicrous sound setup was organised and voilà: at the foot of the Spitzkoppe, amongst close friends and lovers of techno, the concept was born. After a couple more trial runs, the festival went public, and this author had the privilege of covering it. Having attended quite a few of his events myself, and experiencing a handful of Shafa’s sets, BAR-HP was particularly special. But he did not only play a massive role in stringing the fairy lights, selling the tickets, getting sponsors and booking international guest DJs… On a dusty Saturday in the desert, in an avocado floppy hat and surrounded by what he has created alongside his friends, Shafa played from his heart – testament to the fact that passion cultivates genius. Charene Labuschagne This photoshoot was created for FlyNamibia Magazine by Venture Media, in collaboration with MYNT nightclub and lounge. MYNT hosts regular themed events and international artists. Check out their pages for upcoming events: @mynt_nightclub_windhoek Photographer: Le Roux van Schalkwyk Art direction & styling: Charene Labuschagne Location: MYNT nightclub and lounge Personality & wardrobe: Shafa
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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Have you heard?
You can
bank from here Use your phone or computer to bank from anywhere you choose. FNB App Online Banking Cellphone Banking eWallet Switch to FNB
16
of Namibia Limited. Reg. No. 2002/0180. A subsidiary of FirstRand Namibia Limited
Namibian Women increase desirability of local grown products by implementing value-added features
“Over the last few months, I have learnt how to process and preserve all sorts of fruits and vegetables, including packing, sealing and storage methods,” says Alice Muyoba Nyambo, as she packs a bunch of fresh spinach into a carrier bag for a customer. Alice is one of 600 people who received training on valueadded skills in three regions of Namibia – Oshana, Oshikoto and Zambezi. Growing up in the Limbeza community of the Zambezi Region, she was accustomed to farming alongside her parents. Today, as a smallholder farmer and parent herself, Alice sells fresh and processed vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, nuts, beans and soya chunks to a local supermarket. Funded by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/ AIDS (UNAIDS), the value addition training programme was developed and launched by the University of Namibia (UNAM) in 2023 and conducted by the WFP in collaboration with local food and agribusiness consultants Lesha Investments. The training focused on low-cost food processing and preservation methods, which are important in reducing food loss and increasing the shelf life of diverse and nutritious food. “Before this training, I would undervalue my vegetables by selling them at a low price, especially when they looked like they were about to spoil,” says Alice. “But now I understand how to keep every vegetable in my garden fresher for longer, which allows me to make a healthy profit.” In Namibia, food loss is a major problem occurring throughout the entire food value chain, with nearly one quarter of the country’s annual food production going to waste. Throughout this chain, smallholder farmers are particularly affected by food loss, leading to less food available in their households because of both spoilt food and loss of income. This loss is caused by the lack of knowledge amongst farmers on the management of fresh produce, inappropriate practices during pre-harvest, harvest and post-harvest stages, and insufficient cooling and storage facilities. Limited access to food-processing equipment and packaging materials, as well as restricted or no market access, have also greatly contributed to food loss in the country. Post-harvest loss mitigation and value addition is essential for the development and consumption of nutritious diets, improved household income and sustainability of agricultural businesses. “In Namibia, value addition of agricultural produce is still limited,” says the WFP’s food systems manager, Ndaindila Haindongo. “Equipping smallholder farmers, especially women, with skills on how they can preserve, add value and package their food allows them to generate incomes for themselves and introduces communities to a variety of nutritious foods.”
People who participated as cooperatives received solar dryers from the WFP along with processing equipment and utensils such as scales, blenders and pots.
Photography Credit: WFP/Likando Arthur
S
caling up food systems is a priority for Namibia, which is why the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is committed to advancing this objective by strengthening food systems as a critical action.
To boost their resumes and improve their chances of receiving bank loans to expand their business activities, the women who completed the training received certificates approved by UNAM, Lesha Investments and the WFP. The training further emphasised using peels from vegetables such as butternut, carrots, spinach and tomatoes which can be turned into powder for biscuits or soup. “My household cannot be food secure if I waste what I grow, so I have learnt how to make use of every part of an ingredient, such as the offcuts from tomatoes, to make delicious soup,” adds Alice. “My vegetables will no longer go to waste. I can provide tomato jam and tomato ketchup for my family and teach them how to make it as well,” chuckles Alice.
Tomato jam production: Tomatoes are boiled to loosen the skin.
Alice speaks at women health and empowerment gatherings
Tomato jam and ketchup ready for the market
WFP Namibia is championing several innovative programmes and platforms in support of human capital development, improving socio-economic outcomes, livelihood diversification and rural transformation. For now, Alice lacks additional finances to start her own value-added production business. However, she has formed a women’s savings group which will gather funds as start-up capital so the women can launch their businesses. “My journey is not easy, but I will not give up pressing forward to make a difference in my community,” says Alice.
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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Taimi Nuunyango
18
F
rom the onset, FlyNamibia has endeavoured to showcase the very best of Namibia. We tell stories of our beautiful homeland, its people, cultures and potential, in the hopes of inspiring the nation and those beyond our borders. And while there are endless stories to tell of this awesome country, sometimes we need a fresh perspective. That is where the Face of FlyNamibia comes in. This brand ambassador helps tell Namibian stories by travelling to our many destinations, mingling with locals and uncovering the hidden gems scattered across Namibia Last year we found our very first Face of FlyNamibia through a country-wide search, followed by public votes. This year we upped the ante – instead of telling us why they should be the airline’s ambassador, applicants were required to convince us why they represent the next generation of Namibians. Because FlyNamibia strives to do just that: represent! That said, we are proud to introduce you to the Face of FlyNamibia 2023: Taimi Nuunyango. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND I am 23 years old, born in a village outside Okahao in the Omusati Region. I grew up in Windhoek, where I am currently located as a student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. I am the last born of eight siblings. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION IN NAMIBIA That has to be the Kunene Region, specifically Epupa Falls. The trip there changed my perception of travel. I got to see how beautifully the Ovahimba people live and preserve their culture and I learned interesting facts about their tribe. I also had the privilege of being dressed in traditional Himba attire. Although I am Oshiwambo-speaking, this experience filled me with so much pride just knowing that we have such a rich culture in our midst.
WHY DO YOU THINK TRAVELLING IS GOOD FOR YOU Travelling for me is so important because it has helped broaden my horizon and at the same time sparks my creativity. I love adventure and how it takes you out of your comfort zone. I love discovering new places, new cuisines and meeting new people. I also think that travel memories are something to treasure, something that I can share with my friends and family. WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO ON YOUR JOURNEY AS THE FACE OF FLYNAMIBIA I am genuinely looking forward to flying for the first time ever! Making awesome memories with the FlyNamibia team, informing and engaging with my audience about travel and tourism within our country and beyond our borders.
Follow Taimi’s adventures with FlyNamibia on our social media channels over the course of the next year as she uncovers what makes Namibia such a unique and special travel destination, meets interesting people and celebrates what it means to be a proud Namibian!
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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10 % off any 12-month Virgin Active product
Includes promotional offer of the month
Existing members allowed to convert their membership to the new benefit
Joining Fees may apply
For more information, contact Virgin Active Kleine Kuppe 061 251 640 or Virgin Active Maerua Mall 061 234 399 today. Monthly Ts & Cs apply
WWW.RMANAM.COM
20
A News Editor's View
Year in review
D
stories lost in the noise
ecember is usually the time of year when many of us look forward to some “down-time” to spend with loved ones and the opportunity to look back on the year, reflect on both the good and bad times, and see what we can learn from them.
In the world of news, it is also very often a time to look back at some of the biggest stories of the past 12 months. Stories like:
of those in the stories that fade away, we are simply not able to care about all the things all the time. Case in point: as I write this, the focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine seems to have shifted to a focus on Israel, Palestine and Hamas, but even the latter war is starting to be reported on less, or at least the journalism that is still being done to highlight the war is being shared less, and taking a “back seat” in people’s consciousness as we all return to our day-to-day concerns and try to find the bits of joy we can in the world around us.
The last point is a very important one in this conversation The alleged Chinese spy balloons shot down over the United because the finger is often pointed at “The Media” for ignoring States; the Coronation of King Charles III; the resignation of or neglecting certain topics or themes. The humorous side of New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern (incidentally also this is seen in people on social media sharing actual news the topic of my first column for FlyNamibia back in March); reports of a certain situation with captions along the lines the arrest of Italian Mafia boss, Matteo Denaro, after 30 years of: “Why is the media not reporting on this?” or “Here is the on the run; the war between Israel and Hamas; the coups in news the media doesn’t want you to know about.” What they Niger and Gabon; the death of Silvio Berlusconi; the expansion are really saying, perhaps without even realising it, is that of BRICS; the brief loss and relief-inducing rediscovery of a people, not the media, are not talking about or sharing news radio-active capsule on an Australian highway; the Titan stories about the things they feel they should be. submersible fiasco; thousands of migrant deaths; Uganda criminalising homosexuality but As newsrooms are fighting for Mauritius decriminalising it; the survival due to declining income and launch of the biggest oil refinery growing threats from social media ever built in Africa; and the rise of organisations and AI-powered search December is also very ChatGPT; to name just a few. engines, the only “agenda” of “The Media” is merely to “live another often a time to look It is also the time of year when it day”, and the best way to do that is back at some of the is worth remembering some of the to provide their audiences with the other news stories that have slipped news that they want to hear. This is a biggest stories of the out of the general consciousness far cry from “The Media” having the past 12 months. but that have not yet been resolved. kind of power some people think it Stories like: does to influence the narrative. As far back as 2018, Nieman Lab reported The Syrian civil war that is still that “the news cycles for some of the unresolved 12 years later; the 96 “Chibok girls” who remain biggest moments of [the year] only lasted for a median of in captivity after being kidnapped by Boko Haram in 2014; seven days – from the very beginning of higher-than-normal the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia and the war in Sudan; the interest until the Google searches fizzled out”, and that “bad investigation into the 2020 Beirut port explosion; the fate news seems to go away faster than good news.” of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar; the fact that Pretty Nkambule, Yvonne Mnisi and Solomon Nyirenda were only So, as we head into the festive season and most of us try to declared dead in October this year, despite having been relax and maybe cut ourselves off from the rest of the world trapped by the collapse of the Lily Mine in South Africa on 5 to find those little bits of joy, perhaps we should take a little February 2016; or, sticking with miners, the fact that to this time to also remember the stories and the people we have day no-one has been held accountable for the deaths of 44 not thought about in a while. people at the Marikana Mine in 2012. Until next month (which will be next year), enjoy your Why, you may ask, does this happen? Why do some stories journey. seem to just slip away? Why do people seem to stop caring? Part of it probably has to do with the fact that since the David Bishop advent of the so-called “24-hour news cycle” in the mid1990s, and increasingly so with the rise of online publications and social media, we are just inundated with so much information all the time that we need to be able to shut some things off. While we do not become unfeeling about the plight
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“The most interesting bikes in the world”
Photography Credit: Ross Garrett
Dan Craven, the retired two-time Olympic road cyclist and Namibia’s only professional cyclist to ride a Grand Tour, shares the story of ONGUZA – steel-framed bicycles built entirely by hand in Omaruru.
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“I
have spent the last 15 years of my life chasing the professional cyclist dream in Europe but as my first career has come to an end I’ve been asking myself, what was the point of becoming a pro in the first place? Did it matter? What can I do now? What must I do now?
It would be easy for me not to use my privilege, influence, and visibility for good. But if I don’t, why did I gain these things? Back in 2010 I had an idea. It has taken 12 years to realise, but it is finally happening and it’s time to share it with you. With the help of Robin Mather, Matthew Sowter, David Mercer, Andres Arregui Velazquez, Tom Sturdy, Columbus, The Bicycles Academy and countless others, we have created a frame-building workshop in my hometown, Omaruru, where Namibians are now building world-class, steel-framed bikes. I was meant to ride one of our bikes at the Tokyo Olympics. We would launch with a bang to a global audience. But COVID didn’t let that happen, so we went back to the drawing board. Does the world really need another bicycle brand? No. But my hometown, Omaruru, does. Namibia is a country of talented makers stuck in low-value jobs. Many of them struggle to find work aside from farm labour. Building world-class steel bicycles is a high-value trade that matches the quality of their workmanship. ONGUZA’s story is about celebrating Namibian people and culture. The easy thing would have been to talk about nature and wildlife the way most people think about Namibia, but
it is far more important and interesting to find inspiration right on the side of the road: Namibia has many beautiful fashion traditions, the food, the cows, goats and chickens, the general stores and even the design of shebeens that are truly the lifeblood of so many small communities here – but also for cyclists passing through. Our first builders, Petrus Mufenge and Sakaria Nkolo, are building world-class steel-framed bikes on a dusty farm in Namibia. It’s maybe the last place you’d expect something extraordinary to come from. But we’re doing it. The business is really putting its money where its mouth is and have made Nkolo and Mufenge shareholders in the company. We have already had orders from customers as diverse as New York City and Malawi. What we are doing is not just assembly. We get specialist steel tubing and machined parts from Italy and California specifically for this kind of bicycle, but then the work starts. Designing geometry, further bending of tubes, hand-mitering and hand-filing all parts for a perfect fit before brazing the parts using brass and silver and working with temperatures of up to 900 degrees, before continuing with the very tricky task of attaining perfect alignment and beautifully clean welds. It takes a full week to build every single frame, even with four sets of hands in the workshop. All to create bicycle frames good enough for racing at the highest level – or to ride across the continent. What do you picture when you hear “African bikes”? There is a good chance you are not thinking of a luxury, world-class bike. And you are not alone. We need to change the way people think about goods made in Namibia – and in Africa as a whole. Name a luxury brand from the African continent…? We have our work cut out for us.”
Launched in 2022 by Dan and his partner (and wife) Collyn Ahart, ONGUZA has already made international headlines across the cycling and sport industry with features on CyclingTips, BikeRadar, UK Sport, Cyclist.co.uk, GearPatrol and many others. ONGUZA has been dubbed “the most interesting bike in the world” by Bicycling Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Bill Strickland. Watch ONGUZA’s incredible video here: hqrco.de/bdWEZc Learn more at www.onguza.com
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Shapes of Shelter
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A collaborative exhibition between artists from Namibia and Germany
he exhibition Shapes of Shelter deals with the concept of safe spaces. The term “safe space” has its origins in the movements of the 1960s in the USA and refers to a place where people who feel excluded in the prevailing society can find safety. To this day, it refers to underground clubs, hide- and hangouts or entire neighbourhoods that transform themselves at night and offer a place of community. The multi-media artists Maria Mbereshu and Janina Totzauer – from Namibia and Germany respectively – create their very own “Safe Space” in The Project Room over several weeks. The bidirectional discussion about their common colonial past and their two situations as women from different global hemispheres flow directly into the textile patterns created on site. Symbolic protection rituals and talismans are transferred into textiles and assembled into a huge carpet. The walls are adorned with Totzauer’s “Isles of Exile” – small multifunctional tents that may serve the viewer as secret places of escapism. Positioned in between, Mbereshu’s abstract textile patterns directly refer to her experiences as a woman, paying tribute to womanhood in all its beauty. On the evening of 6 December, we will have the opportunity to listen to three outstanding speakers in their fields at the
Isles of Exile by Janina Totzauer
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“Intimate Carpet”. Hermien Elago, Adriano Visagie and Natache Iilonga will summarise their current heart projects in short 20-minute slots. There will be time for questions, drinks and snacks during the non-hierarchical gathering on the carpet. Dates: Residency and artists’ time together at The Project Room: 21 November - 6 December, open to visitors daily from 10:00 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 18:00 Exhibition opening: 29 November, 18:00 Exhibition ends in February Intimate Carpet Talks: 6 December, 18:00
The Project Room - Namibia www.theprojectroom.com.na
Maria Mbereshu
From left: Janina Totzauer and Maria Mbereshu
ABOUT THE IMAGES: The artists met in June 2022 at the joint online residency of the .lab collective on the theme of postcolonial exchange. Since then, they realised several collaborative textile artworks and exhibited them under the title “To the Land” in Munich and at Moos Space in Berlin. In 2022, Totzauer visited Mbereshu in Windhoek and they came up with the idea of a joint residency and exhibition at The Project Room. Maria Mbereshu (born 1984 in Uvhungu-Vhungu, Rundu), earned a Higher Diploma in Visual Arts from the University of Namibia in 2013, including Fashion and Textile Studies, as well as Visual Culture. Mbereshu attended the Baker’s Bay Artists’ Retreat, held in Oranjemund, in 2022. Working with symbols drawn from her Sambyu culture as well as the banal everyday, Mbereshu works with repetition, creating new forms in fields of abstract shapes. She is constantly experimenting with different materials to express ideas around domesticity and the home. Mbereshu’s work has been showcased at various exhibitions locally and internationally, including the following: Education, Arts, and Culture Conference Exhibition, NAGN, 2022; To the Land ll, Percil Forest Munich (group exhibition), 2022; Cross-Cultural Collaboration, Germany/Namibia (virtual residency) ~dotlab, 2021; #WhatsYourStory, COVID-19 Project, NAGN, 2020; Bank Windhoek Triennial, NAGN, 2020; Reflect: Namibia after 30 years of independence, NAGN, 2018; Piece of Heaven Exhibition, Gallery Hamara, University of Lapland and fringe festival, Australia, 2017; Werah Café and Gallery, Rundu, 2017; Textures and Textiles on Fabric, NAGN, 2017; Booth Exhibition, NAGN, 2013; Land Matters in Art, Namibian Art Project, NAGN, 2010; UNAM Annual Student Exhibition, NAGN and FNCC. Janina Totzauer (born 1988 in Munich, Germany) is a German media artist. Her studies in media arts at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich, the University of Cape Town in South Africa and the Universidad Nácional Autónoma de Mexico in Mexico City nourished her interest in human rituals in all corners of the world. Over the years, her studies have focused on cross-cultural and interspecies research. In 2020, Totzauer graduated as a master student under Prof. Julian Rosefeldt at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. The Steiner Scholarship took her to southern Mozambique, where she compared the orally transmitted mysticism of the dead in the area with that of her homeland in the rural Alpine region. Awarded the BBK’s Debutant Prize and the City of Munich’s Visual Arts Scholarship in 2021, Totzauer produced her videos “Omega to Alpha” and “Into Ur”, which take their inspiration from death rituals in Mozambique and Germany. Totzauer’s sculptural and audiovisual work has been exhibited internationally, including during the Cinema Galleggiante film festival in Venice, at the Karşı Sanat in Istanbul or the TwentyFifty Gallery in Cape Town. Since 2018, Totzauer has been co-curator of the AlmResidency, an annual artist residency in the Bavarian foothills of the Alps. In 2019 and 2020, she co-curated and directed the illegally occupied ille galerie in Munich. At the end of 2020, Totzauer founded the studio offspace ArtLabTofo in Praia do Tofo, Mozambique.
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Empowering the
Visually Impaired A Groundbreaking Inclusive Training Programme
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here are around 32,000 Namibians who are visually impaired. These individuals face many challenges to find stable employment, such as ignorance, social stigma and limited access to educational programmes. Employers that strive towards inclusion are not commonplace. However, one company in the business of rejuvenation is rewriting the script. Nomad Wellness Homestead is a sanctuary of relaxation in the capital city of Windhoek. It is not purely focused on tranquillity, though, as it also has an ethos of inclusion. Mariane Akwenye, the founder and director of Nomad Institute, explains that it was during a training session that she had an “aha” moment after their head therapist asked her trainees to close their eyes and be in tune with their bodies. She then thought to herself, “What happens to the visually impaired ladies and would this not be the perfect career for them?” After researching and finding out how few training programmes there are for the visually impaired, she felt compelled to act. Mekeliwa Hamunyela, a trainee at Nomad, says, “Receiving training in this field is quite exciting. I was always one of those disadvantaged people, not able to do anything but wait for someone to provide for me, but now I see that disability is an ability. We are all human and able to move and do something with our own hands.” Adeline Serakoane, the head of training at Nomad Institute, notes, “These women have so much that they want to achieve in their lives, so it is a great opportunity for me to actually have an impact in their lives and make sure that they become the best therapists out there in the industry.”
The programme aligns to Debmarine Namibia social investment pillar Accelerating Equal Opportunity. Debmarine Namibia, is committed to accelerating equal opportunity, through economic inclusion and the support of diverse voices, we can help empower every individual to take meaningful action, to help shape the future of our communities and societies. Akwenye says of the support she has received, “I feel deeply humbled and honoured. It makes me realise that we can all make a difference.” Looking at the impact that this support has had, she explains, “It has enabled us to train multiple women at the same time and have several new entries throughout the year. We are immensely grateful.” On behalf of Debmarine Namibia, senior manager Stanford Isaacs says, “In a world that often underestimates the capability of visually impaired individuals, it is our responsibility to provide opportunities for empowerment. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to excel, despite any physical limitations they may face. It is through initiatives like this that we make a tangible difference.” By sponsoring the programme, Debmarine Namibia enables the participating women to pursue careers that emphasise human connection and healing. Visit the website to watch the video: youtu.be/SfjKSmlVq68?si=Bj54sc4157VsASJ8
This programme is offering hope and a future to many Namibian women, such as Miriam Kamberipa, a trainee at Nomad. “This is not a field that I ever would have thought of. Sitting at home, no one would help me with anything, but coming to this training I now know that not only working here at the spa, but wherever I will be, this (training) will help me put bread on the table,” she says.
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HOME
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Home
Our homes and the things we choose to display in them are a reflection of our lives, our personalities and the experiences that have shaped us.
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ur homes are often seen as an extension of ourselves – a physical manifestation of our personalities, values and experiences. The things we choose to display in our homes, from furniture and artwork to family photos and souvenirs from our travels, can offer a glimpse into who we are and the
life we lead. Our homes are a reflection of our personalities. The way we decorate our homes can be an expression of our personal style and tastes. Some people may opt for a minimalist approach, while others may prefer a more eclectic look. Our choice of furniture, artwork and home accessories can reveal our likes and dislikes, as well as our personal values. Secondly, our homes reflect our experiences. Each item we choose to display has a story to tell. Family photos remind us of cherished moments shared with loved ones. Souvenirs from our travels can transport us back to a particular place and time, evoking memories of people we met and experiences we had. Even the books we display on our bookshelves can reveal our interests and what has shaped our lives.
Thirdly, our homes reflect our life stages. From the band or movie posters that used to hang on your walls (or still do, no judgement) to the inevitable transition to functional furniture and durable materials to withstand the wear and tear of tiny humans. They say we look like our dogs. And that our music taste says a lot about our personalities, especially the parts we hide from others. In that thread of thinking I believe our homes are a reflection of our souls. Our hopes and dreams are reflected in the knick-knacks we collect and the pictures we choose to display. Our things and stuff. Thingamabobs. They tell a story of a life lived and a future planned for. Home is family
and pets and messy beds and coffee mugs on the kitchen counter. Home is truly where the heart is and where the soul is put out on display for all we welcome inside to see. And treasure. W.B. Yeats said, “I have spread my dreams at your feet. Tread lightly, for you tread on my dreams.” I started this series not just because I am a fan of beautiful interiors and houses, but because I’m a fan of people. Their idiosyncrasies and nuances. Their portrayal of humanity. I believe their homes are a beautiful culmination of what makes them human. So, over the next months I hope to meet humans willing to take me through their unique residences and show me their hearts, whether they are reflected in family homes, marvellous mansions, quaint cottages or starter flats – home is home. The first visit on this quest took me to the home of a friend. To me that home is the one place that you walk into and think: “This is what I want to be when I grow up.” No matter where life takes me, I want a place like this to come home to. Elmarie, Pierre and their kids started building their forever home in the quiet neighbourhood of Klein Windhoek in 2017 and moved in the following year. She notes that building from the ground up is always a challenge, but the construction style they chose certainly did not make the task easier. The contemporary design for their home (powered fully by solar) used steel and concrete for the double-storey space. This added significantly to the building timeline, but was key in creating the unique ambiance of the structure. The exterior grey concrete walls and fittings are reflected in the interior, much of which needed the highly skilled techniques of artisans who handcrafted elements of steel and wood. Artisanal construction takes time and patience, but the results are worth the wait. One would imagine entering a space built entirely of concrete and steel would feel cold and uninviting, but the reality is far from it…
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Home With soaring 3.3 m high ceilings and more space than most people would know what to do with, the interior is bright and airy. Glass walls make up most of the bottom half of the house leading out to a courtyard, inviting the outside in. At the same time, through some act of magic, Elmarie’s home exudes a sense of warmth and comfort I have never experienced when surrounded by so much concrete. Cosy spaces, mixtures of rough and soft textiles, raw wood of various shades and ages and the most eclectic and intriguing collection of art and displays make this contemporary space what it needs and deserves to be… a home. Elmarie’s favourite space is the kitchen and open-plan dining room. “I believe a home should be a sanctuary and not a showcase,” she says. For her it's more about what happens in a space than how it looks, though in my opinion she has certainly found the perfect balance. Cooking happens in the kitchen and you will often catch the scent of something freshly baked as it’s pulled out of the oven by their daughter Emma. The dining room is for conversations and laughs, with the dogs snoozing under the table. For Elmarie this is the “most meaningful and welcoming space.” In the upstairs guest bedroom stand two old copper bed frames, heirlooms with a lot of sentimental value, that were in Elmarie’s own room when she was growing up. A hand-carved wall clock from 1904, once owned by her great-grandfather, adorns the wall in the study. When I asked what among her vast and diverse collection of art was her favourite she lifted a colourful figurine off the very top shelf in the kitchen, where it was protected beneath a glass dome lest the cat get too curious. “I bought this in San Antonio in Texas close to the Mexican border. She is a Mexican La Catrina. It is a celebratory figure which traditionally represents the circle of life and serves as a reminder to enjoy life but also to embrace death.” The fine porcelain doll was difficult to transport back safely from their travels, but Elmarie carried it in her hand luggage all the way home, where it now has pride of place in her most-loved space.
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Their love of travel is further reflected on the walls of their TV room and their study. Elmarie notes how she loves the fresh perspectives one gains from travel and the introduction to new cultures. Therefore they make sure to bring home something light-weight and easy to transport. Prints and artworks from Argentina, Spain, France, Mexico and Singapore tell the story of a life lived for new adventures and experiences. As for her children, being teenagers, their rooms are their favourite parts of their home. An escape and private space unto themselves. Husband Pierre generally gravitates towards the porch that overlooks the riverbed running alongside their property, where he can be close to the braai and enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of guinea fowl and nature. A modern space filled with a collection of old and new. Elmarie’s house is a juxtaposition of natural fibres with mute tones and bright, colourful accents. Each crevice tells a story. Each slight crack in the concrete walls surely has tales to tell of a space designed to host friends and family, of laughter and love. Even Pierre’s hats are on display, which makes so much sense for those who know him. Elmarie agrees that a home and the needs of its inhabitants shift along with the tides of life. One day, when the kids have grown up and their lifestyle changes, they may not need four bedrooms and as much breathing space as they currently enjoy. Then it might be time for a new adventure. Until such time though, this is home. Elzanne McCulloch
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Home
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Let’s FlyNamibia www.flynam.com
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Swakop's iconic footwear
wakopmund has become synonymous with something you would not necessarily associate with the picturesque coastal town better known for its colonial-era German architecture, including the prominent lighthouse, or out-of-place guinea fowl roaming the streets in residential neighbourhoods. Over the years, a small leather shoe manufacturer has been steadily producing a type of footwear that is much loved by locals for function and style. Tourists also get hooked on these shoes and take them back to the far corners of the world. Velskoene made by African Leather Creations have become a Namibian icon, easily spotted by the small label embroidered with the words Kudu Leder (German for kudu leather) sewn on the throat line of the shoe. As an easy way to identify what brand of velskoen you are looking for, people simply started calling them Swakop Vellies – a name that the new owners of the company have embraced almost like a badge of honour. The company is also the oldest manufacturer of these shoes. Erwin Leuschner and Lee Coetzee, two Swakopmund locals, bought Africa Leather Creations from previous owner Herbert Schier and took over operations in September last year. As Erwin explains, it wasn't a rash decision to buy this business which had been passed down through two generations of the Schier family. It has sentimental value, like a treasured family heirloom invariably has. Something they, as the new owners, have to look after and continue with. Herbert Schier’s father Ewald started the company as a seal skin tanning business in 1938. It was only in the 1960s, however, that they branched out into velskoene – thanks to a
Baster gentleman called Hermanus Beukes. He was looking for work and making these leather shoes was his trade. Ewald Schier saw the potential and started producing these shoes as we know and love them up to this day. Herbert took over after his father’s death in 1980. In the early 2000s he was forced to close the tannery as a result of Swakop’s changing town regulations which did not allow for this type of business in the city centre. But he continued with the shoes. Now in his 80s, he decided to pass the baton to a younger generation. As Erwin takes me through the workshop to show me the incredible craftsmanship of the staff, it is fascinating to see that the shoes are still entirely handmade. Cutting, stitching and gluing are second nature to these artisans who can pump out around 70 pairs of vellies per day. Erwin shows me the differently coloured hides that are destined to become shoes and explains why each shoe is adorned with the classic Kudu Leder label. “When Ewald Schier started to experiment with different leathers he discovered that kudu is the strongest. Therefore kudu is used and the label is still stitched to every shoe”, he says. Erwin and Lee intend to boost the legacy of this iconic brand by sticking to what made this type of shoe sought after over the years. The two of them have come up with some fresh ideas, like the limited edition Namibian flag vellies. They also opened an online store – which is perfect to get a new pair when you don’t have the opportunity to visit Swakop. African Leather Creations are located opposite the Swakopmund municipality at 22 Rakotoka Street, or visit swakopvellies.com.
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Myeisha Leather Products
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1st Floor, No. 9 Faraday street Mindeco Park, Windhoek Tel: +264 (0) 81 145 67 29 Email: info@myeishanamibia.com
Facebook: Myeisha NAMIBIA Instagram: myeisha_namibia #myeishanamibia #namibianbohochic
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Fashionforward Lioness continues to re-imagine style
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hen it comes to the intersection of music and fashion, Namibian rapper Lioness effortlessly commands attention with her bold and eclectic style. With a journey that began in high school and influenced by her fashion-savvy mother, Lioness has evolved into a fashion icon in her own right. Her unique style reflects her confidence, creativity and unapologetic embrace of self-expression. Lioness discovered her love for fashion during high school when she had the opportunity to dress up on civvies day. This was when she realised the transformative power of clothing and how it allowed her to express herself. Inspired by her late mother’s impeccable style, Lioness recognised the importance of looking good and making a lasting impression. She started playing around with different looks and over time took enough fashion risks to become one of Namibia’s best-dressed personalities. The best style tip Lioness received from her mother was to “never leave the house looking like your problems”. This meant avoiding house gowns and hair rollers while out and about. This advice helped Lioness to cultivate a fashion sense that exudes confidence and sophistication. Over the years, Lioness’ style has undergone a fascinating evolution. From a goth stage to a Barbie-inspired phase in her younger years, she experimented with various aesthetics before finding her signature style. Today, Lioness describes her style as sexy, chic, mysterious and sophisticated. Her fashion choices reflect her inner confidence and her desire to make a statement wherever she goes. INFLUENCING NAMIBIAN FASHION CULTURE When the perfectly styled music video for her 2017 breakout hit “Dreams” was released, it was evident that a cultural shift had occurred. The rapper capitalised on the song’s popularity by staying true to it and carefully crafting a public image that fit her newfound star status. By 2019, Lioness was confident enough as an emerging fashion influencer to work on her first fashion line, a collaboration with designer Simeone Johannes. “The CilQ x SynEDGY capsule collection,” Lioness said at the time of its release, “is meant to give women, men, trans and queer individuals a chance to feel sexy and luxurious at an affordable rate.”
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Photography Credit: DipPhotos; Shot by Alpo for Keen Studios
In 2020, she teamed up with another designer, Foxy Ginnah, to create the Lioness x Foxxy collaborative fashion line. At the time, the designer told The Namibian newspaper that working with the rapper was “such a breeze”, alluding to Lioness’ admirable work ethic. Over the years, Lioness has continued to draw on the talents of other creatives to keep her fashion game elevated and current. These include her stylist, Penehafo Vaeta, fashion designer Melisa Poulton and fashion stylist Nahenda Matheus. Lioness acknowledges the importance of collaboration and having a stylist in her journey to success. She recognises that working together is crucial to gaining recognition beyond her home country and making a name for herself internationally. By partnering with talented stylists, Lioness has amplified her unique style to create fashion moments that captivate audiences. ON MOTHERHOOD, POWER COUPLE DRESSING AND STYLE EVOLUTION Becoming a mom has not changed Lioness’ wardrobe much. She still embraces her favourite crop tops and miniskirts, but has bid farewell to bodycon dresses and anything with holes. “Unless it’s for a creative project like a music video,” she quips. She does admit that motherhood has brought a new sense of responsibility to her fashion choices, but she
continues to showcase her style with a touch of elegance and sensuality. When it comes to her husband, Lioness takes on a supportive role rather than styling him, but he usually seeks her fashion advice, appreciating her keen eye for style. You are unlikely to catch them in matchy-matchy outfits as the power couple prefers to consult each other to ensure they complement rather than mimic each other’s looks. On what her most prized wardrobe item is, Lioness says it is undoubtedly her wig collection. She loves how the collection allows her to experiment with different hairstyles, adding a layer of personality to her overall look. And while she appreciates her designer bags, Lioness remains grounded, emphasising that clothes are just clothes and material possessions do not define her. Not only a rapper but a medical doctor by profession, Lioness continues to captivate fans with her lyrical prowess, stellar work ethic and remarkable fashion choices. From high school dressup days to becoming a style icon, she has embraced fashion as a means of self-expression. With her sexy, chic, mysterious and sophisticated style, Lioness fearlessly sets trends and solidifies her place in the fashion and music industry, inspiring others to embrace their personal style journey. Rukee Kaakunga
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On the importance of context
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ake a moment to observe your current physical environment. Most likely, as you are reading this article, you find yourself in an aeroplane seat, elbows jostling with those of your neighbour and your knees making acquaintance with the seat in front of you. You might even be listening to the soothing snore of a fellow passenger who is sleeping off the previous night’s farewell party two rows ahead. And most likely, you’ll be totally okay with all of this. Then ask yourself whether you would be okay with the same situation at work? Or in a shopping mall? Probably not. So, what makes the difference? The brutal invasion of your personal space becomes acceptable within the context of being swooshed from one destination to the next at hundreds of kilometres per hour, miles above the ground, in an aluminium tube. Context is of vital importance. Not only for accepting the conditions of your current commute, but for just about any behaviour, feeling or thought you might have. Especially within the milieu of mental health, presenting symptoms should always be considered within their specific context. Each person seeking to consult with a mental health professional would typically not just be questioned about their current complaint, but about essentially everything else as well. The way we grew up, our relationships we had with key caregivers, traumatic experiences and significant events in our past all serve to establish an individual’s unique context. It is within this context that we develop certain behavioural patterns, communication styles and our individual personality traits. All of these factors could contribute to the current problematic situation and cannot be disregarded. Simply considering the symptoms in isolation means that the context will lack significant contributing aspects, and thus the equation simply won’t add up.
Furthermore, the presenting symptoms of any person should be seen within the context of a certain syndrome. Take depression for example. Depression affects about half of the population at some stage during their lifetime. Most people will have experienced, to a greater or lesser extent, the debilitating characteristics of this condition: being unable to get up in the morning, fighting to stay focused on tasks, struggling to generate the energy necessary to get through an average day. Predominant feelings such as sadness, emotional numbness and perhaps even anger manifestly make your being their home, albeit begrudgingly so. Whether it be restful sleep eluding you, an inability to experience joy or excitement or the hopelessness that accompanies feeling tired of life in general, the possible symptoms are manifold. In our example it is crucial to understand the context of the depressive syndrome in that it could be just that, but it very well might be unfolding within the context of something entirely different such as a certain personality type, an anxiety disorder or one of multiple other major mental health conditions such as bipolar mood disorder or schizophrenia, among others. Even physical conditions such as an underactive thyroid gland or hormonal fluctuations could play a causal role in the syndrome. Only when an individual’s symptoms are understood within their unique context can a successful diagnosis be made and the treatment be planned and executed accordingly. As a wise old man I know always states: “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.” Dr. Daleen de Lange
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2023 Baker’s Bay Artists’ Retreat Exhibition
Elisia Nghidishange
Anita Sambanje
Jeannette Unite
Immanuel Chiete
Nicky Marais
Ismael Shivute
Wil-Merie Greyling
Tity Kalala Tshilumba
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Julia Hango
Natache Sylvia Iilonga
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rom 9 - 21 September 2023, twelve artists attended the Baker’s Bay Artists’ Retreat in the Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park. This retreat is the third of its kind and is sponsored by Namdeb and the OMDis Town Transform Agency. As part of OMDis’ Art Can Transform project, the Artists’ Retreat was held at Bogenfels in 2021 and at Baker’s Bay in 2022. This important annual event brings artists to an area of Namibia which is still largely inaccessible and provides an opportunity for them to live and work together, focussing on the unique history and environment of the national park. Through the final exhibition of the artworks in Oranjemund and again in Windhoek, a wider audience is provided with a unique view into an area that they would otherwise never have had access to. For the 2023 retreat, artists from four towns in Namibia were invited, including Wil-Merie Greyling (Swakopmund), Immanuel Chiete (Oranjemund), Julia Nakashwa Hango (Swakopmund), Elisia Nghidishange (Omaruru), Ismael Shivute (Windhoek), Natache Sylvia Iilonga (Windhoek), Tity Kalala Tshilumba (Windhoek), Nicky Marais (Oranjemund) and Lila Swanepoel (Windhoek). The retreat was also excited to host three artists from outside Namibia, namely Anita Sambanje (Angola), Jeannette Unite (South Africa) and Line Krom (Germany). The Tsau //Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park has incredible geographical, biological, social and historical significance. During this iteration of the retreat, artists were asked to focus their thoughts and works on the idea of “Creative Rehabilitation”. This theme laid the groundwork for artists to think about the ways in which their work might help to rehabilitate the former mining area and imagine alternative uses for the existing infrastructure. Rehabilitation is an important part of post-mining land use and artists were
encouraged to explore the potential role that creativity and art can play when mining eventually stops in the area. As a result, this exhibition includes a wide variety of artworks in traditional and new mediums. Sculptural works on display use recycled metals from a nearby dump. Paintings respond to the landscape in various ways, drawing from topographic imagery and in some cases using pigments from the earth. Photography and collage incorporate archival images and document installations and site-specific artworks that will remain at Baker’s Bay for years to come. Two video works document performance art that took place during the retreat. Also on display are imaginative architectural plans that seek to explore new modalities of inhabiting the landscape. Alongside all this, the exhibition showcases a short documentary by filmmaker Lila Swanepoel, capturing the experience of the artists. The remote environment of Baker’s Bay provided artists with a chance to pursue their creative practice in an uninterrupted, dedicated manner. They used this opportunity to learn from each other and be inspired by the incredibly unique environment and its social history.
www.startartgallery.com
@The Namibian Arts Association 122 Robert Mugabe Avenue 30 November 2023 - 29 February 2024
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Chr i stmas L o ading .... w w w. w k h - l a w. c o m wkh-namibia wkhinc
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n the world of accounting, anything less than perfection is unacceptable. Rodney Feris, senior techno economist at Namdeb, shared his journey of how he handles failure and how he chooses to live a life of impact.
From a very early age, Rodney had a flair for numbers. In Grade 2, or “Sub B, as it was known”, his teacher took him to the Grade 3 classroom to show off his ability and acumen with mathematics. His school career featured passionate educators who saw his potential and fanned the flame. Rodney speaks about a teacher that had a strong influence on the direction of his life. “My accounting teacher in Grade 8, Mr Julius, was a driving force [saying]: ‘You need to go and become a chartered accountant!’ He just kept pouring water on the seed.” Already at such a young age, Rodney knew he wanted to go into business as an accountant.
for helping people to grow and improve themselves. “What motivates me the most is the passion to improve others... to make the world a better place. Every day you better not just yourself but you better others in your circle of influence.” Whether it be his children, colleagues or someone he meets in passing, Rodney uses every encounter to leave that person better off. “We need leaders,” he says. “Sometimes we get the sense that the world is in chaos because of a lack of leadership.”
Rodney Feris
Skill plus Impact equals Passion – Balancing the books of life with Rodney Feris
“I grew up in a family where we didn’t have everything, but we did have opportunities to further and improve ourselves. That dream of furthering myself, of improving myself – that was the passion that drove me towards accounting.” To fulfil this dream, Rodney began his tertiary studies at UNAM in 2001 with a Bachelor of Accounting, followed by Accounting Honours at the University of Natal in 2003. In 2005 he became a chartered accountant and in 2006 he got his MBA from Stellenbosch. All in five short years.
As senior techno economist for Namdeb, Rodney has a significant circle of influence. This job title simply means that he is a project accountant for Namdeb. “I look after the financial governance of the projects that Namdeb embarks on,” he says, “ensuring that each new project makes business sense and contributes to the Namibian economy at large.” Rodney has some advice for those wanting to live a life of success and contentment: “The one thing that always took me further is the ability to fail forward. Failure is part of success! Do not see failure in a negative lens but see failure as a stepping stone to success.”
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MYO is shining brighter than the Swakopmund lighthouse
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t is rare to come across an organisation that has an impact on its community as strong as Mondesa Youth Opportunities. MYO is a non-profit trust that offers intensive education intervention for students from underprivileged households who show ability and promise. Situated in the township of Mondesa in Swakopmund, MYO is a beacon of hope for students who would otherwise fall through the cracks of Namibia’s struggling public education system. It is 14:00 on a Tuesday as we enter the grounds of MYO. The children are neatly standing in their class rows, after starting the afternoon at MYO with a nutritious meal. A whole day at school can get long for these learners (they only leave at 17:00) and one can’t think properly on an empty stomach. For some of these students this is their biggest and sometimes only meal for the day.
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Anke Husemeyer “Welcome visitors,” they enthusiastically greet us in a chorus. After short announcements, they depart to their respective classes for a 30-minute homework period before lessons begin. MYO offers education subsidies to select Grade 4 - 8 students who show promise. Each class is grouped according to grade and made up of only 24 learners. MYO students receive extra training in maths, reading, English, life skills, computer science, music (recorder or marimba) and sports. This additional training is invaluable as the overcrowded classrooms of public schools are not conducive to proper learning. Anke Husemeyer, who has been managing the project since 2019, shows us around the grounds and tells us about MYO’s humble beginnings and what it has grown into.The MYO program was initiated by its founder, Robert Myres, with the aim of getting children off the streets. As a passionate tennis player, he came up with the idea of starting with tennis lessons. The program was conceptualised in 2003 and officially launched in 2004, coinciding with the start of the new school year. Further expansion led to the establishment of the MYO organisation in 2005.The organisation has grown considerably since then and it still offers sport and music programs, but its primary focus is on providing academic support to underprivileged students. (The MYO program provides a strong foundation over the course of five years to prepare students for high school. This foundation not only focuses on academic subjects but also on the development of the whole young person, including the teaching of life skills. “We want to ensure that our students have the confidence and values necessary to navigate life's challenges. By working in small groups and creating a familial environment, we are better able to achieve this goal. Our students have gone on to excel in their studies. All former MYO learners passed their AS levels last year, a remarkable accomplishment that fills us with pride,” Anke beams. Also remarkable about MYO is the fact that there is no cost for the student’s family, but attendance is mandatory. MYO maintains discipline in the classroom and encourages its learners to develop leadership skills in addition to academic excellence. They come from the various underprivileged schools from the surrounding townships. MYO selects the learners at the end of their grade 3 year on the criteria of English comprehension, reading and maths ability. Another criterion is that these learners' parents cannot afford to support the quality of schooling their children need. Each
Selma Sevanyenga and Maria Mushimba class goes on two field trips per year so that the joys and lessons of wider life outside of their immediate environments are experienced. An exceptional quality in the various classrooms is how energetic the students are. When a question is asked almost everyone raises a hand. It is self-evident that each student not only wants to be here but enjoys being a part of MYO. Due to the increasing study load at their respective high schools, learners leave MYO when they have completed grade 8. However, MYO encourages its alumni to remain in touch. It offers all MYO alumni free use of its library and dedicates computers for them to use for their homework and research. In addition, MYO has started a formal alumni program where former MYO students are invited once a month to participate in workshops conducted by a life skills coach. Within this program, guidance and mentoring on selfimprovement, increasing self-assurance and motivation, communication skills, career opportunities, study tips and future planning are provided. We asked two alumni what MYO meant to them. “MYO was like a home away from home and I didn’t want to leave. The classes helped so much to understand school work better as it was a recap of what we did in class. Now I can come back as an alumnus and use the computers to do my homework and research,” says Maria Mushimba. Selma Sevanyenga adds, “I would put MYO above school. It was such a great opportunity and valuable experience.” MYO is a non-profit, registered Namibian Trust that operates entirely on donations. Donations are used to fund salaries for the teachers and support staff, pay for utilities and facility upkeep, transport for students, their lunch, textbooks, workbooks, writing utensils, and more. MYO is a true testament to the power of education and the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities. Its commitment to providing quality education and leadership development to underprivileged students is inspiring. MYO's work is a reminder that with dedication, hard work and community support we can create a better future for ourselves and those around us. To support MYO visit mondesayouth.org or contact Anke Husemeyer at myo.trust.office@gmail.com.
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Advertorial
More than just a number Renovating the Katutura State Hospital Emergency Ward
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tandard Bank Namibia, in collaboration with the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund of Namibia (MVA Fund), has responded to a call for universal access to quality healthcare as a fundamental right to health for every Namibian. The two entities, with an aligned vision and shared values, identified the need for access to quality healthcare and embarked on a two-year journey to transform this vision into reality. On 1 November, Standard Bank and the MVA Fund unveiled their groundbreaking initiative, Project 9682 – “You are more than a number”, at the Katutura Hospital in Windhoek. The number 9682 references the MVA Fund’s emergency number.
equality and access to quality healthcare for all. The MVA Fund, as a responsible corporate citizen, places the wellbeing of stakeholders and communities at the forefront, driven by a vision to provide peace of mind to crash victims. Their commitment is evident in their ethos of lending a helping hand. Tjipuka went on to say: “We exist not only to foster our own success but to empower the growth of the Namibian people. It is our responsibility to invest in the community, because we understand that the success of our people is interconnected to the success of corporate Namibia. We are therefore committed to cultivating a country that stands for equality and access, where every human being, irrespective of their background and socio-economic status, is entitled to quality healthcare.”
This transformative project, testament to a unique publicprivate partnership, saw Standard Bank and the MVA Fund invest The inauguration of this healthcare N$12.6 million in renovating the facility marks not just an event but the Katutura State Hospital Emergency dawn of a new era – a commitment At Standard Bank, we Unit. The result is a facelift and to a better, more egalitarian future. It a complete overhaul, providing a symbolises the acknowledgement of believe that our purpose modern ambience complemented by quality healthcare as a fundamental goes far beyond banking. right, blurring the lines between state new furniture and state-of-the-art medical equipment. This particular private facilities. It is a significant Namibia is our home, we and emergency care unit is the busiest stride toward realising this right for in the country, attending to up to every member of the community. drive her growth. 200 patients daily. It signifies more than just a mission; it embodies a At the core of this project lies the promise and a pledge to the people of Namibia that their belief that every individual is more than just a number – they well-being matters, and their health is a fundamental right, are integral to a unique community with boundless potential. not a privilege. It is a call for unity, a collective effort to bring about lasting change. The renovated emergency unit stands as a testament The head of state, Dr Hage Geingob, and the minister of to the indispensable role of healthcare professionals, providing health, Dr Kalumbi Shangula, were amongst other notable them with a facility that matches their dedication. “I want to public figures who attended the event. The president emphasise that we are not just opening a healthcare facility commended the collaborative effort of Standard Bank and today; we are opening the doors to hope, to healing, and to a the MVA Fund, urging other corporate entities to follow community that stands united in the pursuit of an equal and their lead. compassionate society. We are in this together, and together we will grow and prosper,” Tjipuka said. Standard Bank Namibia’s commitment is not limited to banking only. “At Standard Bank, we believe that our purpose goes far beyond banking. Namibia is our home, we drive her growth,” said Standard Bank chief executive, Erwin Tjipuka. This echoes a dedication to empowering Namibians in the spirit of Harambee, envisioning a Namibia characterised by
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Happy Kids Kindergarten Nurturing bright futures in Goreangab's informal settlement
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n the heart of the Goreangab informal settlement in the Greater Windhoek area, a beacon of hope shines brightly. This beacon is known as Happy Kids Kindergarten, a haven for young minds thriving in a challenging environment. As I pushed open the creaking black gate and stepped inside, I was greeted by a heartwarming sight – little children, arranged in semi-circles in the yard, each group representing their respective classes. Excited voices filled the air as one group chanted, "Let's make a train, a beautiful train!" Educarer Paulina Antonio led her class, her eyes reflecting the dedication she has for these young learners. During the early years in a child’s life, the parenting and care they receive are pivotal for their holistic development, setting the stage for the rest of their lives. The human brain develops more rapidly from the ages of 0 - 5 than at any other time in
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life, and parents or primary caregivers are a child’s first and most important teachers. Parents play a vital role in shaping their child’s physical, cognitive, emotional and social growth. Sadly, many Namibian parents are under enormous strain and unable to provide the care and support their children need. Rapid urbanisation has led to the loss of community and extended family support, and parents are inundated with conflicting messages about parenting practices that often do not relate to their unique circumstances. Poverty, inequality, long workdays, inadequate childcare and a lack of meaningful support are among the many stressors that Namibian parents face. Furthermore, Namibia grapples with epidemic levels of violence across all sectors of society, including households, schools and communities, often resulting in harsh, cruel or neglectful parenting techniques.
In response to these pressing challenges, Development Workshop has heightened its focus on parenting with the Play for All Early Childhood Development (ECD) program. They collaborate with community leaders, parents and ECD teachers to actively promote and support nurturing care and responsive caregiving, with the ultimate goal of creating secure and affectionate environments for children. Happy Kids Kindergarten is more than just a daycare centre: it is a lifeline for the children and their families in this underserved community. In Namibia, most Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres are privately owned and often unregistered. The resulting lack of oversight can affect the quality of education provided to the children, as many educarers lack formal training. Paulina Antonio, however, stands as a shining example of what trained educarers can achieve. "Being a trained educarer means I can better help my learners and ensure that I provide them with a quality early education," she says. Paulina is one of over 800 participants who were trained by Development Workshop Namibia since the inception of the educarer training program.
settlements, where families face daily challenges that many of us cannot imagine. However, amidst these challenges, a ray of hope shines through Development Workshop Namibia's Play for All ECD program. This initiative supports ECD centres in informal settlements to improve the quality of early learning and care, which benefits the children as well as the teachers. The program encompasses free training for educarers, the development and distribution of Namibian teaching and learning materials, improvements to the centres through the construction of better classrooms, providing toilets, shade and play areas, and offering assistance and information to parents on how to stimulate child development while also looking after their own well-being.
Happy Kids Kindergarten is more than just a daycare centre: it is a lifeline for the children and their families in this underserved community.
As I observed the bustling activity at the kindergarten, it became evident that the challenges faced here are not just about education. Like countless structures in informal settlements across the country, Happy Kids Kindergarten is constructed from corrugated iron due to the stark reality of a lack of tenure rights. "We are not allowed to build permanent brick structures because one day the local authorities might have to move us," explains Lufina Kamoso, the owner of Happy Kids Kindergarten. Physical structures remain a distant dream in these difficult living conditions. Basic amenities such as electricity and running water are a luxury in the Goreangab settlement, and the kindergarten is no exception. While they are fortunate to have access to water, it is far from a seamless service. Educarers are forced to leave the premises during school hours to fetch water for washing hands and cleaning the toilets. The struggle for essentials is a common theme in informal
The program has already made a significant impact since its inception in late 2019: currently it supports 282 ECD centres across five of Namibia’s administrative regions. It has reached 10,092 children, offering them a brighter start in life, and has trained over 680 teachers.
Happy Kids Kindergarten, though humble in its structure, stands tall as a symbol of resilience and unwavering commitment to the children of Goreangab. As the little ones gather in semi-circles, chanting and laughing, they are not just forming trains but forging their paths towards a brighter future, one step at a time. In the face of adversity, these young learners are nurtured and prepared to overcome obstacles, knowing that education is their ticket to a better tomorrow. Frieda Kakololo For more information about the work carried out by Development Workshop Namibia, explore our website: www.dw-namibia.org/ecd.php.
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STRONGER TOGETHER The Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) and AviaDev hosted a collaborative local networking reception for local stakeholders on Tuesday, 7 November at the Mercure Hotel, Windhoek. The event was designed to foster connections and ignite enthusiasm for the AHIF and AviaDev forthcoming conferences, to be held in June 2024 in Windhoek, offering an exceptional opportunity for Namibian businesses, government officials, and industry professionals to explore the vast possibilities within the hospitality and aviation sectors. For more information, please visit www.ahif.com and www.aviadev.com Find us at
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and www.airports.com.na
Omake Moment with the Namibia Trade Network
The Brief and Cirrus Capital host Namibia Top Company Awards
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n a dazzling display of business acumen and corporate achievement, Namibia's capital, Windhoek, witnessed the launch of the inaugural Namibia Top Company Awards on October 13, 2023. This momentous occasion, a collaborative effort between The Brief, Namibia's leading business publication, and Cirrus Capital, a major player in local financial services, brought together the creme de la creme of the Namibian corporate world. The event, held under the patronage of Deputy Minister Emma Theofelus from the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology, marked a pivotal moment in recognising and celebrating the outstanding contributions of Namibian companies across various sectors. It was an evening where excellence and innovation were in the spotlight, with companies vying for the top honors in nine competitive categories. The awards ceremony was supported by a consortium of high-profile sponsors, including B2Gold, Nedbank Namibia, Namport, Old Mutual Namibia, and Basecamp. These sponsors' involvement underscored their commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in the Namibian business landscape. Judged by an independent panel through a rigorous, unbiased process, the awards focused on criteria like financial performance, innovation, and impact on the Namibian economy. The winners emerged in various categories, ranging from Best Locally Listed Company to Best Start-Up, with each victor exemplifying the pinnacle of success in their respective fields. And the winners are… Best Locally Listed Company: Letshego Holdings FNB Namibia Capricorn Group Best Local Bank: FNB Namibia Bank Windhoek Standard Bank Namibia Best Deal (M&A / Corporate Finance): JABU - USD15 million in series A funding Savanna Beef - NAD169 million equity raised through private placement in 2022 Paratus Namibia – Deal size = NAD130 million through NSX listed medium-term note program
Best Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG): FirstRand Namibia Bank Windhoek and Erongo Marine Best Cash Asset Manager: M&G Namibian Money Market Fund Old Mutual Namibia Money Market Fund Standard Bank Namibia Money Market Fund Best Overall Asset Manager: Sanlam Investment Management General Equity Fund Hangala Capital Absolute Balanced Fund NAM Coronation Balanced Plus Fund Best Balanced Asset Manager: Hangala Capital Absolute Balance Fund NAM Coronation Balanced Plus Fund M&G Namibian Balanced Fund Best Incubation Manager: Mumi Investments Sisedi Investments Best Start-Up: Sigmotec – Innovative signal monitoring technology for farmers GreenTeam Consultants – Revolutionising well water extraction and treatment Lynkwise – Cutting-edge payroll deduction management platform The Namibia Top Company Awards are more than just an annual event; they represent a celebration of the relentless spirit of excellence and innovation within Namibia's corporate community. This inaugural event has set a high benchmark, promising to become an annual tradition that highlights the best in Namibia's business sector. The Brief and Cirrus Capital, in a joint statement, expressed their elation at hosting the event, congratulating all the winners and nominees. They emphasized the event's significance in showcasing Namibia's business landscape's excellence and innovation, eagerly anticipating next year's ceremony, which promises to be an even grander celebration of success and innovation.
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Charting Sustainable Futures The 2023/24 Namibia Trade Network launch and the inaugural Business Breakfast Club
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aptains of industry, partners, clients and industry friends from across Namibia’s diverse economy joined together to launch the 2023/24 Namibia Trade Network publication. Committed to fostering local and foreign trade and investment, this volume focused on the theme of sustainable growth in Namibia. The Namibia Trade Network was initiated shortly after Namibia’s independence and has the Namibian Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade as its custodian. Speaking at the launch, Daleen Small, manager of the Namibia Trade Network, noted that the global community is increasingly recognising the imperative of environmentally conscious practices and responsible economic development, adding that Namibia is well-positioned to align with this. “Within the pages of this edition of the Namibia Trade Network, we aim to explore the critical importance of sustainable growth and its transformative potential for the future of our nation.” In addition to the launch of the 2023/24 Namibia Trade Network, the event marked the inauguration of the Namibia Trade Network’s Business Breakfast Club (BBC). In launching the BBC, managing director of Venture Media, Elzanne McCulloch, noted that the Namibia Trade Network, with its strong and vested history of more than three decades, has created a network of individuals connected through a shared purpose of promoting and growing Namibian business and enterprise. “The Business Breakfast Club hopes to elevate this purpose.” To mark the launch of the BBC, which will be a platform for insightful networking events, presentations and conversations, a panel discussion under the theme of sustainable growth was hosted by moderator Kirsty Watermeyer during the morning’s line up. The panel included insights from Nangula Shejavali, manager for policy reform and partnerships at the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board, along with Conrad Dempsey, chief executive officer at FirstRand Namibia Group, as well as Lisa Figaji, section head at City of Windhoek. What followed was insightful conversations that focused on the vital importance of environmentally conscious practices and responsible economic development in Namibia’s trade and investment sectors.
The Business Breakfast Club Namibia is an exclusive membership-based event series designed for professionals and business leaders who are looking to expand their networks and gain valuable insights into various Namibian industries. With a focus on fostering meaningful connections and promoting knowledge sharing, the Business Breakfast Club offers a platform for members to engage with like-minded individuals and stay in touch with the latest trends and developments in a wide array of fields. Each event features industry talks from experts and thought leaders, providing members with unique opportunities to learn from some of the most successful and innovative minds in business. Whether you are an entrepreneur, executive, or simply looking to connect with other professionals, the Business Breakfast Club Namibia offers an unparalleled opportunity to expand your network and deepen your knowledge of trade and industry. The successful event not only fostered meaningful conversations but also enhanced the collective understanding of the participants, underscoring Namibia’s potential in the realm of sustainable growth and its offerings in business and services. The Namibia Trade Network and the Namibia Trade Network’s Business Breakfast Club are initiatives of Venture Media, a 100% Namibian publishing house with expertise in content creation, creative concept development, publishing, social media management and video production. Focusing on the pillars of tourism, conservation and industry promotion, Venture Media’s three decades of expertise position them as an industry leader in the distribution of accurate, credible, up-to-date and regular information in print, film and on social media. Visit The Business Breakfast Club: www.bbcnam.com Kirsty Watermeyer Visit the website to read the latest edition of Namibia Trade Network: www.issuu.com/travelnewsnamibia/docs/ namibia_trade_network_2023_24?fr=xKAE9_zU1NQ
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The Business Breakfast Club Namibia is an exclusive networking series by the Namibia Trade Network. The Business Breakfast and Club business Namibia is an exclusivewe foster Uniting professionals leaders, networking series by the Namibia Trade Network. connections and share insights into diverse Namibian Uniting professionals and business leaders, we foster industries, all and while staying onNamibian the latest trends connections share insightsupdated into diverse andindustries, innovations. all while staying updated on the latest trends and innovations.
For more information, contact: daleen@venture.com.na FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023 For more information, contact: daleen@venture.com.na
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A monthly wrap-up of News Worth Knowing NAMIBIA’S HORTICULTURE EXPORTS HIT N$1.8 BILLION
NAMIBIA CATTLE SLAUGHTERS INCREASE 111.3% IN Q3
Namibia’s horticulture exports have doubled in the last seven years having exported products worth N$1.77 billion for the 2022/23 financial year, a significant increase from N$674 million in 2016/17, official data reveals
Namibia recorded a 111.3% increase in the number of cattle slaughtered at export abattoirs during the third quarter of 2023 to 34,398 compared to 16,281 cattle slaughtered in the prior period, official data shows.
According to the Namibian Agronomic Board (NAB), horticulture exports amounted to 86.2 tonnes for the 2022/23 financial year compared to 41.4 tonnes in 2016, representing a prospective growth of the sector.
Data from the Meat Board shows that, during the quarter, a total of 91,154 cattle were marketed, an increase of 52.03% from 59,957 cattle marketed during the same period in 2022.
“We are therefore calling for more investors to join the developing sector, so that we can also produce enough for local consumption, especially citrus fruits. Currently, what we produce is mainly for export, which includes table grapes, dates, blueberries, tomatoes, butternuts and green peppers,” NAB Chief Executive Officer Fidelis Mwazi said.
The Meat Board Chief Executive Officer Paul Strydom said the growth in marketing was mainly driven by increased slaughtering activities at export-approved abattoirs as well as an improvement in live exports.
In addition, Mwazi said the majority of these products are high-value crops produced from the South of the country. GOVT URGES STRICT COMPLIANCE TO FUEL LICENCE REGULATIONS The Ministry of Mines and Energy has urged for the strict adherence to the regulations for wholesale and retail fuel licences amidst a rise in the illegal sale of these licences. This comes as the government department has observed a spike in wholesale and retail fuel licence sales and marketing of fuel at non-officially gazetted prices from unlicensed locations, a development which the Ministry of Mines and Energy has warned is illegal. “This regulatory oversight is governed by the Petroleum Products and Energy Act of 1990, the Petroleum Products and Energy Amendment Act of 2000, and the Petroleum Products Regulations of 2000,” Ministry of Mines and Energy Acting Executive Director Bryan Eiseb said. Eiseb clarified that, “selling fuel (petrol and diesel) from an unlicensed outlet or without the requisite licence is strictly prohibited.”
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“The ratio between live exports and slaughtering of all cattle at A-, B- & C-class abattoirs improved by 37.7%. Meanwhile, live export market shares declined and averaged 56.7%. This is a drop of 2.9% in total marketing,” he said in the board’s sector report. NAMIBIA, BOTSWANA TO SLASH ROAMING FEES IN 2024 Namibia and Botswana have agreed to slash roaming charges between the countries by April next year. This comes as the communications Ministers of both countries met in August and decided to expedite the alignment of roaming fees throughout the SADC Region. The initiative aims to streamline the establishment of the single digital market, aligning with the objectives of the CostBased Roaming Project. Minister Segokgo also explained that before the initial implementation, the joint committee created between the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) and the Botswana Communications Authority (BOCRA) is tasked with data collection and analysis as well as drafting a report with the new proposed roaming rates which is expected to be completed by December 2023.
“The report will be shared with the operators and stakeholders at a workshop in January 2024 for further input. Operators to start preliminary negotiations based on the direction provided in the draft report through January 2024,” Segokgo explained. According to Namibia’s ICT Minister Peya Mushelenga, the committee has agreed to adopt a benchmark approach similar to the one used in East Africa where roaming rates were used to determine what would constitute reasonable rates.
going to seek that 2% in South Africa, draining liquidity out of our system.” This scenario, he pointed out, challenges the ability to independently set monetary policy and poses a risk of capital flight. To counter this, the BoN has chosen to keep Namibian interest rates closely aligned with South African rates.
The committee has informed operators of the impending change and has started with the data collection exercise, operators have until November 2023 to submit their data.
!Gawaxab said this approach reflects the BoN’s commitment to balancing economic stability with the well-being of Namibian citizens.
BON MAINTAINS TIGHTROPE WITH SOUTH AFRICA TO CAP CAPITAL OUTFLOWS
GEINGOB SCOOPS GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AWARD
The Bank of Namibia (BoN) has emphasised the importance of maintaining equilibrium with South African interest rates to curb capital outflow from individuals seeking higher returns in the neighbouring country. The central bank Governor Johannes !Gawaxab emphasised the delicate balance the BoN is maintaining to prevent a capital exodus seeking more lucrative opportunities across the border. “When we became independent, we decided to fix the Namibia dollar on par with the South African rand,” !Gawaxab said on Wednesday when he appeared in Parliament, underlining a crucial decision made in the country’s early years. He said the fixed exchange rate, however, triggers what economists refer to as the “impossible trinity” or the “Holy Trinity”, a concept suggesting that fixing a currency to another country’s while allowing a free flow of capital between them undermines an independent monetary policy. “If our interest rates in Namibia are 2% lower than South Africa,” !Gawaxab explained, “you get an arbitrage opportunity between the two countries. Many people are
President Hage Geingob has won the African Presidential “Green Infrastructure Investment Statesman” of the Year Award at The African NDC Presidential Investment Statesman of the Year Awards 2023. The award will be presented at the COP28 Africa Investment Earthshot Leaders Summit and NDC Investment Awards in the UAE. The NDC Investment Awards, organised by Africa Investor and sponsored by the Africa Green Infrastructure Investment Bank, were launched at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kigali in June 2022. The inaugural awards were presented in November 2022 at COP27. The purpose of the NDC Investment Awards is to recognise achievements across the main NDC sectors and reward the governments, institutions, and individuals driving transactions to improve the investment readiness of Africa’s NDC projects, requiring US$3 trillion of investment by 2030. Geingob has also been invited to speak at the COP28 Africa Investment Earthshot Leaders Summit.
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30 never looked this good Travel News Namibia magazine celebrates 30 years of sharing Namibian stories with the world
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T
he smell of rain is in the air as I sit in my office in Windhoek and work through the Summer issue of Travel News Namibia. It’s been a wild ride of a year, the first in which we feel we have found steady footing and returned to a true sense of ‘normal’. The team has been out in the field at least once a month during 2023. Discovering interesting places, meeting new people and finding stories that matter. It has been a year of many celebrations, the most significant of which is certainly the 30-year anniversary Venture Media's Travel News Namibia publication. At a joyful event at Droombos on 1 November, we celebrated 30 years of the magazine in style! A remarkable occasion made all the more special because we could share it with our friends and partners in the tourism industry. We would like to thank Hollard Namibia for their generous contribution to this special event, and Droombos for hosting us. We would also like to thank our tourism partners who participated in this special evening. Partners who have supported us and continue to support our goals of sharing Namibian stories across the world. Ongava, Ondili, Journeys, Namibia Wildlife Resorts, Africa on Wheels, FlyNamibia, Wilderness and CYMOT, along with all our other advertisers. Your support and the impact you have on tourism in Namibia is invaluable. For the last three decades, Venture Publications, now Venture Media, has been at the forefront of sharing credible, upto-date, informative and inspiring Namibian travel and tourism stories and news with the world. What started as a thin leaflet that was posted to countries across the globe, is today the multimedia content and storytelling platform we all know and love.
destination niche market have enjoyed the success and longevity which Travel News Namibia celebrates this year. With Rièth van Schalkwyk at the helm for almost as long as Travel News has existed, this beautiful publication has shared Namibia’s story with the world. Rièth built a legacy, a powerful tool that can celebrate success, showcase beauty and advocate change. She has placed it in our care and we are honoured and humbled. In the summer issue, the last of our 30th celebratory year, we explore a diverse selection of wonderfully and uniquely Namibian destinations. Le Roux goes on a hike in elephant country and Kirsty meets a host of interesting people in Swakopmund, our coastal gem. Hilda Basson Namundjebo takes us with her on a journey into the Fish River Canyon and Pompie entertains and delights with the world’s ugliest bird. Follow our team as they rediscover Khaudum and the Nyae Nyae with Charene’s epic tale of wild adventures into Namibia’s last true wilderness. Along the way we hope you are informed, inspired and fall in love with Namibia. We will continue to dedicate the pages of Travel News Namibia to this purpose. Here's to another 30 years of inspiring conscious travel, one Namibian story at a time. With love from Namibia.
Elzanne McCulloch
Visit the website to read our Travel News Namibia publication: www.travelnewsnamibia.com
Paul van Schalkwyk started Travel News Namibia as a platform for the tourism industry to share their brands and products with the world. Few other publications with a single-
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Economic Pulse
E
The Year in Review
ntering 2023, Namibia’s economic landscape was characterised by cautiously optimistic projections, underpinned by strong commodity performance, a surge in government spending, the expected validation of prior oil discoveries and the emerging interest in green hydrogen initiatives. However, as the year unfolded, the optimism was somewhat offset by the reality of an economy still grappling with growth pains, reflecting a dichotomy between the promise of new industries and the challenges of an economy still struggling to shake off the vestiges of seven years of little to no growth. The year commenced on a high note, buoyed by the prospects of oil exploration off the shore of Namibia, with initial drilling in 2022 suggesting a significant hydrocarbon presence. This discovery positioned the economy on the brink of a possible oil boom, promising a future influx of foreign investment and a surge in job creation. Similarly, the green hydrogen hype sparked visions of a clean energy revolution, projecting Namibia as a potentially significant global player in renewable energy. Underpinning this optimism for future prospects has been strong tangible performances by the mining sector, government as well as tourism this year. Despite the positive early outlook, economic indicators paint a more complex picture. Real GDP is projected to grow at a respectable rate of 3.4%, albeit a slowdown from the 7.6% growth rate in 2022. However, it should be noted that the growth witnessed in 2022 was off a very low base and brought real GDP only slightly above the 2015 and 2018 peaks. Given this context, growth of 3.4% for 2023 would be, as previously noted, respectable while somewhat below longterm trends prior to 2015. Other economic indicators point to the continuation of disparate growth in Namibia with the consumer and much of the non-mining private sector lacking overall growth. Private sector credit extension remains sluggish with credit extension to corporates contracting by 2.1% year-on-year in September (latest data at time of publication). Credit extended to individuals grew by 4.3%, which is well below inflation, and driven largely by instalment (short-term) credit. Thus, on average, households and businesses are still deleveraging in real terms, and what little growth there is in household credit uptake is very much confined to short-term credit which is likely filling cost-of-living gaps. Building plan approvals and completions for Windhoek paint a similar picture, with the 2023 year-to-date value of building plans approved (as at the end of September) lagging each of the last ten years. New vehicle sales however do point to an uptick in activity versus the last few years, both in passenger and commercial segments. This is partially attributable to tourism and transport
companies reinvesting in fleets after sweating or reducing vehicle inventories during the pandemic. Inflation moderated much during the year which brought on a corresponding slowdown in interest rate hikes. Annual inflation ticked up to 6.0% in October after bottoming out at 4.5% in July. It is likely that Namibia is near the top of the current interest rate hiking cycle despite maintaining a repo rate below that of South Africa’s, which does increase upside risks. While inflation has been conducive to a slowdown in interest rate hikes, it does not change the fact that interest rates have acted as a drag on economic growth at levels last seen in 2009. Primary industries, especially mining, continued to buoy economic growth in 2023. This year has seen uranium driving growth due to a rebound in U3O8 spot and contract prices. Price increases have in turn driven renewed optimism in the sector and as a result the Langer Heinrich Mine is set to reopen and the construction of a new mine by Deep Yellow scheduled to start in 2025. Tertiary industries have been playing a supporting role with wholesale and retail trade showing strong growth off an elevated base, tourism continuing to normalise to pre-pandemic levels and the transport sector posting expansion. Headwinds remain in the agriculture and fishing industries, as well as in manufacturing. Government revenues have been a further silver lining with revenue collection for the year surpassing economist expectations by some margin. This has allowed the government to relax its fiscal consolidation stance from prior years and play a supportive role in the economy. At the same time the reduced budget deficit for the current year has resulted in government borrowing costs decreasing in both relative and absolute terms despite interest rates having increased considerably over the last 24 months. The silver linings to the outlook have however become more tangible for a return to long-term growth. The extraction of oil – still a probability rather than a certainty – could usher in a period of prosperity rarely seen in any country, and result in a permanent improvement to the livelihoods of Namibians if managed properly. Government revenues have improved significantly in 2023 and seem likely to grow at a reasonable pace from these levels going forward, enabling the government to reembark on some of the development goals that received less focus under fiscal consolidation. Furthermore, the global demand for commodities is expected to underpin Namibia’s mining industry in the long term. Thus, while the next year or two might still see inconsistent performance between sectors, the longer-term outlook is decidedly more optimistic.
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DID YOU KNOW?
This month in history:
Celebrate, observe and take part!
01 December 1995
10 December 1953
22 December 1895
US African-American community activist Rosa Parks refuses to give up her seat in a bus to a white man and is arrested for defying segregation laws – a milestone in the civil rights movement.
Hugh Hefner publishes the first issue of Playboy magazine. It had no date because he doubted that there would be a second edition. Spring 2020 saw the last printed issue, ending 66 years of the erotic magazine on paper.
Physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen takes the first x-ray of his wife’s hand. This achievement earned him the inaugural Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901.
17 December 1849 London hatmakers Thomas and William Bowler sell their first bowler hat. At first the bowler was commonly worn by working-class men in Britain. However, in the early 20th century, this headpiece became a feature of the “city gent”.
03 December 1967 South African surgeon Christiaan Barnard performs the first successful heart transplant at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town.
10 December Human Rights Day / International Women’s Day – a public holiday in Namibia
25 December
23 December 1888
Christmas Day
Following a quarrel with French Post-Impressionist Paul Gauguin, Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh cuts off part of his own ear. A year later he created his career-defining Self-Portrait With a Bandaged Ear.
26 December Family Day / Boxing Day
FUN FACTS ABOUT DECEMBER: December was the 10th month in the ancient Roman calendar, which was in use from around 750 BC until 45 BC.
Zodiac signs for December are either Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December) or Capricorn (22 December 20 January).
December’s birthstone is turquoise, considered a symbol of good fortune and success.
Sagittarians are perceived to be spontaneous and fun, while Capricorns are believed to be career-orientated and to value truthfulness and wisdom.
HARD 1 9 5 3 8 2 7 6 4
6 3 7 4 1 9 5 2 8
8 2 4 7 6 5 9 1 3
9 4 6 1 2 3 8 7 5
3 1 8 6 5 7 2 4 9
7 5 2 8 9 4 1 3 6
2 6 1 5 3 8 4 9 7
5 7 9 2 4 6 3 8 1
4 8 3 9 7 1 6 5 2
EASY
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2 4 1 3 9 6 7 8 5
9
6 8 3 7 1 5 9 2 4
1 3 4 5 7
9 7 5 2 8 4 1 3 6
3 6 2 5 4
8 6 2 5 3 1 4 7 9
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8 5 3 1 3 1
4 1 7 9 6 8 3 5 2
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3 1 9 7 4 6
5 3 9 4 2 7 8 6 1
3 8
4
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7 9 8 6 4 2 5 1 3
3
5 4 1 5 7 2 1 9 5 2 3 7 1 8 4 7 4 3 8
HARD
3 5 6 1 7 9 2 4 8
EASY
1 2 4 8 5 3 6 9 7
SUDUKO
The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.
FLYNAMIBIA DECEMBER 2023
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Love Namibia
KAZA'S ELEPHANT EXTRAVAGANZA | A herd of elephants gather at Horseshoe Bend in Bwabwata National Park in Namibia’s Zambezi Region. A recent survey estimated the elephant population for the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA) to be a staggering 227,900.
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KINGJAMESJHB 212461
