The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) strives for the operationalisation of the Universal Service Fund (USF). The USF in Namibia is a funding mechanism designed to expand communication services to underserved areas and populations. The mechanism is financed primarily through contributions from mobile network operators and telecommunications companies. The fund ensures contributions benefit citizens and...
Business
Namibia maintains corruption ranking …as Sub-Saharan Africa scores worst out of all global regions
Namibia has for the fourth consecutive year maintained a score of 49 out of 100 on the Transparency International’s (TI’s) Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). This index is the leading global indicator of public sector corruption, providing an annual comparative snapshot of 180 countries and territories. The consistent score for Namibia has kept the country at...
Namibia’s trade deficit improves
Rudolf Gaiseb The Namibia International Merchandise Trade Statistics bulletin issued by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) reveals that in December 2024, the country’s trade balance, that is the difference between exports and imports during a specific period, stood at a deficit of N$119 million. This is a significant improvement from the deficit of N$5.5 billion...
Namfisa unveils new corporate website
The Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority (Namfisa) recently unveiled its newly- redesigned, modern and user-friendly website. This development represents a crucial advancement in Namfisa’s dedication to improving operational efficiency, fostering transparency and enhancing engagement with stakeholders in Namibia’s financial sector. Speaking at the launch event, company CEO Kenneth Matomola emphasised the transformative nature of the...
Annual inflation at 3.2% in January
The annual domestic inflation for January 2025 stood at 3.2%, the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) revealed last week. In its consumer price index report, the NSA stated that inflation was lower than the 5.4% registered in January 2024. The statistician general, Alex Shimuafeni, said the monthly inflation rate was 1.1%, higher than the 0.2% registered...
Cran makes financial turnaround … significant surplus driven by spectrum revenue
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) has announced a substantial financial turnaround, reporting a total comprehensive surplus of N$32.8 million for the fiscal year. This is a 293% increase compared to the previous year’s N$17 million loss. This growth is largely attributed to increased spectrum revenue from a successful spectrum auction, and a positive...
Namibia leads Africa in biogas renewable energy … billion-dollar project launched in Maltahöhe
MALTAHÖHE – Namibia is poised to become the first African nation to harness renewable energy from the cactus plant, thanks to a pioneering Nopal Carbon Farming project launched in Maltahöhe last week. This project marks a step forward in converting arid lands into productive bioenergy sites. The project, located on farm Namseb in partnership with...
Nujoma architect of business growth
The passing of Sam Nujoma, Namibia’s founding president, has sent ripples through the business community. As a pivotal figure in the country’s struggle for independence from apartheid South Africa, Nujoma laid the groundwork for a stable and inclusive economic environment. Many stated that his leadership was crucial in fostering national reconciliation and economic stability after...
Opinion – National minimum wage, a catalyst for economic growth, community upliftment
The introduction of a national minimum wage in Namibia is a landmark in the country’s economic and social journey. While its implementation poses challenges for businesses in the short-term, the long-term benefits for the economy, communities, and social equity far outweigh these initial hurdles. This policy is not merely a mandate, but a strategic investment...
Windhoek’s hardships through vendors’ lenses
Kavetja Ngaizuvare Street vendors are an important part of urban life, providing affordable food and goods to the public, at their convenience. However, despite their crucial role, their daily lives are filled with challenges, as they work hard to make a living. This week, New Era spoke to a few vendors to hear challenges from...









