Józef Sikela (JS), the European Union (EU) commissioner for international partnerships has been in Namibia for the past three days, familiarising himself with the country and cementing the role that the EU plays in Namibia. New Era’s Paheja Siririka (PS) had an elaborate discussion with Sikela, looking at specific priorities of his visit, a thorough...
On The Spot
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta -Mariental through the mayor’s lens
Mariental, the capital of the Hardap region, is often referred to as the “heartbeat” of Namibia’s south-central corridor. However, behind its lively community and strategic position, the town faces multiple issues, including rapid urbanisation, housing shortages, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure. Since assuming office, Mayor Cherien Kock has led efforts to make Mariental a model of...
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta – Nhuleipo on restoring Namibia’s clean image
Namibia is facing rising pollution, urbanisation pressures, and a decline in its reputation as Africa’s cleanest country. To grasp the country’s environmental vision, objectives, and challenges, New Era journalist Lahja Nashuuta (LN) engaged Olimpio Nhuleipo (ON), Deputy Director of Environmental Affairs and Forestry and Head of the National Clean-Up Campaign. LN: The National Clean-Up Campaign...
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta – Kunene in transformation gear
Kunene’s newly appointed regional governor, Vipuakuje Muharukua (VM), has revealed an ambitious plan to make the region Namibia’s richest. In this exclusive interview with New Era journalist Lahja Nashuuta (LN), Muharukua shares his strategies for youth employment, agriculture, mining and infrastructure development. LN: When you assumed office, one of your first actions was to hold...
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta – Omusati governor promises to deliver
During his inaugural address to the Omusati Regional Council, governor Immanuel Shikongo (IS) laid out bold plans to enhance infrastructure, agriculture, youth development and service delivery. In this conversation with New Era journalist Lahja Nashuuta (LN), Shikongo shares his vision, accomplishments and the challenges the region is facing. LN: Governor, congratulations on your appointment as...
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta – The jewel of the east is a promise – Ueitele
Lahja Nashuuta Gobabis, fondly referred to as ‘the jewel of the east’, has been steadily transforming itself into a thriving economic and social hub in eastern Namibia. The municipality has anchored its vision on four pillars: infrastructure development, environmental and social upliftment, tourism promotion and stimulating local economic growth. Strategically located along the Trans-Kalahari Highway...
On the spot with Otniel Hembapu – Nganate reflects on legacy, reappointment and politics
New Era (OH) Senior journalist Otniel Hembapu recently sat down with Omaheke governor Pijoo Nganate (PN), who spoke about his reappointment, reflected on his last term as regional head, and also unpacked a range of issues currently facing the region, including the fight against malnutrition, youth unemployment and alleged corruption and tribal infights. OH: You...
On the spot with Lahja Nashuuta – Nekundi’s bold vision
Lahja Nashuuta The Ministry of Works and Transport has unveiled an ambitious action plan to accelerate infrastructure development, enhance service delivery and address long-standing logistical and asset management challenges across Namibia. In an interview with New Era journalist Lahja Nashuuta (LN), Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi (VN) outlined a roadmap that includes reviving...
On the spot with Paheja Siririka – Namibia, South Africa bond tied to 150 agreements
Namibia and South Africa share warm relations that are deeply rooted in the joint struggle against colonialism and apartheid. Namibia’s stability and strong economic ties make it a natural strategic partner for South Africa. The two countries enjoy excellent and expanding bilateral cooperation across all levels, evidenced by the signing of over 150 agreements and...
On the spot with Edward Mumbuu – Pension paradox: Unpacking retirement with Vincent Shimutwikeni
“Retirement is not the end of the road. It is the beginning of the open highway.” These words rang true as New Era’s Edward Mumbuu (EM) sat down with lawyer and pension industry expert Vincent Shimutwikeni (VS) for a conversation. Our discussion offered a panoramic view of Namibia’s retirement and pension landscape. The sector not...









