Much of the research in physical oceanography in the next two decades will be in connection with the World Climate Research Programme. One of the emphases in this programme has been the period from a month to a few decades, in which the dynamics of the ocean are particularly important. Namibia has one of the...
Prior to the 19th century, the rules of war were temporary and informal, changing with each battle. No international rules existed. In 1864, 12 nations signed the first Geneva Convention, which guaranteed neutrality to medical personnel who would be identified by the special emblem of a Red Cross on a white background. They protected civilians,...
Namibia is at a crucial turning point, faced with high youth unemployment, entrenched corruption and the need for sustainable development. It must unite the wisdom of experienced leaders with the innovation of its youth. This is not just about policy reform. It isabout creating a governance model that adapts to the needs of all its...
In April this year, I wrote an article bemoaning the speed at which we seem to be lowering standards and embracing mediocrity in public institutions. That article, titled ‘Developmental State, Meritocracy and Minimum Requirements’ had these important lines: “Our country has subordinated meritocracy in preference of irrational and irrelevant considerations. Ordinary Namibians are aware that...
In an era where borders seem more porous than ever and criminal networks weave seamlessly across continents, the battle against transnational crime is no longer confined to traditional law-enforcement approaches. A new frontier has emerged—one that transcends territorial limitations and embraces a more sophisticated, collaborative effort: police diplomacy. Without this pivotal tool, no nation can...
Writing legibly has never been one of my strongest points. I have often wondered whether exasperated examiners passed me at school and university on the assumption that one so lacking in handwriting skills must obviously have used his time to soak up the more important facts of the subject matter being examined. Letters to family...
Pension funds require the responsible management and safeguarding of members’ retirement savings to provide peace of mind. This is achieved through robust and transparent communication to create awareness and provide knowledge on the importance of saving for retirement. Pension savings can provide a certain degree of financial security, independence and stability upon retirement, disability, ill-health...
I recently visited a neighbouring country where I was subjected to intensive scrutiny through the immigration formalities. After submitting my authorised new identity card to the immigration officer, I was grilled despite having the relevant document. Despite that scrutiny, I commended the immigration officer for carrying out her official duties in a firm but professional...
As Namibia moves closer to its November elections, we will soon witness the ushering in of the first female president. Consequently, General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah, the former chief of the Namibian Defence Force and a veteran of the liberation struggle, will assume the role of first gentleman. With his wife, Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, poised to...
Over a month ago, on 6 August, Ukraine launched a major incursion into the Russian border region of Kursk. Despite initial advances, this offensive was doomed to fail. Indeed, there was something of a kamikaze attack about it, as some observers, this one included, pointed out at the time. Fielding brigades of its most experienced...