Namibia, a nation grappling with a critical situation due to poverty, income inequality and unemployment, faces a daunting triple threat that will further decay its human capital. According to the World Bank, Namibia has a 64% poverty rate, with over 1.5 million people or 50% of the population suffering from hunger. This highlights that most...
Opinions
Opinion – Embracing the digital future The crucial role of digital literacy in Namibia
Hilya Mhani In today’s interconnected world, digital literacy is a fundamental skill required in all areas of life. As an Authority, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia recognises the transformative power of digital literacy. It extends beyond basic technology use to include critical navigation, evaluation and creation of information on digital platforms. Digital literacy encompasses...
Opinion – Understanding China’s Belt and Road Initiative and AU’s Agenda 2063: Part 1
A lot of positive and negative things have been said about the presence of Chinese inthis country, and in other African countries. It is true that Chinese nationals are ubiquitous in Africa, almost in all sectors of the economy. Many localpeople do not always understand the reasons of the presence of the Chinese nationals in...
Opinion – Regulate electricity price
Jesaya Clemente Nande Mukwambi In 2024, the Electricity Control Board (ECB) announced a significant hike in electricity tariffs by 8%, leaving consumers feeling the pinch of rising costs. This move has sparked widespread debate and concern among members of the public, with many questioning the rationale behind such a substantial increase. Considering these developments, it...
Opinion – Youth, make Namibia great
Alfeus Lungameni Hamundj It is just a matter of time before Namibian youth make Namibia Africa’s leading and the epicentre of African reconstruction and development. It will not be done in the blink of an eye, but it can be done. We are going in the right direction. This is evident in many reports that...
Opinion – Oil tsunami or curse
Salom Shilongo A tsunami is a long, high wave caused by an earthquake. Since a large oil deposit has been discovered off the shores of Namibia, the term ‘oil tsunami’ is simply being used here as another term for the ‘oil curse’. Namibia has discovered a large reserve of oil. It seems everybody is very...
Opinion – Who is the ideal candidate in 2024 elections?
Linus Chata The beauty of a democratic system of governance is that at predictable intervals in the country, citizens have an opportunity to make the shortest but very powerful statement (X on the ballot paper). This opportunity is seized by citizens through the process of elections. It is through an electoral vote that citizens express...
Opinion – The generational curse of political migration in Namibia
The culture of migrating from one political party to another has been with this country for some time now. Whereas it is the right of every Namibian to hop from one political party to another as per Article 17, it is equally worrying when political heavy-weights in a party leave and join other parties, especially...
Opinion – Importance of paying municipal fees
Fransina Kahungu Pierre van Rensburg In the intricate tapestry of community life, municipalities serve as the linchpin that holds the fabric of society together. Charged with the responsibility of providing essential services, municipalities play a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being and functionality of local communities. Central to the effective provision of these services is...
Opinion – Engaging Gen Z in government policy using Salience Model
Generation Z, the group born between 1997 and early 2010, has emerged as a significant force in shaping the political landscape, wielding substantial influence on government policies. This digital-native generation, raised in an era of rapid technological advancement and global interconnectedness, brings a unique perspective and set of values to the political arena. Characterised by...