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...
Opinions
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...
Opinion – Are employers doing enough for disabled workers?
The government has put in place various policies aimed at providing access to the labour market for those who are unemployed. There is acknowledgement that people with disabilities are not accessing the labour market in sufficient numbers. Research has shown that unemployment among people with disabilities stands at a record high of 39%, compared to...
Opinion – The power of soft skills in workplaces
Juliet Madamombe It is remarkable how rapidly job-seekers forget that qualifications alone areinsufficient to secure employment in a world where job-seekers are continuously clamouring for opportunities. In addition to degrees and certificates, there is an essential element of professional success that is frequently disregarded: soft skills. The efficient and effective completion of tasks, as well...
Africa-Paris declaration on energy transition, climate justice and energy poverty
NJ Ayuk The declaration aligns Africa’s position on the global energy transition and climate justice debate, following the conclusion of the Invest in African Energy forum held in Paris on 15 May – the city where the Paris Climate Agreement was signed in 2016. African civil society, governments and the private sector stand firm in...
Opinion – Netumbo’s legitimacy is above board
Asser Ntinda Of all the aspiring Swapo presidential hopefuls since Sam Nujoma ended his reign as president in 2007, none has attracted media, legal and political scrutiny as well as challenges as much as Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. She was re-elected as Swapo vice president in November 2022, a position she has held since 2017. In keeping...
Letter – Namibia needs different approach to structural economy shift
To attain Vision 2030, Namibia will need to adopt structural reforms that will increase economic growth, facilitate more labour-intensive growth by opening up the labour market, and address an expensive and generally ineffective system of education, training and skills. The government should support businesses in the manufacturing, construction, and agriculture sectors, among others, paying attention...
Opinion – Local content in oil and gas
Ndapwilapo Shimutwikeni Considering the recent oil and gas discoveries in Namibia, local content was a central focus at the recently- concluded 6th edition of the Namibia International Energy Conference, which was attended by over 750 delegates from 46 nations. In the oil and gas industry, local content refers to the development of local industries, a...
Opinion – Western dominance: Namibia’s Sodom and Gomorrah
How long will Namibia continue to be a copycat of Western customs? Does abandoning our indigenous habits in favour of Western ones make us more international?