Day: February 20, 2024

Posted on

GEINGOB’S DEATH A GREAT LOSS TO EDUCATION AND TRAINING SECTOR: KANDJII-MURANGI


WINDHOEK: The death of former President Hage Geingob represents a great loss to Namibia’s education and training sector, Higher Education, Training and Innovation Minister, Dr Itah Kandjii-Murangi, has said.

Geingob, who passed away in Windhoek on 04 February, appointed Kandjii-Murangi to the higher education portfolio in March 2015.

The former University of Namibia dean of students said Geingob advocated for innovation and training in the higher education sector.

At the onset, when he assumed the presidency in 2015, she said President Geingob told her of his vision of transforming tertiary education and the need to prepare Namibia for the fourth industrial revolution.

‘He informed me that what he expects of me is to ensure that I take off where the previous ministers left off. He also indicated that we are in a different era and that we need to see a visible integration of technology and innovation in our higher education and training systems.

One of the things he mentioned was that the aspect of resear
ch is critical, particularly in our economy, as well as developing local researchers,’ Kandjii-Murangi said, recalling what her former principal initially tasked her to do.

The minister in an exclusive interview described President Geingob as a highly professional person, an educator and a scholar of note.

‘In the cabinet he chaired, that’s where we saw him showing his political prowess and vast knowledge in terms of different complex situations within the country, regionally as well as globally.’

The minister further recalled that the former head of state was easy to work with.

‘At first, when you meet him, you will probably think he is hard and authoritarian. But when you get to know him, you realise that this person is eager to share his knowledge with all those who work with him. And one thing is that he was gifted in was identifying and developing talent,’ she said.

According to Kandjii-Murangi, when Geingob put together his first cabinet, he took a bold decision to address technical and vocational
education and training (TVET) in Namibia. He directed that TVET be transformed so that it could become visible and a career path of choice for school learners.

‘He directed that access should be expanded by building technical and vocational institutions in regions where they did not exist then,’ she said.

Since then, a lot of work has been done to realise President Geingob’s vision for TVET, but more is still to be done.

‘In terms of what we have achieved, we have amended the TVET policy to focus specifically on trades needed to drive the economy. These are trades that speak to the issue of agriculture in terms of ensuring that there is food security in our country. We rolled out agricultural trades in several of our TVET centres where they were not in existence,’ the minister said.

To ensure the quality of technical and vocational education, Kandjii-Murangi now has a fully-fledged faculty of instructor education at NUST that only looks at TVET instructors.

She noted that former President Geingob, when h
e launched his first Harambee Prosperity Plan (HHP), directed that each region has a TVET centre.

In the HPP, he also directed that Namibia adopt TVET technical and vocational education and training as the standardised international training convention.

Kandjii-Murangi added that four regions have already been identified for the establishment of new TVET colleges.

‘This year we will launch new TVET centres in Kunene, including the one in the Hardap Region we have already launched. And another one in Keetmanshoop. There is one coming up in Nkurenkuru. The idea of these TVET centres is to ensure that each will focus on different technical trades,’ she said.

She went on to say that in July 2021, Geingob appointed an eight-member presidential task force on the Fourth Industrial Revolution mandated to look specifically at the preparedness of Namibia in terms of the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

‘That led our two public universities to begin looking at their academic programmes and making sure t
hat they are aligned to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution,’ Kandjii-Murangi said.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

Former AU Chairperson Stresses Education Must Be Apex Priorities to Ensure Sustainable Dev’t, Peace in AfricaOld Mutual Foundation aids Aussenkehr fire victims

Addis Ababa: Former AU Commission Chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma stressed that education must be one of the ‘apex priorities in every country’ to ensure sustainable development and peace in the African continent.

This year’s AU summit was held under the theme: “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality and relevant learning in Africa” at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Speaking to ENA, Dlamini-Zuma said the theme of the 37th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of African Union is very important as it paid attention to education.

‘I think the theme of this year is very important, because besides the fact that if people are skilled, they can get or create jobs…development needs, skilled and healthy people need to also be taken into account,’ she elaborated.

She stressed that African countries need to ensure that children get education and skills.

On the other hand, Dlamini-Zuma indi
cated that member states must understand and emphasize to invest in education.

‘Our member states must understand that if you invest in education, we are investing in the economy … If you don’t have skilled people, we will not be able to develop your country, you won’t be able to make sure your economy grows.’

Noting that the African continent has ample resources including minerals, water and other natural resources, she said ‘If you don’t have skilled people to turn those into wealth for the country, it is useless.’

So, ‘education is an investment into the future and into the economic development of the country.You can’t build infrastructure without skilled people. You need engineers and skilled people. So education must be one of their apex priorities in every country,’ she underlined.

She also stressed that each member state must take responsibility and make sure that they allocate the highest budget for education and the rest must come next.

On other hand, she urged that member states should make s
ure that there are schools for children to go to, there are TVET, technical colleges for them to go to when they finish high school.

‘They are supposed to ensure that there are lecturers and professors who are going to be able to teach those young people and prepare them for the wealth and economy of the country. Of course now, we know that digital industries are very important. We need to start from a young age to teach kids coding and so that they are ready for the world of technology.’

Talking of challenges of peace and stability on the continent, Dlamini-Zuma elaborated that peace and security is very critical for the development of Africa, because if there is no peace, there is no development.

‘It is very critical that the African Union is working with the UN Security Council to ensure peace; even national governments must ensure peace in the country. But it’s not only important for development, you know, when there is conflict, women and children are the ones who suffer most.’

On other hand, Zuma el
aborated that the international community must understand AU must participate in all the structures in peace and security matters.

If you want, the international system adheres to the UN charter, where all nations are equal, where everyone has a right and dignity. It means we cannot exclude such a big continent of humanity out of the system, if we continue so, it is not a fair system.

‘The international community must understand that Africa must participate in all the structures in peace and security affairs. It must participate in the permanent membership everywhere,’ Dlamini-Zuma underlined.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

The Old Mutual Foundation, through the ||Kharas Governor’s office, on Monday donated food items to 59 families at Aussenkehr who lost their belongings and houses in a fire last year.

The affected families who received food items worth a total N.dollars 30 000, mostly consist of employees of grape companies. The fire occurred in November and claimed the life of a 27-year-old man.

Governor Aletha Frederick while thanking the foundation for the gesture, urged the employers and owners of the grape companies, as well as the regional council, to come together and urgently address the pressing housing needs of Aussenkehr residents.

‘It is essential that we work together to ensure that these families have a safe and secure place to call home as they rebuild their lives after this devastating tragedy. It is through collective efforts and acts of kindness that we can truly make a difference and build a stronger, more resilient society,’ she said.

Frederick also encouraged the victims to remain strong and resilient
during this difficult time.

‘Please know that you are not alone. Many within our community are there to support you and use the donation for its intended purpose, feed your families and alleviate some of the burdens you are facing.’

Meanwhile, the Namibia Grape Company (NGC) constructed 24 shacks for their employees affected by the fire and provided beds, mattresses, and gas stoves all to the tune of N.dollars 300 000 funded through the NGC trust.

In an interview with Nampa recently, NGC managing director Gideon Nuunyango said the donation to the employees formed part of the company’s corporate social responsibility.

‘These people are our employees, some have been working here for many years and we decided to help them in this time of need,’ he said.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

Business fraternity remembers Geingob


WINDHOEK: The late Dr Hage Geingob was a visionary leader who understood the crucial role business played in the economic growth and building of opportunities for the people of Namibia.

This is how the Namibian business fraternity will remember President Geingob, according to Zebra Kasete, president of the Chamber of Mines of Namibia. Members of the business fraternity gathered at the late Head of State’s private residence, Casa Rosalia in Windhoek, to pay their respects on Monday.

‘Dr Hage Geingob was not only a great leader, he was a guiding light for the mining fraternity. Throughout his tenure he exemplified unwavering moral and ethical principles which paved the way for his ambitious endeavour in reshaping governance and instilling transparency and accountability in the private sector,’ Kasete stated.

Kasete was the last business leader to meet with Geingob. It is in this meeting where the late country leader made the remark, ‘I’ll leave the country in good shape.’

Kasete remarked that Geingob had sh
ared with him that he wishes to leave behind a legacy of strong governance institutions with good systems and predictable processes in Namibia and the African continent at large.

Also speaking at the tribute ceremony was Sven Thieme, Executive Chairman of the Olthaver and List Group/Cleanergy Namibia, remarked that under Geingob’s leadership, Namibia gained recognition on the global stage as a destination for investment in the development of green hydrogen.

President of the Bankers Association of Namibia, Conrad Dempsey said in honouring the president’s legacy, the bankers association will continue to do what matters – building a Namibia that can compete on the global stage and driving an inclusive Namibian society where no one is left behind.

Representing Namibian young entrepreneurs and women in business, Mareka Masule, vice chairperson of the Namibian Network of the Cosmetics Industry, said Geingob created an environment in which young people could thrive and constantly grow.

‘He never ignored the vi
ews and aspirations of us young people,’ added Masule.

The tribute also included performances by various artists and musical groups such as the Nam Gospel United Choir.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

CAF, FIFA reach agreement to reschedule 2025 AFCON, alleviating European club concernsChula Chula aiming to avoid relegation

By Charity Nginyu

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) have come to a mutual agreement to reschedule the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The prestigious tournament, set to take place in Morocco, will now be held from mid-July to mid-August 2025.

The timing of the tournament has long been a bone of contention, particularly for European clubs who are disproportionately affected by the absence of key African players during crucial stages of the season.

Top European club owners and coaches have repeatedly voiced their concerns over the disruption caused by the AFCON, arguing that it disrupts the rhythm of their teams and compromises their competitive edge.

By shifting the tournament from mid-July to mid-August, CAF and FIFA aim to mitigate these concerns and ensure greater harmony between international and club football calendars.

This move has been welcomed by stakeholders across the footballing world, as it not only addresses the l
ongstanding issue of scheduling conflicts but also enhances the prestige and competitiveness of the AFCON. With the tournament now aligning more closely with the off-season for many European clubs, fans can expect to see a higher caliber of football and greater participation from top African players.

The decision equally marks a significant departure from the traditional scheduling of the AFCON, which has historically taken place in January or February.

Source: Cameroon News Agency

WINDHOEK: Eeshoke Chula Chula’s head coach, John Sikerete, says he is happy with the team’s progress this season, but their primary goal is to perform well in the league to avoid being relegated.

The Debmarine Namibia Premiership team based in Ohangwena is currently placed sixth on the 16-team log standing with 29 points.

In an interview with Nampa, Sikerete stated that as newcomer to the Premier League his team has performed exceptionally well, and they aim to continue collecting points in the remaining games of the season.

‘Our goal for this season was simply to avoid relegation, and we have performed well in that regard, currently sitting in sixth place on the league standings. However, we could still slip down the table if we fail to win our remaining 11 games this season,’ Sikerete said.

The coach added that as the league nears its conclusion, teams will be competing to achieve better positions on the log. Therefore, their aim is to perform to the best of their abilities.

‘All our players are in the
squad, including those who were previously injured. As a team we have not set any specific targets apart from avoiding relegation, which seems unlikely at the moment. However, if we finish higher than our current position, that would be a bonus for us as newcomers to the Premier League,’ he said.

Khomas NamPol is leading the log standings with 41 points. African Stars, the defending champions, are second on the log with 40 points after 19 matches played by both teams.

FC Ongos have completed 18 matches this season and are in third place on the log with 39 points. Mighty Gunners and Blue Waters are in fourth and fifth place respectively, with 29 points each.

Meanwhile, Otjiwarongo-based Life Fighters are bottom of the log standing with 11 points. Katutura-based Orlando Pirates are 15th with 14 points while Civics, based in Khomasdal, are 14th with 17 points.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

Imbamba concerned over lack of coordination in council


SWAKOPMUND: Chairperson of the Erongo Regional Council’s Management Committee, Benita Imbamba, has expressed concern over the lack of coordination and communication within the council.

According to Imbamba, during the council’s first meeting of the year on Tuesday, some councillors are still operating in silos even on matters that might require urgent delivery.

‘We are one regional council and our motto of ‘playing together, live together’, should not be a mere slogan, but a living phrase. I am aware that we are doing well in some areas and it is evident that most regional councillors would like to benchmark us but there is always a room for improvement. Therefore, I urge that we work as a team and encourage each other to put more effort into executing our tasks, thus serving our people with pride and satisfaction. Our display as regional political leadership should be exemplary,’ Imbamba advised.

The chairperson also encouraged councillors to properly plan and outline activities planned for their constitu
encies and their possible financial implications, stressing that constituencies cannot execute activities or tasks that have not been planned for.

She expressed cognisance that there might be urgent or emergencies that will need ad hoc deliberations, but we should plan our activities properly and be concise. This year will be different, we need to ensure that the council’s staff members are held accountable for upholding their oath to serve the people.

Equally, the regional councillors need to adhere to the code of conduct as clearly described by the Regional Council Act 22 of 99, with subsequent amendments; there will be no complacency,’ Imbamba cautioned.

She further called on the council and its employees to be honest and showcase the attributes of good governance and fairness in all its dealings.

While emphasising the issue of good governance and fairness, Imbamba implored regional councillors to visit and ascertain the welfare of their constituencies, especially during this year, which has been terme
d as the year of expectations by the late President Hage Geingob.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

Successful Hosting of AU Manifests Ethiopia’s Commitment to Upholding Continental AspirationsMilitary procession of Geingob’s remains set for Friday

Addis Ababa: The successful hosting of the recently concluded African Union (AU) Summit underscores Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to upholding continental aspirations, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Briefing the media today, state ministers Ambassador Mesganu Arga and Ambassador Birtukan Ayano lauded the successful conduct of the summit and Ethiopia’s contribution to addressing pressing issues across Africa.

Foreign State Minister Ambassador Mesganu Arga noted that among the key topics deliberated upon were education, peace and security in the continent.

He stressed the crucial link between Ethiopia’s national interests and the summit’s agenda, stating that discussions held in the sessions along with the resulting resolutions addressed critical issues facing the continent were aligned with Ethiopia’s priorities.

According to him, Ethiopia presented and elucidated on the progress made in implementing the Pretoria Agreement, emphasizing the necessity for steadfast commitment to its full realiz
ation.

The summit also witnessed a significant step forward for Ethiopia’s economic integration within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by approving the country’s proposed goods tariff and paving the way for Ethiopia to join the nine African nations trading under the AfCFTA framework.

“During the summit, our goods tariff offer was endorsed by the ministers of trade of African governments to trade under AfCFTA; and this is a great success.”

Moreover, the state minster highlighted Ethiopia’s achievements in the agricultural sector, especially its exemplary wheat production, and Yelemat Terufat program showcased during the summit.

Addressing queries regarding the Ethio-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Mesganu reiterated Ethiopia’s clear foreign policy objectives with its neighbors and its unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and integration.

The state minister added that the MoU aligns with the nation’s longstanding principle of fostering regional cooperation for develo
pment within a rule-based and mutually beneficial framework.

State Minister Ambassador Birtukan Ayano focused on her part on the logistical and protocol aspects of the summit and declared the whole process of the AU summit was a resounding success on all fronts.

The peaceful conclusion, meticulous protocol adherence, and seamless provision of accommodation and other services for more than 8,000 delegates from 49 African countries, was lauded as hallmarks of the government’s remarkable planning and execution, she pointed out.

The summit saw the participation of 31 heads of state and six vice presidents, it was learned.

The arrival of 54 chartered airplanes carrying participants to Bole International Airport was handled with remarkable efficiency, according to the state minister.

Ambassador Birtukan also highlighted the introduction of sightseeing opportunities for guests and diplomats, including visit and dinner program to the newly unveiled Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

She reiterated the immense succes
s of the summit on all parameters, emphasizing its contributions to both Ethiopia and the continent.

“Following the preparation made for over three months, the summit concluded successfully and all actors have greatly contributed to the success of the whole process during the summit…Our country is respected and elevated by hosting this very successful summit.”

Looking forward, the state minister vowed for continuous improvement and the introduction of innovative elements to further enhance Ethiopia’s hosting capabilities in the future.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

WINDHOEK: Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, on Tuesday announced that the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) will lead a military procession with the remains of the late President Hage Geingob across the capital city on Friday, allowing the public to pay their last respects.

She was speaking at the Government Information Center during the daily media briefing on the funeral arrangements of the late Geingob, who died on 04 February 2024. The exact routes will be announced on Wednesday afternoon, she said, adding that 27 countries will be attending Geingob’s funeral on Sunday, 18 of whom will be led by their Heads of State.

‘The rest of the delegations are led by either prime ministers, speakers or ambassadors. During this time, the Government urges road users to adhere to traffic rules and regulations regarding motorcades,’ Theofelus said.

A musical tribute will be held on Wednesday from 16h00 until late in memory of Geingob. The public can obtain free tickets at Webtickets to
attend this event at any Pick ‘n Pay store, Theofelus added.

‘Many will recall that Dr Hage Geingob avidly supported local music. He attended music awards and was known for his great moves during public interactions. This concert will allow Namibian musicians to celebrate the life of the ‘People’s President’ as many have fondly remembered him over the past few weeks. There are no planned activities for Thursday,’ the minister said.

Theofelus further dispelled rumors that 650 Southern African Development Community (SADC) policers are in the country, stating the information is false.

‘The official memorial service of the late President will take place on Saturday, 24 February 2024, at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, where the Chief Mourner, H.E. Dr Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia and other international guests will pay tribute to the late president for his contribution during the liberation struggle and in an independent Namibia.

The gates at the Independence Stadium will open at
10:00. The public is invited to attend. Transport arrangements will be communicated to the public in due course. Vendors can sell their goods at designated points during the official memorial service proceedings. However, the sale of alcohol around the Independence Stadium’s vicinity is prohibited. Law enforcement agencies will monitor these activities,’ Theofelus noted.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

Posted on

Successful Hosting of AU Manifests Ethiopia’s Commitment to Upholding Continental Aspirations


Addis Ababa: The successful hosting of the recently concluded African Union (AU) Summit underscores Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to upholding continental aspirations, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Briefing the media today, state ministers Ambassador Mesganu Arga and Ambassador Birtukan Ayano lauded the successful conduct of the summit and Ethiopia’s contribution to addressing pressing issues across Africa.

Foreign State Minister Ambassador Mesganu Arga noted that among the key topics deliberated upon were education, peace and security in the continent.

He stressed the crucial link between Ethiopia’s national interests and the summit’s agenda, stating that discussions held in the sessions along with the resulting resolutions addressed critical issues facing the continent were aligned with Ethiopia’s priorities.

According to him, Ethiopia presented and elucidated on the progress made in implementing the Pretoria Agreement, emphasizing the necessity for steadfast commitment to its full realiz
ation.

The summit also witnessed a significant step forward for Ethiopia’s economic integration within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by approving the country’s proposed goods tariff and paving the way for Ethiopia to join the nine African nations trading under the AfCFTA framework.

“During the summit, our goods tariff offer was endorsed by the ministers of trade of African governments to trade under AfCFTA; and this is a great success.”

Moreover, the state minster highlighted Ethiopia’s achievements in the agricultural sector, especially its exemplary wheat production, and Yelemat Terufat program showcased during the summit.

Addressing queries regarding the Ethio-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Mesganu reiterated Ethiopia’s clear foreign policy objectives with its neighbors and its unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and integration.

The state minister added that the MoU aligns with the nation’s longstanding principle of fostering regional cooperation for develo
pment within a rule-based and mutually beneficial framework.

State Minister Ambassador Birtukan Ayano focused on her part on the logistical and protocol aspects of the summit and declared the whole process of the AU summit was a resounding success on all fronts.

The peaceful conclusion, meticulous protocol adherence, and seamless provision of accommodation and other services for more than 8,000 delegates from 49 African countries, was lauded as hallmarks of the government’s remarkable planning and execution, she pointed out.

The summit saw the participation of 31 heads of state and six vice presidents, it was learned.

The arrival of 54 chartered airplanes carrying participants to Bole International Airport was handled with remarkable efficiency, according to the state minister.

Ambassador Birtukan also highlighted the introduction of sightseeing opportunities for guests and diplomats, including visit and dinner program to the newly unveiled Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

She reiterated the immense succes
s of the summit on all parameters, emphasizing its contributions to both Ethiopia and the continent.

“Following the preparation made for over three months, the summit concluded successfully and all actors have greatly contributed to the success of the whole process during the summit…Our country is respected and elevated by hosting this very successful summit.”

Looking forward, the state minister vowed for continuous improvement and the introduction of innovative elements to further enhance Ethiopia’s hosting capabilities in the future.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency