The Namibian fisheries ministry is concerned about the unsustainable harvest of horse mackerel, a key fish stock. Scientist Graca D’Almeida noted a decrease in fish size, indicating overfishing. Fisheries minister Derek Klazen compared the situation to the pilchard species, which faced a government-imposed ban for stock recovery. An experimental initiative is underway, allowing fishing in a restricted zone to collect data on fish migration patterns, as requested by the Wet Landed Horse Mackerel Association.

The Walvis Bay Corridor Group organized a Wellness Day outside Swakopmund to support truckers' health, offering services like cholesterol, diabetes, glucose level, and HIV testing, as well as prostate cancer screening. Maria Paulus, the marketing manager at WBCG, emphasized the importance of truckers' health and road safety. The event also included a tribute to truckers for their role in society, as expressed by the personal assistant to Erongo governor Neville Andre.

In Omaruru, Namibia, close to 50 residents, part of the Omaruru Homeless People’s Association, grabbed land near Welwitschia Location after failed engagements with the municipality. The group claims ancestral rights to the land, while the municipality CEO Valentinus Sindongo suggests the act may be politically motivated. The town faces challenges in providing serviced land, with some residents waiting since 2010. The municipality is working on a strategic plan to address housing demand, including an agreement to produce 1,700 erven at Extension 12. Erongo governor Neville Andre called for transparency and warned against using land issues for political gain.

Children from Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe commemorated World Children’s Day in Walvis Bay, with a focus on renewing the promise for children's rights. The event, organized by Unicef, highlighted the importance of protecting children's rights, creating safe spaces, and ensuring access to education and basic needs. Presidents from the participating countries were expected to attend the official commemorations and contribute to a Heads of State Network aimed at addressing children's rights issues.

Farm 37, also known as Green Valley, was identified in 2016 as a solution to the housing shortage in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Despite the allocation of erven to 50 backyard squatters by the current council, only one family has moved to the new township. The family, including Hilma Lineekela, views the move as a positive change, despite the distance from the town. The deputy mayor, Saara Mutondoka, acknowledges the challenges of relocation but remains hopeful as more families prepare to move. Pombili Festus, representing backyard tenants, discusses funding challenges for servicing their land. The transition to Farm 37 is seen as a step towards addressing the housing backlog of 30,000 in Walvis Bay.

Namibian Defence Force members were encouraged by Vice President Nangolo Mbumba to exhibit exemplary conduct, representing the force and Namibia honorably. This message was conveyed during the graduation of the Professional Qualified Officers’ Course at Rooikop Military Base in Walvis Bay. President Hage Geingob emphasized the importance of professionalism and discipline among soldiers. The course, a first for the NDF, spanned 29 weeks and included 91 professionals. Graduate flight officer Nicolette Mogotsi expressed gratitude for the training that enhanced their leadership skills.

Namib Woestyn, one of Namibia's oldest sports clubs, is undergoing a revival led by football agent Collin April. The club, known for its exciting football and legendary players, aims to return to mainstream football and become a leading club in Namibia. It seeks to provide opportunities for players of all demographics and inspire future stars. The club's history is celebrated, and the community is called upon to support its revival. Namib Woestyn also acquired Henties Bay football club, planning to rename it and continue the legacy.

Farm 37, also known as Green Valley, was identified as a solution to the housing shortage in Walvis Bay, Namibia. Despite the allocation of erven to 50 backyard squatters, only one family has moved to the new township. The erven, initially priced at N$80,000, were reduced to N$40,000 after residents requested a lower price to service the plots themselves. Hilma Lineekela, the first resident, expresses satisfaction with her new land ownership, despite the distance from Walvis Bay. Deputy mayor Saara Mutondoka acknowledges the challenges of relocation but remains optimistic. Pombili Festus, representing backyard tenants, discusses funding challenges for servicing their allocated portion. The council plans to move more residents to Farm 37, including victims of a recent shack fire.

A partnership between Erongo Marine Enterprises and Erongo Sea Products has come under fire from fishing right holders in Walvis Bay, Namibia. The right holders accuse the Oceana Group, which owns Erongo Marine, of cheating them out of profits and not adhering to the original agreement terms. Allegations include a lack of transparency, deviation from charter fee agreements, and the unauthorized sale of a vessel. An investigation is underway, and a win-win solution is being negotiated. Oceana Group maintains that their operations are legitimate and have been beneficial to all parties involved for over 20 years.

In a series of domestic violence incidents, a 34-year-old mother, Beverly Theresia /Nanus, was killed in Okombahe, while another woman survived a brutal attack in Swakopmund, and a third survived a panga attack in the Ohangwena region. The victims had previously withdrawn domestic violence cases against their attackers. Chief Inspector Ileni Shapumba of the Erongo Police expressed concern over the withdrawal of cases and emphasized that such cases can only be withdrawn in court. Trifina Haimbodi, a victim of the panga attack, is now hospitalized and regrets not reporting the abuse earlier. Gender Equality Minister Doreen Sioka urged the community to report domestic violence and work together to combat it.

Petrus Jambekeni Shikonda, accused of murdering his girlfriend Justina Tulela Kaunapawa Imbili in Henties Bay on Family Day last year, died in the Katutura State Hospital after a second suicide attempt with battery acid. Shikonda had been in critical condition under police guard following his initial suicide attempt by setting his residence on fire. The Namibian Police, with acting spokesperson Anna Frans, are also seeking public assistance to trace a woman for concealment of birth or murder after a decapitated foetus was found in Tulinawa.

A 15-year-old pregnant girl has been arrested in Walvis Bay for the stabbing death of Ritjwee Reeboke Soreseb, who she believed had assaulted her boyfriend. The minor, who is in custody at the Tutaleni police station, allegedly acted in response to threats against her and her unborn child. Detective Chief Inspector John Mwatongwe has informed the gender ministry of the case, and the girl's parents and boyfriend have been located. The boyfriend is receiving treatment for the alleged attack, and the police are investigating the circumstances, including the possibility of charging the boyfriend with rape if he is found to be older than the minor.

Over 10,000 passengers are anticipated to arrive at Namibia's coast, providing an economic boost to the tourism and hospitality industry. Namport's executive Elias Mwenyo announced the arrival of the first passenger liner, Vasco da Gama-Nicko Cruises, and expects at least 10 more liners at Walvis Bay and Lüderitz ports from November 28 to December 30. The industry contributes to foreign currency influx, job creation, and offers international tourists the chance to explore Namibia. However, local tourism operators are concerned about immigration service delays and are proposing changes to streamline the process.

Labour minister Uutoni Nujoma has requested the National Assembly to reappoint Employment Equity Commissioner Otniel Podewiltz for an additional year to ensure a smooth transition and stability within the EEC. The EEC, which addresses workplace imbalances and enforces affirmative action, faces operational challenges due to the absence of a deputy director and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nujoma argues that Podewiltz's continued leadership is crucial for implementing new systems and legislative changes, and for managing the increased reporting requirements from newly-identified employers.

The Namibian fishing industry remained a significant contributor to the nation's GDP in 2023, despite facing challenges such as illegal fishing, rising fuel costs, and job losses. Key events included the rescue of fishermen, concerns over seal harvesting, the opening of a new fishing factory, and government interventions to save jobs. The industry also saw significant investments, donations, and debates over tax contributions and government involvement. The year concluded with notable fish export growth and ongoing investigations into quota usage fees.

Namibia's Fisheries minister Derek Klazen has raised concerns over the extensive illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing along the country's coastline, which involves neighboring countries and results in an annual revenue loss of over N$1.5 billion. The Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations reported that foreign trawlers, licensed in Angolan waters, are harvesting significant amounts of fish in Namibian waters, leading to overfishing and potential collapse of the fishery. The government and industry stakeholders are working together to combat these illegal activities and protect Namibia's marine resources.

In Namibia, poor hygiene practices contribute to endemic and epidemic diseases, with the Erongo region reporting significant cases of diarrhoea. During World Toilet Day commemorations in Swakopmund, Erongo governor Neville Andre and Health Minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula emphasized the urgency of improving sanitation and hygiene to prevent diseases. Namibia has made progress in water supply but faces challenges in sanitation, with many practicing open defecation. The country aims to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6, which calls for adequate sanitation and hygiene for all by 2030.

Children from Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe commemorated World Children’s Day in Walvis Bay, emphasizing the importance of children's rights and protection. Key speakers, including Ezra Zulu from Zambia, Masego Isaac from Botswana, and Tanyaradzwa Mariman from Zimbabwe, highlighted the need for education, safe spaces, and enforcement of children's rights. The event, organized by UNICEF, saw the participation of regional leaders aiming to build on previous commitments to address children's rights.

In Swakopmund, Namibia, 89 residents, including Sara Tsaes, received keys to their new homes through the Mass Housing programme, with President Hage Geingob affirming the government's commitment to affordable housing. Tsaes, an entrepreneur and mother of a child with a disability, expressed joy at owning a home after a decade-long wait. The President highlighted the success of the programme, which has delivered over 4,000 units since 2014, and the recent Cabinet approval of a revised National Housing Policy aimed at significantly upgrading informal settlements and increasing housing availability over the next five years.

The Presidency of Namibia refuted Minister Christine //Hoebes' claim that the late Axali Doëseb only contributed the melody to Namibia's national anthem, affirming that Doëseb is both the author and composer. The government praised Doëseb's contributions and announced a State funeral in his honor. //Hoebes' remarks were met with public disapproval, especially during the period of national mourning for Doëseb.

Christine //Hoebes' claim that the late Axali Doëseb only contributed the melody of Namibia's national anthem was refuted by the Presidency, which affirmed Doëseb as the author and composer. The government praised Doëseb's contributions, emphasizing the anthem's significance. //Hoebes' remarks were met with public disapproval, especially during the mourning period for Doëseb.

The 19,000 metric tonnes of lithium ore at the port of Walvis Bay, ready for export to China, originated from the Uis area, not Xinfeng's Omaruru operations. Xinfeng, in partnership with Long Fire Investment, faced legal and regulatory challenges, including a blocked export attempt by the Namibian Police due to licensing issues. The Ministry of Mines and Energy confirmed the ore's origin and granted a removal permit for additional stockpiled ore. A legal battle ensued over mining licence 243, with the Windhoek High Court ruling in favor of Xinfeng, allowing temporary relief. The Attorney General advised granting Xinfeng permission to export lithium for testing purposes, pending compliance with new technical reports and work plans.

The 19,000 metric tonnes of lithium ore at the port of Walvis Bay, ready for export to China, were mined in the Uis area, not from Xinfeng's Omaruru operations. Xinfeng, in partnership with Long Fire Investment, faced legal and regulatory challenges, including a blocked export attempt by the Namibian Police due to licensing issues. The Ministry of Mines and Energy confirmed the ore's origin and granted a removal permit for the remaining stockpiled lithium. A legal dispute over mining licence 243 between Xinfeng and the ministry resulted in temporary relief for Xinfeng, with ongoing negotiations and recommendations from the Attorney General.

Children from Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana have urged their leaders for an updated curriculum, inclusive education, and better protection against domestic and sexual abuse, as well as cyberbullying. During World Children’s Day commemorations, they highlighted the need for inclusive education, protection against abuse, and an updated educational curriculum. They also pointed out issues like human trafficking, inequality in education, and poverty. Namibian President Hage Geingob responded by emphasizing the country's commitment to inclusive education and social safety nets. The event, hosted by Unicef, aimed to renew the promise for children's rights.

Minister in the Presidency Christine //Hoebes announced at the Gaob Festival in Okombahe, Erongo region, that the late Axali Doëseb was not the sole creator of Namibia's national anthem, 'Namibia, Land of the Brave'. A committee, including Doëseb who provided the melody, collectively crafted the anthem. The statement sparked controversy, echoing a similar claim by the late Hidipo Hamutenya in 2006. Doëseb, a celebrated artist and composer, passed away on October 27, 2023, and had been honored by the government with a diplomatic passport and a N$2 million grant for his contributions. Festival-goer Mercia Nanus criticized the timing of //Hoebes's announcement, calling for recognition of Doëseb's contributions.

Large stockpiles of lithium ore are accumulating at the Port of Walvis Bay, awaiting export by Xinfeng Investments despite a Cabinet moratorium on raw mineral exports. Police intervention has been requested to halt further transport of the ore. President Hage Geingob reiterated Namibia's stance against exporting unprocessed minerals. Legal and regulatory challenges surround Xinfeng's operations, including a lack of export permits and poor working conditions for Namibian employees. The situation highlights tensions between economic policy, legal frameworks, and corporate practices in Namibia's mining sector.

Walvis Bay will host the sub-regional World Children’s Day celebrations, focusing on the theme 'Renewing Our Promise for Children’s Rights.' The event will feature prominent figures including President Hage Geingob and other regional leaders, as well as UNICEF goodwill ambassador Yvonne Chaka Chaka. The celebrations aim to reaffirm commitments to children's rights and the Sustainable Development Goals, with over 200 children participating in discussions on creating an enabling environment for their potential.

Labour Minister Uutoni Nujoma has requested the National Assembly to approve a one-year extension for Employment Equity Commissioner Otniel Podewiltz, whose term ends this month. Nujoma argues that the extension is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition and stability within the Employment Equity Commission (EEC), which is currently facing operational challenges, including the absence of a deputy director. Podewiltz's role is deemed vital for the implementation of new systems and legislative changes aimed at improving workplace equity in Namibia.

Cabinet secretary George Simataa urged public servants to enhance government visibility by sharing success stories through media channels. Addressing executive directors and chief regional officers, he emphasized the importance of public servants in implementing government services and the need for collaboration to tackle poor service delivery. Simataa highlighted the necessity of developing specialist skills, maintaining infrastructure, and addressing social issues like poverty and inequality through united efforts and sustained political commitment.

Namibia's resilience and strength are highlighted through the significant role of women in peace and reconciliation. Minister Peya Mushelenga emphasized the need for governments and inter-governmental organizations to support UNSCR 1325 and allocate resources for its implementation. The African Union high-level seminar on Women, Peace, and Security underscored the importance of women's participation in peace processes. Parfait Onanga-Anyanga from the UN praised African leaders and the AU for their commitment to the WPS Agenda, stressing the critical role of women in sustainable peace efforts.

The deep-rooted friendship between Namibia and China, established well before Namibia's independence, was celebrated by Sam Nujoma during Swakop Uranium's 10-year anniversary at the Husab mine. Nujoma emphasized the enduring diplomatic ties and mutual benefits of the Namibia-China relationship, highlighting the Husab mine as a symbol of successful cooperation. China's ambassador to Namibia, Zhao Weiping, praised Nujoma's vision and the mine's significant contributions to Namibia's sustainable development. Swakop Uranium was lauded for its exceptional management, operational efficiency, and social responsibility, serving as a model of mutually beneficial collaboration.

Namibia's Fisheries Minister Derek Klazen has raised alarms over the persistent issue of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which costs the country N$1.5 billion annually. The problem is exacerbated by foreign trawlers, particularly from neighboring Angola, harvesting significant amounts of fish in Namibian waters. The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources plans to allocate up to 50% of its monitoring and surveillance operations to the northern border to combat this issue. The Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations (CNFA) has also called for immediate action to address the problem, emphasizing the need for robust monitoring and enforcement measures.

The Namibian fishing industry is urging the government to allocate fishing quotas to bona fide right holders instead of auctioning them, as the current auction system discourages investment and job creation. Industry stakeholders, represented by Matti Amukwa, argue that the auctioning system creates uncertainty and disadvantages new Namibian right holders. The government has made significant revenue from these auctions, but the industry believes this approach undermines long-term investment and value addition. The call is for policy coherence to either maintain a rights-based system or fully transition to a quota auction system.

Kiosk owners in Swakopmund are concerned that relocating their businesses from the beach to a tennis court in town, as per the new municipal policy, will harm their operations. The policy aims to regulate informal trading and address complaints from residents about nuisances caused by the kiosks. Despite consultations, kiosk owners feel the municipality has not adequately addressed their concerns, fearing the move will drive away their customer base. The municipality argues that the policy changes are necessary due to the growth of the industry and aim to ensure proper regulation.

The fisheries ministry in Namibia has raised concerns about the unsustainable harvest of horse mackerel, the largest fish stock in Namibian waters. The stock's size has decreased significantly over the decades, leading to fears it may face a fate similar to the pilchard species, which was banned in 2017. The ministry is conducting an experimental initiative to gather data on the migration patterns of larger horse mackerel, following a request from the Wet Landed Horse Mackerel Association. The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation has also highlighted the global issue of overfishing, with 70% of fish populations being fully-used, overused, or in crisis.

A Karibib resident, Augustinus Pule Gauseb, was electrocuted while using a meat-cutter that malfunctioned. Despite efforts by his wife, local nurses, and paramedics from Lifelink 999, he succumbed to his injuries. The Namibian Police at Walvis Bay confirmed the incident, and a post-mortem is expected to be conducted.

Domestic violence incidents in Namibia have led to severe consequences, including the death of a mother and serious injuries to other women. The Erongo Police expressed concern over victims withdrawing gender-based violence cases, which has led to tragic outcomes. Chief Inspector Ileni Shapumba emphasized the need for victims to withdraw cases only in court. The article highlights the stories of Beverly Theresia /Nanus, who was killed by her partner, and Trifina Haimbodi, who survived a brutal attack. Gender equality minister Doreen Sioka urged communities to report domestic violence to prevent further harm.

An elderly Italian couple was attacked and robbed in Swakopmund, Namibia, with the husband being kidnapped and later released. The incident occurred near their hotel, and the assailants stole various valuables, including cameras, cell phones, and cash. The police are seeking information to apprehend the suspects.

Africa faces significant challenges in providing safe drinking water and sanitation, with 800 million people lacking access to these basic services. Rapid urbanization exacerbates the issue, turning cities into disaster hotspots. Agriculture Minister Calle Schlettwein emphasized the need for revitalized efforts to meet sanitation and hygiene targets by 2030. The African Sanitation Conference in Swakopmund serves as a platform for technical and political dialogue to address these challenges. Leonel Correia Sacko of the African Union Commission highlighted the need for solutions to the continent's sanitation and hygiene issues, questioning whether the lag is due to inadequate political commitment, resources, or capacity for implementation.

Residents of Rehoboth are outraged by the murder and alleged rape of 64-year-old Helena Wemmert by a suspect who was out on bail for a previous murder. The suspect, a 29-year-old repeat offender, is linked to another murder case and was expected to appear in court. The community expressed dissatisfaction with the justice system, questioning how such a dangerous individual was granted bail. Rehoboth mayor Amanda Groenewaldt condemned the crime, calling for stricter measures to protect women and criticizing the ease with which serious offenders are granted bail. The incident has deeply affected the community and the entire country.

Two Zambian truck drivers, Jonathan Kamfwa and Shabombe Shiaimense, remain in custody after being accused of assaulting a transgender man in Walvis Bay. The charges were upgraded to attempted murder due to the severity of the victim's injuries, who was found unconscious and naked near a service station. The Namibian Police transported the victim to Windhoek for urgent medical attention. Prosecutor Victoria Shikesho opposed bail, citing the suspects as flight risks. The case has been postponed to 27 March for further investigation. EqualNamibia co-founder Omar van Reenen condemned the attack, calling for justice and better protection for the LGBTQ+ community.

Residents in the Erongo region towns of Arandis, Omaruru, and Usakos are seizing land due to frustrations with local councils' failure to provide adequate housing. In Omaruru, residents have taken land after years of unmet promises, while in Arandis, the governor criticized the town council for poor service delivery. Usakos residents petitioned their mayor over slow land allocation and discrepancies in the process. The housing crisis in Namibia is severe, with a backlog of around 300,000 units, leading many to live in informal settlements.

Regina Hirschfeld, a 68-year-old grandmother, has become a first-time homeowner in Walvis Bay, Namibia, through the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia (SDFN). After years of renting and financial struggles, she saved enough to build her home with the federation's assistance. The SDFN, supported by government and private donors like Standard Bank and Ohorongo Cement, has helped 66 low-income earners in Narraville become homeowners. The Namibian government is amending housing policies to support more low-income earners, addressing the significant housing demand in Walvis Bay.

Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare Doreen Sioka highlighted the ongoing issue of under-representation of women in Namibia's National Council, which currently has only six female members out of 46. Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for women in politics, Sioka emphasized the need for drastic changes to achieve 50/50 gender representation as per the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development. She urged women to support each other and push for gender-responsive political party manifestos. Deputy Minister Bernadette Jagger echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of preparing for democratic processes to ensure female representation in political party lists.

Namib Woestyn, one of Namibia's oldest sports clubs, is set for a revival under the leadership of football agent Collin April. The club, which has a rich history and produced several legendary players, aims to reconnect with the community and promote football across all ages and genders. The revival effort includes renaming the Henties Bay football club to Namib Woestyn. Former players and surviving founders are supportive of the initiative, emphasizing the club's legacy and its role in providing a sense of belonging.

Sylvia Makgone, Namibia's Fisheries deputy minister, has stated that the government is not desperate in auctioning the governmental objective quota previously managed by Fishcor, now involved in a bribery scandal. The government aims to auction 72,000 metric tons of horse mackerel, 11,000 metric tons of hake, and 392 metric tons of monk to both local and international bidders, with a portion reserved for local operators. The auction is intended to generate foreign currency to combat the effects of Covid-19, including the procurement of medical supplies. Information minister Peya Mushelenga clarified the types of fishing quotas and emphasized the need for a transparent process to ascertain the true value of the country's marine resources and ensure proceeds are used for government objectives, including public health and infrastructure improvements.

Romario Beukes, accused of murdering Helena Wemmert, was denied bail by the Rehoboth magistrate’s court. The case is postponed for further investigation. United People’s Movement president Jan van Wyk and Rehoboth mayor Amanda Groenewaldt condemned the murder, calling for stricter measures to protect women and criticizing the ease of granting bail to serious offenders. The crime has raised concerns about gender violence and the influence of alcohol and drug abuse.

Romario Beukes, accused of murdering Helena Wemmert, was denied bail by the Rehoboth magistrate's court. The case is postponed for further investigation. United People’s Movement president Jan van Wyk and Rehoboth mayor Amanda Groenewaldt condemned the murder, urging for stricter measures to protect women and address issues of alcohol and drug abuse. The police confirmed the brutal nature of the crime, and there are calls for the government to review laws to prevent such incidents.

Namibian authorities, with the assistance of the Namibian Navy, have detained six Chinese fishing vessels on allegations of illegal fishing in Namibian waters. The vessels were intercepted during routine sea patrols and have been under surveillance. While no arrests have been made, the vessels are being inspected by ministry officials. The Chinese Embassy, through spokesperson Helen Lu, denied the allegations, stating that the vessels were innocently navigating and had records to prove their claims. The embassy cited the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to support the right to innocent passage. The executive director of the fisheries ministry, Moses Maurihungirire, has not yet commented on the situation. This incident follows previous cases where Spanish and Angolan trawlers were seized for similar reasons.

The article discusses the National Fishing Corporation of Namibia (Fishcor)'s assessment of the financial implications of a N$150 million fish factory purchase from Etale Properties in 2016. Fishcor reportedly overpaid by N$50 million and still owes about N$50 million on the deal. The property was demolished for the Seaflower Pelagic Processing (SPP) factory, a joint venture between the government (40%) and African Selection Fishing (60%). Fishcor is distancing itself from past agreements and is considering rebranding due to its involvement in a bribery scandal. Former ministers and Fishcor executives have been arrested in connection with the scandal. SPP's General Manager expressed willingness to renegotiate the deal with Fishcor's new board.

Namibia's Health Minister Dr. Kalumbi Shangula reported 183 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 159 active and 24 recovered. The country has tested 8,706 samples and has 868 people in quarantine. Globally, over 10 million cases have been declared, with Europe and the US being the hardest hit. The infection rate is rising, with a million new cases in six days. Walvis Bay mayor Wilfred Immanuel discussed the challenges of relocating residents to better living conditions to prevent virus spread. Erongo's health director Anna Jonas and specialist physician Dr. Ishmael Katjitae highlighted the need for more isolation facilities and the ongoing efforts to manage community transmission in the region.