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Government Information Bulletin December 2009
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that Namibia has an unenviable distinction amibia’s Minister of Fisheries and Iyambo the first individual recipient of the award.
as the country with the most skewed income Marine Resources, Dr. Abraham Iyambo The medal is awarded every two years to a person
distribution in the world. We, therefore, must became the first ever individual recipient of on organization that has served with distinction
change this status quo,” Pohamba said in his the Margarita Lizárraga Medal of the United in the application of the Code of Conduct of
message broadcasted on 31 December 2009 on Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation Responsible Fisheries. The award is named after
the NBC TV. when the award was handed over to him by Ms. Margarita Lizárraga, a Senior Fisheries Liaison
the Director General of the FAO, Dr. Jacques Officer in recognition of her productive work in the
Addressing the skewed income distribution in Diouf on 18 November 2009 in Rome, Italy. field of fisheries for almost 40 years.
the country calls for a multi-pronged approach
in a multi-sectoral manner, Pohamba said, The award was bestowed on Dr. Iyambo
adding that it required cooperation in the area in recognition of his national, regional and
of land redistribution, broad-based economic international leadership with distinction
empowerment, skills formation and availability in the application of the Code of Conduct
of capital for Namibia’s small and medium size of Responsible Fisheries through the
enterprises to grow and become sustainable. implementation of responsible fisheries science,
policies and management. His contribution
Pohamba said social justice in the Namibian
1
in negotiations leading to the Reykjavik
society can only be created by narrowing Declaration, the establishment of the Benguela
the gap between the rich and the poor. He, Current Large Marine Ecosystem Project, the
therefore, called on the private sector to join Benguela Environment Fisheries Interaction
the government in finding practical, durable and Training Programme and the South East
and sustainable solutions to this challenge Atlantic Fisheries Organisation was taken
facing the Namibian nation. into consideration in nominating him for the
Margarita Lizárraga Medal. Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister, Dr. Abraham
Reflecting on 2009, President Pohamba said Iyambo and FAO Director General, Dr. Jacques Diouf
captured shortly after Dr Iyambo received the Margarita
2009 was a challenging year, punctuated by the Since the inception of the award in 1997, it has Lizárraga Medal in Rome in November 2009. Photo:
global economic crisis, natural disasters and been awarded to five organizations, making Dr. Foibe Fillippus
Continues on page 5
IN ThIs Issue
President Hifikepune Pohamba addressing the last 2009 Cabinet meeting on 8 December 2009 while Prime Minister Nahas Angula listens attentively.
Photo: Nampa
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
According to Pohamba the government has also of implementation activities to ensure that public Touching on the social ills in the Namibian society,
made strides to improve the socio-economic services reach those who need it most. Pohamba lashed out against drug and alcohol
development of the country and to improve the abuse, saying that substance abuse is eroding
living conditions of Namibians. Several agricultural The President also praised those who have worked the social fabric of the nation. The President said
projects gained momentum in 2009, ground hard to contribute towards the development of the negative consequences of alcohol and drug
breaking ceremonies for several road construction the country and the betterment of the Namibian abuse are too numerous to mention. He called
projects took place and the Ohongoro cement society. “Your individual acts have created a on the Namibian society to change direction and
factory commenced and several public buildings national momentum that has carried our country to confront the problem of alcohol abuse in a
were inaugurated. forward towards the achievement of our national meaningful way in Namibia.
development objectives, documented in the NDPs
Projects that the private sector embarked on and Vision 2030,” he said. Pohamba also called on Namibians to work
created employment opportunities throughout together to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS in
2009 and the President expressed the hope that According to Pohamba each and every one has a Namibia, urging Namibians to go for voluntary
this tendency will continue in 2010 and beyond. contribution to make towards the task of nation testing so that they can know their status and
building, adding that “we can only build Namibia make informed decisions.
In line with the 2009 SWAPO Party Election and make our country prosperous if we all work
Manifesto, the government will insist on greater together in unity of purpose and action”. The The President wished all Namibians a prosperous
efficiency, effectiveness and speed from officials President said with unity, no challenge will be too and happy New Year, “a year filled with optimism,
entrusted with the implementation of government great and no obstacle will be insurmountable. “We success and good health,” he said.
programmes and projects. In this regard, can achieve our goals if we join hands and work
Pohamba said he wants to see an intensification together as members of one team”.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Iyambo paid Namibia, furthermore, initiated and worked said it is frightening that human induced
tribute to the United Nations for according closely with Angola, South Africa and the climatic change is threatening agriculture,
fisheries its rightful place in the global United Kingdom to establish the South East land fertility, fisheries and aquaculture,
agenda through the promotion of sustainable Atlantic Fisheries Organisation (SEAFO), an especially if one takes into consideration that
fisheries. He said Namibia has been at the organization which is now fully functional and half a billion people in developing countries
forefront of regional collaboration in marine spearheaded by Namibia. SEAFO’s aim is to depend directly or indirectly on fisheries
scientific research in Southern Africa, adding ensure the protection of the environment and for their livelihoods. Furthermore, illegal,
that Namibia practices and values the the conservation and sustainable use of the unreported and unregulated fishing is causing
prudent management of shared fish stocks. living marine resources in the high seas outside sub-Saharan Africa to lose an estimated one
In 1997, Namibia established the Benguela the EEZs of Angola, Namibia and South Africa. billion US Dollar annually, equivalent to about
Environment Fisheries Interaction and 30% of catches.
Training Programme to enhance knowledge Dr. Iyambo also paid tribute to many countries
of the living marine resources and to improve and international oganisations for their Iyambo, therefore, called on world leaders to
understanding of the environmental factors. generous and consistent support to Namibia commit to sustainable fisheries and to honour
in the development of the country’s fisheries the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible
According to Dr. Iyambo, Namibia also helped sector. “These countries have indeed been Fisheries. “In the memory of Margarita
with the establishment of the Benguela safe pillars and bountiful fountains of hope Lizárraga, we must embrace concrete and
Current Large Marine Ecosystem Programme and knowledge as we formulate our fisheries collective actions and preserve what is left in
in 2001 to improve capacities in the region management initiatives,” Iyambo said. Iyambo the oceans,” he concluded.
and to deal with trans-boundary species.
N amibia joined the rest of Africa in development and monitoring of progress. updated causes of death classification that
commemorating the annual Africa countries should collect, compile and disseminate
Statistics Day on 18 November 2009. According to Katjavivi, the NPC has concluded the to properly manage the huge health interventions
first review of the Third National Development and or any other intervention,” Katjavivi said.
African Ministers responsible for economic Plan (NDP III) and the second Millennium
planning and development adopted November Development Goals (MDGs) report. However, the He indicated that although census and surveys
18 as Africa Statistics Day in May 1990 to Commission has a challenge of unavailability of are important techniques and methods of data
increase public awareness about the important data, which makes it difficult to measure certain collection, they are not sufficient, adding that
role that statistics play in all aspects of social goals of both the NDP III and the MDGs. Namibia does not need to “invent the wheel”
and economic life. Katjavivi further noted that development but to learn from other countries who managed
similar challenges, and move towards the
The day was celebrated under the theme conventional civil registration system.
“Strengthening Civil Registration and Vital
Statistics System in Support of National In Namibia, the current organisational and
Development and MDGs in Africa.” administrative setup is that the civil registration
is under the Ministry of Home Affairs and
Present at the event was the Director General of Immigration (MHAI), while the vital statistics is
the National Planning Commission (NPC), Prof. with the NPC or the Ministry of Health and Social
Peter Katjavivi, who told the gathering that the Services (MoHSS). 5
census and surveys are traditionally developed
to provide the statistics at specific point in time. Hence, Katjavivi emphasised the need for
“The combination and availability of these two proper strategies, mechanisms and institutional
data collection methods simultaneously in a linkages to address the interface and integration
country is a minimum requirement in generating of institutions to be able to attain complete and
annual, routine and current population Dr. Peter Katjavivi, Director General of the National universal civil registration, and vital statistics
estimates and projections that would enable us Planning Commission. systems in Namibia.
to calculate demographic and health indicators
using conventional methods,” he added. initiatives, decentralisation and democratisation Katjavivi further urged the Ministers of Home
processes and country level MGD measurement Affairs and Immigration; Health and Social
Katjavivi further stated that the NPC, through and assessment exercises require highly accurate Services; Justice and Regional and Local
the Central Bureau of Statistics, conducts and sustainable measurement tools that could Government, Housing and Rural Development
population census and household based surveys not be addressed with ad-hoc and indirect to enhance collaboration, coordination and
at intervals of ten and five years respectively. He data collection approaches such as census integration of the system among their respective
however, cited the necessity for the coexistence and surveys that are currently being used in ministries. While acknowledging the challenges
and complimentary between the two data developing countries, including Namibia. coming along with this collaboration, such as
collection methods with statistics from civil capacity building and human capital, Katjavivi is
registration such as birth, death, identification “There are critical data demands emerging at convinced that for them to achieve the national
cards, passports and driver licences, saying this global, regional and country levels in relation to goals, the only option is to convert these
will help in addressing the data demands for adult mortality, causes of death and maintaining challenges into opportunities.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has for the first zealously consider addressing the challenges and full implementation of the Ministerial HIV
time in 2009 joined the rest of Namibia and the of HIV/AIDS head-on and support prevention Workplace Programme that will guide us to
world in commemorating World AIDS Day on 1 programmes, which are aimed at reducing the effectively integrate HIV/AIDS activities into the
December. rate of HIV infections. core functions of the Ministry,” Asheeke urged.
He also emphasised that the Ministry should
As part of the public sector HIV/AIDS programme, “HIV/AIDS persists to destabilise fragile involve its various diplomatic missions abroad.
headed by the Office of the Prime Minister, the economies and social systems,” Asheeke noted.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs is determined to He added that HIV/AIDS has a devastating Although Namibia has recorded significant
prioritise and put in place prevention, treatment impact on the common effort to achieve national, success in the fight against the HIV/AIDS
and care support programmes to mitigate the regional and international stability, hence, the pandemic country-wide, new infections
impact of HIV/AIDS among its staff members. need to have in place a comprehensive HIV continue to emerge. This necessitates the
policy in the workplace to prevent the spread call for information sharing on HIV/AIDS and
Officiating at the Ministry’s commemoration of of the pandemic. support for behaviour change interventions to
World AIDS Day was the Deputy Permanent be the critical elements of a strong prevention
Secretary, Amb. Hinyangerwa Asheeke, who The Ministry of Foreign Affairs commemorated programme.
urged the ministry staff to collectively and the day under the theme: “Access to Workplace
Rights” for all ministry staff Asheeke noted that HIV/AIDS is not only a
members. medical issue, but also has an impact on the
economic and socio-cultural dimensions.
The Chairperson of the “Stigma and discrimination have proven to be
HIV/AIDS Workplace the greatest barriers hindering many people
Programme and Director from accessing, testing, prevention, care and
for Administration in the support services. Thus, fear of knowing and
Ministry, Benhardt Kukuri disclosing one’s status has added a dimension
stated that the Ministry of to the sensitive nature of the pandemic,” he
Foreign Affairs is trying to added.
reinforce and bring home
the message of caring to He therefore, emphasised the need for staff
help its staff members to members to cultivate the habit of knowing their
take care of themselves and status, as well as encouraging their colleagues,
their family members who friends and families to emulate such a habit,
are affected and infected by adding that individually and collectively the
the deadly virus. Ministry can make a difference.
Amb Wilbard Helao, Amb. Hinyangerwa Asheeke and Amb. Tuliameni
Kalamoh at the commemoration of World Aids Day by the Ministry of “We need to actively
Foreign Affairs. support the development
Namibia applauds Congo for generosity and solidarity Continues from page 8
She added that with the use of a molecule and girl children suffer disproportionately under women project, Penduka, and an orphanage 9
called Viramune, Congo has managed to the ills of the society, insisting that such a centre, Mount Sinai in Katututra Windhoek.
save unborn babies by administering HIV practice should come to an end.
positive pregnant mothers since 2000. “For “We should therefore, strive
the past two years, these mothers have together for the empowerment of
been supported by our Foundation through the girl child through education
funding for income generating activities to and raising awareness on issues
empower them as well as providing infant affecting their lives,” urged
formula that prevents transmission through Pohamba.
breastfeeding,” Sassou-N’guesso explained.
During her stay in Namibia,
The Namibian First Lady appealed to the Madame Sassou-N’guesso visited
women and the whole Namibian society to several places in the Northern part
stand together and find means of overcoming of the country such as the residence
the challenges facing them, as well as of Chief Herman Ipumbu of the
identifying a positive way of contributing to Uukwambi Traditional Authority at
the development of the country. Onamega in the Omusati region Chief Iipumbu of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority welcomes
the Congolese First Lady, Antoinete Sassou-N’Guesso (centre) and
and Okaukuejo in the Etosha Madam Penehupifo Pohamba to his homestead at the Onamega
Pohamba further cited that Namibian women National Park. She also visited a village, Elim constituency in the Omusati region.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
management of Namibia’s fragile It stipulates the roles and general functions The key principles of the Act are the use of
environment and the sustainable use of of all stakeholders involved in environmental renewable resources on a sustainable basis;
Continues on page 11
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
Kazenambo told the gathering to acknowledge Kazenambo explained that when people start
the development goals achieved by the recognising and appreciating the country’s
government, citing the inauguration of the achievements they would pave the way for Deputy Minister of Regional and Local Government,
Kalahari Constituency Office as an example of more development. He noted that the objective Housing and Rural Development, Kazenambo
Kazenambo inaugurating the Kalahari constituency
the efforts that the government is making in the of taking the government closer to the people
office.
delivery of its commitments to nation building. through decentralisation is materialising.
Kazenambo further told those with doubts to Kazenambo told the Ben Hur community that
look at what the SWAPO party has achieved and the opening of facilities such as the constituency
not at what they are being promised. “Trust in office is aimed at empowering the people. “The
the journey and trust in development. Believe inauguration of this office is an infrastructure
in what you are seeing and not in what you are for development and can be seen as a laid
being promised,” he added. foundation. This is your office, for you to make
use of,” he concluded.
The Deputy Minister also lashed out at the
media, saying that they should focus their Also attending the inauguration was the
reporting on the grassroots level as well, Governor of the Omaheke Region, Laura
calling on the journalists to get out of their McLeod-Katjirua, Kalahari constituency Kalahari constituency members who attended the
comfortable areas to go and get information Councillor Mogotsi and community members. inauguration of the constituency office.
from the grassroots level. “The media should
the promotion of community involvement in harmful substances or if somebody pretends to As a country with its peoples’ well-being at
the management of natural resources; the be an environmental officer. heart, Namibia has already acceded to as
promotion of public participation in decision many as 17 international environmental
making; and to promote equitable access The guide also makes it clear that no one, conventions to help the country carry its
to all environmental resources. However, including private or government bodies, may environmental obligations and contribute to
the legal expectations contained in the carry out any activities that may have potential safer and sustainable natural resources.
Environmental Management Act would not be environmental consequences without obtaining
easily understandable, much less accessible
to those with little knowledge in legal
an environmental clearance certificate. The
Environmental Commissioner may also require
In December 2009, Namibia sent a powerful
delegation headed by Prime Minister Nahas
11
matters. Hence, the Government, through an environmental assessment prior to issuing Angula to the United Nations Climate
the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, the clearance certificate. Change Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark to
has produced an illustrative guide entitled demonstrate the country’s commitment to the
“Guide to the Environmental Management The guide, furthermore, contains information reduction of the earth’s carbon emissions.
Act No. 7 of 2007,” to simplify the Act and on the reduction, re-use and recycling of all
ensure a balance between development and waste products, as well as on how to protect Namibia urged African states at the Summit
environmental protection. Namibia’s cultural and natural heritage, to collectively exert pressure on developed
including its wealthy biodiversity. nations to fulfil their commitments to the
The guide contains user-friendly information developing world on the implementation of
on the goals, scope and content of the Act by A film entitled “A Balancing Act” was also the Kyoto Protocol.
proving practical examples of how the Act can produced in English to increase understanding
help enhance decision making and planning, of the Act. The Oshiwambo and Afrikaans One of the Namibian principles of
thereby contributing towards the sustainable versions of the film will be available shortly. environmental management is that those
development of Namibia. The film calls on Namibians to manage their who generate waste and pollution must adopt
environment properly, unless we want to risk the best possible methods for reducing the
The guide states among others that it is leaving behind a piece of land that is broken waste or pollution, taking into account all the
an offence to give false information to an and abused…. a desolate landscape. necessary costs.
environmental officer conducting a search for
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
Light at the end of the tunnel signals Amathila’s time off Continues from page 12
disappointed that the only person they have 32 000 San community members and an the people who once had nothing at their
known as their rescuer will now have to leave unknown number of the Ovatue and Ovatjimba disposal and no place to call home. Pensioners
them. What seems to be more frightening is communities awaiting the government’s merciful now receive their government pension grant
the fact that they are not sure whether her hand. although they have to travel to pay points at
successor will be the same to them. Epupa or Okanguati for security reasons.
According to Kamatuka there are plans to request
This implies that whoever will step in the the National Planning Commission to conduct a The villages have grown in many ways and
Deputy Prime Minister’s shoes after she retires comprehensive survey to determine the total the people have taken ownership. Although
will have to be aware that he or she will have population of the San, Ovatue, Ovatjimba some community members have traded their
a high standard of excellence and expectations and other previously disadvantaged people in livestock, the cattle and goats are generally
to live up to. Namibia. well looked after. “Own the project and make it
sustainable,” encouraged the Kunene Regional
“We are sad that Namazira (Amathila) is leaving, Village progress Governor, Dudu Mururua.
but please go and rest well. We wonder if they Almost 18 months after President Hifikepunye
will replace you with someone who will treat us Pohamba officially handed over three newly Schools and garden cultivation are progressing
the same. She was a God’s sent lady and she established villages to the Ovatue and well. The communities have among others
made us her favourite as God to his people,” Ovatjimba communities on 13 June 2009, there planted maize, spinach, pumpkins, carrots
said one community member on behalf of the are tremendous improvement in the lives of and beans. The Deputy Prime Minister was
others. Continues on page 14
Light at the end of the tunnel signals Amathila’s time off Continues from page 13
of Information and Communication Technology whether it was a coincidence that only the
on 2 November 2009. children of senior government officials knew
about the Chinese scholarships.
Besides Minister Mbumba, Information and
Communication Technology Minister Joel “We did not have all the details of what happened
Kaapanda, his Special Advisor Mr. Mvula ya and when it happened,” said Mbumba.
Nangolo, MICT Permanent Secretary Mbeuta
ua-Ndjarakana and the Minister for Presidential The media also questioned the moral imperatives
Affairs, Hon. Abert Kawana were also present at for high ranking government officials to accept
the media conference. the scholarship intended for low income family
learners.
Contrary to media reports, Mbumba stated
that the income levels of parents of applicants The Education Minister reiterated that his
for financial assistance are taken into account Ministry was no aware of how that came about
when scholarships, administered by the Ministry and said the government cannot interfere with
of Education, are considered. what the embassies have done at their own
discretion.
He stressed that the Namibian government was
Education Minister, Nangolo Mbumba. fully committed to the welfare of its low income The students who benefited from the Chinese
citizens. Hence, it has budgeted an amount of scholarship in question are Ndapandula N
15
He also pointed out that China offered 40 for this government sponsorship is where to their children.
scholarships to the government in the last parents are sponsoring other children even if
years. their combined income is above the margin of Mbumba called on foreign missions in Namibia
N$ 150 000 per annum. to advertise scholarships on offer to ensure
With regard to President Hifikepunye Pohamba’s transparency.
daughter, the Minister said the President’s He said there are also scholarships offered to
daughter only informed her parents about the the Namibian government through the Minister “We are all experiencing this situation for the
scholarship about three months after she had of Education by friendly countries. About 473 first time. This is a learning process. We hope
received notice that her application had been such scholarships have been offered since to be much wiser in the future,” he said.
successful. “Her parents were never involved at 1997. “This year alone (2009) there are 70 such
any stage,” he said. scholarships from countries such as Algeria
(25), China (10), Croatia (1), Cuba (1), Czech
“We did not have all
He denied that the parents of the beneficiaries
influenced or requested those countries to
Republic (2), Russia (16) and Slovakia (1),” he
said.
the details of what
offer scholarships to their children as alleged in
newspaper reports. The media, however, felt the scholarships happened and when
to children of politicians and high ranking
“I want to state in no uncertain terms that such
reports are completely unfounded and false,” he
government officials were shrouded in it happened,” said
mystery. Neither the Chinese Embassy nor
said at a media conference held at the Ministry the Government could provide answers as to
Mbumba.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
Commenting on the
Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries
Prime Minister Nahas Angula assists with the harvesting of fish at the Karovo Fish Farm.
Institute (KIFI), Angula
said he is impressed by the
started, followed in 2008 with the construction farming projects, striving for self-sufficiency by
foresight of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine
of an aquarium, hatchery, nursery, fish grow- developing integrated fish farming, which is
Resources and especially of the Minister, Dr.
out ponds, additional accommodation, a guard combining fish farming with vegetables, fruit
Abraham Iyambo, for building the Institute. He
house, police quarters, a field kitchen and a trees, ducks and chicken production.
also praised the involvement of national and
pump station.
international experts in the institute, saying
The Karovo Fish Farm is operated by community
that it contributes to attaining the objectives of
KIFI was established with the aim to conduct members, who are benefitting both financially
the institute.
research, breed fish, and cater for students and protein wise from the farming activities.
16 Angula called on the Fisheries and Marine
doing their Master’s and PhD degrees, to store The farm is adding value to the livelihood of
data and to reach out to the communities in the the communities in the remote areas of the
Resources Ministry to continue with capacity
vicinity of the institute. Kavango region, while it is also inspiring the
building at the institute and to engage the
communities to empower themselves.
surrounding communities as it will add value
KIFI will start providing fingerlings to the
to their livelihoods and create new knowledge.
Karovo Fish Farm in 2010, which will enable Seeing the Karovo Fish Farm, Prime Minister
He similarly encouraged villagers to establish
the fish farm to produce an average of 1.5 Angula said it has, since 1989, been the dream
their own fish ponds and to engage on a large
tonnes of fish per month. This can increase of the government to make the Kavango region
scale in fish farming to contribute to the GDP
to 2 tonnes per month with increased quality the bread basket of Namibia through the
of Namibia.
management. promotion of fish farming and Green Scheme
activities.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba inaugurated
The Karovo Fish Farm is situated in the
the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute in
Kangongo constituency of the Kavango region, Angula urged community members on the farm
October 2008. Located in the Mukwe district
approximately 70 km west of KIFI. The farm, to work hard to ensure that Namibia win the
of the Kavango region, construction on the
which was initially created as a pilot project, war against poverty and malnutrition in the
institute started in 2005 with the building
has developed significantly and is sustaining a next five years, securing food security for all.
of an administration block, laboratories,
cooperative with fish, fruit, vegetables, ducks
a library, board room, workshop and staff
and chickens. While at the fish farm, Prime Minister Angula
accommodation. In 2007 the construction of
witnessed a fish harvest and was treated to a
a dormitory to accommodate 28 students, a
The Karovo Fish Farm is modeled on Asian fish lunch which included the harvested tilapia.
kitchen, laundry, dining hall and access roads
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
Former school inspectors say the shortage money to buy some textbooks, but this cannot a teacher is sick and another one is on leave.
of accommodation for teachers, water alleviate the shortage of books, as buying Ndopu is also of the opinion that automatic
supply problems, textbooks, transport textbooks for every learner was a “very promotion of learners are not working as
for staff members, lack of discipline and expensive” exercise. learners keep failing due to the absence of a
commitment on the side of teachers, stable education foundation.
automatic promotions of learners and Competition over textbooks is another reason
the regular flooding of schools in some for the problems in the Caprivi region. Most of A retired teacher with 39 years experience
parts of the Caprivi region are some of the education materials earmarked for schools lamented that in some cases teachers are not
the major factors that hinder education in the Caprivi are first dropped at the Rundu properly trained to handle multi-grade classes.
in that region. Central Book Store before they are dispatched
to the schools in the Caprivi Region. “For how Another former school inspector, Mr. Borneface
In an interview with the Government long will Caprivi continue to be depended on Mukhwata Limbo, aged 67 years who has
Information Bulletin, Mr. Albert Zacharia Ndopu Rundu,” Ndopu asked, saying that when they worked for the Ministry of Education in the
said most of these challenges can be attributed send drivers to collect the books in Rundu, Caprivi region for the period of 35 years,
to the Ministry of Education, parents and the by the time they arrive, most of the new and recollected that the old system of education
learners themselves. required textbooks have already been taken by was “strictly” about discipline from both learners
the Kavango schools. and teachers.
Ndopu, a former school inspector, used the
example of Sanjo Senior Secondary School He argued that the system of dumping old “Education was taken very seriously, unlike
and other schools with hostels as schools reading materials for the Caprivi schools also these days and the emphasis was not only on
with poor sanitation and dilapidated physical contribute to the low pass rates in the region, the subjects that were taught in schools, but
infrastructure, including teachers’ houses. while driving from Katima Mulilo to Rundu to also on the extra mural activities such as hand
fetch books, leads to unnecessary expenses. writing, arts and crafts, manual work, music
He said some hostels do not even have beds, and sports,” said Limbo.
while some learners are using lockers as beds. As for teachers’ accommodation, Ndopu said
An enquiry into the situation reveals that the situation is bad. Schools such as the Limbo further said the scheme of work in those
these shortages can simply be attributed to Malundu and Lusese Primary Schools use their days was strictly to follow the syllabus and
insufficient provisions of such facilities from the storerooms as accommodation and kitchens for ensure daily preparations with teaching aids,
relevant authorities. teachers, he said. arguing that there is “no discipline” in the new
system of education and education is not taken
Regarding the shortages of books, Ndopu said He further lamented that some schools seriously.
this was a common outcry by the learners in experience an acute shortage of teachers.
most of the schools in the Caprivi Region. He In these cases, schools are often compelled He said there are too many teachers’ workshops
said the government really tries to allocate to come to a halt for some days or weeks if and as a result the learners suffer.
19
of infrastructure that would lead to the socio- The Iitananga-Omakange road, which runs
economic development of Namibia and her national needs. Thus, from the Omusati to the cattle-rich Kunene
people. region, is expected to provide farmers in the
the Government has Kunene region with easier access to wider
Pohamba said previously the movement of markets, especially the central northern regions,
people and goods between the Omusati and
Kunene regions has been limited by the lack of
prioritised our national Pohamba said.
20
on the above topics will greatly benefit the hygiene and to improve their communication and train others in their respective areas,”
communities. After the training the volunteers skills. said Hijamutiti.
would be able to educate communities on
where to seek for help if they would find Hilde Hijamutiti, Liaison Officer of the Ministry of The participants stated that they were happy
themselves abused by either their partners or Gender Equality and Child Welfare in Gobabis, to be given an opportunity to attend the
any other person. was one of the facilitators at the workshop. She training, because it helped them understand
noted that the training was cost effective and the meaning of gender-based violence, which
On reproductive health, they were trained on consumed less time for many reasons. “This “will help them improve a lot in their line of
family planning issues and were also educated saves time for the Ministry. Instead of sending work”. They called on the Ministry of Gender
on the different parts of the body, including facilitators to different areas, we have organised Equality and Child Welfare to come up with
this training to train the volunteers who can go more training workshops on similar topics.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
others into the following: The two ministers discussed the development WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE IN
of a transport corridor between Angola and COPENHAGEN, DENMARK, 7 – 18
- Safety matters related to the Namibia through Gobabis-Grootfontein- DECEMBER 2009
implementation of the ferry service on the Tsumeb-Katwitwi-Menongue-Luanda. The
Zambezi River; Angolan Minister informed the meeting of Namibia is a signatory to both the UNFCCC
- Identification and marking of the route efforts by the Angolan Government to develop and the Kyoto Protocol and is fully involved
and pickup points on both sides; roads in Angola and especially the Kwando in the process.
- Issues surrounding the use of the service Kubango Province with the view of making
by Zambian citizens; easier connection to the corridor under Despite the country’s limited human,
- The harmonisation of national laws to discussion. Both parties recognised that the institutional and financial capacity to adapt
enhance the smooth operation of the demining exercise is delaying the realisation of to effects of climate change, Namibia is
ferry; the mentioned corridor. making efforts to develop a strategy that will
- Analysing the depth of the river along enhance synergies amongst various climate-
the envisaged routes to identify areas The meeting agreed to appoint a Joint Corridor change sensitive sectors. These efforts are
to be dredged to deepen areas to fit the Management Committee to: being supported by the Namibian Climate
specified boat. - Share information on the construction Change Committee, a broad-based multi-
progress on both sides; stakeholder platform and the UNDP GEF-
The meeting agreed that the first consultation - To promote the development of the above funded Enabling Activities for the Preparation
meeting of the Joint Technical Committee transport corridor; of Namibia’s Second National Communication
shall take place in Katima Mulilo before the - To work together on the demining to the UNFCCC Project under the Ministry of
end of January 2010. programme; Environment and Tourism on behalf of the
- To identify project components, sources of Namibian Government.
The parties also discussed the construction of funding and spearheads the implementation
the Kazungula Bridge, land border clearance of the project; Namibia has developed a National Climate
and issues related to the Road Contractor - The Joint Corridor Management Committee Change Strategy and Action Plan, which will
Company-Zambia. will be headed by the accounting officers be submitted to Cabinet once finalised.
of the Ministry of Works and Transport in
Cabinet, therefore, took note of the bilateral Namibia and the one for the Ministry of The Namibia National Committee on Climate
discussions between Namibia and Zambia on Public Works in Angola. Change (NCCC), chaired by the Ministry of
infrastructure development and approved the Environment and Tourism facilitated the
establishment of a Joint Technical Committee The parties also agreed to sign a memorandum development of Namibia’s Climate Change
composed of representatives from the of understanding before the end of January Strategy and Action Plan, which has
Ministries of Works and Transport; Home 2010 and to exchange the names of the ten identified the key issues for Namibia. These
Affairs and Immigration; Foreign Affairs; people to serve on the Committee also before issues constitute the common position for
Defence; Safety and Security; Environment the end of January 2010. Namibia and which have been integrated in
and Tourism and Lands and Resettlement, the African common position.
as well as a representative from the Caprivi The parties also agreed to the need for the Namibia will be represented at the COP-15
Regional Council to form part of the Joint construction of three bridges, namely the at technical level by representatives from
Technical Committee on the Zambezi water Calai Bridge at Rundu, the Cuanga Bridge at the Ministries of Environment and Tourism;
transport project and the clearing of the Nkurenkuru, as well as the Nciriku Bridge. Fisheries and Marine Resources; Foreign
Singalamwe-Katima Mulilo cordon fence. Affairs; Mines and Energy; Agriculture,
The two parties also discussed civil aviation Water and Forestry Finance and the
5. REPORT OF THE CONSULTATIVE issues, the construction of a railway line National Planning Commission, as well as
22 MEETING ON ROADS between Namibia and Angola, as well as border representatives from NamPower and non-
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTS and health issues. governmental organisations.
BETWEEN HON. HELMUT ANGULA,
MINISTER OF WORKS AND In light of the above, Cabinet took note of the The Government will also have a display
TRANSPORT AND HON. GENERAL bilateral discussions between Namibia and stand at the COP-15, aimed at showcasing
HIGNO CARNEIRO, ANGOLAN Angola on infrastructure development. Cabinet climate change activities in Namibia and how
MINISTER OF PUBLIC WORKS, also approved the formation of a Joint Corridor the country is vulnerable to projected climate
ONDJIVA, REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA, 18 Management Committee to be headed by the change impacts.
NOVEMBER 2009 Permanent Secretary in the Namibian Ministry
of Works and Transport and his counterpart in In light of the above, Cabinet endorsed
The meeting resulted from the SADC Protocol the Angolan Ministry of Public Works. Namibia’s position on climate change
on Transport, Communication and Meteorology negotiations, as well as that of the Africa
and correspondence between the Heads of 6. THE FIFTEENTH CONFERENCE OF Group, while Cabinet also granted approval
State and Government of Namibia and Angola, PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS for Namibia’s participation in COP-15 in
emphasising the need for bilateral discussions FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON Denmark from 7 – 18 December 2009.
on the transport infrastructure development CLIMATE CHANGE (UNFCCC) THE
between the two countries, with special FIFTH MEETING OF THE PARTIES
reference to the construction of bridges at (CMP) OF THE KYOTO PROTOCOL,
Calai/Rundu and Cuanga/Nkurenkuru.
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
7. FINAL REPORT ON THE POST programmes to repair basic services; and Cabinet gave its consent to the Ministry of
DISASTER NEEDS ASSESSMENT economic recovery through soft term financing Health and Social Services to vaccinate the
(PDNA) to restart production, especially small and agro above-mentioned target groups with the
The North and North-Eastern parts of Namibia businesses. H1N1 vaccine donated to Namibia by the
experienced heavy rains since the beginning WHO.
of 2009. This increased the water levels of the The longer term reconstruction needs at an
Kunene, Chobe, Zambezi and Kavango rivers, estimated cost of N$3.8 billion calls for the 9. THE NAMIBIAN STANDARDS
affecting the Caprivi, Kavango, Ohangwena, construction of better (disaster resilient) INSTITUTION (NSI) MEMBERSHIP
Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto regions. housing and infrastructure and transforming TO REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL
the agriculture sector to be more resilient to STANDARDISATION BODIES
The effects of flooding in both 2008 and 2009 droughts together with water harvesting. The Namibian Standards Institution (NSI)
increased the levels of vulnerability, especially was established by the Standards Act, 2005,
for the large proportion of the population. The medium and long term activities proposed Act 18 of 2005 as the national standards body
The damage affected an area that is home in the PDNA do not constitute a recovery and of Namibia responsible for the promotion
to 60% of the total population, destroying reconstruction plan and, therefore, requires of standardisation and quality assurance
critical infrastructure, washing away crops further analytical work to prioritise sectoral in the industry, commerce and the public
and livestock, damaging homes, and causing needs, formulate programmes and projects and sector in Namibia. The aim of the Standards
widespread displacement. elaborate on implementation arrangements, Institution is to improve product quality,
while finalising the cost estimates. industrial efficiency and productivity and to
On 17 March 2009, President Hifikepunye promote trade to achieve optimum benefit
Pohamba declared an emergency situation in Cabinet, therefore, endorsed the PDNA report for the people of Namibia.
the North and North-Eastern parts of Namibia and authorised the delegation of Prime Minister
and appealed for international assistance. Nahas Angula to the Copenhagen Climate In 2008, following the withdrawal of the South
Change Conference to use the PDNA report to African Bureau of Standards regulatory arm
The Directorate Emergency Management in solicit financial assistance to start implementing from Namibia, Cabinet directed the Ministry
the Office of the Prime Minister immediately the suggestions with respect to recovery and of Trade and Industry to set up the necessary
mobilised emergency assistance to meet reconstruction. Cabinet also authorised the mechanisms to ensure the continued
the most pressing needs of the people in National Planning Commission to convene a functioning of the regulatory controls over
the affected regions. The National Planning round table conference with donor partners to food safety, wholesomeness and compliance
Commission also requested the Global Fund solicit financial assistance, particularly for the of fish and fishery products to national
for Disaster Risk Reduction and Recovery Long Term Reconstruction Needs. legislation and international practice.
through the World Bank to undertake a Post
Disaster Needs Assessment together with the 8. REQUEST FOR AUTHORISATION BY Since its inception in 2007, the NSI has
United Nations and the European Commission CABINET FOR THE MINISTRY OF established its headquarters in Windhoek and
to assist the Government. HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES TO two operational offices in Walvis Bay where
ADMINISTER THE PANDEMIC H1N1 it operates a Biotoxins and Microbiology
The Post Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) 2009 VACCINATION CAMPAIGN FOR laboratories and fishery inspections at the
has been prepared based on the work of the TARGETED GROUPS NSI Testing and Inspection Centre, while
Human Early Recovery Needs Assessment Following the declaration of the pandemic H1N1 there is also a Fishery inspection facility at
done by the UN and the Damage and Loss 2009 as an emergency by the World Health Lüderitz.
Assessment by the World Bank. Organisation, major pharmaceutical companies
aggressively responded by manufacturing Membership of regional and international
The PDNA identified and calculated the vaccines against the pandemic. The WHO standardisation bodies will greatly enhance
required post-disaster investments, through then collaborated with member states and the NSI’s capacity to act as the national 23
estimation of needs for achieving full industries to improve access to these vaccines standards body and it will guarantee NSI
recovery of human and economic activities, to developing countries. access to regular and updated information
reconstruction of destroyed physical assets on standards development, product
and undertaking longer tern disaster risk Accordingly, the WHO will donate vaccines for quality and expertise for the benefit of its
management activities. 10% of the country’s population to Namibia, scientists, laboratory technicians, inspection,
which translates to approximately 220 000 certification and other functions. An enhanced
The total damages and losses from the 2009 doses of the vaccine. role of Namibia in regional and international
floods have been calculated at approximately standardisation work will ultimately
N$1.7 billion, with N$1.1 billion attributed to According to action plans, health care workers, contribute to a reduction in technical barriers
damages in physical assets and N$0.6 billion pregnant women, Diabetic patients, chronic to trade and ensure easy access of Namibian
in the losses of production flow. medical cases and liver, as well as immune- products to the world trade markets.
compromised patients are recommended for
After the early recovery, the PDNA report vaccination. Thereafter, children between 6 The NSI made budgetary provision for
recommended actions on the basis of a to 11 months, learners, immigration officials, membership to regional and international
Medium Term Recovery and Reconstruction prison wardens, Namibia Defence Force and organisations.
Needs, providing for livelihood recovery to NamPol members should be vaccinated.
support communities through cash for work
Continues on page 24
Government Information Bulletin December 2009
Cabinet, therefore, approved participating 11. APPOINTMENT OF GOVERNMENT 2009 (Act 8 of 2009), since the new Act
membership of the NSI to the International OFFICIALS AS MEMBERS TO THE abolishes the previous NCC Act.
Organisation for Standardisation (ISO), NAMIBIA FINANCIAL SECTOR
affiliate membership to the International CHARTER COUNCIL Cabinet approved the appointment of the
Electro-technical Commission, participating The Namibian financial sector, in consultation following people to the CRAN Board of
membership to the African Organisation for with Government, has been engaged in sector- Directors for a period of three years:
Standardisation (ARSO) and participating wide consultations for the past few years with - Mr. Lazarus Jacob, Director and
membership to the African Electro-technical the aim of formulating a Charter for the sector. shareholder in Paragon Investment
Standardisation Commission (AFSEC). Holdings as Chairperson;
It has been agreed that the Charter will apply - Ms Hilma Tukale Hitula, Director of
10. NAMIBIA’S MEMBERSHIP OF to all financial institutions, except SMEs as Hitula Property Investments PTY Ltd and
THE AFRICAN UNION PEACE AND defined in the Charter. The Charter provides Director of LorentzAngula Inc as Deputy
SECURITY COUNCIL (PSC) the framework for transformation and economic Chairperson;
The Peace and Security Council is one of empowerment in the sector. - Ms. Tulimevava Kaunapawa Mufeti,
the African Union organs within the AU Project Manager: Management
Commission in Addis Ababa. Its functions The Charter’s objectives are: Information Systems Development at
involve monitoring the state of peace and - To enhance the growth and development of UNAM as a member; and
security in the AU member states, and to the Namibian economy; - Mr. Tylvas Natangwe Shilongo, Senior
make appropriate recommendations to - Achieving broad-based transformation of General Manager at the Namibia Central
the AU Assembly through the Permanent the financial sector; Intelligence Service as a member.
Representatives Committee and the Executive - Promoting Namibianisation of enterprises in
Council. the financial sector; 13. 8th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF
- Maintaining high standards of corporate NAMIBIA NATIONAL REINSURANCE
Membership of the AU Peace and Security governance in the sector. CORPORATION LIMITED
Council rotates on a regional basis for terms (NAMIBRE)
between two and three years. The SADC The Charter is a sector-wide consensus code Cabinet noted the Annual Financial Statements
region is currently represented by Angola, of conduct for transformation of the Namibian of NamibRe as well as the resolutions taken
Zambia and Swaziland and their term of office financial industry. It sets out targets, the at the NamibRe Board of Directors meeting
in the AU Peace and Security Council expires implementation process and mechanisms for held on 13 August 2009.
in January 2010. review, monitoring and annual reporting of
progress over the next ten years. Cabinet, furthermore, authorised the Minister
From the SADC region only Namibia and of Finance to table the Annual Financial
Zimbabwe have not served in the AU Peace The Ministry of Finance, in consultation with Statements of NamibRe for the financial
and Security Council and both countries have other government institutions nominated two year ending March 2009 in the National
expressed their readiness to take up their substantive and two alternate government Assembly.
seats in the Council from 2010. representatives on the Namibian Financial
Sector Charter (NFSC) Council. 14. ANNUAL REPORTS:
Namibia expressed interest in taking up a
two year term, but would be ready to serve Cabinet endorsed the nomination of Ms. Ericah - 2005/06, 2006/07, 2007/08,
for three years if so requested. Membership B. Shafudah from the Ministry of Finance to 2008/09 ANNUAL REPORTS AND
of the Peace and Security Council involves the NFSC Council, with Ms. Dagmar Honsbein, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF
participation in meetings at expert level, also from the Ministry of Finance as alternate NAMIBIA WILDLIFE RESORTS LTD;