Government Information

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Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Republic of Namibia December 2007/January 2008

Work hard to ensure prosperity,

Pohamba urged
Hard work and dedication is needed to take the Namibian nation to greater heights of prosperity and to improve the living
conditions or people in all parts of the country, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said when he officially opened the first
Cabinet meeting for 2008 on Tuesday, 22 January 2008.

I n his address to Cabinet, he said

productivity, efficiency and effectiveness
in both the private and public sectors can
only be improved if all Namibians make hard

FREE/Gratis
work and dedication the cornerstone of their
activities in 2008.

He reminded Cabinet members of the eight

important priorities that his government
identified as critical areas for implementation
and called on them to ensure long-term
involvement in projects to ensure their
sustainability and viability over a long
period.

The eight government priorities are

addressing poverty and unemployment;
tackling the HIV/AIDS pandemic; reforming
the education sector; accelerating rural
development to reduce poverty; providing
social and economic amenities; addressing
the need of vulnerable members of
the Namibian society; the economic Traditional leaders pay their last respect to the late chief Munjuku II Nguvauva
empowerment of previously disadvantaged in Okahandja on 25 January 2008
Namibians; and improving the economic

Chief Munjuku II laid to rest

performance of the country through
trade, industrialisation, manufacturing
and the promotion of small and medium
enterprises.
Addressing unemployment, the President
said Cabinet should continue to create a
conducive atmosphere for investments.
This calls for a review of relevant legislation
to make sure that the country’s incentive
packages are competitive and attractive
to make Namibia a favourable investment
location. Small and medium size enterprises
Continues on page 4
1
Paramount Chief Munjuku Nguvauva II has completed his earthly mission with
distinction. It is now the responsibility of those remaining behind to continue
where he left so that his teachings and legacy can live on for generations to come.
W ith these words, President Hifikepunye
Pohamba paid tribute to the late
Paramount Chief of the Mbanderu and
As Deputy Chairperson of the Council of
Traditional Leaders, the late Chief Munjuku
was accorded a state funeral. His memorial
Deputy Chairperson of the Council of and funeral services were held in Okahandja
Traditional Leaders who passed away on on 25 and 26 January 2008 respectively.
16 January this year at the age of 85.
Continues on page 4

All about Namibia Questions about News from Cabinet

In This Issue

Senior Secondary the Anti-Corruption Chambers

Certificate Commission

Page 6-7 Page 10-11 Page 18-20
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

From the Desk of the Minister Contents

It is now time to congratulate Work hard to ensure prosperity, Pohamba urged................1
the Namibian nation for having
worked hard during 2007. It is
evident that the government has Chief Munjuku II laid to rest................................................1
scored some successes in socio-
economic, cultural and political
fields. Our country continues Katjavivi presents credentials to Pope................................3
to enjoy peace, stability and
unity of purpose as we respect Cabinet worked with unity, patriotism in 2007...................3
the rule of law and consolidate
the democratic principles and
structures. New NPC Commissioners inaugurated.................................5

Hon. N. Nandi-Ndaitwah T he end of a year gives one the

opportunity to take stock of the
experiences of another year gone by,
Replacement of IGCSE/HIGCSE with NSSC.........................6

while it is also the time that one should use to plan for the year ahead. Make 2008 the best year ever, President asked..................7
It is for this reason that President Hifikepunye Pohamba, in his New Year’s
message to the nation, called on all of us to make 2008 the best year
ever. This is possible if we work hard and face the year with optimism
Aroab opens centre for the less fortunate...........................7
and confidence.

Christmas is a time to pray and give thanks to the Almighty God for Take action against Gender-based violence........................8
blessings received abundantly. Christmas is also a time to care for and
share with those less fortunate, the elderly and the sick. Unfortunately
criminals don’t take a break, therefore the nation should stay alert and Pohamba on international issues.........................................8
not to fall victim to criminals. It is also a time when we should constantly
remember the police, soldiers, medical personnel and other performing Care for and share with less privileged this Xmas...............9
essential duties in our prayers.

On the Cabinet front, the year 2007 was marked by deliberations and FAQ about the Anti-Corruption Commission......................10
decisions conducted in a spirit of unity, patriotism and openness. The
Cabinet took decisions, among others on the Third National Development
Plan, which is the country’s road map for social and economic NDP3 National Consultative Conference held....................12
development. NDP3 will ensure that priorities, such as education, health
care, water, housing and electricity receive the necessary attention over Namibians should make aquaculture a vibrant
the next five years. The year 2008 will require hard work and dedication
from every Namibian. Namibia’s eight development priorities, namely
addressing poverty and unemployment; tackling the HIV/AIDS pandemic; Fish industry.......................................................................13
reforming the education sector; accelerating rural development to reduce
poverty; providing social and economic amenities; addressing the
need of vulnerable members of the Namibian society; the economic People have a right to food................................................14
empowerment of previously disadvantaged Namibians; and improving
the economic performance of the country through trade, industrialisation, MSS sees safe, crime free Namibia by 2030......................15
manufacturing and the promotion of small and medium enterprises
should be the overall aim of all our activities.
Home Affairs gets 10 mobile registration trucks...............15
Death has robbed the nation of a respected traditional leader and the
Deputy Chairperson of the Council of Traditional Leaders, Chief Munjuku II
2 Nguvauva. Due to his contribution to the Namibian liberation struggle and Namibia and Angola sign 11 agreements...........................16
being a proponent for the policy of reconciliation after independence, the
late Chief Munjuku II was accorded a state funeral after he passed away Mata-Mata border opening will boost tourism...................17
at the age of 85 on 16 January. The above is some of the interesting news
in this month’s Government Information Bulletin. Allow me to also use this
space to wish the entire nation a prosperous and productive 2008. News from Cabinet Chambers............................................18

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government

The Government Information Bulletin was
established through Cabinet Decision Number
13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information
bulletin to publicise the Government’s
programmes, policies and activities for the
benefit of Government institutions and the
Namibian public. All Government institutions
contribute towards the Bulletin. The
Government Information Bulletin is published
monthly by the Ministry of Information
and Broadcasting. To meet the specific
information needs of communities, the public
is invited to send comments and suggestions
on Government projects, programmes
and policies, which will then be covered in
the Bulletin. More Government news and
information can also be accessed on the GRN
News button on the Government Internet site
at www.grnnet.gov.na
Private Bag 13344, Windhoek,
Telephone 061 x 2839111,
Fax 061 x 230170,
E-mail wdeetlefs@mib.gov.na.
The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural
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The public and organisations are welcome
to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing costs
will be for the account of the subscriber.
Design DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi,
Windhoek.
Layout Solitaire Press, Windhoek.
and printing
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Katjavivi hands credentials to Pope

P rof. Peter H. Katjavivi, Ambassador of
the Republic of Namibia to the Federal
Republic of Germany, presented his
credentials to His Holiness Pope Benedict
XVI, at a colourful ceremony at the Vatican
on 13 December 2007.
 
With the hand-over of his credentials to
the Pope, Prof Katjavivi became the first
Ambassador of Namibia to the Holy See. Prof.
Katjavivi will take care of this responsibility
from Berlin where he is stationed.

Ambassador Katjavivi was accompanied

by his wife, Rosemary Jane Katjavivi, their
daughter, Isabel, and Mrs Frieda Guios, a
diplomat at the Namibian embassy in Berlin,
attended the ceremony in the Clementine
Hall in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican.
 
At the same ceremony, new ambassadors
from Thailand, The Seychelles, Gambia,
Suriname, Singapore and Kuwait handed
over their credentials to the Pope. Prof. Peter Katjavivi and his family with Pope Benedict XVI on 13 December 2007 in the Vatcican

Cabinet worked with unity, patriotism in 2007

The Namibian Cabinet deliberated and took decisions on many issues of national importance in 2007 and its business was
conducted in the spirit of unity, patriotism and openness, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said when he addressed the last
Cabinet meeting of 2007 on 11 December.

D uring 2007, 22 ordinary Cabinet
meetings were held and 290 decisions
have been taken or adopted. Pres. Pohamba
said that the Cabinet, as the executive organ
of state, has to ensure the proper formation
and implementation of government policies.
The decisions that Cabinet take, affect the
lives of Namibians in a practical and direct
manner.
Besides thanking Cabinet members and
the Cabinet Secretariat for their support,
hard work and dedication during 2007, the
President also expressed appreciation for the
role of the legislature and the judiciary that
have also contributed to the smooth running
of the work of the Cabinet in 2007.
He also acknowledged the constructive role
of registered political parties represented
in the Namibian Parliament. He praised the
interactions and suggestions of their leaders
on various topics and issues affecting the
Namibian people that were made during
consultations with the Office of the President.
This is an essential task of nation building
and the process of national reconciliation.
One of the important milestones for 2007
was the finalisation of the Third National
Development Plan (NDP3), the country’s road
map for social and economic development,
through which the government aims to bring
about visible improvement in the social and
economic landscape of Namibia. NDP3
has specific targets that must be met in
different sectors and these targets relate
to the provision of social amenities, such
as education, health care, water, housing,
electricity and the promotion of economic
growth.
NDP3 also strongly focuses on the creation
of employment, the expansion of the
manufacturing base, food production, and
the expansion of physical and communication
infrastructure, such as roads, railways,
harbours, airports and telecommunication
networks.
President Pohamba said NDP3, Vision
2030 and the 2004 SWAPO Party Election
Manifesto will remain the centre of policy
implementation. They should form part of
the government’s most urgent priorities and
areas of focus.
With reference to the 2004 SWAPO Party
Election Manifesto, the President reminded
Cabinet members that the government
is fast approaching its final phase of the
mandate it won in the 2004 elections. The
government is, therefore, obliged to fulfil the
expectations, aspirations and wishes of the
electorate by doing everything possible to
ensure the implementation of the manifesto
in the broadest sense. 3
According to the President, the
implementation of the 2004 SWAPO Party
Election Manifesto and NDP3 are important
catalysts for the realisation of Namibia’s long
term development policies encapsulated in
Vision 2030. “Their effective implementation
will bring us closer to the realisation of Vision
2030. We must continually assess, monitor
and evaluate the implementation of this road
map,” he said.
President Pohamba also called on
Government institutions to follow up on
bilateral agreements signed with other
countries to ensure that Namibia benefit
from such agreements.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
Chief Munjuku II laid to rest
Herero’s from all over Namibia converged in Okahandja for the state
funeral of the late Chief Munjuku II Nguvauva
Addressing a huge crowd, who came to
pay their last respect to the late Chief,
President Pohamba, in his message at the
memorial service, said the late Chief was
an outstanding son of the Namibian soil,
a tested leader, a pillar of strength, and a
patriot who dedicated his life to the well-
being of his people and the development
of the Namibian nation. He contributed
to the anti-colonial struggle and the
attainment of the country’s national
freedom and independence.
Work hard to ensure prosperity
must also be sustained and broadened.
On the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Pres.
Pohamba acknowledged progress, but
called on his government to continue
availing anti-retroviral drugs, as well as
measures to prevent mother-to-child
transmission. He called on Namibians to
get tested and to make safe choices to
protect themselves and their families.
4 The government is committed to reform
the education system through ETSIP.
This calls for improvement in the quality
of teaching, expanding access to schools
and addressing the needs of Grade 10
and Grade 12 school leavers through
vocational training and other measures.
Namibians in rural and peri-urban areas
bear a disproportionate burden of poverty
and this challenge must be tackled head-
on.
Feeder roads are being built to facilitate
an increase in commercial activities and
infrastructures, such as grain silos are
being built in rural areas for the storage
of grain. Targeted action is also taken to
assist the San and Ovatua communities
who are living in difficult conditions.
Pall bearers stand at attention before the casket of the late Chief
Munjuku II is lowered in the grave
After independence, he was one of the
traditional leaders who worked actively to
promote the policy of national reconciliation
and mutual understanding among different
communities. He also contributed to shaping
the course and evolution of traditional
leadership in the country as a member and
deputy chairman of the Council of Traditional
Leaders.
Speaking at the funeral on 26 January,
President Pohamba again stressed the late
To improve the social and economic situation
of citizens, the government continue to
provide quality health care, potable water,
electricity and housing. He called on
the relevant ministries to accelerate the
upgrading, expansion and renovation of
existing health facilities, adding that quality
health care is vital for the well-being of
Namibia’s communities.
Every effort is also being made to address
the need of the youth, women, senior
citizens, workers, people with disabilities
and orphans and vulnerable children, the
President said.
Steps have also been put in place to facilitate,
promote and regulate genuine economic
empowerment of previously disadvantaged
Namibians. The Transformational Economic
and Social Empowerment Framework is
being drafted by the Office of the Prime
Minister to bring about social justice and
economic empowerment of the previously
disadvantaged.
President Pohamba said the government has
laid a strong foundation through prudent and
pragmatic policies aimed at achieving the
nation’s development objectives and notable
Continues from page 1
Chief’s contribution to the nation. He
called on the mourners to continue to
promote the positive values which the
Chief stood for to ensure that his legacy
is immortalised. “We mourn the loss of
our hero, however, we are strengthened
and consoled by the legacy of hard work,
dedication and leadership that the late
Paramount Chief Munjuku Nguvauva II
leaves behind,” he said.
Continues from page 1
progress has been made in many areas.
This should encourage everybody to work
harder to bring improvements where they
are needed. He called on Cabinet to learn
from past setbacks and to take corrective
steps to proceed speedily.
He once again stressed that the
government should always be ready to
listen to the concerns expressed by the
country’s citizens. “Indeed, a democratic
systems of governance such as ours
should welcome the voices and concerns
of our people regarding their Government
in the matters of social and economic
development,” Pohamba said.
The President also voiced his concern
over the destructive impact of the floods
and drought experienced in different parts
of the country and called on his Cabinet to
ensure that no human life is lost because
of lack of food or water.
He concluded is message to Cabinet with
a call to government to work together
in the spirit of mutual respect, national
reconciliation and tolerance so that
Namibia can continue to be an oasis of
peace and tranquillity.

New National Planning Commissioners
inaugurated
President Hifikepunye Pohamba inaugurated the non-ex-officio members of the 5th National Planning Commission on 12
December 2007 in Windhoek and expressed the wish that the new members will carry out the important functions of setting
priorities and directing the course of Namibia’s social and economic development for the next three years with distinction,
diligence and dedication.
T he non-ex-officio Commissioners
inaugurated on 12 December are Mrs.
Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi, Dr. Mary Sealy,
Ms. Maggy Nghatanga, Mr. Sam Shikongo,
Mr. Alpheus Muheua, Ms. Juliet Kavetuna,
Mr. Justin Ellis and Mrs. Jacky Asheeke.
President Pohamba appointed them to the
National Planning Commission on the basis
of their expertise and skills.
The National Planning Commission consists
of two categories of members as per the
National Planning Commission Act. The
Commission comprises of ex-officio members
who serve on the Commission because of the
position they hold in Government. They are
the Director-General of the National Planning
Commission, Mr. Helmut Angula, the Minister
of Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Dr.
Nickey Iyambo, the Minister of Finance,
Mrs. Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, the
Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Immanuel
Ngatjizeko, the Minister of Works, Transport
and Communication, Mr. Joel Kaapanda, and
Regional, Local Government and Housing
and Rural Development Minister, Mr. John
Pandeni.
At the inauguration, President Pohamba said
the senior ministers and eminent Namibian
personalities with many years of experience
in different areas will enrich the work and
deliberations of the Commission. Although
the duties and functions of the Commission
emanate from legislation, the commissioners
also need to take the needs, aspirations and
expectations of the Namibian people into
consideration.
The President reminded the Commission
that they must provide guidance and
leadership, as well as taking sound decisions
in the interest of all Namibians and the
socio-economic development of Namibia.
The commissioners are expected to
identify development priorities and provide
direction for national development priorities
as outlines in the government’s policies
and programmes. “This must be done in
line with national development goals and
objectives to ensure sustainable growth,
social harmony and equitable development,”
Pres. Pohamba said.
According to the President, Namibia’s national
planning and development frameworks
are already in place with documents such
as the different development plans and
Vision 2030. These policies are designed
to address the needs of our people, namely
the youth, women, the elderly, orphans and
vulnerable children, the workers, people with
Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
disabilities and those infected and affected
by HIV/AIDS.
The challenge for the Commission is to
find effective ways and means as well as
adequate resources to implement these
policy measures effectively. He reminded
the commissioners that time is not standing
still and goals, such as poverty reduction and
employment creation cannot be postponed.
He emphasised that government has to
act promptly to bring relief to those who
lead a bleak existence because of poverty,
unemployment and under-development.
There is a need to accelerate industrialisation
by deploying our own human resources,
to create a society where our people can
enjoy economic prosperity, harmony and
political stability. To realise those targets,
the government has to promote economic
growth, employment creation and capacity
building, while improving its capacity to
monitor implementation to ensure that it
stays on course. Where corrective action is
needed, the government must act promptly
and without hesitation.
The reduction in development assistance is
presenting a challenge to the government
to accomplish more with less external
resources, the President said.
He also reminded the commissioners that
the Commission can only take valid decisions
when there are enough members to from
a quorum. He called on commissioners to
attend all meetings and to base their decisions
on available statistical indicators. He said
the transformation of the Central Bureau
of Statistics into an efficient coordinator of
official statistics in the country is a huge
5
challenge facing the new Commission.
In his capacity of Director General of the
National Planning Commission, Mr. Helmut
Angula thanked the outgoing commissioners
who have diligently completed their terms
of service. He similarly welcomed the new
commissioners and said he was looking
forward to working with them.
Mr. Angula reminded the newly appointed
commissioners that their appointments
were not to ceremonial positions, but that
they have been entrusted with a huge task
of identifying, planning and implementing
national development priorities. He
therefore called on the new commissioners
to acquaint themselves with their duties and
The new NPC Commissioners will be expected to
responsibilities as per the National Planning
address the plight of people with HIV/AIDS, people
Commission Act. with disabilities and the youth, among others
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
Replacements of IGCSE/HIGSE system
with the WSSC
Mr. Cowley van der Merwe, Director of National
Examinations and Assessment in the
Ministry of Education
When was the Namibian Senior
Secondary Certificate (NSSC)
curriculum and examination system
implemented?
The NSSC is the new final exit level
qualification of the Namibian School
System. The syllabuses leading to the new
qualification were already implemented in
Grade 11 at the beginning of 2006.
The Grade 12 candidates of 2007 are the
first group to write the new Namibia Senior
Secondary Certificate (NSSC) Ordinary
and Higher Level Examinations, replacing
the IGCSE and HIGCSE examinations of
Cambridge International Examination in the
United Kingdom.
What arrangements have been put
in place to ensure that the NSSC
qualifications are recognised nationally
and internationally?
To make sure that the new NSSC
6 Ordinary and Higher Level qualifications
are recognised and accepted as at least
equivalent in standard to the IGSCE and
HIGCSE qualification, the Ministry of
Education entered into an Accreditation
Agreement with the University of Cambridge
Local Examination Syndicate (UCLES).
The new NSSC syllabuses and examinations
are of high quality and they will be accepted
and recognised inside and outside the
borders of the country and they are of
equivalent standard to IGCSE and HIGCSE.
Detailed plans and schedules have been
developed in collaboration with Cambridge to
systematically build the necessary capacity in
the Ministry of Education in areas of syllabus
and question paper development, marking of
answer scripts, computerised processing of
examinations data, the awarding of grades
as well as the reviewing of grades.
Will the Ministry have the capacity
and resources to administer the new
examinations?
Checks and balances were built into
the development processes to ensure
that functions were not taken over from
Cambridge before the Ministry had the
capacity and resources to do so. While
the NSSC was being developed, progress
was closely monitored by the National
Examination Assessment and Certificate
Board as well as during annual review
meetings between officials of Cambridge
and the Ministry of Education.
Which Directorates from the Ministry
were involved in developing the new
NSSC curriculum and examination
sysytem?
The National Institute for Education
Development (NIED) and the Directorate
of National Examinations and Assessment
(DNEA) were responsible for the
development of the new NSSC curriculum
and examination system respectively whilst
the Namibian Qualification Authority (NQA)
was involved with the development of the
requirements for the NSSC qualification
and the registration thereof on the National
Qualifications Framework.
What changes were made to the
syllabuses?
The NSSC syllabuses were developed from
the IGCSE/HIGCSE syllabuses with the
assistance of Cambridge experts and went
through various quality control stages before
the National Examination, Assessment and
Certification Board approved them. Changes
were made to syllabuses in order to improve
their relevance were necessary but for
most subjects not to such an extent that it
necessitated the immediate replacement of
textbooks.
Changes made within syllabuses:
- Both the IGCSE and the HIGCSE
Mathematics syllabuses were upgraded
to include more topics at ordinary level.
- The Development Studies syllabus was
upgraded with the inclusion of more topics
relevant to the Southern African context.
- Management essential non-overlapping
topics in the Natural Environmental
syllabuses were incorporated in the
Ordinary level Geography syllabuses
and the Environmental Management
syllabuses were phased out.
- The IGCSE subjects, Child Development,
Religious Studies and Music were phased
out because of the low candidate
enrollment.
- The seven specialised IGCSE technical
subjects will be examined as Ordinary
level syllabuses only up to 2007 after
which they will be phased out. Design
and technology will remain the only
“technical subjects” at both NSSC
Ordinary and Higher levels.
- Literature which was a separate syllabus
from the First Language English and
German was intergrated into these two
Ordinary level syllabuses as other first
languages literature was already part of
the language syllabuses.
Does the number of subjects to be
offered to a candidate remain the
same?
The structure of the NSSC senior secondary
curriculum remains the same as before
namely six subjects: English and another
language, three subjects constituting a
field of study, and a supplementary subject
selected from the options available.
What grade symbols will be used to
report the achievement of candidates?
The grading scales remain the same as was
the case for IGCSE and HIGCSE A* (highest)
to G (lowest) for Ordinary level and 1
(highest) to 4 (lowest) for Higher level.
Will learners still receive grade 12
certificates?
Two types of NSSC certificates will be
awarded, namely the Namibia Senior
Secondary Certificate Subject Award and
the Namibia Senior Secondary Group Award.
The NSSC Subjects Award will be awarded to
all candidates who have been graded in one
or more Ordinary or Higher level subjects
and will be similar to the IGCSE and HIGCSE
certificates that were issued for the past
twelve years.
Continue on page 7
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Make 2008 the best year ever - President

President Hifikepunye Pohamba urged all Namibians to make 2008 the best year ever by working harder and by facing the
year with optimism and confidence to achieve both personal and professional goals and objectives.

“At the dawn of 2008, we should cast our
eyes further on the horizon to meet new
challenges and opportunities. I trust that
perseverance and dedication will be the
hallmarks of all Namibians, both young and
old, in 2008. I am confident that 2008 will
see more successes than those recorded in
previous years in both the public and private
sectors. Namibians must cooperate to create
a brighter tomorrow for all our people in the
spirit of national reconciliation”, the Head of
State said in his New Year’s message to the
nation on 31 December 2008.
According to the President, the year
was characterised by positive actions to
consolidate the gains of the revolution
through the implementation of targeted
policies to improve the living standards of
all Namibians, to restructure and strengthen
the education system through ETSIP,
to concretize NDP3 and Vision 2030, to
improve the delivery of public amenities and
several initiatives to ensure improved public
management and administration. In his New
Year’s message, President Pohamba called
on parents to rededicate themselves to their
duty of parenting by providing the necessary
support and guidance to children to
become upright and responsible citizens.
He equally called on children to obey their
parents, refrain from using drugs and
alcohol and embrace the values of hard
work, self-discipline and tolerance. He
urged children to concentrate on their
studies and implore teachers to provide
quality education so that the pass rate can
be improved at all levels.
With reference to the government, the
President said that the management
cadre had been instructed to become
more productive to ensure that the effects
of poverty, unemployment and crime
are addressed, while development and
infrastructure need to be expanded in the
rural areas.
He also pleaded for greater compassion
and better care for the elderly, orphans
and vulnerable children, while giving the
assurance that the availability of potable The President called on Namibians to treat the elderly
water, electricity, housing and health with compassion
care will remain a high priority for the
government.

Aroab opens centre for the less fortunate

The Minister of Gender and Child Welfare,
Hon. Marlene Mungunda, in January
launched a community project at Aroab in
the Karas region. The project consists of
three centres, namely a community centre,
playground and an HIV/AIDS centre.
Apart from providing space for HIV/AIDS
counselling services, library services for
school going-children and computer training
and use, are some of the activities to be
offered at the centre. A playground area
will provide orphans and vulnerable children
with a space to experience family life in the
wake of the devastating effects of wide
spread poverty and the HIV/AIDS pandemic
in the country. Many children have lost
their parents and they need a conducive
environment for their social upbringing.
Mungunda assured the community of Aroab
that her Ministry would support their efforts
the care for and protect the children and the
youth, urging the community to work hard
in building a prosperous nation. She advised
the community to take ownership of the
centre and guard against vandalism.
The project is the brainchild of the Aroab
Village Council. The Minister praised the
Council for its initiative in establishing the
centre, which will go a long way to reduce
the traumatic experiences of the victims of
HIV/AIDS and improve the living standards
of the people through the dissemination of
information. 7

Replacements of IGCSE/HIGSE system with the WSSC Continues from page 6

Who will be eligible receivers of the
NSSC Group Award?
The NSSC Group Award is a new
qualification and will be awarded to
candidates who are graded in six subjects
and meet the minimum requirements
applicable to the group award.
Will there be changes in the
admission requirements to tertiary
institutions?
The University of Namibia and the
Polytechnic of Namibia and other institutions
of higher learning accredited with the
Namibia Qualification Authority have satisfied
themselves about quality and standard of
the new NSSC qualification and will accept it
for purposes of admission to tertiary studies
if the minimum admission requirements
determined by each institution, on the basis
of the NSSC qualification, are met.
In August 2005 the Ministry of Education
approached the Matriculation Board in South
Africa to get the new NSSC qualification
approved for purposes of admission
of Namibian candidates to first-degree
studies at South African universities.
From 2008, Namibian candidates with the
NSSC qualifications will be admitted on the
same requirements as were applicable to
the IGCSE and HIGCSE qualifications.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Take action against gender-based violence

By Norbert Shithigona
Community, traditional and church leaders have been called upon to work towards a common goal in the fight against
Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The Governor of the Hardap Regional Council, Hon. Katrina Hanse-Himarwa, wants to see the
passing of rigid and stiffer sentences meted out for rapists and murderers of women and children in the near future.

S he reminded the nation that the

prevention of violence against women
and children is not only the responsibility
of the Ministry of Gender Equality and
Child Welfare (MGECW), but it requires
individual and community participation and
involvement. “I believe the highest form of
violence in the context of Namibia is the
violence against women and children,” she
noted.
to overcome gender-based and domestic
violence? How do we, as partners in this
struggle, get the vast majority of men-folk to
consciously act on the fact that women and
men were created differently but equal and
believe deeply that all human rights apply
for both women and men?,” the statement
questioned. It went on to state that, “we
also know that women equally need to
change deep set attitudes. How often have
you heard a woman say: “she asked for it” or
“no, you mustn’t bring down the family name
by telling people or God Forbid, report to the
police about what happened to you”.
It concluded that action on conscious level,
on a minute-by-minute basis, is needed by
women and men to bring about change.

The Governor stated that the impact of

Gender-Based Violence is felt at all levels of
the society. “We are all witnesses to violence
on streets, in families, among friends,
between parents and children, husbands
and wives, and at homes and workplaces.
Gender-Based Violence has become part of
our everyday life,” she said.

She also noted that violence, in whatever

form, can no longer be tolerated “and
therefore let us join hands, as community
leaders, to cooperate with one another for
the benefit of all communities”.

The Governor commended members of

civil society organisations and NGOs for
having played a critical role in their call
for the upliftment of social standards Women and children should be treated with love and respect and violence
and promoting sustainable development against them should not be tolerated.
amongst communities. “I believe the fight

Pohamba on International
against Gender-Based Violence without your
involvement will not succeed,” she added.

The Governor was speaking at the launching

of 16 Days of Activism in the Hardap region
on 23 November 2007. She concluded that
the occasion should serve as a forum for
stakeholders to re-arm themselves with
dedication and commitment to fight against
Gender-Based Violence and make Namibia a
8
peaceful country to attract investors who will
maximise the economic activities to benefit
all communities.
At the same occasion a statement was
read on behalf of UNICEF Representative,
Khin-Sandi Lwin and the UN System, as co-
sponsors of the 16 Days of Activism. It noted
that the issue of Gender-Based Violence has
reached a point of “zero tolerance” among
Namibian women. The issue is receiving
the multi-sectoral attention it deserves
and needs. The UN agencies realise that
although the attention is drawn to the issue,
action is missing in the fight against Gender-
Based Violence and that men are missing in
action for the course.
“How do we, as partners in the struggle,
get the vast majority of men to get deeply
involved and committed in the struggle
issues
As they say, no country is an island but a part of others who make up the world.
The following are some pronouncements made by President Hifikepunye Pohamba
in 2007, with regard to Namibia’s stand on world issues.
• Namibia strongly applauds the holding of to climate change. Climate change has
free and fair elections in DRC last year, become, more than ever before, a global
as well as, the formation of a democratic challenge that needs urgent redress.
government led by His Excellency,
Joseph Kabila. We are concerned about • The ongoing reform of the United
some groups who continue to undermine Nations system, particularly the
the rule of law in that country. We call expansion and democratisation of the
upon them to refrain from violence and Security Council should be expedited. In
join the peace process. We are also this context, I wish to reiterate Namibia’s
concerned about the ongoing violence support for the Common African Position
in the Darfur Region of Sudan and as contained in the Ezulwini Consensus
the conflict in Somalia where innocent and the Sirte Declaration.
civilians are suffering.
• My government calls for the immediate
• I wish to reiterate my country’s position and unconditional implementation
with regard to the spectre of global of the UN Settlement Plan for the
warming and climate change. We believe Western Sahara, and all resolutions of
that it is imperative for all nations of the the Security Council and the General
world to join hands and adopt policies Assembly, with the aim of holding a free
that are environmentally friendly and will and fair referendum in Western Sahara.
reduce carbon emissions that contribute
Continues on page 9
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Care for and share with less privileged

this Christmas
Christmas is a time to reinforce the teachings and values of caring and sharing with those members of our communities who find
themselves in difficult living conditions, President Hifikepunye Pohamba said in his annual Christmas message delivered on 24
December 2007.

C hristmas is the special time when families,

fiends and communities come together
in the spirit of sharing and togetherness
and Namibians should not forget orphans
and vulnerable children, the elderly, people
suffering from Aids, those with disabilities and
those who are bedridden and weak. With time
off from work, Namibians should make time for
those who are in need and show compassion
for those who are in pain, he said.

The President also paid tribute to the police,

soldiers, medical personnel and other who
have to perform essential duties over the
festive season. He also included workers who
keep the wheels of the economy rolling and
wished them strength and dedication to their
work, while expressing the hope that they too
will get the opportunity to rest and be with
their families.
He similarly appealed to road users to heed
and respect the traffic rules and regulations
to avoid accidents and to prevent the loss of
precious lives and serious injuries because
of vehicle accidents. He called on drivers,
passengers and pedestrians to support the
ongoing traffic campaign to reduce vehicle
accidents in Namibia. This will spare families
and communities the unnecessary pain and
sorrow that accompany horrific accidents.
Medical professionals, police and soldiers remain on
duty when others go on leave
The President similarly called on Namibians to
remain alert so that they do not fall victim to
criminals. Criminal elements take advantage of
the holiday season to rob, attack and burglar
houses and businesses. Therefore, even
while Namibians are relaxing and enjoying
the holiday season, they should remain on
guard and report suspicious behaviour to
the law enforcement agencies. According to
the President, the law enforcement agencies
are under strict order to maintain law and
order to ensure that the holiday season is not
Christmas is a time to care for the less privileged
marred by crime and violence. Members of the
Namibian Policy and Defence Force will carry
out patrols and anti-crime operations to ensure
that people can enjoy their holidays with peace
of mind and a sense of security.
President Pohamba concluded his Christmas
message by wishing all Namibians a well-
deserved rest, but called on everybody to
reflect on the past year and to embrace
2008 with the resolve to work hard to
achieve personal objectives and to reach new
milestones of success.

Christmas is a time for sharing time with loved ones and for giving and receiving December is holiday time and many Namibians move to the coast to escape from the
gifts. It is also a time to share with the less fortunate and to remember those heat in Windhoek and other areas of the country
rendering essential services

Pohamba on International issues Continues from page 8

• We are deeply concerned about
the continuous suffering of the
people of Palestine under Israeli
occupation. I wish to reaffirm
our full and unequivocal support
for the inalienable rights of
the Palestinian people to self-
determination, including their right
to establish a free and independent
State of Palestine alongside Israel.
• Our world needs peace and
security so that humanity can work
together towards the realization
of the Millennium Development
Goals (MDGs). Our continent
needs peace and security so
that Africans can work towards
greater economic integration
and the eradication of hunger,
diseases and poverty.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Frequently asked questions about the ACC

Corruption has many corrosive effects. It results in insufficient public facilities, a decline in economic development, a high
unemployment rate, poverty and inequality, the facilitation of organised crime, the violation of human rights, increase in
political instability and an enrichment of a few at the expense of the majority.

Mr. Paulus Noa of the Anti-Corruption Commission and President Hifikepunye Pohamba at the
launch of the anti-corruption week in 2007.

T he 2006/2007 Annual Report of the

Anti-Corruption Commission contains a
10 number of frequently asked questions about
the Commission. Since the information in the
Annual Report will not necessarily reaches
the public, the Government Information
Bulletin extracted some of the questions
and answers to enlighten the public on the
work of the Commission.
What is the Anti-Corruption
Commission?
It is an independent and impartial body that
has a statutory mandate to fight corruption.
It is also and agency as contemplated in the
Public Service Act, 1995 (Act 13 of 1995).
What are the functions of the
Commission?
The main function of the Commission is to
combat corruption through investigation,
prevention and public education. The
Commission thus has a three-pronged
approach in fighting corruption. The
Commission is mandated under section 3 of
the Anti-Corruption Act to:
- receive or initiate and investigate
allegations of corrupt practices;
- refer an allegation to any other
appropriate authority for investigation or
action;
- consult, cooperate and exchange
information with appropriate bodies
or authorities, including bodies or
authorities of other countries that are
authorised to conduct investigations in
relation to corrupt practices;
- prevent the occurrence of corrupt
practices;
- investigate any conduct of a person
employed by a public body or private
body which may be connected with or
conducive to corrupt practices;
- examine the practices, systems and
procedures of public bodies and private
bodies;
- advise public bodies and private bodies
on ways of preventing corrupt practices;
- educate the public on the dangers of
corrupt practices; and
- enlist and foster public confidence and
support in combating corruption.
How does the Commission receive
complaints about corruption?
The ACC receives complaints orally or in
writing from members of the public or from
institutions. Some members of the public
prefer to report anonymously or give an
indication that their identities should be
protected. The Commission may also initiate
investigations.
Is the Commission accessible to
members of the public who do not live
in Windhoek?
The Commission has established a free
hotline number 0800 222 888 through
which the public anywhere in the country
can reach the Commission. In addition, the
Commission intends to, within the very near
future, establish at least two regional offices

and introduce mobile report centres to make
itself more accessible to the public. This, of
course, depends on the availability of funds.
Once the Directorate of Education and
Corruption Prevention is fully operational,
the Commission will be more proactive
with its outreach activities to sensitise the
public on the dangers or corruption and on
reporting procedures.
Does the Commission cooperate with
other authorities in carrying out its
mandate?
Yes. In terms of section 3 of the ACC Act,
the Commission may consult, cooperate and
exchange information with appropriate bodies
or authorities, including authorities and
bodies of other countries that are authorised
to conduct inquiries or investigations in
relation to corrupt practices.
The Commission frequently interacts
with the Namibian Police as some of the
complaints are of such a nature that it
requires an investigation by the Police and
not the Commission. In the fight against
corruption, the Commission has to ensure in
addition to the Namibian Police, that it has
good working relations with offices, such as
the Office of the Ombudsman, the Office of
the Attorney General, the Prosecutor General
and even the Parliamentary Committee on
Public Accounts.
Is the Commission an independent
body?
Yes. The Commission is an independent
and impartial body that is accountable to
the Namibian people through the National
Assembly by way of an annual report that
the Director submits to the Prime Minister
for tabling in the National Assembly. This
guarantees the Commission’s independence
and ensures that it can perform its functions
without fear of any interference.
What is the relationship between the
Commission and other Commissions in
Namibia?
The Commission has the specific mandate
to deal with corruption. Corrupt practices
which it is mandated to deal with are defined
in Chapter 4 of the ACC Act. The Commission
may cooperate with any other authority
inclusive of any other Commission in the
discharge of its mandate.
Does the Commission prosecute the
cases it investigates?
The Act explicitly states that, if upon
completion of an investigation by the
Commission, it appears to the Director that a
person has committed an offence of corrupt
practices under Chapter 4 or any other
offence discovered during the investigation,
the Director must refer the matter and
all relevant information and evidence
assembled by the Commission in connection
with the matter to the Prosecutor General.
The power to prosecute is a constitutional
power that vests in the Prosecutor General.
A staff member of the Commission who
possesses the required legal qualifications
Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
to appear in a court of law in Namibia may
prosecute if the Prosecutor General, in
consultation with the Director, delegates the
authority to conduct criminal proceedings
in court in respect of the matter. The staff
member will in the exercise of such power be
subjected to the control and direction of the
Prosecutor General.
Can a person be prosecuted under the
Anti-Corruption Act, 2003, for offences
committed before the coming into
force of the Act?
No. The Act has no retrospective effect
unless of course it is a continuous offence.
Depending of the facts of the case, the
Prosecutor General may decide to prosecute
such a person, if it is not a continuous
offence, under the Prevention of Corruption
Ordinance, 1928 (Ordinance 2 of 1928)
or with a common law offence of fraud or
bribery or any other offence as the case
may be.
Does the Anti-Corruption Act, 2003,
bind Namibians for offences committed
outside Namibia?
Most definitely yes. Under the Anti-
Corruption Act Namibian citizens and
persons domiciled or permanently resident
in Namibia may be brought before Namibian
courts for corrupt offences committed in a
foreign country if the conduct in questions
would amount to a corrupt practice under
this Act.
Is there any legal protection for
persons who assist the Commission in
its work?
Yes. The Anti-Corruption Act provides that
no action or proceedings of a disciplinary,
civil or criminal nature may be instituted
or maintained by any person or authority
against any informer or a person who has
assisted the Commission in an investigation
into an alleged or suspected offence under
the Act.
It should also be noted that the mentioned
protection is not extended to those who
maliciously give false information against
others. However, the Commission is of
the opinion that the Protection of Whistle
Blowers legislation should be enacted so
as to extend protection to whistle blowers
in general. This will help remove the fear
of victimisation that people may have should
they report corruption.
What are the causes of corruption
identified thus far?
It is appropriate to firstly state that
corruption is a manifestation of institutional
weakness, poor ethical standards, skewed
incentives and inadequate enforcement of
the laws of the country.
As part of our national crusade against
corruption and our quest to enforce
transparency and accountability, legislation
that adequately provides for minimum
standard of behaviour and conduct of
public officials should now be enacted.
Such legislation should also provide
for mandatory disclosure of assets and
liabilities. The enactment of such legislation
will reaffirm Government’s commitment to
ensure accountability and transparency in
the conduct of public affairs.
The causes of corruption are, among others,
the following:
- Lack of adherence to the laws, rules and
regulations;
- Lack of programmes combating
corruption in various institutions;
- Failure to develop proper ethical and
business standards for the public and
private sectors;
- Appointment of incompetent persons in
certain positions of authority;
- Lack of transparency and accountability
in the decision-making process;
- Lengthy and cumbersome procedures in
the decision-making process;
- Poor remuneration of employees;
- Absence of adequate internal controls to
prevent bribery, nepotism and abuse of
public properties.
What are the penalties for corruption
under the Anti-Corruption Act, 2003?
A person convicted of an offence under any
provision of Chapter 4 is liable to a fine not
exceeding N$500 000 or to imprisonment for
a term not exceeding 25 years or both such
fine and such imprisonment.
What role can civil society organisations
play in the fight against corruption?
Civil society has an important role to play as
a stakeholder in the fight against corruption.
It is a vehicle that reaches out to ordinary
citizens. Its role in awareness raising on
corruption cannot be underestimated.
Civil society should develop anti-corruption
educational material as part of programmes
sensitising the public. They should educate
the public to demand quality goods, service
delivery, transparency and accountability.
Only when civil society is engaged in
oversight programmes can the required
levels of transparency and accountability be
realised.
What about the media?
The media can play a vital role in exposing 11
corruption, raising public awareness,
enforcing and maintaining professional
standards. The media is responsible for
monitoring the three pillars of the state
against corrupt practices. The role of the
media in enhancing ethical values and in
reducing the levels of corruption should be
appreciated.
If you need to contact the Anti-
Corruption Commission, you can reach
them at the 12th Floor, Frans Indongo
Gardens, Dr. Frans Indongo Street,
Windhoek. You can reach them by mail
at P O Box 23137, Windhoek. They can
also be reached at telephone number
061 x 370600, fax 061 x 300 952, free
hotline at 0800222888 or via email at
anticorruption@iway.na
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
NDP3 National Consultative Conference held
The National Consultative Conference to discuss the draft Third National Development Plan (NDP3), covering the five-year
period from 2007/08 to 2011/12, was held in Windhoek in October 2007.
T he main aim of the conference was for
the stakeholders to discuss the draft
of NDP3 and provide feedback, which will
pave the way for finalising the document.
Stakeholders were drawn from public and
private sectors, civil and international
organisations and other development
partners.
NDP3 has been developed, using an
integrated result-oriented management
approach that links the NDP3 goals to the
eight main objectives of Vision 2030.
The NDP3 is a planning approach that
focuses on development planning to enable
policy makers and planners to implement
and evaluate programmes and projects at
every stage of development. This will help
the nation achieve results and see how they
are contributing towards the attainment of
the objectives of Vision 2030.
The NDP3 focuses on institutions’
responsibilities for the successful realisation
of each of the Vision 2030 objectives. It will
form part of the decentralised structures,
making it possible to address priorities
coherently at all stages of development.
Through the structures of the economy,
all stakeholders will be able to make their
contributions through participatory efforts,
down through to the grassroots levels.
12
We feel hungry. We want a job, reads the placard of this lady. NDP3
aims at creating employment for the Namibian youth
The desperate face of poverty. NDP3 addresses poverty and will take the nation towards Vision 2030
This will make it easy for all parties, among
the public and private sectors and other
institutions to pull synergies aimed at
making meaningful contributions towards
nation building.
Upon successful implementation of the
plan, positive results will have been
realised through regular and continuous
monitoring, reporting and
evaluation of progress. In this
way, any deviations will be
detected through the course
of implementation so that
appropriate remedial actions can
be taken timely.
NDP3 is the most important
course towards the achievement
of the goals and objectives of
building an industrialised nation
within 23 years to come. The
roadmap to success requires
people’s will to change and
adopt new ways of innovation
and inventions while remaining
competitive in the rapidly
changing world.
Addressing the conference,
President Hifikepunye Pohamba
noted that “more than ever
before, we must strengthen
collaboration and cooperation
among different stakeholders to
realise the dream and the vision
that we want for ourselves,
our children, and the future
generation of our country.”
The theme of the NDP3 is
Accelerating Economic Growth
and Deepening Rural Development. President
Pohamba expressed himself on the issue of
rural development that “rural development is
one of the issues close to my heart”.
He noted that over 60 percent of Namibians
reside in rural areas. “There is no doubt
that a significant number live under difficult
conditions. The majority of our citizens
in rural areas depend on underdeveloped
subsistence farming for their livelihoods. We
cannot afford to continue to ignore these
harsh realities.
Therefore, it is only fitting that rural
development takes centre stage in our
pursuit of economic emancipation,” the
President said.
The Head of State said, “The fact of the
matter is that we cannot expect to achieve
broad-based development if a significant
section of our citizens remain poor. This is
the challenge facing all of us. We should
seek ways and means of uplifting the living
conditions of all our people.”
President Pohamba noted the importance
of the mainstreaming of cross-cutting
issues, such as HIV/AIDS, gender equality,
poverty reduction, pro-poor interventions
and environmental sustainability into the
development process. “The integration
of these interventions, he declared, is
compulsory for all development programmes
in the NDP3 plan, noting that, “these are
some of the challenges facing our country
today.
We need to address these challenges
coherently, consistently and in a holistic
manner,” he added.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

Namibians should make aquaculture

a vibrant fish industry
“Namibia’s economic policy reforms should continue to focus on addressing poverty and unemployment if the goals of Vision
2030 are to be attained.” These were the words of President Hifikepunye Pohamba read on his behalf by Dr. Albert Kawana,
Minister of Presidential Affairs, at the official opening of the Epalela Fish Farm in the Omusati region on 10 November 2007.

T he President noted that economic reform

is by no means an easy undertaking, but
it is a task that Namibians should face with
line Ministry also distributed fingerlings
to several projects in the Otjozondjupa,
Omaheke, Karas and Hardap regions. 
Epalela Fish Farm is located to the Ministry
of Fisheries and Marine Resources. 

courage and determination. He added that
the necessary reforms should include the
enhancement of skills, promotion of labour-
absorbing export sectors, improvement of
access to finance, establishment of new
financing vehicles and by increasing the
development projects in rural areas.
The President observed that the performance
of the economy is crucial in the efforts to
attain the national development objectives,
including the realisation of the goals and
targets of Vision 2030 and the 2004 SWAPO
Party Election Manifesto.  “For all intents
and purposes, we can only create wealth
for our people if our economy performs and
generates high levels of growth and output,”
said the President.
The unemployment rate in Namibia
continues to be one of the most pressing
concerns facing policy makers at all levels.  Epalela Fish Farm as a testimony of the
According to available data, unemployment
is more acute among the Namibian youth,
particularly in the age group of 20-24 years.  “Therefore, aquaculture projects such as
A further consequence of slow economic
growth is the high level of poverty in the
country.  At present, about 35 percent of
people are living in difficult circumstances.  of enriching the diets of the people with the
The Epalela Fish Farm is a government funded
inland aquaculture pilot project aimed at the
realisation of the country’s vision to develop
the rapidly growing aquaculture industry
in Namibia.  It is expected that when the
project is fully operational, it will produce
quality fish, which will be sold to local and
international markets. 
The Head of State said that the fishing sector
has come a long way since independence as
a result of sound policies, research and
management system that are in place. 
“Today, the sector is one of the biggest
employers in our country.  Unfortunately, the
sector is currently experiencing difficulties
due to the high fuel costs, unfavourable
market conditions and labour unrest.
Thus, its contribution to GDP, employment
creation and the state revenue has declined,”
disclosed the President.
Namibia organised an aquaculture investor
conference that attracted enormous interest
from the business sector, both locally and
internationally and it emerged that the
country’s structure of incentives, availability
of capital and marketing of aquaculture
products locally and internationally, need to
be reviewed.  As a result, the Government
authorised the Agricultural Bank of Namibia
to offer loans to investors entering the
sector.  also socio-economic spin offs such as the
Aquaculture is a national development
programme aimed at enhancing food
security in the country.  It also aims at
contributing positively to employment
creation and poverty alleviation, especially
in rural areas.
President Pohamba sees the launch of the
Government’s commitment to the upliftment
of the standard of living of all the people.  A study of the potential fish farming in the
the Epalela Fish Farm should be supported
to enhance our goal of food self-sufficiency
and to promote fish consumption as a way
necessary protein,” he stressed.
He said that fish farms of that magnitude
require large portions of land for
development.  The Uukolonkadhi Traditional
Authority donated the land on which the
The President expressed his appreciation
to Omukwaniilwa Daniel Shoya, of the
Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority to set
an example that traditional authorities are
working hand in hand with the Government
to ensure that land is made available for
national development programmes.
The aquaculture industry is not only
important as a source of fish for much
needed protein for our people but there are
production of nets and the creation of new
employment opportunities.  The government
is committed to the development and
building of a vibrant aquaculture industry,
especially in rural areas where the majority
of our people live.  The government is also
preparing to undertake feasibility studies in
all 13 regions of the country to assess the
quantity and quality of water resources
available for aquaculture production.
Omaheke region has been completed.  The
outcome suggests that there is a potential
to develop commercial aquaculture, as
well as subsistence fish farms, using water
fountains, boreholes and ground water. 
President Pohamba called on citizens to
make use of the resources such as dams,
underground water and rivers at their
disposal to make the aquaculture industry a
success in Namibia.
13

Harvesting of fish in the Kavango region last

year highlighted the government’s efforts
and commitment to aquaculture fish farming.
Several cooperatives in the Caprivi region
are also involved in fish farming projects. 
In the Omusati region, more fingerlings
were produced at Onavivi/Omahenene and Aquaculture can go a long way to help address poverty and unemployment.
distributed to small-scale fish farmers. The Several fish farms have already been established, especially in the North
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
People have a right to food
Once again the world has commemorated the World Food day, a special occasion that provides the citizens of the world with
a unique opportunity to address the plight of the poor and vulnerable people across the globe.
P resident Pohamba said that the World
Food Day commemoration is taking place
at a time when conflicts and wars in different
parts of the world have escalated, involving
people who are unable to meet their basic
human needs such as access to nutritious
food, shelter, health care and education. “It
is therefore important that we remember the
estimated 800 million people who do not
have access to adequate food and commit
ourselves to our vision of a world free from
hunger and poverty,” he added.
“We have made strides towards eradicating
poverty and hunger. However, many
challenges remain. We must, therefore,
ensure that food production always remain
at the centre of national and international
poverty reduction programmes,” the
President noted.
People who are poor loose out on education
that could help them to escape the hunger-
poverty trap. Undernourished adults are
slowed and less productive at work. A
nation of hungry individuals cannot grow
and prosper.
The theme, The right to Food” has been
chosen for this year’s commemoration. The
right to food has been recognised in one
of the most important international human
rights documents, the Universal Declaration
on Human Rights, which was adopted by
the United Nations in 1948. It states that,
the right to adequate food is realised when
every man, woman and child, alone or in
community with others, has access at all
times to adequate food or means for its
procurement. Although the right to food is a
birthright, it should be noted that this does
not mean that people who are able to work
should sit back and demand free food.
14
The development of Namibia’s Green Scheme will help to create food security and ensure that Namibians have access to food for a balanced meal every day
President Pohamba urged leaders, civic
organisations, business people
individuals to work hard to ensure that
and
people, especially the vulnerable groups,
have access to adequate and nutritious
food. He added that it is for this reason
that the Namibian government has adopted
policies and programmes which are aimed at
ensuring food security for all citizens in our
country.
The right to food is also included in the
international Convenant on Economic, Social,
and Cultural Rights, which was adopted by
the UN General Assembly in 1966 and came
into force in 1976. A total of 156 countries
have ratified this Convenant to date. Article
11 of the Convenant recognises the right of
everyone to an adequate standard of living,
including adequate food, as well as the
fundamental right of everyone to be free
from hunger.
Seventy percent of the world’s population
lives in rural areas where they depend
on agriculture for food production and
employment. Namibia is no exception.
Hence, during the World Food Summit in
1996, Heads of State and Government
committed themselves to promoting public
and private investments in agriculture as a
contribution to the goal of reducing by half
the number of hungry people by 2015.
As part of the initiative towards the realisation
of the African “Green revolution”, the African
Union has committed itself through the
new Partnership for Africa’s Development
(NEPAD) to increase investment in
agriculture to 10 percent of each member
state’s public sector investment budget. This
would certainly make a notable contribution
to the sector and improve the livelihoods
of the rural communities, including farmers
and workers. At country level, the Namibian
government, through the Ministry of
Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF), has
launched the Green Scheme to boost food
production by encouraging local production
of staple food, such as maize and mahangu,
as well as vegetables and fruits.
Another key area with high potential for
reducing poverty which the Namibian
government is promoting is aquaculture. The
Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources is
encouraging small holder farmers to engage
in aquaculture as an additional source of
income for their households. The fishery
sector can go a long way in improving food
security because fish is a good source of
protein and other nutrients for a healthy
diet. “We should continue to encourage our
people to eat more fish for a healthy life,”
recommended President Pohamba, adding
that Namibia is committed to the eradication
of hunger and poverty. We will continue to
participate in future campaigns aimed at
eradicating poverty and hunger.
As small farmers need to be encouraged
to produce more food, they also need to
be provided with facilities and markets so
that their harvest will not be left to rot due
to lack of storage facilities and markets.
This will discourage emerging farmers from
producing more food.
“It is our duty to change the weak food
security situation and poor quality of life
faced by our people. Thus, we must stand
together to overcome the present and future
challenges. Through the resolute efforts of
small holder farmers we can free vulnerable
groups in our nation from poverty and
hunger,” the Head of State advised.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08

MSS sees safe, secure and crime free

Namibia by 2030
Safety and Security Minister Peter Tsheehama echoed his Ministry’s vision of a “safe, secure and crime free Namibia…where
people live in peace and harmony throughout and beyond Namibia’s Vision 2030” when he officially opened his Ministry’s
first strategic planning workshop outside Windhoek in November 2007.

A ddressing the five-day strategic planning
workshop of the Ministry of Safety and
Security, Minister Tsheehama reminded
participants of the Ministry’s high-level
statements that were developed and
adopted in 2006. It is only when peace and
stability prevail in Namibia, that Vision 2030
can be achieved, he said.
According to Tsheehama, his Ministry’s
mission is to ensure the maintenance of law
and order, the provision of safety, security
and correctional services for everyone
living within the boundaries of Namibia,
irrespective of colour, race or gender.
The Ministry of Safety and Security has
adopted three strategic objectives that will
guide its work in the years to come. Its first
main objective is to enforce and maintain law
and order. Secondly, the Ministry will strive
to ensure the safe custody, rehabilitation and
re-integration of offenders and, lastly, the
Ministry will render quality and timely safety
and security services to all people within the
borders of Namibia without fear or favour.
Minister Tsheehama told participants that
he was satisfied with the vision, mission and
objectives that the Ministry has adopted. He,
however, cautioned that the Ministry has
set itself a difficult obligation that will be
subjected to a lot of challenges. He called
on ministerial staff to be prepared to meet
these challenges.
He directed his ministry’s staff to develop
a strategic plan, keeping the high-level
statements in mind, as well as giving due
attention to the National Development Plan
3 and Vision 2030. He also requested staff
to complete the process to allow the Ministry
The Ministry of Safety and Security adopted a
to implement its strategic plan with the start
strategic plan that will ensure a safe, secure and
of the new financial year on 1 April 2008. crime free Namibia where people can live in peace
and harmony

Home Affairs gets ten mobile

registration trucks
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration acquired four trucks and six minibuses and had them converted into 9 mobile
registration trucks and one mobile forensic laboratory at a cost of just over N$10 million to enable the Ministry to reach
its goal of providing all Namibians with national documents, while the mobile forensic laboratory will greatly enhance the
capacity of the Forensic Science Institute to provide scientific evidence to the justice system in the country.

A t the last Cabinet meeting held on 11

December 2007, Minister of Home
Affairs and Immigration, Rosalia Nghidinwa
informed Cabinet of the acquisition of the
ten trucks to enhance the work of the
Ministry.
According to the Minister, long queues are
still experienced at the Ministry’s offices,
while the poorest of the poor cannot
access the services of the Ministry because
of the long distances they have to cover.
To address this shortcoming, the Ministry
introduced constituency offices and mobile
registration offices.
The mobile registration vehicles are equipped
with the latest communication technology,
such as cameras, computers and satellite
telecommunication systems. The vehicles
will move from one area to another to
register people in villages. The data can be
downloaded to the head office for the issuing
of identification documents, which can again
be delivered to its owners within a shorter
time. The technology that is being used
does not compromise security, but rather
enhance it, according to the Minister.
Funds for the acquisition of the mobile
registration vehicles became available at
the end of the 2006 financial year when the
National Planning Commission approved the
verementation of more than N$10 million
for the purchasing of the vehicles. Treasury
exempted the Ministry from normal tender
requirements and Windhoeker Machinen
Fabricken assembled the mobile vehicles.
The work on the vehicles was completed
towards the end of the 2007 calendar year
and the vehicles will be launched soon.
Minister Nghidinwa said with the mobile
registration vehicles, the Ministry will be able
to capture data from village to village and to
transmit the data to the production centre.
The documents will be processed and issued
within ten days without compromising the
security of the documents.
15
The new strategy adopted by the Ministry
of Home Affairs and Immigration during the
2006/07 financial year has already drastically
reduced the waiting period for national
documents from 734 days to 24 days for
identity documents and from 100 days to
10 days for passports. At the same time,
the Ministry has increased its production
capacity.
The minibus that has been converted into a
mobile forensic laboratory will enhance the
capacity of the Forensic Science Institute
by allowing it to timely collect forensic data
and improve its capacity to provide scientific
evidence in an attempt to speed up the
country’s justice system.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
Namibia and Angola sign 11 agreements
The State Visit to Namibia of the Angolan President, José Eduardo Dos Santos bears testimony not only to long-standing
historical ties, but most significantly to the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two countries and peoples.
These were remarks made by President Hifikepunye Pohamba at a State banquet organised in honour of the visiting Angolan
President.
“We recall the selfless sacrifices and
enormous contributions made by the brave
sons and daughters of your great country
during the protracted struggle for Namibia’s
independence from the yoke of colonialism
and apartheid, remarked President
Pohamba.
“Angola stood side by side with us during
the difficult days and for this, we remain
grateful. It is against this background of
a shared history, heritage and struggle
that I wish to re-affirm my government’s
unwavering desire to further consolidate the
excellent bilateral cooperation and solidarity
that exist between the two countries,” he
continued.
The bilateral relationship that exists
between the two countries is characterised
by a mutual desire and commitment to
strengthen socio-economic and cultural
co-operation.
The cooperation includes sectors ranging
from agriculture, safety and security,
mines and energy, sport and culture, as
well as tourism and trade.
This cooperation has expanded since the
signing of the Framework Agreement
establishing the Permanent Joint
Commission of Cooperation, which has
been regularly reviewed and progress
made in several areas.
A preparatory meeting for the 3rd Session
of the Namibia-Angola Joint Permanent
Commission of Cooperation met in
Windhoek in June 2007. The Commission’s
work resulted in the finalisation of the 11
agreements that were signed during the
16 State Visit.
The two countries have realised
meaningful strategic cooperation in the
areas of defence and security. They are
working together addressing common
challenges to improve the livelihood of
the people.
Namibia is looking forward to the 2010
African Cup of Nations Competition
that will be hosted by Angola and the
country is ready to cooperate with the
Angolan government to make the event
successful.
The two heads of State resolved to
improve the living standards of their
people by strengthening trade and
economic cooperation, while continuing
to explore new opportunities, such as
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
the establishment of a free trade area.
They recognise the significant role that the
private sector can play to advance the socio-
economic development in both countries.
President Pohamba proposed that Ministries
of the two countries should establish a
joint trade committee to prepare for the
upcoming event.
It is beneficial that the Angolan government
and citizens of that country has been
committed to peace, national reconciliation
and unity since the signing of the Luena
Peace Accords.
The restoration of peace and stability in
Angola has created an enabling environment
for the reconstruction and development of
Angola.
Namibia and Angola agreed to cooperate in the field of health
along the common border of the two countries, while it will
also continue to cooperate in marine fisheries and aquaculture
President Pohamba commended the Angolan
government’s efforts in the preparation of
the Legislative and Presidential elections, as
part of consolidating the democratic process
in that country.
Namibia has called on the international
community to support the people of Angola
in the reconstruction and development of
the country. “The international community
should lend a helping hand to the eradication
of poverty and the effects of the long and
destructive war in your country to achieve
sustainable development,” President
Pohamba encouraged.
As SADC member states, President Pohamba
said, we must continue to recognise that
peace and stability are indispensable
for economic development and regional
integration.
We must implement relevant instruments
and protocols aimed at enhancing trade,
economic cooperation, free movement
of people and goods, as well as regional
integration to achieve our main objective
of economic integration in Africa.
The State Visit of the Angolan Head of
State culminated in the signing of eleven
agreements. They cover a ranger of
sectors of government-to-government
co-operation, including co-operation
agreements on general education:
• Co-operation Agreement on
Higher Education and Training of
Professionals;
• Co-operation Agreement on
Marine, Fisheries and Aquaculture;
• Technical Co-operation agreement
in the Field of Health along the
Common Border areas;
• Co-operation in the field of
Science, Technology and
Innovation;
• Treaty on Extradition;
• Protocol on Culture;
• Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance
on Criminal Matters ; and
• Co-operation Agreement on Public
Security, Law and Order,
The signing of these agreements is
indicative of the commonality of views
that the two counries share on socio-
economic development. It also reflects
the challenges that their people and
government face towards the realisation
of development objectives of addressing
poverty, underdevelopment, hunger and
disease.

Mata-Mata border opening will boost tourism
The integration processes taking place among the SADC neighbouring countries are progressing and collaboration and
cooperation between Botswana, Namibia and South Africa are on course.
T he Mata-Mata border post, that was
inaugurated recently, will be developed
as an international tourist access facility that
will facilitate, among many things, increased
cross border scientific research into the
countries’ diverse cultures by scholars and
scientists to enrich the understanding and
tolerance among the people in the region
and beyond.
This vision will benefit participating countries
in capturing and sustaining the interaction
among the more than 200 million SADC
citizens.
President Hifikepunye Pohamba sees it
in the light that, “The new border post
will facilitate the free flow of our people,
increased mobility, enhance the creation of
more jobs and contribute to the economic
development, especially in the culture and
tourism sectors of our countries. It will also
help us to have more efficient and effective
communication across borders.
The plans and initiatives are seen as the drive
towards the upliftment of the livelihood of
communities as they are geared towards the
reduction of poverty. The people will benefit
from income-generating projects that will
include employment at community lodges
and as community tour guides. People will
The opening of the Mata-Mata border post will facilitate the visits of foreign tourists to the majestic Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia
Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
be engaged in trade activities
such as the sale of crafts,
establish open-air museums
and cultural villages through
which they will benefit from
natural resources.
Botswana, Namibia and South
Africa are mobilising and
prioritising various aspects
of their cultural and natural
resources to be incorporated
into visitors’ experiences,
programmes and products in
the new conservation areas
and communities.
The President believes that The harbour town of Lüderitz has a lot to offer to foreign tourists - from
the Mata-Mata border post experiencing the Namib Desert to enjoying the history of Kolmanskop
and other facilities will provide
to visitors, including the cultural dance and
tourists, travelling within the three countries,
song through which it can demonstrate the
with shorter routes, while encountering
richness and diversity of its traditions and
minimum hurdles. “I have no doubt that
display the best of her heritage, including
the joint management of the Kgalagadi
the beauty of the land, the flora and fauna.
Transfrontier Conservation Area will also
oversee the long-term development and
It is the hope of President Pohamba that
sustainable use of our natural and cultural
the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Conservation
resources. This will in turn ensure that the
Area will become a world class eco-tourism
Transfontier Conservation Areas in our region
destination with the International Tourist
can promote and contribute towards regional
Access facility serving as an important entry
integration of SADC nations,” President
and exit point for tourists.
Pohamba added. Namibia has a lot to offer
17
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
News from Cabinet Chambers
Cabinet took the following decisions at its 21st ordinary meeting held on 4 December 2007.
Culture and development – MDG fund:
approval of concept note for Namibia
at a value of US$6 million over three
years
In December 2006, the UNDP and the
Government of Spain signed an agreement
to establish a fund to accelerate the effort of
the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
in selected countries and to support UN
reform efforts at the country level.
The Spanish Government committed 528
million Euros to the MDG Achievement Fund
to be programmed and disbursed between
2007 and the end of 2008. The Fund aims to
accelerate progress towards the attainment
of the MDGs in selected countries by:
- supporting policies and programmes
that promise significant and measurable
impact on select MDGs;
- financing the testing and scaling up of
successful models;
- catalysing innovations in development
practice; and
- adopting mechanisms that improve the
quality of aid as foreseen in the Paris
Declaration on Aid Effectiveness.
Namibia’s concept note in the thematic
area of “gender equality and women’s
empowerment, amounting to US$11 million
was approved earlier.
On 9 November 2007, Namibia was informed
that its concept note on sustainable cultural
tourism was approved under the thematic
area of “culture and development” of the
Spanish MDG Fund.
With the approval of this note, Namibia will
be eligible to receive US$6 million. To access
the funding, Namibia has to formulate a
Joint Programme Document.
18
Namibia’s programme on Sustainable
Cultural Tourism intends to strengthen
the contribution of cultural diversity to
the achievement of the MDGs. Namibia’s
richness in cultural and natural heritage
represents the basis for the development of
cultural tourism.
Cultural/eco tourism policies have the
potential of catalysing sustainable
livelihoods, social equity and economic
development.
The programme will help the government to
more effectively integrate cultural diversity
and heritage into national development
policies and programmes through the
development of a national knowledge base
and tools, the strengthening of capacity and
the raising of awareness on the mutually
reinforcing capabilities of sustainable
development and cultural diversity.
The programme activities will target and
empower disadvantaged indigenous groups,
local communities and cultural practitioners.
Cabinet, therefore, noted the approval of
Namibia’s concept note on Sustainable
Cultural Tourism and the fact that it qualifies
for US$6 million from the Spanish MDG Fund.
Cabinet also noted that the Joint Programme
Document needs to be submitted by 28
January 2008 for approval to enable Namibia
to access the funding.
Recently concluded 9th session of
the Joint Commission for Economic,
Scientific, Technical and Trade
Cooperation between Namibia and
Cuba
The 9th Session of the Joint Commission
was held from 12 to 15 November 2007 in
Windhoek. The Namibian delegation was led
by Dr. Abraham Iyambo, Minister of Fisheries
and Marine Resources.
The Commission considered cooperation
in two broad areas, namely that of Social,
Culture and Legal Matters and that of
Economic and Infrastructure matters.
Under Social, Culture and Legal Matters, the
Commission dealt with;
- cooperation in health, especially the
secondment of Cuban health experts to
Namibia;
- Education, specifically with reference to
scholarships, post-graduate courses and
cooperation between the Polytechnic and
Cuban institutions of higher learning;
- Youth, National Service, Sport and
Culture, with specific reference to sport
training programmes and exchange of
artists;
- Gender Equality and Child Welfare,
specifically cooperation in the area of
early childhood education;
- Labour and Social Welfare, with
emphasis on bilateral cooperation; and
- Legal matters, dealing mainly with
cooperation.
Under Economic and Infrastructure Matters,
the Commission dealt with:
- Issues of Trade and Industry, with
specific focus on a pharmaceutical plant,
Tropitex Manufacturers Ltd and trade
issues;
- Works, Transport and Communication,
with emphasis on a meteorology
agreement; naval architect, and two
marine pilots for Namport;
- Fisheries, with specific reference to
aquaculture capacity building;
- Agriculture and Forestry, dealing with
the extension of contracts for forest
engineers;
- Lands and Resettlement, with reference
to assistance with the resettlement
programme; and
- Regional and Local Government, with
emphasis on capacity building in the
fields of construction and physical
planning.
Cabinet considered and approved the report
of the 9th Joint Commission for Economic,
Scientific, Technical and Trade Cooperation
between Namibia and Cuba and directed
the relevant ministries to pursue active
cooperation with the Government of Cuba.
Cabinet discussed the low trade between
Namibia and Cuba and directed the Ministry
of Trade and Industry to develop a strategy
to improve the situation. Cabinet also
directed a top up payment of N$2 100.00 for
Cuban health experts in Namibia.
Cabinet took the following
decisions at its 22nd
ordinary meeting held on
11 December 2007
Report on the official working visit
to Japan by President Hifikepunye
Pohamba, 14 – 17 October 2007
President Pohamba, accompanied by the
Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Finance and
Works, Transport and Communication, as
well as the Director General of the National
Planning Commission, visited Japan in
October 2007 and proposed a comprehensive
multi-co-operation agreement with Japan to
serve as the framework for the future.
Talks centered around a loan for
development purposes, including the
deepening of the port of Walvis Bay, while
views were also exchanged on the granting
of technical assistance to Namibia in a
number of specific areas. Japan’s Prime
Minister invited Pres. Pohamba to participate
in the TICAD IV International Conference in
2008 and for Namibia to support Japan’s
candidature for a non-permanent seat in the
UN Security Council for 2009/2010. Japan
also wanted to know Namibia’s position on
climate change.
In the light of the above, Cabinet directed
the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Trade
and Industry to work out a comprehensive
multi-cooperation framework of agreement
with their Japanese counterparts. Cabinet
also directed the following:
- the conclusion of the bilateral agreement
to be worked out and to be concluded in
2008;
- the Ministry of Finance, in conjunction
with the NPC and other stakeholders to
work out a proposal for a loan of N$3
billion at a rate of 0.5% per annum

for development purposes and for the
deepening of the Walvis Bay harbour
and improvements to Namibia’s railway
lines;
- that line ministries pursue technical
assistance with their Japanese
counterparts;
- that Namibia accepts the invitation to
participate in TICAD IV and that the
private sector should be mobilised to
exhibit their products as TICAD IV;
- that Namibia support Japan’s
candidature for a non-permanent seat
on the UN Security Council for the term
2009/2010 and that Namibia’s position
be forwarded to Namibia’s Ambassador
at the UN;
- that the Ministries of Environment
and Tourism, Agriculture, Water and
Forestry and other stakeholders study
Japan’s position on climate change and
recommend Namibia’s position on these
issues. Cabinet, furthermore, directed
line ministries to seek international
assistance to enable them to participate
in the research on global warming and its
overall effect on Namibia’s biodiversity;
- that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
follow up on Namibia’s request to JICA
on the secondment of more Japanese
overseas volunteers in various fields to
be deployed in Namibia as a matter of
urgency; and
- that the Ministry of Mines and Energy
proactively follow-up on the interests
and requirements of ITOCHU for
Uranium supplies from Namibia and give
feedback to ITOCHU on behalf of the
President.
Maintenance of government buildings
and related infrastructure
Following visits of President Hifikepunye
Pohamba to hospitals in Eenhana, Engela
and Oshakati, a Ministerial Committee,
composed of the Ministers of Works,
Transport and Communication, Health and
Social Services, Education, Youth, National
Service, Sport and Culture, Defence and
Presidential Affairs was established to make
suggestions on how to curb any further
deterioration of Government property and
to find solutions to maintenance problems
that are being experienced. Government’s
infrastructure consists of about 1 400
buildings worth N$17.5 billion.
Since independence, the Government
adopted three methods aimed at the upkeep
of government buildings, namely small
capital works, upgrading and new capital
projects. The Directorate of Maintenance
in the Ministry of Works, Transport and
Communication (MWTC) is only responsible
for small capital projects, involving minor
repairs such as broken doors, windows
and replacement of light bulbs. Upgrading
of buildings and additional offices and new
capital projects is the sole responsibility of
offices/ministries/agencies. MWTC’s only
responsibility is to ensure that such projects
comply with specifications.
Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
The MWTC is experiencing a critical shortage
of staff to undertake strict supervision and
inspection. Skills are expensive to retain in
the government, which cannot compete with
the private sector.
To address the problem of maintenance of
government buildings, Cabinet approved
the engagement of regional based small
contractors to maintain government
buildings with strict adherence to the
principle of awarding contracts. Cabinet also
directed that the MWTC should coordinate
with the Ministries of Education and Youth,
National Service, Sport and Culture to
facilitate the attachment of learners from
vocational training institutions to assist with
the maintenance of government buildings.
Cabinet also directed the Office of the Prime
Minister to work out guidelines regarding
the attachment of trainees to government
institutions. Approval was also given for
the decentralisation of basic maintenance
functions to regional councils after their staff
has received basic training. Cabinet also
directed that offices, ministries and agencies
should create units in their institutions to
coordinate the maintenance of government
buildings. These staff members should also
receive basic training. Cabinet, furthermore,
directed that government institutions must
regularly replace equipment that has outlived
its lifespan through proper budgeting.
Namibia-German Special Initiative
The Namibian and German Governments
agreed on a special Namibia-German
Initiative for community driven development
projects in specific regions. Within the
perspective of social consolidation, the
initiative will support development activities
on local and community levels in areas of
Namibia where Germany acknowledges
special historical and moral responsibility,
namely in the Karas, Hardap, Kunene,
Omaheke, Otjozondjupa and Erongo
regions.
The initiative is to benefit all people living
in these areas and is thus meant to actively
endorse the Namibian policy of national
reconciliation and contribute to poverty
reduction and economic growth.
The Special Initiative will be funded with an
amount of up to 20 million Euro and will be
implemented over a period of 3 to 5 years.
A feasibility study was already done on
projects identified by the Office of the
Deputy Prime Minister. These projects
include livestock distribution and water
related projects, health and education
facilities; cultural and community centres;
quarantine camps, road rehabilitation and
garden projects.
Phase 2 of the programme should now
commence, providing for the appointment of
consultants to execute the special initiative
programme.
Cabinet, therefore, gave the green light to
the National Planning Committee to proceed
with the implementation of the Namibia-
German Special Initiative.
Appointment of a Steering Committee for
the implementation of the Public Private
Partnership (PPP) and Build, Operate and
Transfer (BOT)
Cabinet earlier granted approval for
the construction of accommodation for
government institutions on the basis of PPP,
since this method is convenient and does not
require the government to put up money in
advance.
Following the Cabinet decision, the Ministry
of Works, Transport and Communication
conducted consultative meetings and a
workshop on the implementation of PPP. A
presentation was also done by the Ministry
of Trade and Industry on PPP with the aim to
develop a PPP Policy for Namibia. According
to the presentation, a Steering Committee,
as a decision making body, and a Technical
Committee to manage and supervise the
project from inception, is needed.
For the application of the PPP, user ministries
will have to come up with a concept of the
building they require and call for tenders
from different companies to come up with
drawings. The Technical Committee will
assess and scrutinise the drawing as per
the user ministry’s specifications, before
approving the drawing and costing of the
building.
In the light of the above, Cabinet gave
approval for the appointment of a Steering
Committee to oversee/manage the
implementation of PPP and BOT in the
delivery of office accommodation to the
government. The Steering Committee
comprises of the Office of the Prime Minister
and the Ministries of Education; Health and
Social Services; Safety and Security; Finance;
Trade and Industry; Justice and the Attorney
General; the National Planning Commission
and the Ministry of Works, Transport and
Communication as convener. Each of these
institutions will have a role to play as part of 19
the decision-making body.
Cabinet took the following
decisions at the 1st 2008
meeting held on 22
January 2008
Karakul Board of Namibia Budget
2008/09
The Namibian karakul pelts, trading
as swakara, are recognised as one of
the leading furs in terms of quality and
uniqueness. The pelts were admitted to
the purple club, meaning that swakara can
be sold exclusively from the 100 leading fur
purple boutiques around the world.
 Government Information Bulletin Dec-07/Jan-08
Due to very successful promotion campaigns
during the past two seasons in Moscow,
Hong Kong, Milan and Frankfurt, the Karakul
Board resolved to continue to exhibit eight
(8) karakul garments at international trade
fairs. Although the promotion campaigns
are very costly, it will be more costly not to
be present at the international fur arena as
the profile built up over the last few years
will be lost.
In the light of the above, Cabinet approved
the 2008/09 budget of the Karakul Board of
Namibia and also approved support to the
amount of N$200 000 to the Karakul Board
for participation in international fur fairs.
Annual General Meeting of the Lüderitz
Waterfront Development Company
(Pty) Ltd
The Lüderitz Waterfront Development
Company (Pty) Ltd was formed to realise the
potential of Lüderitz as a business, recreation,
tourist and social focus destination.
The Waterfront project plays a pivotal role
in transforming the harbour town into a
viable and self-sustaining commercial city.
It also seeks to accommodate, facilitate
and minimise the shortcomings of the town
that should have been the heartthrob of the
Karas region.
The Company held its annual general
meeting on 22 November 2007 and
announced that it made a profit and that it is
able to pay dividends to its shareholder, the
Namibian Government.
Cabinet, therefore, approved the Annual
Financial Statements of the Lüderitz
Waterfront Company (Pty) Ltd for the year
ending 28 February 2007 and authorised
the Ministry of Finance to table it in the
National Assembly. Cabinet also approved
the payments of dividends amounting to
N$476 773.00 to the shareholder. The
Company also received the green light to
appoint company auditors in consultation
with the Minister of Finance, while Cabinet,
furthermore, approved the fast tracking
20 of the implementation of the company
strategy.
Cabinet took the following
at its 2nd ordinary meeting
held on 5 February 2008
Request for additional budget for
drought relief from contingency
provision 2007/2008
The 2007 rainy season was disappointing,
resulting in several areas being drought
stricken. Cabinet, therefore, approved an
amount of N$37.5 from the Contingency
Provision from the 2007/2008 Financial
Year to cater for the distribution of fish
products to the amount of N$2.5 million
and other drought commodities amounting
to N$35 million to affected households and
communities in Namibia.
Cabinet also approved the allocation of
a further N$180 million for the National
Emergency and Drought Fund/Account in
the Office of the Prime Minister to cater for
6 months of drought relief in the 2008/2009
Financial Year.
It is hoped that the remainder of the rainy
season will bring some relief and that the
drought situation will not worsen in the
months to come.
Report of the effects of the rain and
flood on the population of the Omusati,
Oshana and Ohangwena regions
While some parts suffer from drought,
areas such as Caprivi and of late Omusati,
Oshana and Ohangwena are also flooded
and Cabinet deliberated on the effects of the
floods during its meeting on Tuesday.
An assessment visit to the far north regions
revealed that more than 450 km, covering
those regions are flooded, roads and other
vital infrastructures are damaged and a
large number of the population is affected
by the heavy rains and floods emanating
from Angola.
At Oshakati in the Oshana region, 841
people, 641 adults and 200 children,
affected by the floods are currently under
the care of the town council and the Oshana
Regional Council. They are housed at the
Ongwediva Trade Fair Grounds, and others
in tents provided by Government at the
Independence Stadium.
Feeding, shelter, health and sanitation,
school attendance by both teachers and
learners are currently a challenge. The
situation at Ongwediva is also bad. In total,
20 schools in the Okatana, Oshakati West,
Uuvudhiya, Oshakati East, Ongwediva
and Ompundja constituencies, involving
1886 learners and 161 teachers have been
affected by the floods in the Oshana region.
Roads, bridges and other infrastructure were
also damaged.
In the Omusati region, roads have been
damaged and at least 44 schools have
suspended Grades 1 – 4 classes because
young children find it difficult to cross deep
water in Oshanas and canals. More than
30 clinics in the region are inaccessible and
malaria and water-borne diseases pose a
serious threat. Several houses in Outapi,
Okahao and Oshikuku are already under
water and with more rains, they may sink or
collapse. The towns also face storm water
problems due to lack of drainage systems.
At the time of the assessment, (2 – 3
February 2008) the death of two children
due to the floods was confirmed, while 1 800
goats, 68 sheep and over 2 000 cattle died
due to cold weather and weakness at several
constituencies in the region.
In the Ohangwena region, 406 households
consisting of 1258 people were affected by
the rain and floods. Seventeen schools in the
Endola, Ohangwena, Engela and Ongenga
constituencies, involving 3 715 learners and
108 teachers have also been affected.
Besides people being uprooted by the heavy
rain and floods, roads, bridges and other
vital infrastructure were either destroyed
or severely damaged. The full extend of the
damage cannot be determined until rains
and floods have subsided in the areas.
While the government, with the support of
the local people and institutions may provide
shelter, food rations, health needs and access
to education and health facilities, and assist
farmers to relocate to accessible land, it is
unlikely that the national budget will allow
for the rehabilitation of the damage caused
by the rains and flooding to infrastructures
such as roads, schools, clinics and material
destroyed, such as school books and other
educational equipment.
Against that background, the Government
may appeal to the international community
for assistance to enable us to recover from
the negative effects of those heavy rains and
flood.
Cabinet expressed the Government’s
gratitude and appreciation for the relief
assistance offered by business people,
the Red Cross, regional councils and town
councils in and around the affected areas
and call on all others who are in a position
to assist, to do so through the Emergency
Management Unit in the Office of the Prime
Minister.
Possible transfer of properties, erven
665, 666, 667 and 669 Lüderitz
from the government of the Republic
of Namibia to the Lüderitz Waterfront
Development Company
The Lüderitz Waterfront Development
Company was registered in 1995 with its
main objective to promote development in
Lüderitz through various means, thereby
creating employment in the informal and
formal sector.
The company has successfully completed
phases one and two of the development
at the Lüderitz Waterfront, which consist of
an entire infrastructure as a basis for future
development, as well as some basic start up
facilities to boost private investment. The
total build up area is 8 500 m², done at a
cost of approximately N$38.441 million and
consists of companies, businesses, offices
and residential properties.
Erven 665 and 667 are already being used
by the company and it is planning to extend
the development of the Waterfront to include
the mentioned properties.
Cabinet, therefore, approved the transfer
of erven 665, 666, 667 and 669, with a
total size of 5997 m² and valued at N$826
000.00 from the Government to the Lüderitz
Waterfront Development Company.