Namibia Minute.
5 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
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Archive Minute from 5 February 2026
Politics

LPM youth leader appointed Young Women of Africa chair

The News

Duminga Ndala, the Landless People's Movement national youth leader, has been appointed chairperson of Young Women of Africa. She will represent the continental organisation at national and international events and lead advocacy for policies benefiting young women across Africa.

5 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. LPM youth leader appointed Young Women of Africa chair

    Duminga Ndala, the Landless People's Movement national youth leader, has been appointed chairperson of Young Women of Africa. She will represent the continental organisation at national and international events and lead advocacy for policies benefiting young women across Africa.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Swapo deputy chief whip Herunga resigns under pressure

    Uahekua Herunga has stepped down as Swapo chief whip following pressure from younger MPs over parliamentary procedures, with Alpheus !Naruseb appointed to replace him. Herunga remains in parliament as a regular MP, marking the first time a Swapo chief whip has resigned while keeping their parliamentary seat.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Justice minister withdraws threat comment in parliament row

    Justice and labour relations minister Wise Immanuel was forced to withdraw a comment in parliament that opposition members interpreted as a physical threat toward AR MP George Kambala during a debate on an oil exploration bill. The speaker ruled the remark inappropriate, though Immanuel denied wrongdoing and claimed he was merely responding to interruptions.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Steenhuisen's exit highlights DA's tough leadership challenge

    John Steenhuisen's decision to step down as Democratic Alliance leader follows revelations about his personal credit card debt and the controversial removal of environment minister Dion George. The incoming leader must navigate questions about race, the party's electoral strategy, and its relationship with the ANC government—while protecting the DA's core claim to integrity that distinguishes it from other parties.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. MPs pledge scrutiny of petroleum bill's presidential power transfer

    Parliament will scrutinise the petroleum bill before passage, with MPs from multiple parties expressing concerns that it concentrates too much power in the presidency and calling for amendments before approval. The bill, to be tabled today, seeks to transfer certain powers from the minister of industries, mines and energy to the president.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Media ombudsman urges responsible exercise of freedom of speech

    Namibia's Media Ombudsman Sadrag Shihomeka has called on journalists, public office bearers and the public to exercise freedom of expression responsibly, warning that growing tensions in the media space risk undermining professionalism and public trust. He emphasized that professionalism and ethical self-regulation remain central to credible journalism while condemning conduct by journalists that brings the profession into disrepute.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. President opens third session of eighth parliament in Windhoek

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah opened the third session of parliament with a focus on inclusive development and participatory democracy, calling on lawmakers to pass laws addressing high unemployment, inequality and poverty, and to add value to Namibia's natural resources through local beneficiation. She noted that only two of nine bills were passed in the past year and urged parliament to rise above partisanship to deliver tangible outcomes for citizens.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Speaker opens eighth parliament's third session

    Speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila opened the third session of Namibia's eighth parliament, emphasising the theme of enhancing parliament's role for inclusive development and participatory democracy. She stressed the importance of complementarity between the executive, legislature, and judiciary, and called for MPs to recommit to inclusivity, participation, and service to all Namibians.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. PDM raises concerns over police officers linked to drugs

    Popular Democratic Movement chief whip Deiderik Vries has raised alarm about police officers allegedly involved in drug abuse and trafficking in multiple towns, saying their involvement compromises police integrity and threatens public trust and the rule of law.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Swapo appoints !Naruseb as new parliamentary chief whip

    Swapo MP Alpheus !Naruseb has been announced as the party's new chief whip, replacing Uahekua Herunga. The National Assembly speaker made the announcement Wednesday, noting that Herunga has also stepped down from his position as chairperson of the whole house committee.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  11. Namibian pupils reflect on former president Hage Geingob

    Two years after the death of Namibia's third president Hage Geingob, Namibian pupils share their reflections on his leadership, charismatic personality, and enduring national legacy. Students recalled him as a joyful, compassionate leader who was deeply engaged with the people and committed to the nation's progress.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  12. Petroleum Bill requires oil sector officials to declare interests

    Namibia's Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Amendment Bill 2025, introduced in Parliament, will require top government officials overseeing the petroleum sector to declare any interests in oil and gas and establish a new Upstream Petroleum Unit under the Office of the President to modernize regulation of the sector. Opposition members including PDM leader McHenry Venaani raised concerns that the Bill concentrates excessive power in the presidency.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  13. President urges SWAPO MPs toward coordinated results-oriented governance

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on all SWAPO Party members to fully dedicate themselves to implementing the party's election manifesto as integrated into the 6th National Development Plan. She stressed that with SWAPO holding the majority in parliament and controlling most local authorities, members have a constitutional obligation to coordinate their work and deliver tangible improvements to citizens' lives.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  14. Nandi-Ndaitwah honours Geingob legacy two years after death

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to the late former President Hage Geingob on the second anniversary of his passing, describing his enduring legacy and calling on SWAPO members and lawmakers to draw inspiration from his service and uphold the principles he represented.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  15. Nation remembers late President Hage Geingob at Heroes' Acre

    A small, intimate ceremony was held at Heroes' Acre to remember the late Dr Hage Geingob, Namibia's first prime minister and third president, alongside his widow Monica Geingos and other family members, former leaders, and dignitaries.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  16. Parliament advances budget, land reform, and governance bills

    Parliament's second session approved the Appropriation Bill and advanced key legislative reforms including the Land Bill, Mental Health Bill, and public enterprise governance amendments, according to National Assembly Speaker Dr Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila. The Speaker said the session strengthened parliamentary oversight, public participation and democratic debate while addressing pressing national challenges such as health care, land reform, unemployment and economic growth.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  17. Monica Geingos says late president's legacy belongs to Namibians

    Former first lady Monica Geingos has stated that the legacy of late president Hage Geingob does not belong to any individual but to the entire nation, emphasising that Namibians can learn from both his successes and struggles. A combined candlelight ceremony honouring Geingob and Founding President Sam Nujoma is to be held at Heroes Acre on Saturday.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  18. Shanghala seeks removal of Acting Judge in Fishrot case

    Former justice minister Sacky Shanghala has applied for Acting Judge Marilize du Plessis to recuse herself from presiding over the Fishrot matter, alleging bias and apprehension of partiality based on the Judge's statements and treatment of defence applications. The matter has been postponed to 11 February 2026, with a hearing on the recusal application scheduled for 9 March 2026.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  19. New divorce law prioritizes child welfare and fairness

    Namibia's new Dissolution of Marriages Act, assented in October 2024, simplifies divorce procedures by replacing fault-based grounds with a single irretrievable-breakdown standard, while placing strong emphasis on children's rights and fair property division. The law requires courts to ensure proper custody, guardianship, and maintenance arrangements for children before granting divorce, and removes outdated mechanisms like restitution of conjugal rights.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  20. Namibian legal year opens with focus on reform and safety

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah opened Namibia's legal year at the Supreme Court today, marking the start of a year the justice ministry hopes will bring meaningful reform, improved efficiency, and strengthened public confidence. The judiciary has established a Safety and Security Task Force to address concerns following recent attacks on prosecutors, while legal professionals advocate for plea bargaining reforms and amendments to obsolete laws.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  21. Swapo president demands delivery and discipline from lawmakers

    Swapo President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah told party lawmakers at an induction workshop that discipline, coordination, and service delivery must define their work, warning that public trust depends on visible improvements in people's lives. She stressed that Swapo's electoral dominance brings responsibility to deliver on its manifesto and the Sixth National Development Plan.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  22. Public urges MPs to prioritize poverty eradication and job creation

    Ahead of Parliament's 2026 opening session, Namibian residents have called on MPs to prioritize poverty eradication, service delivery, and job creation, with some arguing that laws have been implemented without substantially improving conditions on the ground, particularly in informal settlements.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  23. Windhoek councillor targets land, electrification, youth jobs

    Christopher Likuwa, retained as councillor for Tobias Hainyeko, says his 2026 priorities include fast-tracking serviced land delivery, improving electricity access, and upgrading toilet facilities in underserved areas. He also plans to develop youth employment programmes to address high unemployment in his constituency.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Business

  1. Volkswagen launches petrol-powered Amarok PanAmericana in Namibia

    Volkswagen has introduced a 2.3-litre TSI four-cylinder petrol variant of the Amarok PanAmericana to Namibian dealerships, joining the existing 3.0-litre V6 diesel model. The petrol version delivers 452Nm of torque, reaches 240km/h and accelerates from 0–100km/h in 7.6 seconds, while retaining off-road capability with multiple driving modes and wading depth of 800mm, targeting drivers seeking performance combined with versatility.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia's money circulating at slowest pace in a decade

    The velocity of money in Namibia—the speed at which cash circulates through the economy—has declined to 1.6 in 2025 from 1.8 in 2015, despite total money supply rising. The Bank of Namibia attributes the slowdown to people spending less on goods, services, and investments, and uses tools like bill issuance and repo facilities to manage liquidity.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Purpose-driven investing builds secure financial futures

    The Namibian publishes a piece encouraging long-term, diversified, intentional investing as a way to nurture financial well-being. The article frames financial planning as self-care, recommending steady commitment to investment goals, intentional diversification across asset classes, and choosing investments aligned with personal values.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. MTC Maris mobile money platform surpasses 500,000 users

    MTC Maris, a mobile money platform offering loans, digital wallets, and bill payments, has recorded more than 500,000 users as of January. The platform has partnered with Kazang, a micro-payment processor, to expand access to financial services through the latter's 5,500 agents countrywide.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Impact Property lists on NSX as capital pool company

    Impact Property Fund has listed on the Namibia Securities Exchange as a capital pool company to pursue property-backed acquisitions in Namibia, with plans to integrate local SMEs into its platforms and conduct a capital raise in March.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. MTC Maris partners with Kazang to expand mobile money services

    MTC Maris has signed an agreement with Kazang, a major African mobile money distributor, to expand its mobile financial services countrywide through Kazang's network of over 5,500 agents. The partnership aims to improve financial inclusion in underserved communities and hard-to-reach areas across Namibia.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. Ford launches limited-edition Ranger with new Chill Grey colour

    Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has introduced a limited-edition Ranger XLT in an exclusive new exterior colour called Chill Grey, with production capped at 250 units. The model features upgraded interior elements including leather seating, wireless charging, and a suite of safety technologies, alongside exterior enhancements such as a sports bar and 17-inch alloy wheels.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  8. Chery Tiggo 7 CSH earns five-star Euro NCAP safety rating

    The Chery Tiggo 7 CSH has achieved a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test programme, with strong performance across Adult Occupant Protection, Child Occupant Protection, Vulnerable Road Users, and Safety Assist Systems. The vehicle features eight airbags, advanced driver-assistance systems, and high-strength steel construction including an IP68-rated LFP battery protection system.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  9. LDV launches Terron 9 bakkie and D90 SUV in Namibia

    Chinese automaker LDV has introduced two new vehicles to the Namibian market: the Terron 9 double-cab bakkie starting at N$849,000 with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine and advanced safety features, and the D90 SUV priced around N$899,000 with a 160kW turbo-diesel engine, both aimed at competing with established players in their respective segments.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Global stocks rise amid AI concerns, geopolitical tensions

    Asian and global stock markets mostly rose as investors recovered from an AI-driven sell-off on Wall Street, while precious metals rebounded and oil prices gained on escalating US-Iran tensions over a drone incident in the Middle East.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Namibia's credit growth eases but recovery continues steadily

    Private sector credit extension grew 4.4% year-on-year in December 2025, down slightly from November but well above 2024 levels, driven by cautious borrowing rather than banking stress. Households account for 57% of total credit, while businesses are selectively investing in asset-backed financing and managing balance sheets more carefully.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Ministry denies Walu Fishing any legal fishing quota entitlement

    The fisheries ministry has stated that Walu Fishing Company holds no fishing rights under the Marine Resources Act and has no legal entitlement to any quota, after the company's managing director accused the government of failing to provide sustainable employment through the Government Employment Redress Programme. The ministry said Walu breached its 2025 agreement by failing to pay workers and will not be eligible for any quota in the 2026 fishing season.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Nida requires N$550m for strategic plan and utility arrears

    The Namibia Industrial Development Agency needs at least N$550 million to implement its integrated strategic business plan and N$29.7 million to clear outstanding utility arrears, according to a Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources report. Nida faces operational challenges including an N$102 million operating loss in 2024, electricity disconnection at 69 industrial parks, and water debt at 89 properties.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Mining & Energy

  1. Opposition questions president's control over oil and gas sector

    Multiple opposition figures have criticized President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's placement of upstream oil and gas activities under her office, citing concerns about conflict of interest and lack of ministerial accountability. The president has categorically denied reports that her children have interests in the sector, while opposition leaders argue the arrangement violates constitutional principles and creates transparency risks.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namcor, SBM Offshore train over 110 on offshore oil operations

    The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia, SBM Offshore, and the Namibia Youth Energy Forum organised an FPSO Masterclass to enhance skills in offshore oil and gas production, attracting more than 110 participants including industry professionals and young Namibians. The training, facilitated by an SBM Offshore FPSO manager, focused on Floating Production, Storage and Offloading units and aimed to prepare Namibians for opportunities in the country's emerging energy sector.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  3. Venezuela's ambassador warns Namibia to protect oil interests

    Venezuela's ambassador to Namibia has urged the country to learn from Venezuela's political crisis and develop mechanisms to protect its emerging oil and gas sector, cautioning that traditional international law and respect for sovereignty cannot be relied upon. The warning comes as Namibia positions itself as a key oil and gas frontier following major offshore discoveries in the Orange Basin.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Agriculture & Land

  1. Oukwanyama headmen suspended for allegedly selling land illegally

    Two northern village headmen have been suspended for presiding over dubious land transactions, with the Onehanga headman fired and the Oshamukweni headman returned to duty after apologising. The senior headwoman said headmen were selling communal grazing land at inflated prices, contrary to traditional authority rules.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Society

  1. Windhoek murder trial: accused allege police torture

    Two men accused of robbing and murdering a Windhoek resident at Avis Dam in 2020 are disputing that they made confessions freely and voluntarily, alleging they were assaulted by police and instructed what to say. A judge has begun hearing testimony to determine the admissibility of evidence the prosecution wants to present.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Malaria cases surge 68% in northern Namibia amid spraying failures

    Malaria cases in Namibia rose sharply to 8,760 infections in the first four weeks of 2025, up 68% from the same period last year, with one death recorded. Former health minister Richard Kamwi blamed the outbreak on the Ministry of Health's failure to meet WHO's 85% indoor residual spraying standard and warned of more cases and deaths this year than in 2025, compounded by rainfall patterns favoring mosquito breeding.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Kavango East pupils cross river daily facing crocodile and hippo danger

    Over 152 pupils from Mukwe and Kangongo circuits in Kavango East cross the Kavango River daily in canoes to attend school, facing risks of crocodile and hippo attacks and drowning. The situation has prompted calls for more schools and services on the Angolan-side villages to reduce the need for dangerous crossings.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Two Rundu police officers arrested for smuggling contraband

    Two police officers from Rundu—a constable and a sergeant—were arrested this week for allegedly attempting to smuggle money, cannabis, cigarettes and mobile phones into police holding cells. They face charges under the Anti-Corruption Act, the Tobacco Products Control Act, and for cannabis possession.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Grootfontein man stabbed to death while separating siblings

    A 25-year-old man was fatally stabbed in the right shoulder by his 21-year-old brother at Kap n Bou informal settlement after intervening to stop the younger brother from attacking their sister. The suspect was arrested on a murder charge and is expected to appear in court this week.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Health minister accepts cancer donation at Windhoek hospital

    Health Minister Esperance Luvindao accepted a donation from the Ohlthaver & List Group of Companies to support cancer control efforts at Windhoek Central Hospital on International Cancer Day. The ministry is developing a comprehensive National Cancer Control Programme, expanding oncology services to northern regions, and working to detect cancer at earlier stages when treatment is more effective and cost-efficient.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Heavy rain and flooding alert for north-west and south regions

    Namibia Meteorological Services warns of heavy showers and potential flooding in the Kunene and //Kharas regions today, with the Kunene River already running at elevated levels. Residents near waterways are advised to exercise caution, and satellite maps indicate showers in the south may persist into Friday.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Two police officers arrested for suspected drug trafficking in Rundu

    Two law enforcement officers were arrested in Rundu on suspicion of drug trafficking after being found with cannabis and cash during searches at the District Hospital and Magistrate's Court. This follows an earlier incident in Walvis Bay where a police constable fled after allegedly supplying cannabis to a detainee.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. Young worker missing after arriving in Windhoek for kapana job

    Tuna Beatus Iiyambo, 26, went missing on 12 January, a day after arriving in Windhoek to work as a kapana seller. His relatives suspect foul play after he disappeared near Goreagab Dam; police searches have found no trace of him.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  10. Windhoek issues flood advisory after weekend storm damage

    The City of Windhoek has issued a flood advisory and safety warning following a storm on 31 January that caused damage in Khomasdal, including an uprooted tree and a house roof blown off by strong winds, with no injuries reported. Residents are urged to clear drains, prepare emergency supplies and avoid flooded areas as the rainy season continues.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. Police scale up efforts to combat child rape in Namibia

    The Namibian Police Force have intensified crime prevention operations nationwide, including heightened patrols and zero-tolerance enforcement against sexual offences, particularly around school holidays when child safety risks increase. Police statistics show roughly one-third of Namibia's estimated 700–1,000 annual rape cases involve minors, with investigators citing challenges including lack of witnesses, delayed reporting, and family protection of offenders.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  12. O&L donates N$500,000 to Windhoek Central Hospital cancer care

    Ohlthaver & List Group has donated N$500,000 to support cancer treatment at the AB May Cancer Care Centre at Windhoek Central Hospital. Health Minister Dr Esperance Luvindao said the government is committed to cancer prevention, early detection and treatment, and called on other corporate entities to join the effort.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Ohangwena education director urges supervisors to lead with empathy

    Isak Hamatwi, Ohangwena's education director, has called on supervisors to exercise authority with empathy, humility and emotional intelligence rather than fear, emphasizing that a healthy work environment is built on mutual respect and fairness. He urged staff to resolve disagreements through professional channels and stressed that learners' performance depends on collective effort and teamwork.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Senegalese health scandal over Chinese sanitary pad manufacturer

    Anger is mounting in Senegal over Chinese firm Softcare's alleged use of expired materials in sanitary pads and diapers, with the pharmaceutical regulator ordering a recall but later reversing course after the company disputed the findings. Multiple women have reported itching and skin irritation after using the products, and inspectors have accused Softcare of attempted bribery.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Culture

  1. February events across Namibia for music, dining, fitness

    The Namibian publishes a calendar of cultural, wellness, and social events scheduled across February, including oil and gas industry talks, reggae performances, poetry nights, a marathon, first aid training, actor auditions, and Valentine's Day dinners and movie nights at various venues nationwide.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Rare DKW Roadster displayed by Namibian classic car enthusiast

    A 1962 DKW SP 1000 Roadster owned by Brigitte Reissner is the only remaining example of its kind in Africa and is displayed at Old Wheelers Club events. The rare cabriolet, one of only 1,640 ever manufactured, has been restored by Reissner and serves as a showcase of automotive preservation.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. Cosafa Women's Championship 2025 fixture schedule confirmed

    The Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women's Championship will run from February 18 to March 1, 2025, in Polokwane, South Africa, with eleven teams competing across three groups. Namibia will play Mozambique on February 20 and Madagascar on February 23 in Group C.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. T20 World Cup begins Saturday amid political turmoil and boycotts

    Cricket's T20 World Cup starts Saturday with India as tournament favourites, but political tensions have overshadowed the build-up: Bangladesh was kicked out over security concerns, and Pakistan has refused to face India in a group match on government orders, citing diplomatic strains.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Eight associate nations set for T20 World Cup 2026 in India

    Eight associate cricket nations will compete at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, including debut nation Italy and returning Namibia, which qualified by winning their three group games in Africa's Regional Qualifier.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Namibian Olympic Committee approves mental health support for LA 2028

    The Namibia National Olympic Committee has approved a Sport Psychology Support Programme for 15 athletes on the LA 2028 pathway, with an annual budget of N$250,000, recognising mental readiness as crucial to elite performance. The NNOC also adopted a 10-year strategic framework prioritising resource allocation and athlete-centred planning across Olympic cycles.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Sport investment key to Africa's development and unity

    According to a football analyst and sport activist, sport is Africa's most effective tool for creating wealth, uniting populations, and addressing social problems like poverty and tribalism. The writer calls for governments to prioritize investment in sport infrastructure and professionalization across the continent, noting early positive signs in Namibia including state security teams entering football and professional contracts being offered in cricket.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Namibia's top cyclists compete in national championship

    Namibia's leading cyclists will contest the Nedbank Namibian National Cycling Championships this weekend, with time trials on Saturday and road races on Sunday. In the men's elite category, defending champion Alex Miller is favoured to win for a third year, while Anri Greeff is the hot favourite among elite women in the absence of multiple-time winner Vera Looser.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. France's Dupont backs Jalibert for Six Nations opener

    France captain Antoine Dupont expressed confidence that fly-half Matthieu Jalibert is ready to perform in the reigning champions' Six Nations opener against Ireland on Thursday, with Dupont returning to face-off after tearing his cruciate ligament against the same opposition last year.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Manchester City beats Newcastle to reach League Cup final

    Manchester City defeated Newcastle 3-1 in their League Cup semi-final second leg at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, winning 5-1 on aggregate. City will face Arsenal in the League Cup final on March 22 at Wembley.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Namibia Eagles beat Scotland in T20 warm-up match

    The Namibia Eagles defeated Scotland by six runs in a T20 warm-up match in Bengaluru, posting 226/4 before restricting Scotland to 220/5. Coach Craig Williams said it was a good exercise ahead of the T20 World Cup campaign, which begins against The Netherlands on 10 February.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. India advance to ICC u19 World Cup final with record chase

    India beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the ICC Men's u19 Cricket World Cup semi-final, pulling off the biggest chase in the competition's history. Aaron George scored 115 as India reached 311 to chase down Afghanistan's 310, setting up a final against England.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  11. Namibian racing duo wins South African off-road debut

    Ruan Viviers and Cecil Koorts of Cema Racing won the Wollies 200 off-road race in South Africa's North West province, finishing first overall and in their class in a 250km non-stop sprint against approximately 30 competitors. The team plans to return to South Africa on 14 February to compete at Biesiesvlei near Johannesburg.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  12. Namibia defeats Scotland in T20 Cricket warm-up clash

    Namibia secured a dramatic six-run victory over Scotland in a high-scoring T20 warm-up match ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Namibia batted first and scored 226, with Jan Frylinck making 88 and openers putting on 137 in 10.5 overs, while Scotland's chase fell just short despite a strong performance from Brandon McMullen (95).

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  13. Namibia faces India, Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026 Group A

    Namibia will open their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against the Netherlands in Delhi on 10 February, followed by defending champions India two days later, in a competitive Group A that also includes Pakistan and the USA. The Eagles will be seeking to improve on their previous showings, with captain Gerhard Erasmus leading a squad that includes experienced seamer Ruben Trumpelmann and will be coached by former all-rounder Craig Williams.

    5 February 2026 · Informanté

  14. Namibia beats Scotland by six runs in T20 warm-up

    Namibia defeated Scotland by six runs in a warm-up match for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, with openers Jan Frylinck (88) and Louren Steenkamp (51) setting a new national T20 partnership record of 137 runs to help the team post 226 for four. Despite Scotland's Brandon McMullen scoring 95, Namibia held nerve in the final over to secure the win, with JJ Smit bowling the decisive delivery.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Namibian martial arts team qualifies for inaugural world championships

    The Namibia Ring Contact Fighting Arts has qualified for the first-ever Ring Contact Fighting Arts International World Championships in April 2026 in South Africa, sending a team of 57 members including 36 athletes. The qualification marks a historic milestone for Namibia's martial arts development and follows strong performances at recent regional tournaments.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  16. African Stars Queens forward balances teaching and football

    Renate Niipale, a 26-year-old forward for African Stars Queens and teacher at Sheetekela Combined School, credits discipline, family support and calm reflection for her success both on the pitch and in the classroom. Born in Okatana and raised in Ongwediva, she overcame an injury-enforced absence to return to competition and now aims to score as many goals as possible to help her team win the league.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Namibia faces Mozambique and Madagascar in Cosafa Women's Championship

    The Namibian Brave Gladiators will compete in the Cosafa Women's Championship Cup from 18 February to 1 March in Polokwane, South Africa, drawn in Group C with Mozambique and Madagascar. Head coach Lucky Kakuva said the draw is positive and the team is eager to test itself against these unfamiliar opponents.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  18. Black Africa calls urgent meeting to elect new leadership

    Former Black Africa player Anzelus Petrus, now chairperson of the club's Supporters Committee, has urged all paid-up members to attend a meeting on Saturday to elect a new committee and address the club's current challenges. Petrus stressed that strong leadership and unity are needed to restore the Second Division club to its former standing.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. Namib Desert beetle runs to stay cool in extreme heat

    Scientists discovered that Onymacris plana, a darkling beetle native to the Namib Desert, gets cooler when it runs—the first land animal found to have this capability. The beetle's speed generates wind that carries away heat from the sun and its muscles, allowing it to survive in temperatures exceeding 50°C.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

World & Region

  1. UN secretary general warns of imminent financial collapse

    António Guterres has warned that the UN faces an "imminent financial collapse" due to member states not paying their assessed contributions, with money potentially running out by July. The crisis has been deepened by the United States refusing to pay its contributions and withdrawing from UN agencies, forcing the organisation to return funds it has not received and cutting humanitarian programmes worldwide.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. China's Xi holds rare back-to-back calls with Putin, Trump

    Chinese leader Xi Jinping held consecutive calls with Russia's Putin and US president Trump this week, a rare move analysts say demonstrates China positioning itself as equidistant between the two powers while securing trade commitments. The timing is seen as significant for projecting stability and Xi's global standing, particularly as China faces domestic political pressures.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Mugabe mentioned in released Epstein files as possible wealth client

    Zimbabwe's former President Robert Mugabe is named in recently released documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, including an email suggesting Epstein could approach Mugabe about providing Zimbabwe with a new currency, and unverified FBI testimony claiming Epstein was Mugabe's wealth manager. Being named in the files is not an indication of wrongdoing, and experts have questioned the accuracy of some claims in the documents.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Dozens killed in Nigeria village attacks; US troops confirmed

    Gunmen attacked two villages in Nigeria's Kwara state, killing dozens according to authorities and rights groups, with death tolls ranging from 35 to over 170 as reported by different sources. The attacks coincide with Nigeria's defence minister confirming a small team of US troops is in the country for intelligence support and training.

    5 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. African trade accord AGOA renewed through 2026 after expiry

    The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which expired on 30 September but was renewed on Tuesday effective retroactively, grants duty-free access to the US market for goods from African countries that meet conditions including political pluralism and human rights protections. The accord, worth US$8.23 billion in exports in 2024, had left beneficiary economies such as South Africa and Lesotho facing significant job losses and tariff threats during its lapse.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  6. NYC and Venezuela expand youth education and scholarship ties

    The National Youth Council met with Venezuela's ambassador to solidify bilateral relations, with focus on youth development programmes, education, skills training, and cultural exchange. Venezuela announced nine scholarships in petroleum and 50 additional scholarships in agriculture, science, engineering, and medicine for Namibian youth.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

  7. UN mission to help enforce DRC ceasefire despite repeated breaches

    Qatar announced that the UN will deploy a mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo's east to help enforce a ceasefire between the Kinshasa government and the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group. The move follows a meeting in Doha where both sides agreed to establish a monitoring mechanism, though previous ceasefire agreements signed in July and December have failed to end the conflict.

    5 February 2026 · New Era

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