Namibia Minute.
6 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
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Archive Minute from 6 February 2026
Politics

Accused seek judge's recusal in Fishrot corruption trial

The News

Former attorney general Sacky Shanghala and co-accused James Hatuikulipi have filed an application asking acting judge Marilize du Plessis to step down from their Fishrot fraud, corruption and racketeering trial, alleging bias and partiality. This is the third recusal application in the case; two previous judges turned down similar requests.

6 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. Accused seek judge's recusal in Fishrot corruption trial

    Former attorney general Sacky Shanghala and co-accused James Hatuikulipi have filed an application asking acting judge Marilize du Plessis to step down from their Fishrot fraud, corruption and racketeering trial, alleging bias and partiality. This is the third recusal application in the case; two previous judges turned down similar requests.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Oshana police commander calls for end to officer bribery

    Oshana police regional commander Naftal Sakaria has discouraged the public from offering officers bribes disguised as "cool drink money," saying society must uphold integrity to avoid becoming a "banana republic where law enforcement can just be bought." Responding to corruption concerns and a proposal to rotate officers between stations, Sakaria acknowledged the challenges of redeployment such as housing and family relocation, and said the Oshana region instead moves officers between stations and units.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. DA prepares leadership contest as Steenhuisen steps down

    Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen announced he will not seek re-election for a third term, stating his focus must shift to combating foot-and-mouth disease as agriculture minister. Minister Dean Macpherson praised Steenhuisen's decision as showing "remarkable political intuition and maturity," while potential successors including Macpherson and Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis position themselves ahead of the party's April elective congress, with nominations opening on 27 February.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Swapo chief whip Herunga steps down, !Naruseb takes role

    Swapo deputy secretary Uahekua Herunga has resigned as the party's chief whip in the National Assembly citing personal reasons, with former works and transport minister Alpheus !Naruseb appointed as his replacement. Herunga will remain a member of parliament, marking the first time a Swapo chief whip has resigned while retaining their parliamentary seat.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. IPC MP calls for corruption probe into Agronomic Board

    IPC member of parliament Imms Nashinge has called for an independent corruption investigation into the Namibian Agronomic Board following whistleblower allegations of procurement bypasses, unfair salary hikes, and preferential treatment of connected individuals. Nashinge questioned the agriculture minister in parliament about alleged governance failures and asked whether the ministry would commit to a transparent investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission and auditor general.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. President reaffirms judiciary independence at 2026 legal year opening

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah warned that political influence over court decisions threatens democracy, describing the judiciary as a co-equal arm of state that must function without fear or favour. She stressed that judicial independence is a constitutional obligation and called for stakeholders to address case backlogs and strengthen the rule of law.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Parliament must engage critically, not rubber-stamp bills

    The Association of Localised Interests president Joseph Kauandenge says parliament should not be used as a rubber stamp but should conduct robust, informed debates before passing legislation. He argues that hastily passed bills often fail legal scrutiny and cited examples including the Stock Theft Amendment Act.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Namibia dismantles digital payroll system, reverts to manual helpdesk

    Namibia has shut down its two-decade-old Payroll Deduction Management System, replacing the automated platform with a manual call center operation without a ready digital replacement, according to the article. The change removes automated protections for over 100,000 civil servants and risks slower processing, reduced transparency, and higher financial sector costs.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. Namibian judges face surging caseloads amid staff shortages

    Chief Justice Peter Shivute reported that average caseloads per civil judge jumped nearly 60% between 2024 and 2025 as judicial vacancies mounted, while Magistrates' Courts backlogs grew 11.5% to over 63,000 cases. The judiciary is exploring recruitment from SADC countries to address critical staffing gaps.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  10. Judiciary faces crisis as caseload per judge rises 60%

    Chief Justice Peter Shivute warned that Namibia's judiciary faces a critical shortage of judicial officers, with judges handling an average of 614 cases each in 2025—a sharp increase from 384 in 2024—while magistrates' courts contend with a growing backlog of over 63,000 cases. He cited retirements and inadequate staffing as primary challenges, though noted that mitigation measures including a judges' training programme have been launched.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Oshana governor calls for ethical leadership, accountability

    Oshana Region Governor Hofni Iipinge addressed newly elected regional and local authority councillors, urging ethical leadership, faster service delivery, and inclusive development that prioritises women, youth, and persons with disabilities. He emphasised that public office is a platform for service, highlighted youth unemployment and food security as key challenges, and called for stronger project implementation and coordinated governance across all spheres.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Divundu prioritizes housing and road infrastructure development

    The Divundu Village Council has identified house construction as its most urgent development priority for 2026/2027, responding to high community demand for decent housing. The council will also upgrade road infrastructure to improve accessibility and support economic activities, particularly the hospitality and tourism sector, while pursuing job creation through partnerships with government and private stakeholders.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Namibian Parliament adopts AI for legislative efficiency and transparency

    Namibian Parliament has incorporated artificial intelligence tools to transcribe debates, translate documents, and analyse amendments to support MPs in decision-making and legislative work. The adoption aligns with a regional SADC initiative to modernise parliamentary processes, though challenges including outdated IT systems, poor data quality, and ethical concerns remain across the region.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  14. LPM says Trump responded to Swartbooi letter; MPs praise presidential address

    The Landless People's Movement confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump has responded to a letter from party leader Bernadus Clinton Swartbooi sent during last year's election claiming minority groups faced discrimination and pressure in Namibia. Meanwhile, several parliamentarians reacted positively to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's recent address, though some cautioned that scrutiny of pending bills—particularly the Petroleum Amendment Bill—is essential before passage.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Swapo accused of treating Parliament as rubber stamp for bills

    Joseph Kauandenge, president of the Association of Localised Interests, has accused Swapo of using its parliamentary majority to rush legislation without proper debate or public input, resulting in bills that fail legal scrutiny. Swapo's youth league secretary Ephraim Nekongo disputed this, stating that the party has proper review processes and engages in parliamentary discussion before passing laws.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Kunene region overview: geography, demographics, and local governance

    Kunene is one of Namibia's fourteen regions, extending from the Atlantic Ocean to the Angolan border and home to Himba, Damara, and Nama communities. With a 2023 population of 120,762 and low population density, the region's capital is Opuwo and current governor is Vipuakuje Muharukua.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Katima Mulilo NPD councillor prioritises fighting corruption, reform

    Re-elected NPD councillor Simasiku Mukendwa outlined his priorities for Katima Mulilo Town Council, citing corruption and maladministration as the council's "biggest enemies" and pledging to reform governance systems, improve accountability, and tackle long-standing service-delivery challenges including roads and sewer infrastructure through gradual, realistic progress.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  18. Editorial: Honouring late president Geingob's legacy two years on

    A New Era editorial marks the second anniversary of former president Hage Geingob's death, reflecting on his leadership through economic crises, drought, and the Covid-19 pandemic. The piece urges Namibians to honour his legacy by sustaining the foundations he built, including the Harambee prosperity plans and frameworks for unity, resilience and democracy.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  19. Geingob supported Swapo exile pioneers' band in Zambia

    A former member of the Nyango Pioneers School band recalls how Hage Geingob championed their musical performances at important Swapo gatherings in Zambia during the liberation struggle, providing transport and accommodation for the young performers from 1986 onwards.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  20. Windhoek council chair outlines procedures for agenda recommendations

    The City of Windhoek council management committee chair explained the structure and procedures for making recommendations to council agenda points, following a councillor's concern that trivial matters like street naming were being prioritized over socio-economic development issues.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  21. Education Minister appointed Commonwealth of Learning regional representative

    Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp has been appointed as Regional Representative for the African Region on the Commonwealth of Learning Board of Governors, in recognition of her commitment to advancing equitable and inclusive education in Namibia and the Commonwealth.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Business

  1. Namibia's treasury bills offer better returns than South Africa's

    Namibia is offering higher interest rates on short-term treasury bills than South Africa, making it more attractive for investors, according to a Simonis Storm report. Last week the Bank of Namibia borrowed N$1.51 billion through treasury bills with oversubscription at strong levels, reflecting improving liquidity conditions.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. EU expands cumulation rules for duty-free Sacu exports

    The European Commission has approved expanded cumulation rules for the Southern African Customs Union, allowing member states to treat materials and labour from partner countries as local origin. This simplifies qualification for duty-free access to European markets, as Sacu exporters can now incorporate materials from other SADC states, African, Caribbean and Pacific partners, or EU territories in their products without losing preferential status.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. No second-hand clothing imported in December

    According to the Namibia Statistics Agency trade report, Namibia imported no second-hand clothing in December, with only N$1 million recorded in November. The report notes that EU exports of used clothes to Africa have nearly tripled over two decades, reaching 1.26 million tonnes in 2024, with 80% sold in informal African markets including Namibia's Stop & Shop.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. GIPF hosts first member engagement forum at Ongwediva

    The Government Institutions Pension Fund held its first Board of Trustees Member Engagement Forum in Ongwediva, bringing together over 200 members to discuss fund matters. The board highlighted recent member-centric reforms including the pension-backed home loans scheme, launched in January, which allows members to access loans secured against one-third of their pension benefit using N$900 million allocated to the scheme.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Walu Fishing disputes Ministry claims over employment programme collapse

    Walu Fishing Investments accuses the Ministry of Fisheries of concealing its own failures and shifting blame to participating companies for the collapse of the Government Employment Redress Programme, arguing the Ministry itself set criteria, managed allocations, and was aware of systemic breaches including late quota issuance and licence withdrawals that caused operational paralysis.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  6. Namibia Civil Aviation Authority retains ISO quality certification

    The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority's Aeronautical Information Management Unit has successfully retained its ISO 9001:2015 certification, boosting the sector's credibility in compliance with civil aviation regulations and international standards while enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. GIPF assets grow 9 percent to N$183 billion

    The Government Institutions Pension Fund has grown assets under management to N$183 billion in 2025, up from N$167 billion the previous year, delivering a real return of 6.4% and net investment income of N$17 billion. The Fund's board chair attributed the growth to sound governance and prudent investment management, and noted the fund has channelled over N$7.78 billion into Namibia's real economy over 13 years.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Mining & Energy

  1. Namibia showcases mining investment opportunities at February indaba

    Namibia will present its investment-ready mining opportunities at the Investing in African Mining Indaba on 11 February, positioning itself as a stable jurisdiction with a proven regulatory framework. The country is seeking investors for exploration, beneficiation, and downstream value addition as part of its long-term mining and industrialisation strategy.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Opposition warns new oil bill risks concentration of power

    Opposition parties have raised concerns that Namibia's new petroleum amendment bill, which would place the Upstream Petroleum Unit under the Office of the President, could lead to unchecked executive power and corruption similar to the Fishrot scandal in the fishing sector. They point to cautionary examples from Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, and Russia, where energy sector governance failures and political manipulation resulted from poor institutional oversight.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Minister defends placing oil powers under presidency

    Mines and energy minister Modestus Amutse has defended the decision to vest new upstream petroleum powers in the Office of the President, arguing the model follows international practice and strengthens governance of Namibia's oil and gas sector. Amutse said parliamentary oversight will remain in place, with the new unit reporting annually to the National Assembly on revenue, taxes and performance.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Arcadia signs option deal with Xinhai on Swanson tantalum project

    Australian-listed Arcadia Minerals has executed a binding term sheet with Hongkong Xinhai Mining Services, granting Xinhai a 45-day exclusive option to develop the Swanson Tantalum Project in Namibia. The partnership aims to advance the project towards production while limiting upfront capital requirements, with Xinhai to construct a processing plant and undertake exploration for lithium and tantalum.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Namibia's new Upstream Petroleum Unit to present at 2026 energy conference

    Namibia's newly established Upstream Petroleum Unit will participate in the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) in April 2026 to strengthen investor confidence and signal government commitment to transparent, investment-ready upstream petroleum governance as the country moves toward first oil production.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  6. Parliament calls for stronger natural resources policies and funding

    Namibia's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources has recommended stronger policies, funding, and inter-ministerial collaboration to unlock the country's resource potential and align sector strategies with national development priorities including Vision 2030. The mining sector contributed 13.3% to GDP in 2024, while the government received N$7.32 billion in mining revenue, but challenges persist in land reform, energy, and conservation funding.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Agriculture & Land

  1. Venaani urges desert farming to address food insecurity and unemployment

    Popular Democratic Movement president McHenry Venaani has proposed desert farming as a strategy to address agricultural challenges, climate change, and unemployment. He called for investment in irrigation infrastructure and research, and proposed the National Assembly debate the development and expansion of desert farming through a standing committee.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Experts urge seawater desalination to secure Namibia's water

    Experts are calling on the government to adopt seawater desalination technology to strengthen water security and prevent climate-driven migration and resource conflicts. An AgriConsult specialist says Namibia's long coastline and desert areas could support agricultural expansion through desalination, with small-scale technologies suited to individual farmers and cooperatives, following examples from countries like Israel, Chile and Australia.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Rainfall persists nationwide; heavier showers predicted

    Rainfall has continued across various parts of Namibia, with areas including Ondangwa recording up to 37 mm, and the Namibia Meteorological Services predicting heavier rainfall on Friday, particularly in the Kunene and //Kharas regions, with a risk of flash floods.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

Society

  1. HPV vaccine safe, health officials address conspiracy concerns

    Namibian health officials say the human papillomavirus vaccine, introduced in August 2025 and now part of routine immunisation, is safe and effective at preventing cervical cancer, dismissing misinformation circulating among parents about claims that it causes sterility or targets Africans. Officials note that cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in Namibia and can be prevented through vaccination and screening.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Two Rundu police officers arrested for smuggling contraband into cells

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

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Three Japanese volunteers arrive to build skills in Namibia

    Three Japanese volunteers have arrived in Namibia to spend two years working with local partners through the Japanese International Cooperation Agency's overseas volunteering programme. They will focus on capacity building in areas including batik artistry, youth skills development, and environmental education in Lüderitz, Keetmanshoop, and Karibib respectively.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Malaria surge in Zambezi forces villagers to walk kilometres for treatment

    The Zambezi region is experiencing a spike in malaria cases, with residents in Kongola constituency forced to walk over 10 kilometres to reach clinics due to lack of transport and services. The region recorded about 2,026 cases and four deaths this year, with community activists calling for preventive measures including mosquito net distribution, while health authorities say an outbreak response has been activated.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Veteran liquidator David Bruni dies at 76

    David Bruni, a prominent Namibian liquidator known for handling major cases including the Air Namibia liquidation, SME Bank closure, and Fishrot-related asset curatorship, has died aged 76. He is survived by his wife Gisela, three children and two grandchildren.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. 74-year-old man trampled to death by elephant in Kavango West

    Thomas Kandandu, 74, was trampled to death by an elephant at Nduno Village in Kavango West during the early morning of Tuesday while walking to a crop field with his wife. Police regional commander Julia Sakuwa-Neo confirmed the incident occurred around 04h00, with elephant tracks found next to the body.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Father arrested for alleged rape of 14-year-old daughter

    A man from Ohongo village in Omusati Region has been arrested on suspicion of raping his biological daughter, aged 14. The alleged incident occurred between July and January, and was reported to police by the victim's uncle; the suspect allegedly used threats to coerce the child.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Oshakati's flooded Kasikili Island residents await relocation help

    Residents of Kasikili Island in Oshakati's Oneshila informal settlement, whose homes have been flooded since December, say the town council has not provided assistance or permanent relocation despite pleas. The situation worsens as rain continues and residents cite concerns for children's safety, hygiene, and living conditions in water-surrounded homes.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. NCS conducts four-day organisational structure review workshop

    The Namibia Correctional Service is reviewing its organisational structure to align with departmental strategy and improve efficiency. NCS Commissioner-General Raphael Hamunyela stated the review aims to reduce bureaucracy, strengthen coordination across functions, ensure appropriate staffing capacity, and improve security and service delivery—framing it as continuous improvement rather than a fault-finding exercise.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  10. NDF conducts nationwide fitness tests for officer and recruit candidates

    The Namibian Defence Force is conducting pre-entry physical fitness and aptitude assessments across all 14 regions for applicants seeking to join as Officer Cadets and Recruits. Successful candidates will progress to fingerprinting and medical examinations in their respective regions.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. Lüderitz man kills girlfriend, then takes own life

    A 33-year-old man in Lüderitz strangled his girlfriend, 47-year-old Friedda Esther Ndinoshisho, to death before hanging himself. Police discovered both bodies in his locked home on 3 February 2026 while searching for him as a suspect in an alleged attempted murder case.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  12. Man arrested for raping 14-year-old daughter in Omusati

    A 47-year-old man was arrested for allegedly raping his biological 14-year-old daughter at Ohongo village in Omusati region between July 2025 and January 2026. He is expected to appear in court in Outapi.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Artist Gawanab shares story of recovery to inspire schoolboys

    Award-winning artist Jericho Gawanab spoke to boys at Augustineum Secondary School in Windhoek about his past struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, encouraging them to stay in school, remain disciplined, and make positive choices for society.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Namibia has only one public oncologist, health minister says

    Health minister Dr Esperance Luvindao says Namibia has seven specialist oncologists—one in the public sector and six in private—which is inadequate to meet national cancer care demand. The ministry plans to expand oncology services to Oshakati and develop a National Cancer Control Programme to reduce waiting times.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Ongwediva Town Council plans serviced land for student housing

    Ongwediva Town Council is finalising the provision of serviced land to address student accommodation shortages in the town, where students currently face overcrowded conditions and unsafe living situations. The council aims to develop affordable housing close to the area's universities and colleges, and is inviting private developers and SMEs to partner on the project once the land allocation process is complete.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Police recapture one of three escaped Rundu inmates

    Namibian Police in Kavango East have rearranged one of three trial-awaiting inmates who escaped on 18 January 2025 by damaging burglar bars and hammering through a cell wall during a distraction caused by protesting detainees; the hunt for the other two continues. Deputy Commissioner Kanyetu said the facility has been repaired and replaced, while authorities cite systemic failures and overcrowding as contributing factors to the escape.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Fire destroys Rundu school kitchen, affects 560 learners

    A fire broke out around 23h00 on Monday night at Dr Romanus Kampungu Senior Secondary School in Rundu, causing extensive damage to the kitchen and affecting meal preparation for approximately 560 hostel learners. The cause remains undetermined as investigations continue, though authorities have approved a temporary gas stove to enable food preparation from dinner onwards.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  18. National Housing Enterprises prioritizes low-cost housing for ultra-low-income Namibians

    The National Housing Enterprises has launched a housing initiative targeting ultra-low-income earners, with monthly incomes up to N$3,500, using local and alternative building materials to reduce costs without compromising quality. Towns including Usakos, Ongwediva, and Oshakati will benefit from the program, which aims to help low-income Namibians acquire assets and achieve homeownership.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  19. NHE launches programme to upgrade informal settlements nationwide

    The National Housing Enterprise has rolled out the National Informal Settlement Upgrading Programme (NISUP) to transform temporary structures into permanent homes in major urban centres including Opuwo, Ondangwa, Rundu, and Walvis Bay. The enterprise aims to construct nearly 3,000 new homes this year but faces constraints from a housing backlog of 300,000 and limited availability of serviced land.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  20. Senior education officer describes teaching as lifelong calling

    Lahja Nashuuta Hileni Kulaumone Kapepo, a senior education officer in Khomas region overseeing English and Afrikaans instruction across 91 schools, reflects on her 20+ year career in education, emphasising the importance of supporting teachers and improving learner outcomes despite challenges of scale and workload.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Culture

  1. Namibian duo The Ells performs at Cape Town music festival

    Namibian acoustic duo The Ells are performing at Up the Creek Music Festival on 7 February after successful Cape Town gigs. The band is expanding internationally while working on their first full album and planning Namibia Music Awards submissions.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Group D preview

    Group D of the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup features no previous winners but includes recent finalists South Africa and New Zealand, 2024 semi-finalists Afghanistan, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, with matches to be played in Chennai, Ahmedabad and Delhi. Each team brings distinct strengths: Afghanistan has experienced spinners and recent bilateral series wins; Canada returns after their 2024 debut; New Zealand seeks to avoid last tournament's group-stage exit; South Africa aims to avenge their 2024 final loss; and the UAE looks to build on recent victories against full member nations.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. ICC T20 World Cup 2026 Group C features England, West Indies, Scotland, Nepal, Italy

    Group C of the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup includes two-time champions England and West Indies, alongside Scotland, Nepal, and Italy, who will make their tournament debut. Scotland kicks off proceedings against the West Indies in Kolkata on the opening day.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Group B teams prepare for 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka

    The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Group B will take place exclusively in Sri Lanka and features 2021 champions Australia, former champions Sri Lanka, and Ireland, Oman, and Zimbabwe. Each team brings distinct strengths: Australia relies on batting firepower and experienced bowlers, Sri Lanka hopes to improve on their recent poor form on home soil, while Zimbabwe and Oman seek to make an impact after qualifying through respective continental qualifiers.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Group A preview: India, Pakistan, USA, Namibia, Netherlands

    The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 Group A features defending champions India, Pakistan, the 2024 surprise package USA, Namibia competing in their fourth straight tournament, and the Netherlands, with Pakistan and the Netherlands opening the tournament on 7 February in Colombo. India are the number one-ranked side in both T20Is and ODIs, while Namibia will face India and Pakistan for only the second time.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Namibia Rugby Union faces leadership crisis, financial transparency demands

    The Namibia Rugby Union is in turmoil following coaching staff resignations in December—including director of rugby Jacques Burger—and after failing to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Former player Damian Stevens has publicly called for financial transparency, a strategic plan, and performance review, while union leadership disputes some resignation claims and promises a press conference on 10 February to address stakeholders.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Analyst warns Okahandja United to improve before relegation

    Football analyst Hector Mawango has urged Okahandja United to strengthen their tactical and technical approach in remaining league matches, citing inconsistent form and particularly poor away performances that threaten their standing in the Namibia Premier Football League.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Spar Ocean View Qualifier Race scheduled for February 7 in Swakopmund

    The Spar Ocean View Qualifier Race will take place on 7 February at Ocean View in Swakopmund, designed to promote healthy lifestyles and provide competitive runners a qualifying platform for national races. The event, which evolved from the long-standing Batman Race, welcomes both competitive and recreational participants, community members, and volunteers.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Helalia Johannes: Namibia's most decorated female athlete

    Long-distance runner Helalia Johannes is Namibia's most decorated woman athlete, having won a Commonwealth Games marathon gold medal, a World Athletics Championships bronze, and been named Sportswoman of the Year six times. Johannes attributes her success to work ethic, commitment, and the ability to rise after falling, and holds multiple Namibian records in distance running events.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Collin Benjamin names 33 players for Fifa Series Kazakhstan

    Brave Warriors head coach Collin Benjamin has announced a 33-man provisional squad of local players for the Fifa Series tournament in Kazakhstan in March and April. Namibia will compete against Kuwait, Comoros, and hosts Kazakhstan, with each team playing two official international matches.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Namibian swimmer Trisha Mutumbulua overcomes fear, hardship and tragedy

    Trisha Mutumbulua has become one of Namibia's top young swimmers despite overcoming a childhood fear of water, earning recognition from an international sports branding agency and recently receiving the highest votes from fellow athletes across the region for an athlete of the month award. The scholarship student-athlete, currently studying psychology in Hungary while continuing her swimming training, has also weathered personal tragedy and difficult coaching experiences on her journey to the international stage.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  11. France beats Ireland 36-14 in Six Nations rugby

    Reigning champions France dominated Ireland 36-14 in Six Nations rugby on Thursday, with wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey scoring twice and scrumhalf Antoine Dupont returning to the national team after an 11-month injury absence. France scored five tries and controlled the match, though Ireland mounted a second-half comeback before France sealed the victory.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  12. Scotland drops Kinghorn, van der Merwe for Six Nations Italy test

    Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has left out top try-scorers Duhan van der Merwe and Darcy Graham, plus fullback Blair Kinghorn, for Saturday's Six Nations opener in Rome, instead selecting Tom Jordan at full-back and Glasgow wings Kyle Steyn and Jamie Dobie. Townsend said the three dropped players "have had some terrific games" but the new back three "deserve their starts given how well they've been playing."

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  13. England face India in ICC U19 Cricket World Cup final

    England under-19 captain Thomas Rew says his team must treat the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026 final against India in Harare as "just another game," after England's unbeaten tournament run included a 27-run semi-final victory over Australia. India also enter the final unbeaten, having won the tournament in 2022, with both captains urging their sides to play simple cricket and not be overawed by the occasion.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  14. MTC Salute Boxing Academy hosts charity tournament

    MTC Salute Boxing Academy held a press conference in Windhoek for a charity boxing tournament scheduled for Saturday, 7 February, featuring local boxers and visitors from Germany and Tanzania, with proceeds benefiting a charitable cause.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Women's Super League action resumes with title-chasing fixtures

    Rounds four and five of the FNB Women's Super League continue this weekend in Windhoek and Oshakati, with defending champions Mighty Gunners Ladies FC leading the 12-team competition. The standout fixture pits the league's top two teams, Mighty Gunners and FC Ongos Ladies, against each other on Saturday, with both coaches expressing confidence in their respective preparations.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Shalulile extends Nedbank Cup goal-scoring record

    Namibian footballer Peter Shalulile scored as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Gomora United 2–1 in the Nedbank Cup, extending his tournament record to 15 goals and pulling clear as the competition's leading goal scorer.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Central Elite Social Volleyball League launches February 14

    The Central Elite Social Volleyball League, a nonprofit social volleyball league rooted in community responsibility, will officially launch on 14 February with first matches beginning 21 February and running through November. The league, a collaborative effort among government and educational institutions, aims to strengthen social bonds, promote wellness, and support Katutura State Hospital through CSR activities.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  18. Brave Warriors coach names 33 local players for 2026 FIFA series

    Namibia's football head coach Collin Benjamin announced a 33-man provisional squad of locally based players for the 2026 FIFA series invitational tournament in Kazakhstan, describing it as an opportunity to develop players and coaches by competing against European and Asian opposition outside the traditional African competitive environment.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  19. Nicodemus Kudulu: Namibia's 'Smiling Assassin' footballer

    New Era profiles the life and career of Nicodemus 'Cruyff' Kudulu, a skilled winger who played for Blue Waters, Eleven Arrows, Sparta United, and CS Maritimo in Namibian football during the 1980s and beyond, before retiring to Omaruru.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  20. Namibian rugby union faces transparency and accountability calls

    Namibian rugby player Damian Stevens has publicly criticized the Namibia Rugby Union's leadership for lack of communication and transparency following the country's failure to qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, calling for clear strategic planning, financial accountability, and rebuilding pathways. The NRU has announced a press conference for next Tuesday to address its current status and rebuilding strategy for the 2029–2031 cycle.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  21. League leaders Chula Chula face KK Palace in northern derby

    Namibia Premier League leaders Eeshoke Chula Chula will face defending champions' rivals KK Palace at Oshakati Stadium on Sunday, with Chula Chula sitting atop the standings with 30 points despite a major rebuild that initially aimed only at avoiding relegation. KK Palace coach Anderson Phiri expressed confidence based on recent head-to-head success, while Chula Chula coach John Sirekete acknowledged KK Palace as a strong opponent and called on supporters to back the team.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  22. Namibia's Futsal Team Loses First Leg Qualifier to Libya

    Namibia's Brave Five lost 11–3 to Libya's Mediterranean Knights in the first leg of their Futsal Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund. The team will travel to Libya for the return leg scheduled for 7–8 February, with the aggregate winners advancing to the Morocco 2026 CAF Futsal Africa Cup of Nations finals.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  23. Namibia to face Mozambique and Madagascar in Cosafa Women's Championship

    The Cosafa Women's Championship will take place in Polokwane, South Africa, from 18 February to 1 March. Namibia's Brave Gladiators open Group C on 20 February against Mozambique, then play Madagascar on 23 February.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. New Damara tern colony discovered and monitored at Lüderitz

    Lüderitz Marine Research has been monitoring a newly discovered breeding colony of Damara terns north of the Lüderitz Peninsula since mid-November, with 14 nest sites located and marked birds tracked through the protracted breeding season. The research team warns that off-road vehicles and drones threaten the chicks' survival by frightening adults away from nests.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. President warns of rising crime against tourists threatening sector

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has expressed concern over increasing criminal acts against tourists in Namibia, noting that some countries have begun classifying the country as unsafe, which poses a risk to tourism and employment. She also called for urgent action on the backlog of cases in the justice system and highlighted the need for strengthened institutions and rule of law.

    6 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. Elephant kills elderly man in Kavango West village

    Thomas Kandandu, 74, was trampled to death by an elephant early Wednesday morning in Nduno village while he and his wife were heading to their crop field. The incident underscores escalating human-wildlife conflict in the region, with authorities urging residents to remain vigilant during early morning and evening hours.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  4. Environment ministry consults on amendments to management bill

    The environment ministry held stakeholder consultations in Keetmanshoop on the Environmental Management Bill, aiming to improve sustainable management of natural resources and address implementation challenges including lack of strategic environmental assessment provisions and limited enforcement guidance. The ministry also highlighted concerns about unprecedented sand-and-gravel mining causing environmental destruction and loss of livelihoods, noting that illegal mining sites have been closed with support from law enforcement agencies.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

World & Region

  1. US and Iran begin direct talks amid escalating military tensions

    Senior US and Iranian officials are meeting in Oman for direct negotiations as military tension rises following Iran's violent suppression of anti-government protests and a significant US military buildup in the Middle East. The talks, brokered by regional mediators, aim to de-escalate conflict, though the two countries remain divided on key issues including Iran's nuclear programme, ballistic missiles, and regional proxies.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Nigerian governor reports dozens killed in militant attack on villages

    Kwara state governor says 75 local Muslims were killed in a Tuesday shooting attack on the villages of Woro and Nuku after residents refused to surrender to Islamist extremists, though death toll estimates range from 78 to over 170. The attack was blamed on Boko Haram, and President Tinubu deployed an army battalion to the area.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Finland and Namibian universities collaborate on circular economy models

    Finnish and Namibian universities have partnered on a capacity-building project to develop circular economy models for sustainable production, job creation, and waste management. The initiative, involving the University of Tampere, Tampere University of Applied Sciences, and the Namibia University of Science and Technology, aims to strengthen circular economy expertise among local stakeholders, particularly in bio-based and recycling materials.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Floods kill 100+ in southern Africa, trigger crocodile warnings

    Devastating floods across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique have killed more than 100 people and displaced hundreds of thousands since the start of the year. Authorities warn of hunger, cholera, and crocodile attacks, with Mozambique reporting the worst flooding since 2000 and aid workers concerned about disease outbreaks in overcrowded camps.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Namibia blocks South Africa-Lesotho water project phase two

    Namibia has refused to approve Phase 2 of the South Africa-Lesotho Highlands Water Project, citing concerns about reduced downstream water flows on the Orange River and potential damage to its irrigation schemes, mining, and power projects. The ministry says the blockade will stand until South Africa commits to jointly developing the Noordoewer-Vioolsdrift Dam as a mitigation measure.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  6. Nigeria's president deploys troops after deadly village attack

    Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deployed an army battalion to Kwara State after gunmen killed as many as 162 people in an attack on Woro village, which the state government blamed on "terrorist cells" and the president attributed to Boko Haram jihadists.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  7. UK PM apologises to Epstein victims over Mandelson appointment

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologised to victims of Jeffrey Epstein for appointing Peter Mandelson as US ambassador despite his ties to the sex offender, saying Mandelson had lied to secure the position. The apology came after newly released files revealed the extent of Mandelson's friendship with Epstein, triggering a political crisis that has left his government's future in doubt.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

  8. Spain and Portugal battered by seventh deadly storm this year

    Storm Leonardo dumped over 40 centimetres of rain on southern Spain and Portugal in hours, triggering the worst flood threat along the Tagus River in nearly three decades; at least one confirmed death in Portugal and one in Spain, with thousands evacuated and transport disrupted.

    6 February 2026 · New Era

Opinion

  1. Bureaucrats unfit to lead state-owned enterprises, expert argues

    An opinion piece argues that appointing bureaucrats to manage state-owned enterprises has led to inefficiency and taxpayer bailouts across Africa and Namibia, and that public enterprises perform better when led by individuals with business-oriented mindsets rather than public servants focused on policy delivery.

    6 February 2026 · The Namibian

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