Namibia Minute.
9 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
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Archive Minute from 9 February 2026
Politics

Two women charged in Namcor fraud and corruption case

The News

Martha Antindi and Johanna Mundjego were arrested and made first appearance in Windhoek Magistrate's Court on Monday, charged with dealing in gratification, money laundering, and theft linked to alleged fraud and corruption at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia. Both women are held in custody pending a bail application hearing on 20 February.

9 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. Two women charged in Namcor fraud and corruption case

    Martha Antindi and Johanna Mundjego were arrested and made first appearance in Windhoek Magistrate's Court on Monday, charged with dealing in gratification, money laundering, and theft linked to alleged fraud and corruption at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia. Both women are held in custody pending a bail application hearing on 20 February.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibians reflect on founding president Sam Nujoma's legacy

    One year after the death of founding president Sam Nujoma in February 2025, Namibian citizens from various walks of life shared their remembrances of his role in leading the country to independence and democracy, crediting him as the architect of the nation's freedom and a visionary leader whose sacrifices and commitment to national unity continue to inspire.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Geingob valued reading to strengthen leadership abilities

    At a Heroes' Acre remembrance ceremony, Geingob's daughter Nangula Geingos honoured her late father, noting he believed reading was essential for better leadership and making informed decisions. Attendees, including President Nandi-Ndaitwah and Geingob's widow, described him and Sam Nujoma as pillars of unity and founding giants who shaped Namibia's constitution and democratic institutions.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Namibia visa-on-arrival generates N$413m in under year

    Namibia's visa-on-arrival system, launched on 3 March 2025, generated N$413.4 million in revenue by 31 January, with 289,510 visas issued. The Department of Immigration Control and Citizenship also issued 51,285 travel documents during the period, reflecting improved service delivery and administrative efficiency.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Former defence minister Erkki Nghimtina dies at 77

    Erkki Nghimtina, a former defence minister and liberation struggle veteran who served in the National Assembly and various cabinet roles, has died at Edundja village in Ohangwena region. Defence and veterans affairs minister Frans Kapofi described him as an outstanding leader who played a key role in Namibia's independence.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Former cabinet minister Erkki Nghimtina dies at age 77

    Erkki Nghimtina, a long-serving former government minister and National Assembly member (1995–2020), died on Sunday at Edundja village in Ohangwena region. He held ministerial roles in defence, mines and energy, works and transport, and labour, and was an independence struggle veteran who went into exile with Swapo in 1974.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Veteran liberation struggle hero Erkki Nghimtina dies aged 79

    Erkki Nghimtina, a former minister who fought in Namibia's liberation struggle and later headed the Defence, Mines and Energy, Works and Transport, and Labour ministries over a 25-year political career, has died at his home in Ohangwena Region aged 79.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Degazetted chief challenges removal at High Court

    Dâuredaman Chief Zacharias Seibeb has filed a review application at the High Court challenging his removal by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in November under the Traditional Authorities Act. Seibeb claims he remains the duly recognised chief and seeks to be re-gazetted, with the court ordering both parties to submit documents and affidavits by specified dates in coming months.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  9. Namibia commemorates Nujoma and Geingob legacies at Heroes Acre

    The nation gathered at Heroes Acre in Windhoek for a candlelight event honouring the lives and legacies of Founding President Sam Nujoma and late President Hage Geingob, who died in February 2024 and February 2025 respectively. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and family members urged the youth to carry forward the leaders' work on economic emancipation and nation-building.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Katutura East councillor highlights crime reduction, funding limits

    Richard !Gaoseb, in his second term as Katutura East constituency councillor, points to surveillance camera installations that have reduced crime in the Damara area and calls for implementation of a Constituency Development Fund to address unemployment and underdevelopment.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  11. PDM calls for gun law review over police firearm misuse

    The Popular Democratic Movement has urged Parliament to invoke gun laws in response to rising cases of weapon misuse by police officers, including fatal shootings of romantic partners, and has also raised concerns about police involvement in drug abuse and trafficking. PDM parliamentarians called for scrutiny of firearm control, internal police disciplinary mechanisms, and the integrity of law enforcement officers.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Official opposition demands law governing sovereign wealth fund

    Opposition leader Imms Nashinge has called on the government to pass legislation regulating Namibia's sovereign wealth fund, which has been operating for three years without a dedicated legal framework. He asked the Prime Minister for clarity on existing laws governing the fund and pressed for robust provisions ensuring public transparency and parliamentary oversight before the bill's passage.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Former Works and Transport Minister Erkki Nghimtina dies at 78

    Erkki Nghimtina, a former Minister of Works and Transport, has died at his homestead in Edundja village in the Ohangwena region. He was 78 years old.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Business

  1. FNB Namibia warns CashPlus agents against unauthorised customer fees

    First National Bank Namibia has cautioned CashPlus agents against charging customers extra fees for cash withdrawals or deposits, stating that such practices violate the CashPlus agreement. The bank says agents are paid commissions directly and may not impose additional charges or conditions before processing transactions.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia validates AfCFTA trade guide for businesses

    Namibia is validating a step-by-step guide to help businesses navigate cross-border trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area, addressing long-standing challenges with rules of origin, customs procedures and border processes. The guide, developed with UN support, aims to empower MSMEs and expand Namibian exports to African markets beyond the current narrow concentration of products and destinations.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. House prices surge despite fewer buyers able to afford

    Namibian house prices rose to 7.6% growth in the fourth quarter of 2025, driven by strong demand and limited supply of serviced land, yet mortgage credit remains sluggish as many households are priced out of the market. The central region led with 7.9% price growth, while the northern region saw the highest transaction volumes, with average prices more affordable at N$980,000.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Mining & Energy

  1. Ministry says Petrobras, TotalEnergies oil deal was unlawful

    Namibia's Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy has flagged the acquisition by Petrobras and TotalEnergies of a stake in oil block 2613 as unlawful, saying the government was not notified before the transaction was announced and that prior ministerial approval is required by law. Both companies have stated the transaction remains subject to Namibian government approval.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Hungary begins construction of EU's first VVER-1200 nuclear plant

    Hungary has begun construction of the Paks II nuclear power plant, marking the first facility in the European Union to feature third-generation VVER-1200 reactors. The project, built with Russian technology through Rosatom, received construction permits in November 2025 and represents a strategic development for Hungary's nuclear energy sector.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Rio Tinto and Glencore merger talks collapse over valuation

    Rio Tinto has ended merger discussions with Glencore, saying no agreement could be reached that would deliver shareholder value. Glencore countered that Rio Tinto's offer "significantly undervalued" the company, particularly its copper business, and that Rio Tinto's insistence on keeping its chairman and CEO as heads of the combined firm complicated negotiations.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Agriculture & Land

  1. Agriculture ministry assures farmers as foot-and-mouth disease threatens region

    The Ministry of Agriculture has urged the public not to panic over foot-and-mouth disease spreading from neighbouring countries, saying the government has put preventive measures in place and that Namibia's animal health systems are prepared to respond. The ministry encourages farmers to report suspected cases and emphasised the importance of regional cooperation to contain the outbreak.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia's poultry sector shows strong growth amid input cost challenges

    The Namibia Agricultural Union reports that the poultry sector is the second-largest contributor to farmers' cash receipts, with broiler production up 14.94% in 2024 and egg production up 6.63%. Growth is expected to continue in 2025, though the sector faces challenges from high input costs, climate variability, and animal health risks including potential avian influenza spillover from South Africa.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. AEA reports stable farm labour but warns minimum wage unsustainable

    The Agricultural Employers' Association of Namibia reports that 2025 saw relative stability on commercial farms with few labour disputes, but cautions that the national minimum wage—set to rise from N$10 per hour in 2025 to N$18 by 2027—poses financial challenges for farmers who already provide workers with housing, water, electricity, and transport. At its 2025 congress, the AEA mandated negotiations with government to include farmworker benefits in the minimum wage calculation and to explore legal options if necessary.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  4. Weekend rainfall across Namibia, more showers forecast

    Tsumeb, Usakos, Windhoek, and southern areas including Keetmanshoop and Bethanie received weekend rainfall. The Meteorological Services forecast more scattered thundershowers across multiple regions from north to south on Monday.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

Society

  1. Doctor charged with murder after prosecutor dies from acid attack

    Ondangwa doctor Fillemon Nakanduungile is facing murder and conspiracy charges following the death of prosecutor Justine Shiweda, who died from injuries sustained in a violent acid attack on 17 October. Nakanduungile is accused of conspiring with a criminal gang that shot and threw corrosive acid at the prosecutor.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Youth face severe health risks tampering with depleted vapes

    Health professionals have warned that young Namibians are "jumping" or tampering with depleted disposable vapes to extend their use, a practice driven by affordability and addiction but posing serious immediate and long-term health hazards including battery explosions, toxic chemical inhalation, lung damage, and exposure to cancer-causing substances. Doctors report that patients develop symptoms ranging from coughing and chest pain to respiratory emergencies, with tampered devices releasing toxic metals and carcinogens particularly dangerous to developing adolescent brains.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Westmond High School launches calculator donation campaign

    A critical lack of calculators at Westmond High School has affected pupil participation and performance in mathematics and accounting, with an estimated 800 of the school's 1,000 pupils lacking access to calculators. An accounting teacher has launched a 'Donate a Calculator' campaign to address the shortage, securing 50 calculators so far, with donated calculators to be kept as school property and issued during lessons and examinations.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Homeschooling offers stability during South African school placement delays

    With annual school placement delays in South Africa forcing families to rethink education approaches, homeschooling has emerged as a deliberate strategy rather than a last resort. Education experts suggest structured homeschooling with quality materials can provide continuity and a supportive environment for younger children, protecting their learning momentum while awaiting formal school placement.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Kunene community mourns Outjo murder victim Florencia Jacobs

    Following the discovery of 21-year-old Florencia Jacobs' body behind an Outjo fire station, Kunene governor Vipuakuje Muharukua has called for regional vigils and donations to support the bereaved family. Outjo constituency youth forum chairperson Ben Narib is urging community members and public servants to help prevent crime in the area.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Private aircraft crashes at Okahao airfield in Omusati

    A two-seater light aircraft crashed at Okahao airfield on Sunday while conducting a runway inspection flight, injuring the pilot with minor wounds and his wife passenger seriously. The technical defect caused the crash during low-level flight, and the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority has been notified to investigate.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Man arrested for stabbing brother in Gobabis

    A Gobabis man was arrested at the town's dumping site on Sunday, three days after allegedly murdering his brother at the TransNamib railway area. The brothers allegedly argued over stolen ropes from a truck, resulting in a fatal stabbing.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Law association calls for swift probe into prosecutor's death

    The Namibia Law Association has called for a thorough, independent, and expedited investigation into the death of Ondangwa public prosecutor Justine Shiweda, who died on Saturday after being shot and doused with a corrosive substance in an alleged bribe-related attack at her home in October. The association's chairperson emphasized that any assault on prosecutors represents a grave attack on the administration of justice and the rule of law, and urged that accountability be pursued without delay.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Education minister Steenkamp appointed Africa representative on Commonwealth board

    The Commonwealth of Learning has congratulated Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp on her appointment as Africa's representative on its board of governors, noting her commitment to advancing equitable and inclusive education across Namibia, Africa and the Commonwealth.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Ministry prioritises oncology services expansion to northern Namibia

    Health Minister Esperance Luvindao announced that the Ministry of Health will establish oncology services in Oshakati this year, with three specialist oncologists earmarked for the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital as part of efforts to decentralise cancer care and reduce treatment waiting times to a maximum of six weeks. The Ministry also plans to develop radiotherapy capacity, procure new brachytherapy equipment, and ensure availability of essential chemotherapy medicines.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. Rundu dentist arrested over N$400k PSEMAS fraud

    A dental therapist has been arrested and charged by the Anti-Corruption Commission over alleged fraudulent claims submitted to the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme (PSEMAS) totalling more than N$400,000 for services allegedly not rendered between 2013 and 2017.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  12. Aircraft crashes in Omusati Region with two occupants aboard

    An aircraft crashed at Okahao in Omusati Region on Sunday afternoon with a pilot and passenger on board. The pilot, an Oshakati-based medical doctor, detected engine failure and executed a precautionary manoeuvre; he escaped unhurt while his wife suffered slight injuries and was taken to hospital for check-up.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  13. Prosecutor Justine Shiweda dies after October acid attack

    Ondangwa regional control prosecutor Justine Shiweda, 30, died on Saturday from injuries sustained in an October 2024 attack in which she was shot and doused with corrosive acid at her home. The Ministry of Justice described the attack as an assault on the entire justice system, and six suspects have been arrested; the charge of attempted murder is expected to be amended to murder when the matter returns to court.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Police Force launches six-month national crime prevention operation

    The Namibian Police Force, along with Windhoek City Police and other law enforcement agencies, will conduct a six-month nationwide crime prevention operation to enhance public safety and curb crime across the country. Major General Elias Mutota said police officers will be deployed to crime hotspots, with the best-performing unit receiving a trophy.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Murder trial halted by dispute over police brutality claims

    Three men accused of murdering businessman Daniele Ferrari in 2020 claim their confessions were coerced through torture and beatings. A trial within a trial has begun to determine whether the accused were subject to police brutality that rendered their statements inadmissible.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Senior judicial officials visit late prosecutor's family

    Prosecutor General Martha Imalwa, Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge, Commissioner Naftal Sakaria, and various prosecutors and magistrates visited Onambango village to pay respects to the family of late prosecutor Justine Shiweda.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Culture

  1. TikTok creator Xolile Vesile entertains millions with food reviews

    South African content creator Xolile Vesile, a healthcare worker based in Cape Town, has built a large following on TikTok through humorous food review videos mostly in isiXhosa, often reacting to dishes with mismatched ingredients while using his signature phrase "Ubudyubhu". He aims to help viewers laugh and forget their problems through content that celebrates diverse cuisines and the joy of trying new foods.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Mandume Day marked simultaneously in Namibia and Angola

    King Mandume Ya Ndemufayo, recognised as a national hero, was commemorated 109 years after his death in combat on 6 February 1917, with simultaneous ceremonies at Omhedi Palace in Namibia's Ohangwena Region and Oihole village in Angola's Cunene Province, hosted by the two reigning monarchs of the Oukwanyama Traditional Community.

    9 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. Tsum Arts stages play depicting everyday Namibian life

    Playwright Peter Linyondi's stage play "End of the Month" portrayed relatable Namibian experiences including financial hardship and family relationships, with humor balanced thoughtfully to reflect on serious topics. The production, supported by the National Arts Council of Namibia's 3rd Cycle Grant, attracted local leaders and positive audience feedback, encouraging further local theatre development.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  4. Exit Rockaz dismisses arrest claims, calls video from August old

    Musician Exit Rockaz says a video circulating on social media showing him in a police van is from August of last year, not recent, and that he was released immediately after entering the station. He stressed he is not under arrest and that his past is often amplified or misrepresented, but that he is now safe, sober, and focused on his music and personal growth.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Sport

  1. Real Madrid beat Valencia 2-0 to cut Barcelona's La Liga lead

    Goals from Álvaro Carreras and Kylian Mbappé gave Real Madrid a 2-0 win at Valencia on Sunday, narrowing the gap to La Liga leaders Barcelona to one point. Madrid had to do without suspended Vinícius Junior and injured Jude Bellingham, with Trent Alexander-Arnold making his return from injury as a substitute.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Roger Suren wins Namibia's elite road cycling championship

    Roger Suren, 19, won the Nedbank National Road Cycling Championships' elite men's race in a sprint finish against defending champion Alex Miller over 165km outside Windhoek. Anri Greeff won the women's race for the second consecutive year, also claiming the individual time trial title.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Weakened Namibia tennis team loses to Estonia 4-0

    Namibia's understrength men's tennis team failed to gain promotion to Davis Cup World Group II after losing 4-0 to Estonia over the weekend, with key players Connor van Schalkwyk absent for university competition and Jean Erasmus sidelined by a wrist injury. The team will remain in Africa Group III following the defeat, though coach Gerrie Dippenaar expressed pride in his players' effort and commitment.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Italian football: Inter extends Serie A lead over Milan

    Inter Milan defeated Sassuolo 5-0 on Sunday with Federico Dimarco providing three assists, extending their unbeaten run to 12 matches and moving eight points clear of AC Milan. In other Serie A action, Juventus drew 2-2 with Lazio after a last-minute goal.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Kamindu's cameo guides Sri Lanka past Ireland in T20 World Cup

    Sri Lanka defeated Ireland by 20 runs in their T20 World Cup opener at Colombo, with all-rounder Kamindu Mendis delivering a match-turning 44 off 19 balls to lift Sri Lanka to 163, before spinners Hasaranga, Theekshana and Wellalage shared seven wickets to restrict Ireland to 143. Hasaranga claimed three wickets but left the field with a hamstring concern, raising fitness questions for the rest of the tournament.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Bayern Munich crushes Hoffenheim 5-1 to extend Bundesliga lead

    Luis Diaz scored a hat-trick as Bayern Munich defeated 10-man Hoffenheim 5-1 on Sunday, restoring a six-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga. Harry Kane added two penalties, moving to 24 league goals for the season.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Manchester City defeats Liverpool to close Arsenal lead

    Erling Haaland's stoppage-time penalty gave Manchester City a 2-1 comeback win at Liverpool on Sunday, their first away victory at Anfield in front of a crowd since 2003, reducing Arsenal's Premier League lead to six points.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Seifert guides New Zealand to record T20 World Cup chase

    Tim Seifert scored 65 off 42 balls to lead New Zealand to their highest-ever T20 World Cup run chase, beating Afghanistan by five wickets with 13 balls to spare in Chennai. New Zealand successfully chased down Afghanistan's 182-6, surpassing their previous best chase of 167 against England in the 2021 semi-final.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. England narrowly beats Nepal in T20 World Cup thriller

    England scraped past Nepal by four runs in a last-ball finish at the T20 World Cup in Mumbai, with Nepal falling short at 180–6 while chasing 185. Nepal's brave performance nearly produced one of cricket's biggest upsets, with their batsmen taking advantage of England's loose bowling before Sam Curran held his nerve in the final over.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Namibia launches first professional padel league today

    The Namibia Professional Padel League (NPPL) officially begins today as the country's first unified competitive platform for padel. Founded by Padel Addicts and LIV Padel Windhoek to meet growing demand, the year-round league will feature an 11 to 22-week season with consistent weekly play and three major weekend tournaments.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Okahandja United beats Bucks; African Stars maintain league lead

    Okahandja United defeated Bucks Buccaneers 3-1 in a Namibia Premier Football League match on Saturday, while defending champions African Stars won 2-0 over Khomas Nampol to tighten their grip on the top spot in the standings.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Namibia Construction donates kits to DSFA football academy

    Dokkies Schmidt Football Academy received two new football kits from Namibia Construction for the 2025/2026 season. The donation marks support for the academy's development as it competes in the Khomas Second Division following promotion from the Third Division.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Cyclist Greeff defends national road racing titles

    Anri Greeff won the elite women's road race at the Nedbank Namibian National Road Cycling Championships, successfully defending her UCI national titles for a second consecutive year. Greeff added the road race crown to her individual time trial title, crossing the finish line ahead of Delsia Janse van Vuuren, while Roger Suren claimed the U/23 men's title in a sprint finish.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  14. FNB Women's Super League rounds four and five conclude

    Rounds four and five of the FNB Women's Super League were played across three venues over the weekend, featuring several notable results: Unam Bokkies defeated Nust Babes FC 2-1 in a varsity derby, African Stars Queens won 3-0 against Desert Foxes FC, and log leaders NDF Mighty Gunners Ladies drew goalless with FC Ongos Ladies. Windhoek City SC also came from 2-0 down to beat Julinho Athletic 3-2.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Namibia loses Davis Cup playoff to Estonia 3–0

    Namibia's men's tennis team was swept 3–0 by Estonia in the Davis Cup World Group Two playoff tie, losing both singles matches and the doubles, though coach Gerrie Dippenaar said the campaign was valuable experience and expressed optimism about improving in future ties.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Apollo Hangero departs Khomas Nampol after 12 years

    The 32-year-old footballer left the premier league club due to work and family issues, and will now play for Omaheke Nampol in the second division.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. Zambezi conservancies earn N$30 million in 2024

    Communal conservancies in the Zambezi region generated approximately N$30 million in 2024 through the Community-Based Natural Resource Management programme, with income sourced from trophy hunting, tourism joint ventures, and interest. The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Natural Resources noted that conservancy members now directly benefit from 50% of income, though the report flagged concerns about hunting quota prices being manipulated in favour of concessionaires and called for programme realignment.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

World & Region

  1. Guinea-Bissau opposition leader summoned by military court

    Guinea-Bissau's main opposition leader Domingos Pereira has been summoned to appear before a military court over alleged links to multiple coup plots, following the junta's overthrow of president Umaro Embalo in November and seizure of power.

    9 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. US renews African trade deal for one year amid investor concerns

    The US renewed AGOA, its 25-year duty-free trade agreement with African nations, for one year until the end of 2026, but manufacturers and unions warn the short extension undermines long-term investment and creates uncertainty for hundreds of thousands of jobs across Africa.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  3. South Africa, China agree to duty-free trade deal

    South Africa's trade minister will travel to China to sign an agreement giving South African exports duty-free access to the Chinese market and to attract investment. The deal comes as South Africa seeks to diversify its markets away from the United States, which imposed 30% tariffs on some South African products last year.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

  4. Namibia, Botswana strengthen ties on infrastructure and regional cooperation

    Namibia and Botswana are deepening strategic cooperation in infrastructure and economic development following a visit by Botswana's high commissioner to President Nandi-Ndaitwah, with the Trans-Kalahari Railway identified as a key outstanding project. The two countries have signed multiple bilateral agreements through formal structures including the Binational Commission.

    9 February 2026 · New Era

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