Namibia Minute.
12 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
Windhoek—:—London—:—New York—:—Beijing—:—
Archive Minute from 12 February 2026
Politics

Former Caprivi secessionist Geoffrey Mwilima dies at 70

The News

Geoffrey Mwilima, a former politician convicted of treason for alleged involvement in an armed attack in Katima Mulilo in 1999 aimed at separating the Caprivi region from Namibia, has died at age 70, according to his lawyer. He was released from prison in December on remission and died a month later.

12 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. Former Caprivi secessionist Geoffrey Mwilima dies at 70

    Geoffrey Mwilima, a former politician convicted of treason for alleged involvement in an armed attack in Katima Mulilo in 1999 aimed at separating the Caprivi region from Namibia, has died at age 70, according to his lawyer. He was released from prison in December on remission and died a month later.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. IPC questions foreign control of government visa-on-arrival system

    An IPC parliamentarian raised concerns in Parliament that the government's visa-on-arrival programme is allegedly managed by a foreign developer and involves a Kenyan company for payments, claiming this could compromise national sovereignty. The Prime Minister said the allegations need fact-checking, while the Ministry of Home Affairs denied the claims.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Deputy minister Mubita ordered to pay N$158,000 legal costs

    The High Court has ordered Charles Mubita, a Swapo MP and deputy minister of defence and veterans affairs, to pay N$158 000 in legal costs after his defamation lawsuit against Reinhold Shipwikeni failed. The amount was confirmed during a cost review hearing on 8 December 2025.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Itula condemns petroleum bill as centralizing dangerous presidential power

    IPC president Panduleni Itula says the proposed petroleum amendment bill, which would shift oil and gas regulatory powers from parliament to the Presidency, undermines constitutional oversight and must be rejected entirely. Itula argues the bill introduces authoritarianism and corruption risks, calling on all parliamentarians to unite against it regardless of political affiliation.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. High Court judge warns of crisis in Namibian judicial system

    Judge Beatrix de Jager postponed delivering a judgement to protect her health, citing an unsustainable workload and workforce shortage that she described as "inhuman." Chief Justice Peter Shivute confirmed that judges are under immense pressure, with civil judges managing an average of 614 cases each in 2025, and called for urgent judicial appointments and support.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. President Nandi-Ndaitwah to attend African Union summit in Addis Ababa

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will attend the 39th African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government on 14–15 February in Addis Ababa, where leaders will discuss peace and security, institutional reforms, and the 2026 AU theme on water availability and sanitation. Namibia has arranged bilateral engagements with heads of state and development partners to advance development, trade, and investment priorities.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Namibia to host Global Water Partnership headquarters

    Namibia has signed an agreement to host the Global Water Partnership Organisation (GWPO) secretariat in Windhoek. The minister of agriculture said the move reflects Namibia's capacity to lead on water security and positions the GWPO as the world's first Global South-anchored intergovernmental organisation dedicated to water.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Law Society demands justice after prosecutor Shiweda's murder

    The Law Society of Namibia has called for a thorough investigation into the October attack on prosecutor Justine Shiweda, who died in hospital on Saturday after being shot and doused with corrosive acid. The LSN warns that violence against legal professionals undermines judicial independence and calls for immediate strengthening of security protocols and protective measures for prosecutors and judicial officers nationwide.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Veteran lawyer Conradie convicted on anti-corruption charges in MTC case

    High Court Judge Thomas Masuku convicted lawyer Dirk Conradie and Sara Damases on two Anti-Corruption Act charges after a long-running trial, finding they corruptly solicited gratification and conspired to breach the law in connection with an MTC advertising tender worth about N$60 million. Conradie was acquitted on a third charge of corruptly using his former position as MTC board chairperson.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Former general warns against tribalism as political tool

    Lt Gen (rtd) Denga Ndaitwah argues that while tribes are sources of national power and identity, politicians must not exploit tribalism for electoral gain, warning that such divisive politics have destroyed many African nations and are beginning to surface in Namibia.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. Caprivi treason convict Geoffrey Mwilima dies at 70

    Former DTA parliament member Geoffrey Mwilima, convicted in the 1999 Caprivi high treason case, has died at Lady Pohamba Private Hospital in Windhoek, just weeks after his release on remission in December 2025. He was 70 years old and had been imprisoned since 1999 following armed separatist attacks in Katima Mulilo.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  12. President Nandi-Ndaitwah attends 39th African Union summit

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will attend the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa on 14–15 February, where she will focus on peace and security, Agenda 2063 progress, UN Security Council reform, and sustainable water and sanitation systems for 2030. She will also participate in a high-level discussion with Africa's female presidents and hold bilateral meetings with continental and regional leaders to advance Namibia's economic diplomacy and climate finance priorities.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Women politicians face devaluation, abuse in Namibian politics

    National Council Vice Chairperson Emma Muteka told a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association delegation that women are systematically devalued in politics through body-shaming, ageism, and sexism, while some women fail to support their female peers. UK MP Sarah Coombes shared that women, particularly women of colour, face disproportionate online abuse including death threats.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  14. //Kharas acting chief regional officer arrested in construction corruption

    Two people, including the //Kharas Regional Council's acting chief regional officer Ralph Namiluko Sachika, have been arrested in connection with alleged corruption and money laundering involving N$3.9 million in payments to unauthorized bank accounts during construction of the //Kharas Regional Office Park.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Ministry to evict temporary occupants of government houses

    The Ministry of Works and Transport has warned that temporary occupants of government houses must leave when their tenure ends, while sitting tenants in pool houses are guaranteed purchase under an alienation scheme. Minister Veikko Nekundi told Parliament that allowing properties earmarked for specific purposes to be sold to temporary occupants undermines administrative integrity, and that non-civil servants do not qualify to buy government houses as a priority.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Business

  1. Namibia and Gabon launch business partnership initiative

    Namibia and Gabon held a business promotion day in Windhoek to forge investment ties and share economic opportunities. Both countries aim to diversify away from crude oil dependence and leverage their membership in the African Continental Free Trade Area, though they currently do not engage in bilateral trade.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Neo Panamax container vessel arrives at Walvis Bay Port

    The MSC Ellen, a state-of-the-art Neo Panamax container vessel with a capacity exceeding 8,200 twenty-foot equivalent units, has berthed at the Port of Walvis Bay. Namport says the arrival demonstrates Namibia's ability to accommodate large vessels and strengthens the country's integration into global value chains through its deep-water access and advanced terminal infrastructure.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Employee wellness must be strategic priority, not boardroom afterthought

    A registered nurse argues that companies often treat employee wellness as a checkbox rather than a core business function, and calls for dedicated budgets, clear policies, and qualified health professionals—including nurses—to design and execute meaningful wellness programmes that improve productivity and reduce turnover.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Central bank appoints two new monetary policy committee members

    The Bank of Namibia has appointed John Steytler and Helvi Fillipus to its monetary policy committee to strengthen the formulation and implementation of monetary policies aimed at safeguarding price stability. Steytler, with three decades of national and international experience including previous roles at the central bank and Development Bank of Namibia, joins as the first independent member, while Fillipus, currently an economic adviser at the Bank of Namibia, joins as the committee's youngest member.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Puma Energy, BHL forge five-year fuel transport partnership

    Zambia's Puma Energy and the BHL Group have signed a five-year fuel logistics agreement to transport fuel from Walvis Bay, Namibia, to Zambian hubs, with BHL using return shipments for copper exports. The partnership aims to strengthen supply security and the Zambia-Namibia trade corridor, with deliveries beginning in March and expected capacity of three million litres monthly.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Standard Bank awards Toyota Hilux to Mastercard campaign winner

    Standard Bank Namibia handed over a brand-new Toyota Hilux to Martin Jekconia as the grand prize winner of its Mastercard card usage campaign. Two runner-up finalists also received prizes, including a laptop and N$5,000 shopping voucher, from the national draw competition.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  7. GWM launches Jolion Pro Limited Edition compact SUV

    GWM has introduced a Limited Edition variant of the Jolion Pro compact SUV, featuring distinctive green exterior trim, updated interior technology including wireless charging and Apple CarPlay, and exclusive availability on the Super Luxury trim. The Jolion nameplate accounts for approximately 50% of GWM southern Africa's sales.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  8. JAC Motors Namibia opens 750 square metre showroom

    JAC Motors Namibia has opened a new 750 square metre showroom, more than doubling its previous retail space, to accommodate growing demand for its bakkies and trucks. The expanded facility will display both new and pre-owned vehicles and reflects the brand's sustained sales momentum in the Namibian market.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  9. Standard Bank launches online sustainability training for Namibian businesses

    Standard Bank Namibia has introduced the Sustainability Academy, an online learning platform designed to help businesses integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices and adapt to sustainability requirements demanded by global investors and trade partners. The cloud-based platform, built with Microsoft and Philanthrosoft, offers training on renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, water management, and carbon markets across Namibian regions.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Entrepreneur builds cleaning business from N$2,000 loan

    Johannes Niimwene started Mirror Cleaning Service CC in 2006 with a borrowed N$2,000 and basic equipment, growing it into a company that now serves multiple towns across Namibia with offices, homes, and pest control services. He emphasizes hard work, patience and honesty as keys to success, and provides cleaning training to others seeking to enter the industry.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Mining & Energy

  1. Legal gaps and power struggles cloud Namibia's oil boom

    Namibia's entry into major oil and gas production is hampered by a 30-year legal vacuum on natural gas regulation, overlapping state petroleum company Namcor scandals, and a concentration of control in the presidency under President Nandi-Ndaitwah. Discoveries of 21 billion barrels of oil and high-grade wet condensate gas in the Orange Basin have triggered international corporate interest, but delayed legislative reforms and lack of public transparency raise concerns about elite capture before production begins.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia pitches mining, energy and logistics growth strategy

    Namibian officials showcased the country's development strategy at the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, emphasizing mining as a foundation for economic growth and positioning Namibia as a regional logistics hub with potential for energy development and mineral value-addition.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Meya Mining secures N$400m funding for Sierra Leone diamond production

    Trustco Group Holdings' subsidiary Meya Mining Limited has secured a N$400-million financing facility from Ecobank to support the move towards full commercial diamond production under a 25-year licence in Sierra Leone's Kono District. The funding will support equipment, mining vehicles, and infrastructure, with expectations to create over 400 direct jobs, mostly filled locally.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Orange Basin oil industry plagued by legal gaps and power struggles

    Namibia's emerging oil and gas sector faces a 30-year legal vacuum in gas-related legislation and internal corruption scandals at Namcor, even as offshore exploration has confirmed 21 billion barrels of crude and significant gas deposits. A power struggle between resource nationalists and business factions over control of the industry has intensified following President Nandi-Ndaitwah's appointment and her move to centralise upstream petroleum functions in the Office of the President.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. US Ambassador promotes American investment in Namibian mining

    US Ambassador John Giordano held talks with Namibian officials on expanding the US–Namibia partnership in critical minerals, citing Namibia as a regional leader in sound mining policy and responsible governance. The discussions focused on bringing American technical expertise, innovation and investment to support job creation, industrial development and energy security in the mining sector.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  6. Namibia joins Luanda Accord to promote natural diamonds globally

    Namibia has formally signed the Luanda Accord, joining Angola, Botswana, and the Democratic Republic of Congo in a unified African effort to boost global demand for natural diamonds and protect market access. Minister Modestus Amutse said the move reflects a shared African position on safeguarding the long-term value of diamonds and ensuring the industry continues to support jobs and national development.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. Ecobank provides USD 25 million financing to Meya Mining

    Ecobank Sierra Leone has approved a USD 25 million financing facility for Meya Mining Limited, a diamond mining company operating under a 25-year exclusive license in Sierra Leone's Kono District, in which Trustco Group Holdings holds a minority interest. The funding will support advanced processing equipment, mining vehicles, and infrastructure as Meya advances toward full commercial production, with expectations to create over 400 direct jobs and stimulate local supply chains.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Namibia pursues nuclear power to boost energy security

    As the world's third-largest uranium producer, Namibia is advancing plans for its first nuclear power plant to reduce reliance on imported electricity and support its Vision 2030 development goals, backed by international partnerships with Russia and China. The project faces significant capital costs and requires imported technical expertise, but recent cabinet approval of Namibia's Nuclear Industry Strategy signals sustained government commitment.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  9. ECB streamlines power licensing for small, embedded projects

    The Electricity Control Board has launched a project to develop simplified licence conditions for small embedded generation projects up to 2 megawatts and pilot schemes involving emerging technologies like green hydrogen, aiming to reduce regulatory barriers while maintaining compliance and system stability.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Think tank calls for Namibia to join global extractive transparency initiative

    The Institute for Public Policy Research is advocating for Namibia to join the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), citing the need for greater transparency and accountability in oil, gas, and mineral resource extraction. Namibia has failed to meet EITI standards, which include contract transparency and beneficial ownership disclosure, gaps that hinder public tracking of extraction ventures and create room for corruption concerns.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Agriculture & Land

  1. Desalinated boreholes improve water access for rural farmers

    A water softening project by the Environmental Investment Fund has installed desalinated boreholes in rural communities including Petrusfontein in Kunene, providing fresh drinking water and reducing livestock feeding costs for farmers who previously relied on salty water. The initiative, a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform, has covered 17 borehole sites across six regions since 2022.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia allocates N$57m for FMD control, seeks N$1.5bn more

    Agriculture minister Inge Zaamwani announced government approval of N$57 million for biosecurity measures to protect Namibia's FMD-free status, but said the country needs an estimated N$1.5 billion additional funding to establish vaccine storage facilities, buffer zones, and other disease containment infrastructure amid rising FMD cases in neighboring South Africa and Botswana.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Society

  1. Oshakati residents resist new annual dog licensing fee requirement

    The Oshakati Town Council has introduced a requirement for dog owners to register their pets annually for a fee of N$82.89, citing rising dog-related incidents and public health concerns; however, residents object, saying they were not properly consulted and view it as a money-making scheme given the town's infrastructure problems.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Woman and young child die in Kuisebmond shack fire

    A woman aged 20 and her 2-year-old niece died in a shack fire in Kuisebmond on Tuesday morning. The fire destroyed six shacks and affected 14 people; police investigations are ongoing.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Alcohol and smoking in pregnancy linked to childhood disabilities

    The DOWN Syndrome Association of Namibia has warned that drinking and smoking during pregnancy can cause intellectual and developmental disabilities in babies, conditions that affect learning, communication, and social skills. Advocates note that Namibia has only three special schools despite an estimated 3% of the child population having such disabilities, and call for better support and implementation of inclusive education policies.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Suspect arrested in Otjomuise woman's death

    Police have arrested a 41-year-old suspect in connection with the death of Regina Kondombolo (33), whose body was found in Otjomuise Extension 2 on Monday. The suspect is alleged to be Kondombolo's boyfriend.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  5. Health Minister warns HIV room labels contribute to stigma

    Health Minister Dr Esperance Luvindao expressed concern that labelling hospital rooms for HIV treatment fuels stigma, with patients reporting they avoid treatment to prevent being seen entering such facilities. During a visit to Epako Clinic in Omaheke Region, she discussed plans to improve healthcare delivery, including pharmacy expansion, ventilation upgrades, and completion of a theatre at Gobabis Hospital to ease clinic congestion.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  6. Police seek help locating missing Windhoek man

    Namibian Police in Khomas are appealing for public assistance in locating a 25-year-old man, Beatus Iyambo Kashanu, who went missing in Windhoek on 13 January 2026 after leaving home to buy airtime and has not been seen since. He was last spotted near Oponganda Cemetery; anyone with information is urged to contact police or family members.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. Health minister attributes rising malaria cases to public resistance

    Health Minister Dr Esperance Luvindao told Parliament that malaria cases have risen significantly to 8,760 as of late January, largely due to the public's reluctance to allow indoor residual spraying, particularly in the Zambezi, Kavango and Ohangwena regions. She emphasized that the ministry has adequate medical supplies and treatment stocks, but stressed the importance of community cooperation in prevention efforts.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Police Chief takes direct command of Tourism Protection Unit

    Namibia's Police Chief has placed the Tourism Protection Subdivision under his direct command to improve coordination and response to crimes affecting visitors, citing recent international travel advisories and rising tourist crime incidents. The move aims to safeguard Namibia's reputation as a safe destination and strengthen protection across all 14 regions.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. Rehoboth drug accused Naomi Fisch released on N$10,000 bail

    Magistrate Wilka Amalwa granted bail of N$10,000 to Naomi Fisch in a Rehoboth drug and money laundering case involving 200 grams of cannabis and N$154,000, with conditions that she not interfere with police investigations or leave the district without written permission.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  10. Bank Windhoek extends mentorship support for young female leaders

    Bank Windhoek has renewed its partnership with the Katuka Mentorship Programme for a seventh year, supporting the delivery of leadership skills, career guidance, and financial literacy to young Namibian women. The bank aims to equip participants with networks and business-readiness skills relevant to emerging sectors, particularly as Namibia prepares for oil and gas industry expansion.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Shack fire kills woman and child in Walvis Bay

    A fire in a Tutaleni shack in Walvis Bay killed a 20-year-old woman and her 2-year-old niece, and left 14 others homeless. The fire spread to nearby structures despite efforts by residents and the Fire Brigade to contain it; investigations are underway to determine the cause.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Self-styled prophet accused of defrauding congregant of life savings

    Jackson Babi, a pastor at House of Joy Ministries, allegedly convinced congregant Wilbard Shilongo to invest his family's N$100,000 life savings in a business venture by promising divine wealth, then disappeared after the final payment in September 2024. Babi denies the allegations are a scam, claiming the supplement business venture is merely on hold pending registration, though Shilongo says his calls were blocked and he was left unable to support his three children.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Erongo police seize N$912,000 in drugs over five days

    Police in Walvis Bay arrested four suspects and confiscated cannabis, mandrax, and cocaine worth N$912,000 in five days as part of intelligence-led operations against drug networks. The largest seizure included 14,484 grams of cannabis and 952 mandrax tablets valued at N$838,440.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Journalism must act as public watchdog, not brand manager

    At an Erongo media conference in Swakopmund, communications consultant Usi //Hoëbeb stressed that ethical journalism requires independence from institutional messaging and political pressure, and that gatekeeping decisions must be guided by news values rather than commercial interests or personal bias. The two-day conference, organised by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, aimed to improve professional relationships between media practitioners and newsmakers and strengthen credible information flow to the public.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Security guard found dead of apparent suicide in Katima

    A 47-year-old security guard in Katima Mulilo was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head by colleagues on Monday morning, with a revolver discovered at the scene. Police confirmed he had been missing since Saturday.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Khoekhoegowab language returns to Moses Garoëb Primary School

    After more than a decade of absence, the education ministry has directed Moses Garoëb Primary School in Windhoek to reopen two classrooms teaching Khoekhoegowab, a language spoken by families in the Hakahana informal settlement. The ministry will fund classroom construction and materials, aligning with Namibia's education policy of using mother tongue as medium of instruction in grades 1–3 to strengthen foundational skills and cultural identity.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Indian high commissioner donates books, advises Suiderlig learners

    Indian High Commissioner Rahul Shrivastava visited Suiderlig Secondary School in Keetmanshoop, donating 200 educational books and addressing learners on the importance of time management, family bonds, planning for the future, and financial prudence through early savings and investing.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Culture

  1. Valentine's Day and February events guide for Windhoek

    The Namibian lists Valentine's Day and February events across Windhoek, including romantic dinners, outdoor movie screenings, pub games nights, art exhibitions, and recurring weekly activities such as quiz nights, dance classes, and live music performances.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Pristine Morris Traveller preserved in Windhoek collector's stable

    A well-maintained example of the iconic British Morris 1000 station wagon, featuring a distinctive timber-framed body, remains in working condition as part of Rolf Redecker's vintage car collection in Windhoek, having travelled from Uganda to Namibia.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Ms Gideon signs with Sony Music Africa, releases debut single

    Rising Windhoek-based singer Panduleni Gideon has signed a full record deal with Sony Music Africa in partnership with ERA Music Group and will release her first single 'Tiki Tak Tak' on 27 February. She is reported to be the only Namibian artist with a direct recording contract under Sony Music Africa's global roster.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Windhoek teacher-author writes for Namibian youth transformation

    Laina Kuutondokwa, a Windhoek-born teacher now based in Swakopmund, began writing in 2022 to encourage others and has since published books centred on faith and personal growth, aiming to inspire young leaders while confronting challenges of publishing costs and limited visibility in Namibia.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Sport

  1. FIFA club management course equips Namibian football leaders

    The FIFA club management course, attended by 43 representatives from Namibia's Premier Football League and Women's Super League, equipped club executives with skills in governance, financial management, and strategic planning aligned with international football standards. According to Just Imagine Investment's Mathew Haikali, such training is essential to address poor financial management and weak governance that have historically undermined local clubs and shift them toward sustainable, long-term institutional stability.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Pistons beat Raptors despite suspensions ahead of All-Star break

    The Detroit Pistons defeated the Toronto Raptors 113–95 on Wednesday, with Cade Cunningham scoring 28 points and Paul Reed adding 22 despite the absence of suspended centers Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart. The victory leaves Detroit atop the Eastern Conference with a 40–13 record.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Namibia rebuilds squad for friendly tournament in Kazakhstan

    Following their 2026 World Cup qualification miss, Namibia's Brave Warriors have entered a restructuring phase, with more than 10 new local-based players called up ahead of a four-nation Fifa Friendly tournament in Kazakhstan next month where they face Kuwait, Kazakhstan, and Comoros. Coach Collin Benjamin says the team is starting anew with inexperienced players while balancing some experienced ones, and will later consider foreign-based players if they can add value.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Top Score Seven-a-Side football tournament launched for 26th year

    The Top Score Seven-a-Side football tournament, one of Namibia's longest-running sporting events, was launched for its 26th year on Tuesday with a record 72 teams competing across eight groups. The tournament, held annually since 2001 at Ramblers Sport Club and sponsored by Namib Mills, runs over five weekends with finals scheduled for 13–14 March.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Manchester City beats Fulham, closes on Arsenal in title race

    Manchester City defeated Fulham 3-0 to cut Arsenal's Premier League lead to three points, with Antoine Semenyo scoring and assisting in his second appearance since joining from Bournemouth. Liverpool also won 1-0 at Sunderland to end their unbeaten home record, while Burnley staged a dramatic comeback to beat Crystal Palace 3-2.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. West Indies beat England by 30 runs in T20 World Cup

    West Indies defeated England in their T20 World Cup match in Mumbai, with left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie taking 3-33 to dismantle England's middle order. The West Indies scored 196-6 led by Sherfane Rutherford's unbeaten 76, while England managed 166 all out, and the victory puts West Indies in pole position to qualify for the Super Eights.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Australia defeat Ireland in T20 World Cup despite injuries

    Australia won their opening T20 World Cup match against Ireland by 67 runs in Colombo, with Australia scoring 182-6 and Ireland dismissed for 115. The win came despite captain Mitchell Marsh being ruled out after a groin injury sustained in training, and with pace bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood also absent due to injury.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Windhoek Motor Club celebrates top performers, elects new leadership

    The Windhoek Motor Club held an awards ceremony recognising top performers across circuit racing, motocross, go-karting and rallying. The club elected a new committee led by re-elected chairperson Richard Slamet and announced plans to strengthen international motorsport ties in 2026.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. South Africa defeats Afghanistan in T20 World Cup double super over

    South Africa beat Afghanistan in a thrilling double super over T20 World Cup match in Ahmedabad after both teams scored 187, with South Africa winning on the final ball when Rahmanullah Gurbaz was caught attempting a boundary.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  10. Namibia face India in T20 World Cup group match today

    Namibia plays India in the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Head coach Craig Williams urged his players to focus on fundamentals, build partnerships, and maintain composure against one of the tournament's strongest sides.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. South Africa defeats Afghanistan in historic T20 double Super Over

    South Africa edged Afghanistan by four runs in a dramatic ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup match in Ahmedabad, winning in a second Super Over—the first time in tournament history that two Super Overs were required to decide a match. The victory lifts South Africa to second in Group D, while Afghanistan's Super 8 hopes are now in jeopardy after two losses.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

  12. Try Again FC chases promotion, trails leaders by one point

    Keetmanshoop-based Try Again FC is targeting the top of the Southern Stream First Division League to secure promotion to the Namibia Premier Football League. Currently on 14 points, one behind leaders Mariental Sports Club, the team's manager said the club hopes to develop youth from disadvantaged backgrounds and restore the region's football pride.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Emma Naris: Disciplined leader guiding Namibia's women's football

    Emma Naris, captain and midfielder for Ongos Ladies and the Namibian national team (Brave Gladiators), exemplifies discipline both on and off the pitch, balancing her professional football career with motherhood. She aims to help Namibia qualify for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations and ultimately the FIFA Women's World Cup, while serving as a role model for young players.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Meuwesen sets new Namibian archery record, qualifies for nationals

    Jannie Meuwesen, president of the Archery Association of Namibia, scored 707 out of 720 to set a new national record and secure a spot on the national team for the 76th SA National Championships in Johannesburg at the end of March. The record was achieved during a Target Archery Competition hosted by the Windhoek Archery Club on 7 and 8 February.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Golden Boot contenders showcase firepower in NPFL season

    Namibian Premier Football League strikers are delivering goals at remarkable consistency this season, with Bernard Horaseb and Junior Petrus leading with seven joint goals each, while teenage sensation Jonas Michael (18) continues to impress despite self-doubt. The competition intensifies as Round 17 and 18 continue this weekend.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. Climate model warns Africa faces near-permanent heatwaves by 2100

    Research using multiple climate models projects that most African regions will experience heatwaves on 250–300 days per year by late century, with some areas like western southern Africa seeing heatwaves 12 times longer and more frequent than today. Local land choices such as deforestation and forest restoration can immediately affect heatwave intensity, alongside global emissions reductions.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Police chief takes direct command of tourism protection unit

    Inspector General Joseph Shikongo has placed the Tourism Protection Subdivision under his direct command to improve coordination and safeguard Namibia's reputation as a secure destination. The unit will focus on safeguarding tourists, preventing and investigating crimes affecting visitors, and maintaining Namibia's image as a safe travel destination.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Police establishes Tourism Protection Subdivision under Da Fonsech

    Police chief Joseph Shikongo has appointed chief inspector Christina Van-Dunem Da Fonsech to head a newly established Tourism Protection Subdivision, part of a strategy to professionalise tourist security, coordinate protection efforts nationally, and maintain Namibia's image as a safe travel destination.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Rainfall continues across Namibia; flash floods warned

    Several areas have received light to heavy rainfall this week, with the Otjozondjupa Region recording substantial falls (up to 60 mm in Grootfontein). The Namibia Meteorological Services warns that further heavy showers are expected in northern regions, with a risk of flash floods.

    12 February 2026 · Informanté

World & Region

  1. Giant phantom jellyfish filmed in deep South Atlantic Ocean

    Scientists exploring the deep sea near Argentina filmed a rare giant phantom jellyfish 250 metres below the surface, along with 28 potential new species including worms, corals, and sea anemones discovered during the expedition along Argentina's coast.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Australian Liberal opposition leader faces internal leadership challenge

    Sussan Ley, Australia's first female Liberal Party leader, is facing a leadership challenge from shadow defence minister Angus Taylor, who resigned from the front bench and says the party "has lost its way." Ley narrowly won the leadership last year but has struggled with poor polls and coalition infighting.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. US House votes to rescind Trump's tariffs on Canada

    The US House of Representatives voted 219–211 to rescind President Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods, with six Republicans joining Democrats to back the resolution. The measure is largely symbolic, as it still requires Senate approval and Trump's signature, which is unlikely.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. South African Cabinet mixed performance ahead of Ramaphosa's state address

    President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address will be overshadowed by a water crisis affecting Johannesburg and other parts of South Africa, with water tankers becoming a symbol of infrastructure failure. While Minister of Water Pemmy Majodina and acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia face pressure to deliver on these critical failures, several other Cabinet ministers including Barbara Creecy, Siviwe Gwarube, and Patricia de Lille have been recognized as strong performers in their respective portfolios.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Thousands flee Sahel jihadist violence for Ivory Coast camps

    Insurgencies in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have killed over 10,000 people and displaced more than 3 million across the Sahel region. Ivory Coast has sheltered over 80,000 refugees from Burkina Faso alone, though camps designed for 6,000 now hold around 13,000 people and resources are under severe strain.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. NLM rejects Masisi apology for Nchindo brothers as PR stunt

    The Namibian Lives Matter movement has rejected former Botswana president Mokgweetsi Masisi's apology for the 2020 killing of the Nchindo brothers by the Botswana Defence Force, calling it a dishonest public relations stunt and accusing Masisi of denying the existence of a shoot-to-kill policy that has killed an estimated 37 Namibians since independence.

    12 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Sudan paramilitary drone strike kills two children at school

    A drone strike blamed on Sudan's Rapid Support Forces killed two children and injured 12 others at a traditional Koranic school in El-Rahad, in the Kordofan region, which has become the fiercest battlefield in the ongoing civil war between the RSF and the regular army since April 2023.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  8. US to deploy 200 troops to train Nigerian military forces

    The United States will send 200 troops to Nigeria to provide training and technical support in the fight against jihadist groups, supplementing a smaller existing team. The deployment, expected within weeks, will help Nigerian forces coordinate operations involving air strikes and ground troops simultaneously.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  9. Iran's president rejects nuclear demands after US talks resume

    Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran would "not yield to excessive demands" on its nuclear programme after Tehran resumed negotiations with the United States for the first time since last June's conflict. Pezeshkian insisted Iran's nuclear programme is peaceful and said the country was ready for verification, though he emphasized Iran will not compromise on its sovereignty.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Mass shooting at Canadian school kills nine people

    A shooter killed nine people and wounded 27 others at a secondary school and residence in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, on Tuesday. The suspect was found dead with an apparent self-inflicted injury, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was "devastated" by the attack, which is rare for Canada.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Opinion

  1. Post-holiday cyber threats escalate as offices reopen

    Security experts warn that the weeks after the festive break are a critical period for cybercrime, with heightened risks from phishing, business email compromise, WhatsApp account hijacking, and ransomware attacks on unpatched systems and unattended devices.

    12 February 2026 · New Era

Namibia Minute