Namibia Minute.
15 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
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Archive Minute from 15 February 2026
Politics

Nipam director says institution failing on service basics

The News

Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (Nipam) has launched a new customer service charter aimed at strengthening accountability and stakeholder engagement. The executive director acknowledged the institution is failing at the basics, citing delays such as taking three years to issue training certificates despite the new charter committing to a 10-day turnaround.

15 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. Nipam director says institution failing on service basics

    Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (Nipam) has launched a new customer service charter aimed at strengthening accountability and stakeholder engagement. The executive director acknowledged the institution is failing at the basics, citing delays such as taking three years to issue training certificates despite the new charter committing to a 10-day turnaround.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. High Court workload surge leaves judges overwhelmed, system fragile

    The High Court's civil bench saw case load surge from an average of 384 cases per judge in 2024 to 614 in 2025, prompting judge Beatrix de Jager to declare publicly that she would not sacrifice her health for an impossible workload. The Namibian editorial argues that government prioritizes resource allocation to natural resource distribution and military recruitment over supporting the judiciary, risking constitutional democracy.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Namibia's corruption perceptions hit worst level since 2012 index

    Namibia recorded its worst corruption perceptions index score on record in 2025 at 46/100, dropping three points and falling six places globally to 65th. An Afrobarometer survey conducted in 2024 found that over half of Namibians believe corruption has increased significantly, and confidence in government anti-corruption efforts is at its lowest level since 1999.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Namcor fraud accused challenge magistrate's bail refusal in High Court

    Six individuals charged in connection with alleged fraud and corruption at the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia are appealing a magistrate's decision to refuse bail, with their lawyers arguing the magistrate adopted a hostile and selective approach to the evidence. The state alleges the accused were involved in fraudulent transactions relating to filling station assets sold to a Namcor subsidiary and fuel purchases that exceeded credit limits.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Africa must resist becoming battleground for global powers

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah told the African Union assembly in Addis Ababa that Africa should not be a battleground for competing interests, and called on heads of state to work collectively as a platform guided by mutual respect and shared prosperity amid global tensions and climate challenges.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. President Nandi-Ndaitwah advocates inclusive leadership at African Union Summit

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah participated in a high-level Presidential Fireside Conversation at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, where she discussed inclusive leadership, women's mentorship, and continental cooperation on shared resources with current and former female Heads of State. She emphasized that progress in women's leadership requires support from male counterparts, strong women's networks, and coordinated management of water and land resources to prevent conflict in arid regions.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. President condemns attack on slain prosecutor as assault on state

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said that attacks on law enforcement officers are acts against the Republic and will be met with the full force of the law, delivering remarks at the funeral of state prosecutor Justine Shiweda, who died from injuries sustained in an acid and gun attack in October.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

Business

  1. Stamp savings books benefit retailers more than consumers

    An analysis by a financial planner finds that while stamp savings books help households budget and control spending, they function as advance payment systems that benefit retailers far more through early access to cash, guaranteed customer loyalty, and inflation advantages. Consumers gain discipline but no interest, protection against inflation, or wealth-building potential.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Judicial delays harm economic confidence and investment, says Schlettwein

    Former finance minister Calle Schlettwein and Chief Justice Peter Shivute have warned that delays in Namibia's under-staffed judiciary damage economic confidence and deter investment, with the civil division of the High Court handling an average of 614 cases per judge last year. However, some analysts dispute this, arguing that Namibia's rule of law remains strong and that executive and legislative delays have a larger impact on investment than judicial delays.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Nida partners with Ghanaian firm for N$4-billion Lüderitz oil port

    The Namibia Industrial Development Agency is partnering with Ghanaian businessman Jory Adu-Boahene to develop a N$4-billion oil and gas supply base in Lüderitz Bay, with Nida claiming a 51% stake. The project, which involves Swapo-linked businessman Josef Andreas, has resurfaced after a previous tender process was cancelled amid disagreements over governance and structure.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Couples advised affordable ways to celebrate meaningful Valentine's Day

    Bank Windhoek staff submissions suggest couples can deepen their bond and financial harmony this Valentine's Day by choosing shared experiences over expensive gifts, cooking together, making handmade gifts, and planning ahead to avoid retail pressure. The article emphasises that meaningful celebration focuses on intentional connection—such as discussing joint financial goals, museum visits, home-cooked meals, and at-home romantic setups—rather than costly gestures.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Windhoek recorded cheapest beef stew prices in January

    Data from the Namibia Statistics Agency shows residents in Windhoek (Khomas region) paid N$100.79 per kg for beef stew in January, about N$14 less than other regions. Overall inflation for the month was 2.9%, down from 3.2% in January last year, with housing and rental costs being the biggest driver of inflation.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

Mining & Energy

  1. Great Quest Gold rebrands as Ongwe Minerals after acquisition

    Great Quest Gold has rebranded as Ongwe Minerals Incorporated following a US$4.85-million acquisition of Canadian mineral exploration company Lotus Gold, positioning itself as a new gold explorer with exploration projects in Namibia's Damara Orogenic Belt and Egypt's Eastern Desert.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Paladin Energy targets Langer Heinrich full output by 2027

    Paladin Energy ended 2025 in a strong financial position with N$2.2 billion in yellowcake sales from Namibian operations and increased cash and investments by 213% in the second half, supporting its plan to complete ramp-up activities at the Langer Heinrich uranium mine by 2027.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Namibia courts investors for mining beneficiation and industrialisation

    At the African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Namibian officials emphasized the country's shift from raw mineral extraction to value-added processing and manufacturing, citing policy stability and strategic resources including uranium, lithium and copper as key investment attractions.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

  4. President calls for international support for renewable energy push

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah has reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to diversifying its energy mix with emphasis on clean and renewable sources, and called on international partners to support the effort through technology transfer and investment. She stressed that international partnerships must deliver tangible benefits including expanded trade, skills development, and sustainable employment for Namibians.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

Agriculture & Land

  1. FMD outbreaks in region threaten Namibia's livestock sector

    Foot-and-mouth disease cases in South Africa's Northern Cape and Botswana pose a significant risk to Namibia's livestock industry, valued at N$15 billion. The government has approved N$57.5 million for prevention but says N$1.5 billion more is needed to strengthen protective measures and maintain international market access.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Sankwasa questions land delays after Walvis Bay shack fire kills two

    Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa visited the site of a fatal shack fire at Kuisebmond, Walvis Bay that killed two people and destroyed 12 structures, raising concerns about Namibians waiting 15 or more years for land without responses from local authorities. He cited overcrowding on small plots and poor regulation of informal settlements as contributing factors to the fire's severity, while urging residents to follow formal procedures for land allocation.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Kavango West governor pushes year-round food production expansion

    Kavango West governor Verna Sinimbo met with the agriculture ministry to advocate for year-round food production, calling for aggregation, value addition, and commercial agricultural development to replace subsistence farming and address food insecurity. Deputy minister Ruthy Masake urged young people and cooperatives to leverage the region's water and fertile soil through irrigation, aquaculture, and agro-processing rather than working in isolation.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Namibia strengthens FMD prevention as outbreaks emerge regionally

    Following Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreaks in neighbouring countries, Namibia's agricultural sector has restructured its FMD response framework to enhance coordination between government and private stakeholders, with focus on surveillance and disinfection measures in high-risk border areas to maintain the country's FMD-free status.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

Society

  1. Man arrested for death in violent altercation in Omusati

    A 61-year-old man has been arrested following the death of a 70-year-old at Etilyasa village in Omusati region. Police say the suspect struck the victim with an unknown object during an altercation on Friday evening; investigations are ongoing.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Windhoek cashless parking system excludes unbanked drivers

    Windhoek's rollout of a card-only parking payment system has sparked public anger over financial exclusion, with motorists without bank cards unable to pay and residents complaining of lack of consultation. The article argues that digital transitions without accessibility measures and hybrid payment options disproportionately affect low-income earners, informal workers, and the elderly.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Court processing errors leave maintenance payments undelivered to children

    Two Gobabis parents report that thousands of maintenance payments made through the magistrate's court have failed to reach their children due to incorrect reference or account numbers, with Katutura court officials suggesting the money may have been deposited into a general account and can be reallocated once cleared.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Woman strangled by ex-boyfriend who participated in search

    Regina Kondombolo (33) was found strangled to death at her home in Otjomuise's Extension 2 on Monday evening. Her alleged ex-boyfriend and landlord, who had appeared to be helping search for her, was arrested after police investigations confirmed she was assaulted and strangled.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. West Indies qualify for T20 World Cup Super Eights phase

    The West Indies defeated Nepal by nine wickets to become the first team to advance to the Super Eights phase of the T20 World Cup. Captain Shai Hope's unbeaten 61 and Shimron Hetmyer's 46 guided the team to a 134-run target in 15.2 overs after restricting Nepal to 133-8.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Zielinski's 90th-minute goal extends Inter's Serie A lead

    Poland midfielder Piotr Zielinski scored in the 90th minute as Inter Milan beat Juventus 3-2 on Saturday to move eight points clear at the top of Serie A. AC Milan remain second after Luka Modric's late goal secured a 2-1 win at Pisa.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Real Madrid beats Real Sociedad, moves to La Liga top

    Real Madrid defeated Real Sociedad 4-1 on Saturday with goals from Vinicius Junior (two penalties), Gonzalo Garcia, and Fede Valverde, moving two points clear atop La Liga. Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed in his first start after two-and-a-half months out, while Sociedad, under new American coach Pellegrino Matarazzo, suffered their first defeat.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Liverpool, Man City advance in FA Cup; Newcastle rally

    Liverpool defeated Brighton 3-0 with goals from Mohamed Salah, while Manchester City beat Salford 2-0 and Newcastle came from behind to win 3-1 over Aston Villa in FA Cup matches. Third-tier Mansfield pulled off an upset with a 2-1 victory over Premier League Burnley.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Scotland defeats England 31-20 to end 12-match unbeaten run

    Scotland revived their Six Nations campaign with a commanding 31-20 victory over England at Murrayfield, ending England's 12-match unbeaten run. Huw Jones scored two tries as Scotland built a 24-10 halftime lead, with England reduced to 14 men following Henry Arundell's red card.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. South Africa crushes New Zealand in T20 World Cup clash

    Captain Aiden Markram's unbeaten 86 and Marco Jansen's 4-40 led South Africa to a seven-wicket victory over New Zealand on Saturday, all but securing their Super Eights berth at the T20 World Cup. South Africa restricted New Zealand to 175-7 and chased down the target in 37.1 overs for their third consecutive win.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Harry Kane scores twice as Bayern Munich extend Bundesliga lead

    Harry Kane scored two first-half goals as Bayern Munich defeated Werder Bremen 3-0 on Saturday, extending their lead atop the Bundesliga to six points after Borussia Dortmund had narrowed the gap to three points with a 4-0 win over Mainz on Friday. Kane reached 500 career goals for club and country with the victory.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Ireland beats Italy 20-13 in Six Nations rugby match

    Ireland rebounded from an opening loss to France by edging Italy 20-13 at Lansdowne Road on Saturday, with tries by Jack Conan and Robert Baloucoune in the second half securing the victory despite trailing 10-5 at halftime. The match was notable for featuring Hollie Davidson as the first woman to referee a men's Six Nations match.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. England beats Scotland at T20 World Cup in Kolkata

    Tom Banton's unbeaten 63 guided England to a five-wicket victory over Scotland, scoring 155-5 in pursuit of Scotland's 152. England must now beat Italy on Monday to secure a Super Eights berth.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

World & Region

  1. Africa must control its biological resources and data sovereignty

    According to Taime Sylvester, a researcher at NUST, Africa's biological diversity, pathogen samples, and genomic data are extracted by wealthy nations with little benefit returned. She argues that Africa must resist bilateral agreements that treat biological data as freely available and instead build domestic scientific capacity to govern, analyse, and profit from its own biological knowledge.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Germany backtracks on colonial accountability as new government sidelines Namibia

    Germany's commitment to reckon with its colonial past in Namibia has weakened significantly under the new CDU/CSU-SPD government, which mentions colonialism only briefly in its coalition agreement and makes no reference to Namibia. A newly appointed state secretary for culture dismisses adding colonialism to official memory culture as "dangerous relativism," citing the Holocaust as the singular reference point for German state ethics.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Cash bouquets trend draws central bank warnings across Africa

    A Valentine's Day trend of gifting money folded into bouquet designs has spread across Kenya and other African countries, prompting central banks including Namibia's to warn against damaging banknotes, as glued or defaced currency must be withdrawn from circulation at taxpayer cost.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Namibian students gain nuclear science training in Russia

    Namibian students participated in the International Tech School in Obninsk, Russia, where more than 120 participants from 47 countries received hands-on training in nuclear science and technology. One Namibian participant said the programme strengthened his commitment to developing nuclear education and technology in Namibia.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

  5. U.S. Ambassador explores energy investment opportunities in Walvis Bay

    U.S. Ambassador John Giordano and officials from the Department of Energy toured Walvis Bay to assess Namibia's energy sector and explore opportunities for American investment, expertise, and technology, with a focus on job creation and economic growth in both countries.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

  6. President Nandi-Ndaitwah joins African Union prayer breakfast in Addis Ababa

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah attended the African Union Pre-Summit Prayer Breakfast ahead of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa, where leaders and faith representatives reflected on Africa's future and discussed the role of faith communities in promoting ethical leadership and sustainable water governance.

    15 February 2026 · Informanté

Opinion

  1. Opinion: Nujoma's leadership legacy sets high bar for successors

    A letter to the editor praises founding president Sam Nujoma's record of national reconciliation and nation-building during his 15 years in office, arguing his legacy should inspire current and future leaders to prioritize unity, talent development, and inclusive governance.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Opinion: Namibia must honour slain prosecutor Justine Shiweda

    A reader reflects on the killing of prosecutor Justine Shiweda, calling for urgent investigation, protection of prosecutors against corruption and intimidation, and designation of her death date as a national day of remembrance for fallen justice workers.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Editorial: Anti-Corruption Commission needs systematic reform

    The Namibian editorial argues that while Anti-Corruption Commission director general Paulus Noa's 20-year tenure has run its course, the focus should be on comprehensive institutional reform including funding, talent attraction, and leadership quality rather than on individual personalities or politically motivated appointments.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Buy local must become permanent system, not crisis response

    An opinion piece argues that Namibia's "Buy Local, Grow Namibia" campaign momentum has faded since 2020 and calls for treating local production as a sustained economic priority through capacity-building, consistent demand, and industrial scaling rather than cyclical campaigns.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Leaders must protect IP rights in software development contracts

    A technology professional argues that organisations across Africa often spend millions on commissioned software they don't own or control, and should prioritise clauses covering intellectual property ownership, service level agreements, ongoing support, source code escrow, and open standards to avoid vendor lock-in and ensure long-term asset protection.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Opinion: Namibian police prioritizing TV drama over real policing

    A Namibian editorial criticizes law enforcement's participation in reality TV show COPPS 94.1, arguing that officers are prioritizing screen presence and entertainment value over effective policing, as evidenced by a domestic violence incident where civilians intervened instead of the on-camera officer.

    15 February 2026 · The Namibian

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