Namibia Minute.
25 February 2026
A daily Namibian brief · Est. 2026
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Archive Minute from 25 February 2026
Politics

President denies oil involvement, challenges Itula for proof

The News

The Presidency has denied allegations by Independent Patriots for Change president Panduleni Itula that President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and her sons are involved in the oil and gas sector, and has called on Itula to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support his claims.

25 February 2026 · The Namibian

Politics

  1. President denies oil involvement, challenges Itula for proof

    The Presidency has denied allegations by Independent Patriots for Change president Panduleni Itula that President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and her sons are involved in the oil and gas sector, and has called on Itula to provide credible and verifiable evidence to support his claims.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Oshakati council grants five plots to businessman Shapumba

    Northern businessman Erastus 'Chicco' Shapumba is set to acquire five industrial plots at Oshakati for N$405 540, prompting opposition councillors to raise concerns about fairness and transparency. Opposition figures argue that allocating multiple plots to a single beneficiary at reduced rates (N$10 per square metre) without a competitive process lacks equitable access and public accountability.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Leaked document shows 5% civil servant pay rise from 2026

    A leaked government document indicates civil servants and teachers will receive a 5% salary increase for the 2026/27 financial year and a further 5% for 2027/28, with no transport allowance increment in 2026/27 but a 7% increase scheduled for 2027/28. A senior government official confirmed the document's authenticity and said an official announcement will be made in due course, though some government bodies including the Prime Minister's office said they are unaware of the increment.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Vice President honours 1988 Oshakati bomb blast victims

    Vice President Lucia Witbooi unveiled a tombstone honouring victims of the 19 February 1988 bombing of Barclays Bank in Oshakati, which killed innocent civilians during Namibia's liberation struggle. She emphasised reconciliation as a cornerstone of national identity and urged the nation to reject violence and uphold democracy.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. President mourns liberation fighter Erkki Nghimtina at memorial service

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered a tribute to Erkki Nghimtina, who went into exile in 1974 to join the liberation struggle, served in the People's Liberation Army of Namibia and the Namibian Defence Force, and later held ministerial positions in defence, mines and energy, works and transport, and labour after independence.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Political parties to receive N$1.6 billion state funding over decade

    According to IPPR research, Namibian political parties are projected to receive N$1.6 billion in state funding between 2020 and 2030, an amount the institute describes as disproportionate given the country's unemployment and poverty. The IPPR's report on political finance transparency calls for greater disclosure requirements and stronger regulations to prevent external interference in elections before the next polls.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Inspector General leads security patrol in Katima Mulilo

    The Inspector General of the Namibian Police led an evening patrol in Katima Mulilo as part of a coordinated security operation aimed at strengthening safety and immigration control in the Zambezi Region. The operation, involving multiple agencies, targeted crime hotspots including licensed bars and focused on compliance with licensing regulations and public order.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. President demands IPC leader prove petroleum industry claims

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on IPC leader Dr Panduleni Itula to provide credible and verifiable evidence for allegations that her son holds stakes in Namibia's petroleum industry. The Presidency dismissed the claims and clarified that the Petroleum Amendment Bill before Parliament applies strictly to upstream petroleum activities.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. Swapo MP Dingara quits Parliament to pursue full-time farming

    Elifas Dingara, a Swapo lawmaker with a 15-year parliamentary career, has announced his resignation from the National Assembly effective end of month to focus on farming in Kavango East. He said his departure aims to allow his successor Christine Haindaka to serve nearly a full term and build institutional knowledge, describing it as deliberate succession planning rather than leaving the next generation to fight for opportunity.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  10. President challenges Itula to prove oil sector family links

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah has challenged Independent Patriots for Change leader Panduleni Itula to provide empirical evidence linking her family to Namibia's upstream oil sector, reiterating her denial of direct or indirect interests. Itula held his third oil-related press conference in less than three weeks, presenting what he termed documented evidence of a systematic network involving the president's sons and husband across the petroleum value chain, including fuel imports, distribution, and investments.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Namibia appoints new High Commissioner to India

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has commissioned Wing Commander (Rtd) Alex Tukuhupwele as Namibia's High Commissioner to India, tasking him to promote trade, investment, and economic cooperation to advance the country's Vision 2030 development agenda. The President emphasized India's historic support for Namibia's independence and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in technology, renewable energy, and education.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  12. City of Windhoek receives disclaimer audit for 2024/2025

    The City of Windhoek has received a disclaimer of opinion from Auditor General Junias Kandjeke due to insufficient audit evidence and inadequate accounting records. The audit identified weaknesses in internal controls, non-compliance with financial regulations including overstated employee costs, and systemic failures in record-keeping and documentation.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Swapo plans eight district offices across Kavango West

    The Swapo Party in Kavango West aims to construct eight district offices, one per constituency, between 2026 and 2028, with each building following a standard design including a boardroom, two offices, and facilities. The regional coordinator cited the lack of proper party infrastructure as a constraint on administration and outreach, with the party currently conducting activities under trees.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Business

  1. NamPost launches digital accounts to encourage grant recipient savings

    NamPost says its new digital grant accounts are designed to encourage saving among beneficiaries while maintaining nationwide access to social grant payments. The initiative aims to integrate unbanked grant recipients into Namibia's formal financial system through digital accounts that allow them to withdraw, transfer, or save their payments rather than withdrawing the full amount at once.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Meatco reports 900 cattle missing, N$2.5 million unaccounted for

    The Meat Corporation of Namibia has confirmed that 900 head of cattle are missing from the company and that N$2.5 million in cash reconciliations cannot be accounted for by its livestock procurement department. Board chairperson Stephanie de Klerk said preliminary findings implicate former acting chief executive Patrick Liebenberg and some staff members, with a criminal case lodged against Liebenberg for theft of livestock and defeating the course of justice.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. ScaleUp Namibia platform connects innovation hubs to support SME growth

    Namibia has launched the ScaleUp Namibia (SUN) platform to strengthen support for small and medium enterprises by coordinating fragmented innovation support structures under a single national framework. The initiative, structured around five pillars including funding, infrastructure, and capacity development, aims to help entrepreneurs scale beyond survival by making the innovation value chain more accessible and reducing barriers to growth.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Young entrepreneur builds design firm while studying

    Michael Shagandjwa founded YDM (YASHE DIGITAL MEDIA CC) in 2019, expanding from a clothing brand into a media and design company offering fashion design, branding, printing and journalism services to corporate clients including WWF and Nampost. While balancing studies and business, he has also created employment for three young people and emphasizes the importance of time management and perseverance in entrepreneurship.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  5. Ongwediva man builds cleaning business from N$2,000 loan

    Johannes Niimwene started Mirror Cleaning Service CC in 2006 with a N$2,000 loan from his grandmother to buy a second-hand vacuum cleaner and supplies, growing it into a company now offering office and house cleaning, pest control, and training across multiple towns. He emphasises the importance of hard work, patience and honesty in entrepreneurship, and now provides cleaning training to others while advocating for higher standards in the industry.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  6. Havana traders face uncertain future amid road upgrade plans

    Informal traders at Havana Four Way in Windhoek, who depend on roadside sales for their livelihoods, are anxious about potential relocation as the City of Windhoek plans road construction and improvements in the area. Vendors operate without shelter, proper permits, or basic services, and have called for authorities to designate alternative trading spaces to protect their incomes and employment.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  7. Old Mutual appoints Moller as head of broker distribution

    Old Mutual has appointed Pieter Moller as head of broker distribution within its personal finance business, effective 1 March 2026. Moller, who previously held several senior positions at Old Mutual, brings experience in distribution leadership, business development, and operational management.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  8. Ponzi scheme trial hears witness testimony on frozen account

    In the trial of Sakaria Megameno Namwandi and Asset Legacy Investment CC on fraud and Ponzi scheme charges, a witness testified that her N$5,000 investment made in October 2019 entered the entity's account after it had been frozen by the Bank of Namibia, leaving her unable to recover funds. The defence argued that Namwandi had no access to the money and that victims must apply under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act to recover invested funds once the case is finalised.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  9. Young entrepreneur seeks government Youth Development Fund

    David Kambo, a 24-year-old entrepreneur from Khomas who has launched multiple businesses including pawning, carwash, chemical manufacturing, transportation, and construction services, is applying for the government's Youth Development Fund to scale his operations and expand production capacity. Kambo believes government investment in youth entrepreneurship is critical to reducing unemployment and driving economic growth.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Mining & Energy

  1. TotalEnergies targets 2028 investment decision for Mopane oil

    French energy company TotalEnergies has confirmed approximately 1.5 billion barrels of discovered resources across its Namibian offshore petroleum licences, anchored by the Venus and Mopane projects, with the Mopane field alone estimated to hold 800 million to 1.1 billion barrels of recoverable resources and planned production exceeding 200,000 barrels per day once developed.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Economist warns oil revenues may strain Namibia's fiscal discipline

    Economist Robin Sherbourne cautions that anticipated oil revenues from TotalEnergies' Venus project could enable Namibia to borrow heavily against future earnings, risking unsustainable public spending rather than supporting long-term growth. He urges the finance minister to maintain fiscal restraint as the country awaits a final investment decision on the project.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Synthetic diamonds threaten Namibia's government revenue, experts warn

    Anglo American's sharp devaluation of De Beers to US$2.3 billion reflects the diamond industry's struggles amid competition from lab-grown diamonds, which threatens Namibia's fiscal health since diamonds fund schools, hospitals and roads. Experts debate whether Namibia should invest in the sector as Anglo American seeks buyers, with some warning the industry faces long-term decline.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Mining sector employs 26.7% of Namibian workforce, chamber claims

    The Chamber of Mines disputed claims by an International Labour Organisation representative that the sector does not create significant jobs, saying its members created 20,843 direct jobs and an estimated 145,901 indirect jobs in 2024. The chamber also responded to other criticisms regarding local beneficiation, foreign ownership, and environmental impact.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Auditor general warns of millions in lost mining tax revenue

    An audit by the auditor general found that corporate tax paid by gold mining companies fell 47.7% from 2020 to 2022 despite record production, raising concerns about tax avoidance or under-reporting. The report identifies failures by the Namibia Revenue Agency to conduct tax audits on gold mines and gaps in the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy's production verification controls.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

Agriculture & Land

  1. Agriculture ministry leases Uvhungu-Vhungu green scheme to private operators

    The Namibian agriculture ministry is preparing to lease the Uvhungu-Vhungu green scheme to private operators to improve operational efficiency, investment, and food security. The 773-hectare facility, which includes irrigated farmland and a dairy component, is undergoing infrastructure upgrades including power and water connections before leasing, with talks already underway with O&L Namibia Dairies.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. FAO, NPPO train grape farmers on fruit fly pest management

    The National Plant Protection Organization and Food and Agriculture Organization held a capacity-building workshop in Aussenkehr to train horticultural farmers, especially table grape growers, on managing the Oriental Fruit Fly, which threatens Namibia's table grape industry along the Orange River and limits access to international markets. The workshop aimed to strengthen compliance with international phytosanitary standards and enhance export competitiveness through practical training and farm profiling.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. Southern Namibian rivers swell after recent rainfall

    Recent showers have revived southern Namibian rivers including the Orange River and Löwen River, with water levels forecast to rise further in coming days. The Hydrological Services warns communities along the Lower Orange River to remain cautious and take flood prevention measures, while some southern dams have also recorded slight increases in capacity.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

Society

  1. Habitual copper cable thief arrested again in Windhoek

    Moses Moses (35), a repeat offender linked to numerous copper cable thefts across Windhoek targeting electrical infrastructure, has been arrested again. He was apprehended stripping a Namibia Power Corporation substation and has multiple pending court cases.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Lüderitz residents demand justice after pensioner's death

    Residents of Lüderitz are calling for justice following the death of 74-year-old pensioner Frieda Ngwedha, who died from injuries sustained in an alleged assault and robbery on 16 December. The incident has sparked community protests linking the attack to drug abuse, with residents demanding stronger law enforcement action and measures to combat drug-related crime in the town.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. President to use public hospitals under new Psemas directive

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will use public health facilities after issuing a directive for state employees under the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme (Psemas) to do the same as part of healthcare system reform. The Ministry of Health says it is strengthening medicine supply and staffing, though some civil servants question whether public hospitals are adequately resourced to handle increased patient loads.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. NBC resists paying arbitration award to former dismissed employee

    The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation is refusing to pay a labour commissioner's arbitration award of N$295,000 to former employee Johannes |Gaseb, citing that he owes the company approximately N$300,000 under a housing loan settlement agreement. NBC has filed an urgent court application seeking an interdict against the execution of the award, with the matter due for hearing on 20 March.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Police hunt serial rape suspect in Kavango East region

    Police in Kavango East are searching for a suspected serial rapist believed responsible for at least eight attacks since last year, with victims describing a suspect wearing a mask with consistent height and complexion across cases. Deputy Commissioner Bonifatius Kanyetu says the crimes are concentrated in specific areas including Rainbow Nation and appeals to residents for information to help identify and arrest the suspect.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Minister outlines support measures for unregistered veterinary graduates

    Agriculture Minister Inge Zaamwani has outlined interventions to support more than 30 veterinary graduates unable to practise due to unregistered status with the Namibian Veterinary Council, including three attempts at registration exams, temporary registration during preparation, UNAM's eight-week preparatory module (with 2024 fee coverage), and an internship programme facilitated by the Directorate of Veterinary Services.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. Namibia to investigate harmful chemicals in imported sanitary pads

    The Health Minister announced that Namibia will investigate claims from a South African study that sanitary pads contain hormone-disrupting chemicals linked to cancer and reproductive disorders. The study tested 16 brands of pads and eight types of pantyliners sold in South Africa and found all contained at least two endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  8. Career Fair 2026 launches across Namibia in February

    The Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek, in partnership with the Goethe-Institut and German Embassy, will host Career Fair 2026 from 26–28 February, bringing together nearly 50 companies, universities, and organisations from Namibia, South Africa, and Germany to guide young Namibians on education and career opportunities locally and abroad. The event will also include a roadshow to schools in Otjiwarongo, Tsumeb, and Swakopmund.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  9. Windhoek man charged with fatal bar shooting appears in court

    Asser Nendongo appeared in Katutura Magistrate's Court on a murder charge in connection with the death of Windhoek bouncer David Mbinda, who was shot during an altercation over an entrance fee dispute at a bar in Wanaheda last Friday night. The case was postponed to 18 March for a formal bail application and to 21 May for further police investigations.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  10. Eight rape incidents investigated in Rundu, masked man suspected

    Namibian police in Kavango East are investigating at least eight recent rape incidents in or near Rundu, all involving a man wearing a white mask who appeared to use the same method. The Regional Crime Investigations Coordinator said it is unclear whether one person committed all eight attacks or multiple rapists are using the same approach, and suspects there may be unreported cases.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  11. Youth dialogue in Ohangwena promotes creative industries careers

    The National Youth Council of Namibia hosted a youth dialogue in Eenhana where Deputy Minister Ballotti encouraged young people to turn creativity into sustainable businesses, addressing unemployment through skills development, networking and mentorship in the creative sector.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  12. Focus Academy launches monthly spelling competition series 2026

    Focus Academy has launched Season 2 of the Spelltacular Spelling Series, running monthly from February to November 2026 with each edition focused on a specific grade from Grade 7 down to Grade 2. The program coordinator says the grade-specific approach allows for better attention to learners' different understanding capacities and aims to improve vocabulary, spelling accuracy, confidence, and public speaking skills.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Tukwatha Youth Organisation launches independent advisory council

    The Youth Advisory Council of the Tukwatha Youth Organisation was launched in January 2026 to provide young people with an independent voice in shaping the organisation's future. The council, comprising 16 commissioners serving three-year terms, reports directly to the president and works independently of the executive committees to ensure its advice remains objective and youth-centred.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  14. NAM-CSIRT hosts DNS resilience training for Southern Africa

    The Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team, housed under Cran, hosted a Domain Name System Resilience Training from 17 to 20 February 2026 in Windhoek to strengthen DNS security awareness and response capabilities across the region, addressing vulnerabilities that pose significant threats to internet integrity including botnets, denial-of-service attacks, and phishing.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  15. Government admits rental law outdated, revival process underway

    Namibia's main rental law, the Rents Ordinance of 1977, has been non-functional since Independence, leaving tenants vulnerable to rising rents and disputed deposits. The government is reviewing the law and appointing consultants to draft new legislation, but has set no timeline, while civil society groups criticize decades of inaction as Namibians suffer from market-driven rent increases.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  16. Government approves N$108m for Rundu stormwater crisis

    The central government has approved N$108 million to address dangerous stormwater and erosion problems in Rundu's Tutungeni suburb, with work now underway by Chinese contractor CHICO. The project involves constructing an underground canal system and stabilising slopes near the Kavango River to prevent sinkholes threatening homes and infrastructure.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  17. Man charged with murder over N$30 bar entrance dispute

    A 30-year-old Windhoek resident, Asser Pendapala Nendongo, has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting bar bouncer David Mbida point blank over a N$30 entrance fee. Mbida died at a local hospital following the shooting incident on Friday night; the suspect later handed himself over to police.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  18. Vendors and students mourn death of Julianna Jennifer Isaacks

    Street vendors and students around Independence Avenue's central business district remember Julianna Jennifer Isaacks, 28, who was found dead in bushes near UNAM on 31 January. Those who knew her described her as a friendly, approachable person who connected easily with people; police investigations into her death are ongoing.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  19. Unam Alumni Association plans international expansion

    The University of Namibia Alumni Association's new executive committee, led by chairperson Alisa Amupolo, plans to launch international chapters this year with Zambia under consideration, while strengthening local engagement through a Graduate Mentorship Programme, alumni lectures, and modernised digital platforms.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  20. Omaruru's first TVET centre opens to boost youth skills

    A Technical Vocational Education and Training centre is expected to open in Omaruru in the coming weeks, providing post-secondary pathways for young people in the constituency and nearby areas. The facility, part of Erongo region's strategic plan, aims to address youth unemployment and equip learners with practical skills aligned to mining, fishing, tourism and agriculture sectors.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  21. Police seek public help finding Rundu serial rape suspect

    Namibian Police in Rundu are appealing for public assistance in locating a masked man suspected of raping eight women in separate incidents across the town. Deputy Commissioner Bonifatius Kanyetu reported that the latest attack occurred on Friday in Kehemu, where the suspect allegedly entered a woman's home, threatened her with a knife, and raped her.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Culture

  1. Namibian fashion designer Isack Imene builds brand in Austria

    Isack Imene, who grew up in Namibia before moving to Vienna, co-founded Fly With Us fashion label with his best friend Viktor Mörth. The two-year-old brand blends Namibian and Austrian influences and has presented collections at major fashion platforms including Vienna Fashion Week.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Heritage director calls Namibians to preserve indigenous languages

    The Director of National Heritage and Culture urged communities to work together to preserve and promote indigenous languages, saying they carry identity, history and traditional knowledge. The call was made during International Mother Language Day commemoration in Oshikoto region, where officials noted challenges including limited learning materials and young people's declining fluency in mother tongues.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Sport

  1. Namibian boxing champion to face Colombian rival

    Namibia's WBO global super bantamweight champion Fillipus Nghitumbwa will fight highly-rated Colombian Leonardo Carillo on 9 May in Windhoek. The bout is part of the 'Tribute to Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza' event featuring other top Namibian boxers and upcoming prospects.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia eyes continental and Olympic volleyball tournaments

    Following a successful Africa Zone VI Beach Volleyball tournament in Namibia, the African Volleyball Confederation president indicated that Namibia is now being considered to host larger events, including possible continental cup or Olympic Games qualification tournaments. The tournament drew 80 players from nine southern African countries, and organisers noted that beach volleyball participation and quality in Namibia is improving.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Over 1,000 pupils expected for revamped schools netball league

    The Namibia Schools Sport Union's acting national coordinator says more than 1,000 pupils are anticipated to compete in the revamped schools netball national league, with age groups ranging from under-13 to 19 years. The union aims to expand similar competitive leagues across its 15 sport codes to reverse declining participation in school sports and provide meaningful developmental activities.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Bodo/Glimt beats Inter Milan to reach Champions League last 16

    Norwegian club Bodo/Glimt won 2-1 at Inter Milan on Tuesday to advance to the Champions League last 16 with a 5-2 aggregate victory, marking the greatest achievement in the club's history. The win knocked Inter out of the competition and set up a tie with either Manchester City or Sporting Portugal in the next round.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Sorloth's hat-trick carries Atletico into Champions League last 16

    Alexander Sorloth scored three goals as Atletico Madrid defeated Club Brugge 4-1 to advance 7-4 on aggregate from the Champions League play-off round. Atletico will face either Liverpool or Tottenham in the last 16.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Harry Brook scores maiden T20 century; England reaches World Cup semi-finals

    England captain Harry Brook scored exactly 100 off 51 deliveries to lead his team to a two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup Super Eights, securing England's place in the semi-finals. Brook's century was the second fastest in T20 World Cup history and the first by a team captain.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa reach Cosafa Women's Championship semis

    Zambia defeated Eswatini 2-1 and Zimbabwe beat Botswana 1-0 to secure their places in the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women's Championship semifinals in Polokwane, joining hosts South Africa. Zambia will face the winner of Group C in the semis, while South Africa takes on Zimbabwe.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  8. Blue Waters SC removes head coach Kasaona and assistant

    Coastal-giant Blue Waters SC has relieved head coach Uerikondja Kasaona and assistant Steven Damaseb of their duties with immediate effect as part of a broader restructuring of the technical team. Kasaona is the only female coach in Namibia Premier Football League history to be removed from a head coaching position since the league's establishment.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Rössing, Swakop Striders celebrate 35-year marathon partnership

    Rössing Uranium and the Swakop Striders Running Club are marking 35 years of collaboration by hosting the Rössing National Marathon on 7 March in Swakopmund, described as the oldest running event in the Erongo Region and one of Namibia's most enduring sporting partnerships.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  10. Aminuis Zonal Athletics Games draws six schools, 133 regional qualifiers

    The Aminuis Zonal Athletics Competition held at Motsomi Primary School's sports field saw six schools compete, with organiser Edwin Kamaundju describing the event as a resounding success. A total of 133 athletes qualified for the Omaheke Regional Athletics Championships in Gobabis scheduled for March 13–14, with Rietquelle High School winning overall with 725 points.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  11. Haitope seeks strong start at Kazungula Bridge Marathon

    Namibian distance runner Lavinia Haitope will compete in the 21.1km half-marathon at the 5th Kazungula Bridge Marathon in Botswana on Saturday, marking her first competitive outing of 2026. The event features a unique cross-border racing experience, with participants running across the iconic Kazungula Bridge connecting Botswana and Zambia.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  12. South African tennis legend coaches Namibian players

    The Namibia Tennis Association hosted former ATP coach Jeff Coetzee for a three-day training camp at the Central Tennis Courts in Windhoek, aimed at developing young Namibian tennis players and raising the standard of the sport in the country.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  13. Blue Waters parts with Kasaona, names Petro as new coach

    Blue Waters has sacked head coach Uerikondjera 'Mammie' Kasaona and assistant Steven Damaseb, with Armando Petro and Thomas Mvula taking over coaching duties for the remainder of the season as part of a restructuring plan to improve league performance.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  14. Energy Nghitumbwa fights WBA champion in Nujoma boxing tribute

    Namibian boxer Fillipus 'Energy' Nghitumbwa will face Colombia's Leonardo Carillo, the WBA Federation Champion, on 9 May in a "Tribute to His Excellency Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza" in Windhoek, organised by promoter Nestor Tobias in partnership with the Sam Nujoma Foundation. The event will feature multiple Namibian elite fighters and prospects, with promoters saying boxing creates economic benefits across multiple sectors and serves youth empowerment.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. Heavy rainfall causes road closures in southern //Kharas Region

    The Roads Authority has announced temporary closures of several district and main roads in //Kharas following severe flooding and damage from heavy rainfall, advising motorists to use alternative routes and exercise caution while repairs are assessed.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  2. MTC funds plastic bag reduction initiative in Windhoek

    Mobile Telecommunications Ltd has provided N$450,000 to support the "Go Green, Skip the Plastic" initiative, which will distribute 4,000 reusable shopping bags and run an awareness campaign to reduce single-use plastic and encourage sustainable habits among Windhoek residents.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  3. NTB and SAA launch joint African travel promotion initiative

    The Namibia Tourism Board and South African Airways partnered to promote intra-African travel and position Namibia as a regional destination. The partnership brought together travel operators from 15 African countries for networking and package development, with focus on growing Namibia's meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

World & Region

  1. New US ambassador to South Africa strikes optimistic tone on relations

    Leo Brent Bozell III, the new US ambassador to South Africa, expressed optimism about US-South Africa partnership in his first public remarks, emphasizing shared values and economic ties. This marks a shift from his confirmation hearing comments, when he outlined Trump administration concerns about South Africa's geopolitical alignment, corruption, and property rights issues.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Trump delivers patriotic State of Union amid low approval ratings

    President Trump delivered a combative State of the Union address emphasizing American accomplishment and patriotism, citing rising incomes, a strong stock market, and lower inflation, while largely avoiding new policy proposals. With approval ratings around 40 percent and midterm elections looming, Trump focused on familiar themes of immigration, tariffs, and American strength, with theatrical moments recognizing military heroes and Olympic athletes.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Former Nigerian oil minister recorded confronting alleged bribe-givers

    A UK court heard recordings of former Nigerian petroleum resources minister Diezani Alison-Madueke confronting oil tycoons Olajide Omokore and Kolawole Aluko, from whom prosecutors allege she accepted bribes funded a luxurious UK lifestyle. Alison-Madueke denies five counts of accepting bribes and conspiracy to commit bribery.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Drone strikes escalate in Sudan's Kordofan conflict zone

    Sudan's civil war has intensified in the gold and oil-rich Kordofan region, with near-daily drone attacks killing civilians and shaping the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Both sides are accused of strikes on civilian infrastructure, and the fighting threatens to widen into a regional conflict as fighting spreads to the Blue Nile region.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Survivor claims South African army orchestrated 1988 Oshakati bombing

    Ben Zaaruka, a survivor of the February 1988 Barclays Bank bombing in Oshakati that killed 27 people and injured 70, says the attack was an act of revenge by the South African army intended to terrorise Namibians. The perpetrators were never identified or convicted, though former president Hifikepunye Pohamba has characterised the attack as politically motivated.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

  6. European ambassadors in Namibia call for end to Russia-Ukraine war

    Six European ambassadors accredited to Namibia have issued a joint opinion piece expressing solidarity with Ukraine and urging that Russia cease its war of aggression in 2026. The statement details the humanitarian toll, including the forced transfer of approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children by Russia, widespread civilian casualties, and disruptions to global food security and energy exports.

    25 February 2026 · Informanté

  7. US imposes new 10% tariffs following Supreme Court ruling against Trump

    President Trump's new 10% tariffs on imported goods took effect following a Supreme Court decision striking down many of his previous duties as exceeding his authority. The temporary tariffs, set to last 150 days unless extended by Congress, apply to $1.2 trillion worth of annual imports and are expected to increase household costs, though less severely than Trump's earlier tariff programme.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

  8. China restricts exports to Japan over military buildup concerns

    China imposed export restrictions on dozens of Japanese firms on Tuesday, citing involvement in building up Tokyo's military, escalating tensions sparked by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's November comments about Japan potentially intervening militarily if Taiwan were attacked. The measures restrict "dual-use" exports to 20 Japanese entities including Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and place 20 more organisations including Subaru on a watch list for stricter reviews of items with potential military applications.

    25 February 2026 · New Era

Opinion

  1. Personal inflation differs from official statistics

    A financial professional explains that official inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index does not reflect each household's actual cost-of-living experience; personal inflation—determined by how individuals spend their income—can be significantly higher or lower than the national rate, and understanding one's own inflation is critical for budgeting and financial planning.

    25 February 2026 · The Namibian

Namibia Minute