President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah commissioned Namibia's newly appointed high commissioner to India, charging the envoy to safeguard national interests, advance development priorities, and deepen bilateral relations rooted in solidarity from Namibia's liberation struggle. The president highlighted India's expertise in technology, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals as opportunities for collaboration aligned with Namibia's Vision 2030 agenda, and emphasized the role of economic diplomacy in promoting trade and investment.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah commissioned Namibia's newly appointed high commissioner to India, charging the envoy to safeguard national interests, advance development priorities, and deepen bilateral relations rooted in solidarity from Namibia's liberation struggle. The president highlighted India's expertise in technology, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals as opportunities for collaboration aligned with Namibia's Vision 2030 agenda, and emphasized the role of economic diplomacy in promoting trade and investment.
Panduleni Itula, leader of the Independent Patriots for Change, presented evidence he says shows the president's family members hold interests across the oil and gas sector—including the president's son operating a diesel distribution business at Lüderitz port and the first gentleman serving as patron of a petroleum industry forum—and called on Parliament to reject a petroleum amendment bill that would transfer licensing authority to the Presidency.
The National Democratic Party held a recognition ceremony to honour 25 members for their contributions to the party's performance in the 2024 presidential and National Assembly elections, where it secured one National Assembly seat, and the 2025 regional and local elections, where it won seats on the Bukalo Village Council and Katima Mulilo Town Council.
The Independent Patriots for Change has raised concerns about Namibia's railway infrastructure following a Rovos Rail passenger train derailment near Keetmanshoop on Sunday that killed two people and injured four. The party's shadow minister called for a transparent investigation, full disclosure of inspection and safety certification records, and strengthened oversight of TransNamib and rail safety authorities.
The Namibia Exile Kids Association held its fourth central committee meeting in Windhoek on Saturday, with NEKA president Kadiva Hamutumwa calling for strengthened solidarity through unity and reaffirming members' commitment to Swapo's legacy. Hamutumwa stressed the importance of innovation, community empowerment, and honouring liberation struggle sacrifices while fostering collaboration among affiliated organisations.
Ncuncuni constituency councillor Michael Naiteta has called for equitable resource allocation to address basic needs, identifying access to national documents, water and electricity as immediate priorities. He noted that 178 learners without required documentation were unable to continue their studies, and plans to drill at least two boreholes per year while pursuing electrification initiatives.
A 35-member youth-led organisation in Walvis Bay's Kuisebmond area is seeking N$1.8 million in investment to expand income-generating businesses in agriculture, industrial cleaning, soap and detergent manufacturing, and mentorship. The We Care Youth Empowerment Project aims to create sustainable employment opportunities for unemployed young people and is approaching national partners and corporate investors for support.
Namibia's Mobile Telecommunications Limited and Botswana Fibre Networks have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cross-border fibre interconnection and digital infrastructure collaboration, establishing a structured framework for capacity exchange and IP transit through the Buitepos–Ngoma corridor to support regional digital transformation and economic integration.
Finance Minister Ericah Shafudah announced that Namibia's Instant Payment Solution (IPS), a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Finance, Bank of Namibia, and payment service providers, will launch in the third quarter of 2025. The system will enable government to pay social grants and other benefits directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts or e-wallets within seconds, replacing cash payouts through NamPost and reducing travel costs and long queues, especially for elderly and rural citizens.
Namibia's Environment Ministry has denied authorising the Kaoko Fria Smart City project within Skeleton Coast National Park, citing conservation concerns, while the Kunene Regional Council says it was never consulted despite the company's recruitment drive in Windhoek. The company claims it has submitted environmental assessments and is seeking deproclamation of the park for the development.
The Namibia Youth Energy Forum says local ownership in Namibia's oil, gas and green hydrogen industries should be seen as a strength, not a threat, and supports inclusive youth participation. The forum backs Nasan Energies' acquisition of 52 service stations as a step toward increasing Namibian participation in the downstream fuel sector.
At the 2026 SADC Sustainable Energy Week in Victoria Falls, SADC executive secretary Elias Magosi reported progress on regional energy security including 11 of 16 member states completing national energy compacts by January 2026, and outlined priority projects including interconnectors between Malawi–Mozambique (scheduled for completion by June 2026), Tanzania–Zambia (by 2028), and Angola–Namibia links. He highlighted the region's 83,055 megawatts installed capacity dominated by coal (59% of generation) and called for diversification through renewable energy, natural gas, clean coal and nuclear technologies to address power shortages and $18 billion financing gaps.
The National Petroleum Corporation has appointed Mtundeni Ndafyaalako as interim managing director effective 1 March, following the conclusion of former deputy finance minister Maureen Hinda-Mbuende's six-month tenure. Ndafyaalako, who joined Namcor in 2018 and currently serves as executive for upstream development and production, brings nearly two decades of oil and gas sector experience.
The Environmental Commissioner confirmed no final decision has been made on the proposed uranium in-situ leach mining project in Leonardville, Omaheke Region. The government is awaiting a technical assessment from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which conducted an independent review mission in February 2026 to evaluate environmental, groundwater, health and safety impacts before the government decides whether to proceed.
Mtundeni Ndafyaalako, Namcor's Upstream Development and Production executive, has been appointed acting managing director effective 1 March 2026, pending completion of recruitment for a substantive MD. He replaces interim MD Maureen Hinda-Mbuende and brings nearly two decades of oil and gas sector experience.
Military escalation between the US, Israel and Iran threatens global oil supplies and raises risks for fuel-importing Namibia, particularly if conflict disrupts the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts urge Namibia to build strategic fuel reserves, diversify suppliers beyond the Gulf region and accelerate renewable energy investment to cushion against price shocks.
Private and public sector partners have pledged over N$11.2 million towards a newly launched Foot and Mouth Disease Support Fund targeting N$50 million to strengthen Namibia's prevention capacity, veterinary surveillance, and outbreak response. The move comes as Namibia faces increasing FMD risk from neighbouring South Africa and Botswana, with a national FMD Task Force established to coordinate prevention and containment strategies.
Health and Social Services Minister Esperance Luvindao presented a readiness strategy for Vision April 2026, a directive requiring civil servants to seek healthcare in public facilities rather than private providers. The implementation plan includes recruitment of over 2,000 health workers, improved medicines procurement, equipment upgrades, and a phased rollout beginning April 1 with senior leaders at seven designated public hospitals.
The Combretum Region of the Scouts of Namibia recognised members with more than two decades of service, awarding long-service medals to Goldie-Jane Swart (20 years) and Christian Kenai (22 years) during World Scout Day celebrations on 22 February.
John Andjaba, a Namibian working in the American pharmaceutical industry, launched the Namibian Youth Impact Fund in February to provide small grants to young people aged 18–30 building ideas in education, healthcare, social cohesion, the environment, and local opportunity. The fund, created in partnership with Ghanaian NGO Peace First, aims to support young community leaders with grants, mentorship, and connection to a global network of change makers.
Police reported two cases of alleged rape on Friday—one at Okakarara where a 26-year-old suspect was arrested after allegedly dragging and assaulting a 22-year-old woman, and another at Katima Mulilo where an alleged attacker fled after a victim was rescued by a friend.
The Namibian Police reported two suspected suicides: one in Windhoek's Goreangab area on Friday and another in Okatope village, Ohangwena region, on Saturday. Police say no foul play is suspected in either case and investigations are ongoing.
A 13-year-old boy, a 56-year-old man, and a cattle herder died after being struck by lightning in separate incidents across three regions (Ohangwena, Kavango East, and Kavango West) on Friday and Saturday. Police said no foul play is suspected in any of the deaths.
A public policy expert argues that while the government's plan to require state employees to use public hospitals is well-intentioned, it risks overwhelming already-stretched facilities without adequate billing systems, administrative capacity, or quality improvements in place. The expert advocates for gradual integration with incentives, strict quality benchmarks, and phased implementation rather than compulsory use.
An ongoing strike by Northern Electricity Distributor employees has caused a power outage at Ogongo Water Treatment Plant since Saturday evening, suspending water operations for residents, UNAM campus, and boarding schools in the area. NamWater says restoration depends on the strike's resolution, and has urged affected residents to make necessary arrangements.
Three separate incidents of alleged reckless and negligent driving in Otjiwarongo and Omulunga over the weekend left three pedestrians injured, including a two-year-old boy struck by an unlicenced driver in Grootfontein. One suspect was arrested after driving under the influence, while police investigations into all incidents continue.
The Namibian Police Force reported two sexual assault cases over the weekend: one in Okakarara on February 27, where a 26-year-old man allegedly dragged a 22-year-old woman from a bar and raped her (suspect arrested), and another in Katima Mulilo on the same date, where a suspect allegedly attacked a 22-year-old woman along a road; that suspect remains at large.
Education Minister Sanet Steenkamp opened three new classrooms and ablution facilities at Suiderhof Primary School in Windhoek, funded by community contributions of about N$2 million. The ministry plans to roll out similar decongestion projects across several regions to address overcrowding in schools.
Three people died in separate lightning strikes over the weekend: a 56-year-old man in Divundu, a 13-year-old boy in Oshiti shaHaihonya village, and a man in Ntara village who was struck while herding cattle. Police have notified the families of the deceased.
A Rovos Rail passenger train derailed near Naute, about 100km from Keetmanshoop, on Sunday morning when a bridge gave way following heavy rains in southern Namibia. Two people died in the accident, and emergency services and TransNamib teams assisted survivors.
Abraham Ndumbu, a controversial former leader of student and political movements including NANSO and NEFF, has been arrested and charged with rape following allegations that he repeatedly raped a 13-year-old girl between February 2025 and January this year.
The National Housing Enterprise reported a N$23 million net profit for 2024/2025, up from N$6 million the previous year, but delivered only 191 houses—far below the government's target of 10,000 per year. The minister and board chairperson acknowledged the delivery gap and called for accelerated pace to address the housing backlog across Namibia's regions.
Informal traders in Windhoek met with a city councillor to complain about evictions from trading spots in the CBD, harassment by city police, and lack of basic services despite paying monthly fees. Councillor Kavetu acknowledged the city's contradictory approach of approving traders while allowing police to remove them, and promised to address the matter urgently, including potentially writing off fines.
A 48-year-old man is accused of killing his common-law wife in Outjo in 2022 after becoming enraged by her snoring, allegedly beating her with an iron bar and other blunt objects; he faces charges of murder and obstructing justice, with trial scheduled to begin in March 2026.
A Mariental resident, Adam Isaack (29), is on trial in the Windhoek High Court for the June 2019 stabbing death of Eldin Sylwester Fransman. The state advocate urged the court to find Isaack guilty of murder and attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances, arguing that evidence including eyewitness testimony, the accused's own admission to police, and his presence at the scene prove his guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Despite President Nandi-Ndaitwah's pledge to create 500,000 jobs, many Namibian graduates remain unemployed months after completing their studies, with most entry-level positions requiring prior work experience. In Khomas region, unemployment stands at 34.4% among the economically active population, and graduates are calling for structured internship programmes and better alignment between education and labour market needs.
Omaheke region held its inaugural Career Fair at Gobabis showgrounds, attracting about 1,500 learners from seven constituencies to explore education and career pathways. Education director Constance Wantenaar described the event as successful and a bridge between aspiration and opportunity, supported by universities, training institutions, banks, and government partners.
Omakange's I. K Tjimuhiva Combined School in Omusati region released learners early last week due to a severe water shortage caused by technical failures in the school's borehole system. The acting education director said the electrical pumps require replacement and the solar-powered borehole cannot supply sufficient water due to overcast weather; repairs were expected to be completed by week's end.
The Oshikoto education directorate's programme and quality assurance deputy director warned teachers that those found under the influence of alcohol or drugs during school hours will face consequences, citing reports of teachers arriving intoxicated and leaving premises during breaks to consume substances. He stressed that teachers must maintain professional conduct and integrity, and that ineffectiveness from alcohol or drug abuse will not be tolerated.
A Zambian man faces court after allegedly possessing Lichwe game meat without a permit; multiple DUI arrests were made in Katima Mulilo; and teachers and learners of Kalenga Primary School in Grootfontein marched to demand police patrols after recent rape incidents, including a 14-year-old assaulted near school grounds.
The Kavango West education directorate registered 54,127 learners for the 2026 academic year, up 2,123 from 2025, with secondary school enrolment rising by 960. The director cautioned that infrastructure constraints—particularly shortages of hostels and classrooms—remain a pressing concern for schools serving remote villages.
The Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music has defended its royalty distribution system after a parliament member questioned reports of local musicians earning as little as N$2 per broadcast play. Nascam says the figure is not a fixed rate but is calculated based on total royalties collected from music users and distributed through an automated system, though it acknowledges a need to amend legislation to better address digital platforms and online usage.
BASE Pulse, a multiplatform youth culture channel created by Pulse Entertainment, is set to launch on DStv Channel 322 across Africa soon. The channel will blend music, storytelling, and digital content to empower African creatives and connect them to global opportunities through programming including music, pop culture, documentaries, and interactive music blocks.
Singer-songwriter Chikune has released her latest single, Okambloma, inspired by a traditional Otjiherero lullaby and exploring themes of motherhood, parental love, and cultural inheritance. The music video, directed by Eric Mule, depicts the passing of love and care across two generations, reflecting Chikune's artistic shift toward more personal, emotionally healing work.
Construction of new sport infrastructure has commenced in the Oshana, Kunene and Kavango East regions, marking the first phase of a government initiative to build 28 basic sport facilities across all 14 regions. Deputy Minister Dino Ballotti said the projects are aimed at strengthening sport infrastructure, promoting youth development and ensuring equitable regional development, with N$10 million allocated to each region.
At a sport federations' assembly, Minister Sanet Steenkamp called on federations to remain disciplined, transparent and united, emphasizing that the government has allocated N$750 million to sport within a three-year framework and expects accountability in financial management and governance. Executive director Gerard Vries stressed the need for financial prudence and collaboration among stakeholders, noting that internal division weakens progress while unity strengthens impact.
Namibia's women's national football team defeated South Africa 2-1 in the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women's Championship 2026 final in Polokwane, securing the country's first-ever victory over South Africa in the competition. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulated the Brave Gladiators, describing the achievement as a testament to perseverance and an investment in youth development and national pride.
Arsenal defeated 10-man Chelsea 2-1 in a Premier League match decided by set-piece excellence, with Jurrien Timber's second-half header securing the win after William Saliba had opened the scoring from a corner. The victory reestablished Arsenal's five-point lead over Manchester City with nine games remaining in their pursuit of a first English title since 2004.
Sanju Samson's unbeaten 97 helped India defeat the West Indies by five wickets in Kolkata, securing a semi-final against England. India chased down the West Indies' 195 total with four balls to spare.
Iqraam Rayners scored twice off the bench as Mamelodi Sundowns beat Sekhukhune United 3-1 to draw level with South African Premiership leaders Orlando Pirates on 41 points, separated only by goal difference.
Benjamin Sesko scored the winning goal as Manchester United defeated Crystal Palace 2-1 to move into third place in the Premier League, while Tottenham lost 2-1 at Fulham and remain just four points above the relegation zone.
South Africa defeated Zimbabwe by five wickets in a T20 World Cup match in New Delhi, with Dewald Brevis scoring 42 off 18 balls to help chase down Zimbabwe's 153-7. South Africa remains unbeaten in the tournament and will face New Zealand in the semi-final on Wednesday.
Namibia's women's football team won the Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women's Championship 2026, defeating South Africa's Banyana Banyana 2-1 in the final at Polokwane, ending a 20-year wait for the trophy. Goals from Muhinatjo Hanavi and Memory Ngonda secured the victory after South Africa scored first.
Namibia's women's football team defeated South Africa 2–1 in the final of the 2026 COSAFA Women's Championship in Polokwane to claim their first regional title. President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah congratulated the squad on their achievement, citing the victory as testament to perseverance and discipline, and highlighting sport's role in youth empowerment and national development.
Namibia's women's football team defeated South Africa 2-1 in the Cosafa Women's Championship final after extra time, ending a 20-year wait to return to the final and claiming their first title in two decades. Striker Zenatha Coleman was named Player of the Match in the victory.
Khomas NamPol FC head coach Fortune Eichab has been suspended following his team's 1-0 defeat to Tigers FC, with the club alleging he deliberately gave away points—a charge Eichab disputes. The suspension is pending an investigation with no specified timeframe.
Close to 180 archers from 13 schools across Namibia participated in the National Ranking Archery Shoot at Windhoek High School on Saturday. The event is part of the country's archery ranking series and serves as preparation for the African Archery Championships scheduled for August in Botswana.
The Namibia Wrestling Federation held its Dr Sam Nujoma President Tournament on Saturday with nearly 93 wrestlers from five clubs competing. The event served as the federation's first competition of the year and will help prepare athletes for the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt later in the year.
The Namibian government has commenced construction of 28 basic constituency sports infrastructure facilities across all 14 regions to improve access to sporting facilities and promote youth development. The ministry has allocated N$10 million per region, with construction already underway in Kunene, Oshana and Kavango East, and the remaining regions expected to follow in coming weeks.
Lavinia Haitope won the elite women's 21km race at the Kazungula Bridge Marathon in Botswana with a time of 1:13:44, while fellow Namibian Beata Naigambo claimed gold in the veteran women's 21km category. Haitope described the race as extremely challenging due to heat and hills, and said her next target is the Two Oceans Half Marathon in Cape Town in April.
One person was killed and 11 injured at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports after Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones across the Middle East in response to ongoing US and Israeli attacks. The strikes caused widespread damage to airports, hotels, and ports, forcing thousands of flights to be grounded in one of the largest travel disruptions since COVID-19.
Deputy Minister Jenelly Matundu led Namibia's delegation to a meeting of African Trade Ministers in Maputo to coordinate a unified continental position ahead of the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference. Ministers called for decisive reforms to the global trading system to support Africa's development and industrialisation, with focus on reducing raw material export dependence, promoting value addition, and advancing digital transformation.
Following US and Israeli military strikes on Iran over the weekend, Iran responded with missile fire at Israel and other countries, prompting multiple maritime security incidents and causing at least 150 tankers to suspend operations in the Gulf. The escalation has raised global energy security concerns, as approximately 20% of global oil supplies and significant LNG volumes transit the Strait of Hormuz.
The Namibian Embassy in Cairo has issued a safety advisory to Namibian citizens in the Middle East, citing ongoing volatility and unpredictable security conditions. Citizens are urged to exercise heightened caution, avoid high-risk areas and large gatherings, and maintain regular contact with the Embassy.
Iranian officials have vowed to avenge Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in US and Israeli strikes, with President Masoud Pezeshkian calling it a "declaration of war against Muslims" and pledging Iran's "legitimate duty" to punish those responsible. Across the region, pro-Iran groups and militias have launched or threatened attacks on US bases, while Iraq—caught between US and Iranian influence—announced a three-day mourning period and urged restraint amid escalating military tensions.
The largest disruption to global air transport since the Covid pandemic is underway, with over 6,700 flights delayed and 1,900 cancelled globally as Iran and Israel trade attacks and multiple Middle Eastern countries close their airspace, forcing cancellations by major carriers including Emirates, Etihad, Air France, and others across Europe, Asia, Africa and North America.
An opinion piece argues that the proposed petroleum amendment bill, which would shift upstream oil governance to the Office of the President through a new Upstream Petroleum Unit, risks concentrating power and eroding parliamentary oversight, drawing parallels to the Fishrot scandal and recommending instead a specialist regulator outside the Presidency with stronger parliamentary accountability and implementation of existing anti-corruption laws.