Namibia Minute.
Thursday, 16 April 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Thursday, 16 April 2026
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Archive Minute from Thursday, 16 April 2026
Politics

Katima Mulilo chief executive suspended again after winning labour case

The News

Suspended Katima Mulilo Town Council chief executive Raphael Liswaniso, who won a labour case against his first suspension on 28 October, was suspended a second time on Monday. Liswaniso and his lawyer argue that minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa forced the council into the latest suspension through a directive letter marked urgent, while a local authorities president raises concerns about the arbitrary suspension of CEOs under political pressure.

16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Politics

  1. Katima Mulilo chief executive suspended again after winning labour case

    Suspended Katima Mulilo Town Council chief executive Raphael Liswaniso, who won a labour case against his first suspension on 28 October, was suspended a second time on Monday. Liswaniso and his lawyer argue that minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa forced the council into the latest suspension through a directive letter marked urgent, while a local authorities president raises concerns about the arbitrary suspension of CEOs under political pressure.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Swapo secretary general speaks at Uerikua memorial service

    Swapo party secretary general Sophia Shaningwa delivered a tribute to parliamentarian James Uerikua at a memorial service in Parliament Gardens, recalling his dedication to development projects in Otjozondjupa and his personal warmth. Uerikua and his son died in a road accident on 3 April.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Nudo MP recalls Swapo rival's recruitment pitch at memorial

    Nudo parliamentarian Vetaruhe Kandorozu recalled that Swapo MP James Uerikua once asked when he would join Swapo, which surprised him. Speaking at Uerikua's memorial service at Parliament Gardens, Kandorozu praised Uerikua as a strong party defender and influential leader whose character and impact will be missed.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Namibian leaders honour deceased parliamentarian James Uerikua

    Opposition and ruling party figures paid tribute to late Swapo parliamentarian James Uerikua at his memorial service at Parliament Gardens in Windhoek, describing him as a skilled strategist and "people's person" whose work should be continued in his honour.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Fishrot trial postponed as recusal application stays proceedings

    The Fishrot case has been postponed to 24 April 2026 as former justice minister Sakeus Shanghala pursues leave to appeal a ruling dismissing his request for Judge Marelize du Plessis to recuse herself. Ricardo Gustavo's lawyer argues the repeated delays infringe the accused's right to a speedy trial and violate constitutional rights.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. Charges amended for accused in prosecutor murder case

    The prosecution has amended charges against Petrus Uusiku Pandeni and Kuume Petrus Shikwaya from murder to corruption-related offences following the transfer of their trial back to Windhoek Magistrate's Court from Ondangwa, with the court finding their charges unrelated to the original proceedings. Pandeni and Shikwaya now face conspiracy to commit corruption and corruption charges, while their co-accused Matheus Angula faces corruptly using office for gratification and conspiracy to commit corruption charges, though he still faces a murder charge in Ondangwa.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. Okongo extends plot revocation deadline to May 2026

    The Okongo Village Council has extended the deadline for revoking unoccupied plots with arrears of N$20,000 or more from 1 April to 1 May 2026, giving property owners additional time to settle debts and develop their land. Unoccupied plots with outstanding balances will be revoked without further notice and reallocated to applicants from a waiting list of 1,752 residential and business applicants.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Business

  1. Samherji defends against N$18.3 billion Fishcor lawsuit

    A Scottish litigation firm is pursuing a US$1 billion claim against Icelandic fishing company Samherji on behalf of Namibia's state-owned Fishcor, alleging the company used bribes and corruption to obtain fishing quotas between 2012 and 2019. Samherji denies the allegations and says it is defending itself in London courts.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Namibian banks deny fraud refunds despite rising losses

    Namibian commercial banks have no policies to refund defrauded clients, even as the Bank of Namibia reports losses of over N$6 million monthly to fraud. Banks claim liability rests with customers who authorize transactions under deception, while victims say they have been denied compensation; international regulators in the UK and EU are moving to mandate refunds to fraud victims.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Suzuki launches Across SUV in Namibian market

    Suzuki has unveiled the Across, its largest SUV to date, aimed at first-time buyers and budget-conscious consumers. The vehicle features a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen, hands-free tailgate, claimed fuel consumption of 5.3 litres per 100km, and is available in three derivatives with pricing positioned competitively against established rivals.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Guide to buying a used car from reputable dealers

    Buying a used car from an established dealer offers peace of mind through rigorous inspection, legal compliance, and accountability, whereas purchasing from unscrupulous operators risks odometer tampering, poor-quality imports, and unresolved issues with no recourse. Experts recommend checking showroom presentation, avoiding 'voetstoots' (as-is) sales, and being aware of import vehicles that may need modifications for Namibian conditions.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Digital literacy key to Namibia's economic participation

    Digital literacy—the ability to effectively use digital devices and online platforms—is increasingly recognised in Namibia as essential for economic participation and social development. As connectivity expands and more citizens gain access to digital tools, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and young Namibians are using social media, mobile banking, and digital platforms to improve livelihoods, though responsible use and cybersecurity awareness remain critical.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Southern African Customs Union contributes N$21 billion tax revenue

    The Southern African Customs Union remained Namibia's largest tax contributor at N$21.1 billion as at the end of March, according to the Namibia Revenue Agency. Namra collected a net revenue of N$81.1 billion by March 2026, with VAT and personal income tax as the second and third-largest contributors.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  7. Meatco enters premium Wagyu beef export market

    The Meat Corporation of Namibia has begun processing Wagyu cattle for export to premium global markets, including high-end restaurants in Europe. The move aims to position Namibian beef producers in high-value segments through advanced quality assurance, traceability systems, and compliance with international standards.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  8. Suzuki launches all-new Across SUV in Namibia

    Suzuki has launched the all-new Across SUV in Namibia, featuring a 1.5-litre engine with mild hybrid technology, advanced safety features, and a premium interior with smartphone connectivity and wireless charging. The vehicle is now available nationwide at Auas Motors.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  9. Kia Tasman bakkie arrives in Namibia with unconventional design

    The 2026 Kia Tasman, featuring a 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, has launched in Namibia's competitive bakkie market with a bold, polarising design aimed at buyers seeking something different. Available in three derivatives starting from N$679,995, the vehicle combines rugged capability with modern technology and comfort features.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  10. President praises Dinapama factory as model for job creation

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah visited the Windhoek-based clothing manufacturer Dinapama, which has grown from seven employees to 563 workers, and called it a shining example of the industrial growth and job creation the government wants to see across Namibia. She acknowledged business leaders' concerns about high costs, material sourcing delays, and cumbersome laws, pledging government commitment to improve the business environment and support local manufacturing as part of Namibia's shift toward a manufacturing-driven economy.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. Government plans building materials factory in Otjiwarongo

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced plans to establish a manufacturing facility in Otjiwarongo to produce cost-effective building materials locally, reducing reliance on imports and lowering construction costs. The initiative is part of broader efforts to tackle high housing costs and improve access to affordable housing for ordinary Namibians.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Mining & Energy

  1. Namibia and Angola launch N$941 million power interconnector project

    Namibia and Angola have signed agreements to advance the Angola-Namibia Power Transmission Interconnector Project (Anna), a N$941 million infrastructure project scheduled for completion in 2029. The project will construct a 166-kilometre, 400 kV transmission line linking Kunene and Cahama substations, with capacity of up to 500 MW, aimed at enhancing power system reliability and regional energy trade.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Red Soil Energy appeals rejected petroleum licence decision in Supreme Court

    Red Soil Energy has appealed to the Supreme Court over the mines ministry's 2021 rejection of its petroleum exploration licence application for four offshore oil blocks. The company claims it was treated unfairly and differently from competing applicants, while the minister argues the application was incomplete and lacked required financial documentation.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Azule Energy plans 2027 investment decision in Namibia

    Azule Energy, operator of PEL 85, targets a final investment decision by late 2027 and will establish an office in Namibia, with Giovanni Aquilina appointed as managing director for the country.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Canadian firm Ongwe discovers gold-rich bedrock at Khorixas

    Ongwe Minerals Inc has identified a 2km-long, gold-rich bedrock zone along the Khorixas fault in Namibia, with altered wall rock up to 125m wide and gold values of 0.2g/t. The company expects higher-grade quartz veins within the zone and plans to test drill targets in coming months.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Hyphen to invest N$54 billion with local Namibian businesses

    Hyphen Hydrogen Energy plans to spend N$54 billion on procurement from local Namibian businesses over its project lifespan, targeting 30% local procurement. The company has launched a capacity-building programme with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, backed by grant funding, to help Namibian companies compete for specialised opportunities across the hydrogen sector value chain.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. US Ambassador highlights Namibia as southern African energy corridor node

    US Ambassador John Giordano convened government officials and international energy executives at the US Embassy to advance integration of Namibia's energy, minerals and logistics systems into a scalable Southern African corridor. Giordano emphasized Namibia's potential as an oil and gas producer anchored by uranium production and robust infrastructure, while stressing the importance of regulatory clarity and alignment among governments, industry and capital for execution.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. Namibia and Angola formalize N$4 billion power interconnection deal

    Namibia and Angola have signed binding agreements to jointly develop a cross-border power interconnector (ANNA), featuring a 166-kilometre transmission line linking the Kunene region to Cahama and a further 270-kilometre line between Omatando and Otjikoto. The project, estimated at N$941 million for the interconnector component and set for completion by 2029, aims to enhance regional energy security, diversify Namibia's electricity supply, and enable Angola to leverage its renewable and hydro resources across the Southern African region.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. Namibia, Angola sign N$940m power transmission interconnector deal

    Namibia and Angola signed a power purchase agreement and joint development agreement for the Angola-Namibia Power Transmission Interconnector Project (ANNA), estimated to cost about N$941 million and scheduled for completion in 2029. The 166-kilometre transmission line will link the Kunene substation in Namibia to the Cahama substation in Angola, with an initially projected capacity of up to 500 MW to enhance power system reliability and regional energy trade.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Agriculture & Land

  1. Lutheran Church donates 65ha to Mariental for housing

    The Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia has handed over a letter of transfer for 65 hectares of church-owned land to Mariental Municipality, which has been illegally occupied by residents since 2012. The donation aims to enable the municipality to service the land, regularise the informal settlement, and provide residents with legal tenure and title deeds.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Government builds earth dams to secure water and prevent floods

    Namibia's agriculture ministry is implementing floodwater and rainwater harvesting across the country to improve water security and build climate resilience against recurring droughts and floods. Six earth dams have been completed so far out of a target of 17, with additional dams finished in various regions last year.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Society

  1. Namibia's water crisis extends beyond scarcity to infrastructure

    While Namibia is one of the world's driest nations, its water challenge is not merely one of scarcity but of ageing infrastructure and system maintenance. According to NamWater data, coastal demand already exceeds developed potential by 96%, central areas by 8%, and northwest abstraction reaches 330% of theoretical demand, raising questions about whether focus on new projects is overshadowing long-term system performance.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Second hospital suspends elective surgery over anaesthetic drug shortage

    Rundu Intermediate Hospital has halted elective surgeries due to shortages of critical anaesthetic agents needed for general anaesthesia, linked to supply constraints at Central Medical Stores. This follows a similar suspension at Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital, with both hospitals prioritizing emergency cases using remaining anaesthetic stock.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Two men arrested in Rehoboth drug possession operations

    Two men were arrested in separate undercover police operations in Rehoboth's Block E on Tuesday in connection with possession of illegal substances including cannabis skunk and mandrax tablets. Both face charges under the Abuse of Dependence-Producing Substances Act, with the second suspect also charged with defeating the course of justice.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Floating bridges installed in Zambezi flood-affected areas

    The government has installed floating bridges in Kalimbeza and Masikili in Zambezi region to help flood-affected communities safely access schools and clinics. The Ministry of Works and Transport procured 24,640 double floating cubes at a cost of N$24 million to provide rapid access to areas that become isolated during seasonal flooding, with more installations planned for other affected areas.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Onandjokwe Hospital suspends elective surgeries due to anaesthetic shortage

    Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital has suspended all elective surgical procedures after running out of critical anaesthetic agents required for general anaesthesia, with similar supply constraints affecting the Central Medical Stores. The suspension is intended to prioritize limited supplies for emergency cases, and has raised parliamentary concerns about patient safety and operational stability at public health facilities.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Nedbank invests N$760,000 in employee and dependent education

    Nedbank Namibia has allocated N$760,000 to fund tertiary studies for 23 beneficiaries across diverse fields including commerce, law, data science, and information technology. The funding, managed through the NNH Education Trust launched in 2025, aims to address low tertiary education enrolment in Namibia and represents a strategic investment in human capital development.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. Researcher identifies antimalarial drug resistance markers in Namibia

    Lydia Eloff, a University of Namibia PhD candidate in malaria genomics, has identified molecular markers associated with drug resistance in Namibia using genomic tools. Her research, which won the Best Student Researcher Award, is informing national surveillance efforts and therapeutic efficacy studies as the country experiences rising malaria cases, particularly in northeastern regions.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. Namibia constructs 400 classrooms, expands TVET infrastructure

    Namibia has constructed over 400 classrooms at pre-primary and primary schools nationwide during 2025/26, alongside science labs, computer labs, and administrative facilities. The government also expanded TVET programmes with new vocational centres and introduced green hydrogen and renewable energy curricula, while implementing a fully subsidised tertiary education funding model with N$663 million initial allocation.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  9. PM denies two-tier healthcare system, announces hospital upgrades

    Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare rejected claims that public hospitals are creating special VIP units for government officials, saying the government's focus is improving healthcare for all Namibians. He highlighted seven major health facilities earmarked for upgrades and announced Vision April 2026, a programme requiring senior officials to use public hospitals to improve service quality nationwide.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  10. Family seeks bail revocation in hospital death case

    The family of Nico Sisamu Simasiku, who died after being assaulted at a Katima Mulilo hospital in January, is pushing for the accused mortuary attendant's bail to be revoked. The family says they were not consulted on the bail decision, feel excluded from the justice process, and have received no support from the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. Omusati medical outreach provides care to 678 residents

    A three-day medical campaign in Omusati's Outapi area provided free healthcare services including HIV testing, medical consultations, reproductive health counselling, and screenings for blood sugar, haemoglobin and cancer to 678 residents. The initiative, led by Dune Seven Medical Centre in collaboration with local partners, aimed to improve healthcare access in underserved communities and promote early disease detection.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  12. Driving instructor offers free lessons to unemployed coastal youth

    Adolf Kaure Hilaria Erastus, owner of Hilaria's Driving Academy, has partnered with Serenity and Nashville Investments to provide free driving training to young people along the Namibian coast, particularly in Walvis Bay, helping them gain practical skills and confidence to pass learners' tests and improve employment prospects.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Culture

  1. Namibian model competes at Miss African Essence pageant

    Namibian model Laina Mwatukange is representing the country at the Miss African Essence International Pageant in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, scheduled for 3 May. The 27-year-old journalism student says the pageant focuses on showcasing African identity, leadership, and storytelling among young women rather than traditional beauty metrics.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Weekly cultural and community events calendar across Namibia

    The Namibian lists upcoming community activities including music festivals, workshops, exhibitions and regular classes across the country. Events range from a multi-event festival in May and health expo to concert performances, market activities and dance classes.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Documentary explores Owambo heritage and liberation war impact

    'Echoes of Omusati' is a documentary that celebrates Owambo culture while depicting how Namibia's liberation struggle separated families and scattered people across Africa. The film follows a woman's personal journey to reunite with her biological family in Namibia, featuring historian insights, survivor accounts, and archival material about life during the conflict.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Sport

  1. NBA play-in: Warriors beat Clippers, 76ers reach playoffs

    Stephen Curry scored 35 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 126-121 comeback win over the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA play-in tournament, keeping the Warriors' playoff hopes alive. The Philadelphia 76ers secured their playoff spot with a 109-97 victory over the Orlando Magic, powered by 31 points from Tyrese Maxey.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. CIF Golf Classic returns April 24 for construction sector

    The Construction Industries Federation of Namibia's Golf Classic takes place on 24 April at Windhoek Golf Club, featuring a Two-Ball Alliance format with prizes valued at approximately N$163 000 for top teams. The event, presented by Hardrock Earthworks and supported by major sponsors, combines competitive golf with networking for industry leaders and business professionals.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. South African football legend Sono visits Mariental this weekend

    Mariental Sport Club will host former South African footballer Jomo Sono during their fixtures against Friends FC and City Boys FC this weekend, aiming to inspire local talent and uplift the community's football scene.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Netball Namibia defends under-19 selection amid regional criticism

    Netball Namibia has defended its selection process for the preliminary under-19 national squad following backlash over the skewed selection of players from Khomas region and minimal inclusion from defending champions Kavango East. The federation says selection decisions are based on how players complement the team as a whole and are overseen by a panel of qualified selectors, though critics question how the runner-up team received nine selections compared to one from the championship winners.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. New Namibian athletics platform launches to develop talent

    The Collective, a new structured athletics development platform, has been launched in Windhoek to nurture talent and improve performance standards by connecting coaching, performance data, and competitive exposure for Namibian athletes. The platform operates through a three-tier model serving elite athletes and developing competitors across four regions, with support from qualified coaches and a focus on athletes in the under-15, 17 and 19 age categories.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Windhoek Old Boys lead tight indoor hockey title race

    Windhoek Old Boys Hockey Club and School of Excellence are setting the pace in the Namibia Indoor Hockey Men's Premier League after the third round of matches, with Old Boys atop the log on seven points following a 10-0 win over DTS, while Saints I remain in contention in third position.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  7. Bayern Munich beats Real Madrid to reach Champions League semis

    Bayern Munich defeated Real Madrid 4-3 on Wednesday to secure a 6-4 aggregate victory and advance to the Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Paris Saint-Germain. Late goals from Luis Diaz and Michael Olise sealed Bayern's progress after the match remained competitive throughout, with Real Madrid reduced to ten men following Eduardo Camavinga's second yellow card.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  8. Arsenal advances to Champions League semis despite weak performance

    Arsenal reached the Champions League semi-finals after a goalless draw against Sporting Lisbon secured a 1-0 aggregate victory, though the Gunners played below par and will face Atletico Madrid next. Despite the progression, Arsenal's recent struggles—including losses to Manchester City, Southampton, and Bournemouth—have raised questions about the team's character as they chase the Premier League title.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  9. Pupkewitz-Nasfed Open Water Challenge draws swimmers across ages

    The Pupkewitz-Nasfed Open Water Challenge at Lake Oanob Resort on 11–12 April 2026 brought together swimmers from multiple clubs and non-affiliated competitors across all age groups. Riley Bergh (Marlins) topped the men's competition with 72 points, Lara Steyn (Dolphins) led the women with 66 points, and competitors ranging from 12-year-olds to a 68-year-old competed in events from 1.5km to 10km distances, showcasing Namibia's aquatic talent across generations.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  10. Opuwo trade fair to host third annual horse racing event

    The Opuwo Annual Trade Fair Society will host horse racing on 25–26 April 2026 at Newman Katuta Sports Field, expecting over 35 horses and donkeys to compete across multiple distance categories. Organisers have added safety measures including crowd fencing to address past incidents and aim to make the fair more inclusive for all age groups through the event.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. New platform launched to develop Namibian athletics talent

    The Collective, a new initiative founded by Hanjo de Klerk, aims to unify Namibian athletics by identifying and nurturing young athletes through structured coaching, performance tracking and partnerships with schools and government bodies. The platform targets U/15, U/17 and U/19 athletes across multiple regions and seeks to create a clear development pathway from grassroots to international competition by 2030.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  12. Young Marenga pursues professional football career dreams

    16-year-old Junior Marenga from Okomumbonde village aims to become a professional footballer and represent Namibia internationally, having joined Juninho Athletic Academy in 2023 to develop his skills as a versatile defender and midfielder. The grade 10 student at Centaurus High School has already played for Epukiro All-Stars and won a league title in the MTC Hopsol Youth league.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  13. Johan Theron emerging as Namibia's promising junior tennis talent

    Rising Windhoek-based tennis player Johan Theron is making his mark on the junior circuit with an aggressive all-court playing style, recent tournament victories, and an international ITF junior ranking of 3,500. At just 12 years old, he has collected 15 international trophies and climbed to 10th in Africa in the U/14 category by early 2025.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

Tourism & Environment

  1. Jackals, hyenas, vultures sustain Namibia's coastal ecosystem

    Namibia's coastline hosts scavenging species including brown hyenas, black-backed jackals, and vultures that play vital roles in maintaining ecological balance by feeding on marine carcasses. These 'beach cleaners' prevent disease spread and facilitate nutrient exchange between ocean and land, though they also face challenges including rabies transmission and endangerment.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Engela delegation studies Lüderitz waterfront model for local expo

    Regional councillor Immanuel Haixuxwa led a two-day study visit to Lüderitz to learn from the town's waterfront development ahead of a planned local expo later this year. The delegation aims to study operational structures, infrastructure setup and event hosting strategies from Lüderitz Waterfront development company.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

World & Region

  1. South Africa appoints Roelf Meyer as US ambassador

    South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Roelf Meyer, a former apartheid-era negotiator and longtime friend of Ramaphosa, as ambassador to the United States. The appointment comes after the country's previous envoy, Ebrahim Rasool, was expelled last year following his criticism of President Trump, leaving the post vacant amid strained diplomatic relations.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. South African opposition leader Malema sentenced to five years prison

    Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters and member of parliament, has been sentenced to at least five years in prison after being found guilty of illegal gun possession and firing it in public during his party's 2018 anniversary celebrations. His lawyer said he would appeal the decision, which would disqualify him from parliament once all appeals are exhausted.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. BBC finds migrants falsely claiming abuse to stay in UK

    A BBC investigation has discovered that some migrants are making false domestic abuse claims to secure permanent residence in the UK faster than through other routes, exploiting inadequate Home Office checks. The number of applications for fast-track residency via the domestic abuse concession has risen by more than 50% in three years to over 5,500 annually, with some unregistered advisers charging fees to fabricate claims and help migrants game the system.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Dutch court seeks jail terms for Romanian helmet theft suspects

    Prosecutors in The Netherlands have called for lengthy prison sentences for three suspects accused of stealing a 2,500-year-old Romanian gold helmet and bracelets from a museum in January 2025. Two suspects who agreed to cooperate and returned most of the artifacts face 44-month sentences, while a third who refused a plea deal faces 66 months.

    16 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Pope visits Cameroon to appeal for peace in conflict zone

    Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Cameroon for a four-day visit, the second stage of an African tour, where he will meet President Paul Biya and travel to the English-speaking separatist conflict zone in Bamenda to pray for peace. The visit comes amid controversy over his meeting with Biya, as Catholic clergy have expressed concerns it could help rehabilitate the image of the president whose disputed re-election was followed by violent suppression of protests.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. Afghan labourers pan for gold in Kunar River

    Hundreds of men in eastern Afghanistan are panning for gold dust in the Kunar River bed as an alternative income source, using traditional sifting methods. The work, which authorities permit over mechanised mining that damages the riverbed, yields small amounts—up to about one gram per week—in a country where job opportunities are scarce.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. South African opposition leader faces sentencing for firearm offense

    Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters party, is set to be sentenced today in South Africa for firing an assault rifle at a rally in 2018, with the state seeking the maximum 15-year jail term. Hundreds of supporters gathered ahead of his sentencing in East London, as the case—brought by far-right group AfriForum—continues amid broader controversy over Malema's use of anti-apartheid slogans.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. India power plant boiler blast kills 19, injures 17

    A boiler blast at a power plant operated by Vedanta Limited in central India's Chhattisgarh state has killed 19 people and injured 17 others. The explosion, which occurred Tuesday after a pipeline burst and released superheated steam, has prompted investigations by both company leadership and state authorities.

    16 April 2026 · New Era →

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