Namibia Minute.
Friday, 17 April 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Friday, 17 April 2026
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Archive Minute from Friday, 17 April 2026
Politics

President Nandi-Ndaitwah named to Time100 list of global influencers

The News

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been recognised on the Time100 list for 2026 for her influential leadership and commitment to advancing Namibia's development priorities, strengthening democratic governance, and championing inclusive economic growth. The selection spotlights Namibia's rising voice on the international stage, particularly in promoting peace, stability, and equitable progress.

17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Politics

  1. President Nandi-Ndaitwah named to Time100 list of global influencers

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has been recognised on the Time100 list for 2026 for her influential leadership and commitment to advancing Namibia's development priorities, strengthening democratic governance, and championing inclusive economic growth. The selection spotlights Namibia's rising voice on the international stage, particularly in promoting peace, stability, and equitable progress.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Fishrot trial should proceed despite ongoing appeals, defence argues

    A defence lawyer representing one of ten accused in the Fishrot fraud and corruption trial has argued to the High Court that proceedings should continue while appeals against earlier rulings are pursued, citing delays since 2021 and the constitutional right to trial within a reasonable period. Other defence lawyers largely supported the argument, though one disagreed, and the judge is scheduled to hear further oral arguments on 24 April.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Opinion: Is parliamentary disorder a political strategy?

    An opinion piece examines recent disruptions in Namibia's Parliament—including table-banging and xenophobic remarks—asking whether disorder functions as a deliberate political instrument to advance narrow interests rather than genuine democratic expression. The author draws on African political theory to suggest that weak institutionalization may enable actors to exploit confusion strategically.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  4. Namibia's corruption rating falls to worst-ever score

    Namibia scored 46/100 in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, dropping six places to 65th globally and recording its worst-ever performance. A criminal intelligence analyst outlines international anti-corruption policy options—including asset disclosure, whistleblower protection, extractive industry transparency, and fiscal openness—that Namibia could adopt to strengthen enforcement and accountability.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  5. New regional councillors take office across Khomas region

    Following regional and local elections, councillors have taken office in Khomas, Namibia's most populous region and home to the capital Windhoek. The region comprises 10 constituencies and its economy is driven by government services, finance, retail, construction, tourism and small to medium enterprises.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. CPBN introduces stricter requirements for bid evaluators

    The Central Procurement Board of Namibia has introduced new measures for appointing Bid Evaluation Committee members, including requirements for accredited qualifications, police clearance certificates, and mandatory training and competency assessments. The reforms aim to address longstanding concerns about transparency, capacity gaps, and delays in public procurement evaluations.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. Political leaders unite at memorial for late MP James Uerikua

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and leaders from across Namibia's political spectrum paid tribute to former Otjozondjupa governor and Swapo MP James Uerikua at a Wednesday memorial service, celebrating his legacy as a bridge-builder who commanded respect across party lines. Uerikua, who died in a car accident on 3 April along with his 14-year-old son Venturo, was praised for his dedication to inclusive development and democratic dialogue.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. High Court dismisses Swapo's bid to evict camping ex-combatants

    Windhoek High Court Judge Gabriel Komboni dismissed Swapo's urgent application to evict war veterans camping at its headquarters, ruling the application lacked urgency. The veterans, who have occupied the site since October 2025, are demanding payment of benefits from the 1989 liberation struggle that they say remains unresolved.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  9. Political interference destabilises municipal governance and service delivery

    The president of the Namibia Association of Local Authority Officials has warned that political interference in local authorities is threatening municipal governance through arbitrary suspensions, dismissals, and external pressure on officials. He said these practices undermine institutional stability, professional administration, and investor confidence in towns and cities.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  10. Attorney General seeks dismissal of fishermen quota court case

    The Attorney General has asked the High Court to dismiss an application by the Okapare Fishermen Association, arguing the applicants lack legal standing to bring the case. The association has sought relief over fishing quota allocations, employment disputes, and alleged constitutional violations dating back to 2014.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. Deputy health minister pledges focus on social well-being

    Deputy Health Minister Suzan Ndjaleka, newly appointed by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, says she will prioritize Namibians' social well-being and healthcare, emphasizing decentralization and collective responsibility in service delivery at the grassroots level.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  12. Katima Mulilo CEO suspended despite arbitration order

    Katima Mulilo CEO Raphael Liswaniso has been suspended again by the minister of urban and rural development, days after an arbitrator ordered his previous suspension lifted and directed he be paid lost income. His representative claims the fresh suspension violates the binding arbitration award and the rule of law.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  13. Ondangwa CEO outlines town's health, housing, road projects

    Ondangwa Town Council CEO Isamel Namugongo told New Era that the long-delayed Ondangwa State Hospital is back on track with central government support and environmental studies underway, while the council has doubled residential areas, upgraded roads to tar in several extensions, and is preparing to modernise the town's struggling sewerage infrastructure. Key challenges include high unemployment affecting residents' ability to pay municipal bills and ageing infrastructure designed for a much smaller population.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Business

  1. Windhoek road design restricts local business access, entrepreneur warns

    An entrepreneur argues that high kerbs on Eneas Peter Nanyemba Road's dual carriageway upgrade isolate established businesses from customers and create safety hazards, calling for lowered pavements and accessible design that balances transit with local economic vitality.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Yango drivers struggle as permit approvals stall for months

    Yango says drivers face income loss due to prolonged permit approval delays from the Roads Authority, with some waiting up to 12 months despite submitting required documentation and fees. The company calls on the Ministry of Works and Transport to streamline the process and allow compliant drivers to work while applications are processed.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Namibia Tourism Board buys N$1.5m car amid financial crisis

    The Namibia Tourism Board has purchased a luxury N$1.5-million Toyota Land Cruiser Prado for its chief executive Sebulon Chicalu despite internal warnings about overspending and financial strain. The board has incurred significant budget overruns—including N$8.5 million on marketing against a N$2.9 million budget and N$4.5 million on employee costs against N$2.2 million budgeted—and insiders claim it may need to draw on investment reserves to pay salaries.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Savanna Beef Processors to export to Europe in April

    Savanna Beef Processors, recently granted an export certificate, will send its first beef consignment to the United Kingdom, EU, and EFTA countries through Walvis Bay at the end of April, exporting matured deboned chilled/frozen beef cuts. The producer-owned facility aims to add value to Namibian livestock production and retain weaners domestically rather than see them exported live to South African feedlots.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Windhoek manufacturer urges policy reforms for sector growth

    Dinapama Manufacturing managing director David Namalenga called on the government to implement industrial policy reforms to boost Namibia's manufacturing sector and help SMEs thrive during a presidential visit. Namalenga cited restrictive regulations and mining companies' preference for local suppliers over local manufacturers as key challenges, while the president acknowledged the need for reform and noted Namibia is over-regulated.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Namibia's creative industry gains momentum with film projects and new city

    Between April 2025 and March 2026, Namibia attracted 59 foreign film projects and local filmmakers produced 36 films, creating 1,240 temporary jobs and contributing an estimated N$47 million to the economy. The government has approved the establishment of a Film and Creative City and is investing in skills development to position Namibia as a competitive creative hub in Africa.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. CRAN awards N$32m to MTC for rural connectivity expansion

    The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia has awarded Mobile Telecommunications Limited N$32.3 million through the Universal Service Fund Phase 2 project to deploy radio access network towers across five regions, extending connectivity to 15 public institutions including schools and clinics. The initiative supports the Sixth National Development Plan's digital inclusion priorities, with Phase 3 preparations underway for approximately N$65 million to benefit close to 16 communities.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. PPS Namibia allocates record N$367.3m in annual profit-share

    PPS Insurance Namibia has allocated N$367.3 million to members' Profit-Share Accounts, the highest in its history, following an operating profit of N$59.5 million and investment returns of N$307.8 million. The allocation brings total profit-share distributed over the past decade to N$1.8 billion.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  9. NamPower lists N$5 billion note programme on NSX

    Namibia Power Corporation has successfully listed a N$5 billion Domestic Medium-Term Note Programme on the Namibia Securities Exchange in partnership with Cirrus Securities and Nedbank Namibia. The programme allows NamPower to issue multiple tranches of notes with varying terms to access domestic capital markets flexibly and support strategic growth objectives.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  10. Okahandja brothers continue family welding workshop legacy

    Gerson and Charles Tjaveondja operate a family welding workshop in Okahandja that has been passed down through generations, manufacturing trailers, steel products, and providing repair services. The brothers are now training the next generation, including their son and nephew, to continue the trade.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. BoN projects steady growth in 2026–2027 following slowdown

    The Bank of Namibia forecasts the domestic economy will expand by 2.6% in 2026 and 2.9% in 2027, a downward revision driven by weaker performance in metal ores and diamond mining. Growth is expected to be led by construction, electricity, trade, and financial services, though uranium production is anticipated to provide some support.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Mining & Energy

  1. Namibia accelerates oil sector reforms ahead of first production

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has announced a major push to accelerate petroleum reforms, including an exploration and production amendment bill, to improve regulatory efficiency and investor confidence as Namibia moves toward first oil production in the Orange Basin. Major operators including Chevron, TotalEnergies and Rhino Resources are advancing exploration and development activities, with emphasis on ensuring legal and institutional frameworks, local participation and broad-based economic benefits keep pace with upstream activity.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Canadian gold explorer Ongwe lists on Namibia exchange

    Ongwe Minerals Inc, a Canadian-listed gold exploration company operating in Namibia, has listed on the Namibia Securities Exchange under the symbol "ONG" with trading commencing on 15 April. The dual listing is designed to allow local and institutional investors easier access to the company's shares and upcoming capital raises.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Shell reaches record 25 exploration wells in Namibia

    Shell has drilled 25 exploration wells in Namibia's Orange Basin over four years, a company record. The company's VP for exploration said this milestone reflects improved operational conditions under President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's leadership.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Oil majors confirm drilling but no final investment decisions yet

    Despite targeting 2030 for first oil production, Chevron and Rhino Resources announced further drilling projects at Namibia's energy conference but neither committed to final investment decisions. The government hopes for FIDs by 2026, though policy uncertainty around gas flaring and regulatory delays are hindering investment confidence.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. South African firm enters Namibian renewable energy market

    Commodore Industries, a South African renewable energy developer and investor, has announced plans to expand into Namibia's solar power sector and is in talks with licensed solar and wind plant owners and stakeholders. The company, which has appointed a country manager, says it could develop its own solar plants or invest in existing ones, and is also interested in Namibia's railway industry.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Namibia sends delegation to China for renewable energy expertise

    A high-level Namibian delegation, led by the Green Hydrogen Programme and supported by the Global Wind Energy Council, is visiting China to study renewable energy solutions and industrial development, with focus on wind power, solar energy, battery storage, and fuel cells. The visit aims to help Namibia reduce electricity imports, build local energy supply, and eventually become a green energy exporter.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  7. TotalEnergies reports Venus oil project progress, 5,000 jobs expected

    TotalEnergies Vice President Mike Sangster met with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to brief her on advances in the Venus offshore oil discovery, which the company expects will create about 5,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction. The company has submitted development plans to Namibian authorities and targets a final investment decision in mid-2026, though the project faces significant technical challenges including 3,000 metres water depth and location 320 kilometres from the coastline.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. President emphasizes mutual benefits in Namibia oil partnerships

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah told Shell that Namibia's emerging oil industry must deliver direct benefits to citizens, stressing that partnerships must be win-win arrangements. Shell's exploration executive praised Namibia's policy environment and efficiency, committing to long-term partnership with emphasis on local skills transfer and capacity building.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Agriculture & Land

  1. Northern cattle price fund approved but not yet implemented

    The agriculture ministry created a price equalisation fund approved by Cabinet in 2024 to help livestock producers north of the veterinary cordon fence, but the Namibia National Farmers Union says implementation has stalled. A ministry spokesperson confirmed a misunderstanding between finance and agriculture ministries diverted initial funding, though N$50 million has been allocated in the 2026/27 budget.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Opinion: Namibia should restrict live cattle exports to boost processing

    An opinion piece argues that Namibia should adopt value-retention policies for the livestock sector, similar to its successful Namibia Agronomic Board approach for horticulture, to encourage domestic processing and capture more economic value rather than exporting unprocessed cattle. The author proposes threshold-based export controls, minimum weight restrictions for exported animals, and export levies to fund local industry development.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Society

  1. CEO urges employers to claim skills training grants by May deadline

    The CEO of the Namibia Training Authority calls on employers to submit Employer Training Grant applications by 5 May 2026 to reclaim up to 50% of VET levy contributions invested in staff training. Over N$306 million is projected for disbursement in the 2025/26 financial year, with eligible training covering NQA-accredited programmes and industry-relevant courses.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  2. Occupational health and safety graduates face internship shortage

    A writer from Walvis Bay highlights a lack of job attachment and internship opportunities for occupational health and safety students in Namibia, particularly in construction and mining sectors, despite many safety officer positions requiring years of experience. The author calls on companies to create more internship opportunities to help graduates gain the experience needed to launch their careers.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Health ministry investigates alleged pharmaceutical fraud by staff

    The Ministry of Health and Social Services has launched an investigation into suspected fraudulent activities within the pharmaceutical supply chain, allegedly involving ministry staff at the Central Medical Stores who may have manipulated stock data, stolen supplies, and created artificial shortages. The implicated staff have been reassigned pending investigation, and the ministry says those found guilty will face disciplinary and criminal proceedings.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Kavango West secondary school bans pupil snacks from hostel

    Leevi Hakusembe Senior Secondary School in Kavango West has prohibited pupils from bringing food to the hostel, citing waste reduction and fairness concerns. The principal says the rule encourages use of the school dining hall, though parents claim their children are going hungry.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Convict fined after unlicensed driver hits pedestrian

    A man previously convicted in the Shannon Wasserfall case was fined after allowing an unlicensed and intoxicated woman to drive a vehicle that struck a pedestrian in Swakopmund on Sunday. The victim underwent emergency surgery and remains hospitalized; the unlicensed driver was charged with negligent driving.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Rapid urbanisation strains Namibian municipalities' service delivery capacity

    Over half of Namibia's 1.5 million urban residents are straining municipal capacity to deliver housing, infrastructure, and services, with informal settlements housing over 40% of residents in some towns. Officials have called for improved governance, accountability, and collaboration between councils and municipal staff to manage urbanisation effectively.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  7. Education 5.0 and AI adoption needed to combat youth unemployment

    According to a Namibia University of Science and Technology director, Namibia's higher education system must embrace AI-powered Education 5.0 to equip students with skills relevant to a changing labour market, as traditional teaching methods fail to address the 44.4% youth unemployment rate. Innovative leadership and investment in digital infrastructure are essential to make this transformation effective.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  8. Growing visibility of child begging signals social distress in Namibia

    An opinion piece reflects on an encounter with a child asking for food in Oshakati, arguing that such instances—while not yet defining Namibia—reflect deeper issues of poverty, inequality, and broken support systems. The author calls for coordinated government action, community programmes, and public guidance on how to respond responsibly before child begging becomes normalized.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  9. SSC funds technical training for marginalised Namibian youth

    The Social Security Commission is sponsoring 15 trainees from disadvantaged backgrounds at the Ngato Institute of Science and Technology in Rundu to complete a two-year Occupational Health and Safety programme, covering tuition, accommodation, uniforms and living expenses. The initiative, supported by government and private entities, is helping young Namibians from informal settlements and rural areas access tertiary qualifications they might otherwise be unable to afford.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  10. Nust administrator charged with defrauding university of over N$2 million

    Maria Hengari, an administrative employee at Namibia University of Science and Technology, appeared in Windhoek Magistrate's Court on fraud charges. She is accused of clearing student debts under false pretences between 2021 and 2024, causing the institution to lose over N$2 million.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. Former NSFAF chief Kennedy Kandume receives Award of Excellence

    The Students Union of Namibia honoured Kennedy Kandume, who served as NSFAF's acting CEO for eight years until last month, with an Award of Excellence for his transformative leadership in expanding financial support to students and procuring laptops during the Covid-19 pandemic. NSFAF has since been reintegrated into the education ministry as a department.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  12. Government launches Vision April 2026 healthcare reform initiative

    Namibia's government has begun phased implementation of Vision April 2026, an initiative to transform public healthcare by improving accessibility, quality and citizen confidence. The programme, which mandates senior government officials to use public facilities starting April 2024, includes infrastructure upgrades, N$239 million in medical equipment procurement and recruitment of 2,307 health workers, with expansion to additional facilities planned for 2027.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  13. Teacher and curriculum panellist David Mandume Alfeus shapes Namibian education

    David Mandume Alfeus, who teaches English, Oshikwanyama, and ICT at Pahangwashimwe Combined School while pursuing a Master's in Educational Technology, believes teaching is a lifelong mission rooted in passion and commitment to using technology and mentorship to help learners succeed. He advocates for strengthening public-private partnerships and aligning Namibia's education system with global standards to address resource gaps in schools.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Culture

  1. Singer and TV presenter Johnny Davids dies at 49

    Johnny Davids, a Namibian-born singer, TV presenter, radio host and sports commentator, died aged 49 in the early hours of Thursday morning, believed to have suffered a heart attack. He was known for his Afrikaans music, work on DSTV's 'Landbouweekliks' and SuperSport commentary, and recently published his autobiography 'Boytjie'.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Windhoek drama coach expands platform to global stages

    Acting coach Michelle Loubser's drama club, founded in 2020, has grown from 12 to 46 students across three levels and recently sent 14 participants to Mediterranean Shipping Company cruise programmes where all secured scholarships, with four receiving major awards to institutions including the New York Performing Arts Academy. The club focuses on performance training, confidence-building, and international exposure while maintaining an inclusive environment for aspiring actors.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  3. Columnist reflects on motherhood, patience and choice not to have children

    A New Era lifestyle columnist shares her observation of her mother's endless demands as a caregiver and explains her own decision not to have children, citing lack of patience and a desire to give mothers like her own the space to rest and feel valued.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  4. Big Ben Live returns to Zoo Park after one-year break

    The annual Big Ben Live music show returns to Zoo Park on 18 April after being postponed last year due to scheduling and logistical conflicts. The Afrobeat musician plans to showcase new material from a completed album and emphasizes the importance of collaboration with other artists and producers.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Sport

  1. Former defender Haukambe's journey from Walvis Bay to German football

    Sedekia Haukambe rose from street football in Walvis Bay to play for Namibian clubs Black Africa and Civics before spending 15 years in German lower divisions, ultimately representing his country in junior national teams and advising young players to pursue professional opportunities beyond Namibia's borders.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Bayern Munich set to clinch 35th Bundesliga title Sunday

    Bayern Munich are 12 points clear with five games remaining and will win the Bundesliga title with a victory against Stuttgart on Sunday, fresh from eliminating Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals. Coach Vincent Kompany may rest key players ahead of a German Cup semi-final three days later.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Rugby league surpassing union in New Zealand among Pacific fans

    All Blacks great Michael Jones told AFP that rugby union in New Zealand is losing the battle for "hearts and minds" to rugby league, particularly among Pacific islanders, citing league's stronger engagement with Pacific communities and more flexible eligibility rules compared to union's "archaic" three-year stand-down period.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Atletico Madrid faces Real Sociedad in Copa del Rey final

    Atletico Madrid plays Real Sociedad in Saturday's Copa del Rey final, seeking a rare trophy success under coach Diego Simeone. The match is particularly significant for Atletico forward Antoine Griezmann, 35, who is departing for MLS side Orlando City and hopes to leave with a farewell trophy.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Arsenal face Manchester City in Premier League title showdown

    Arsenal travel to Manchester City on Sunday nursing a six-point league lead but having lost form with just one win in their last five matches, while City have won their last three games including against Arsenal. Chelsea and Liverpool also face crucial weekend fixtures as they battle for Champions League qualification.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. First division promotion race enters decisive stage

    The race for promotion to the Namibia Premier Football League is tightening across the three first division streams, with Mariental Sport Club and Young Brazilians FC level on points in the southern stream, KK United FC leading a tightly contested north-eastern stream, and Eleven Warriors FC establishing control in the north-western stream. Football analysts note that momentum and margin for error will be decisive in the final rounds.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  7. Nangolo defends WBO Africa title against Mukungu on May 30

    Boxer Flame 'Special One' Nangolo will defend his WBO Africa Super Featherweight title against Martin "The Alligator" Mukungu in Windhoek on 30 May, after the originally scheduled opponent Tinashe Mwadziwane did not materialise due to scheduling conflicts and record concerns.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  8. African Stars chase fourth straight title as Chula Chula closes in

    The Namibia Premier Football League title race reaches its climax this weekend with African Stars one point ahead of Eeshoke Chula Chula with two rounds remaining. Stars need maximum points against Unam and FC Ongos to secure a fourth consecutive title, while Chula Chula hopes the defending champions slip up in their final matches against Okahandja United and Bucks Buccaneers.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  9. Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest advance to Europa League semi-finals

    Aston Villa defeated Bologna 4-0 to progress to the Europa League semi-finals, while Nottingham Forest beat Porto 1-0 to set up an all-English showdown between the two clubs. The semi-finals will also feature Freiburg and Sporting Braga.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  10. African Stars lead Chula Chula by one point in final league push

    The Namibia Premier Football League title race goes to the final two rounds with African Stars holding a one-point lead over PstBet Eeshoke Chula Chula, after the teams drew and both won their respective matches this weekend. The tight race has drawn large crowds and underlined growing interest in domestic football.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  11. Special One to defend super featherweight title against Alligator

    AC Boxing Promotions will stage a WBO Africa Super Featherweight title bout on 30 May 2026 at the Roman Catholic Hall in Windhoek, with defending champion Flame "Special One" Nangolo facing challenger Martin "The Alligator" Mukungu in the headline event of a six-bout card.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  12. Three NPFL teams vow strong comeback after relegation

    Tigers FC, Rundu Chiefs FC, and Life Fighters have been relegated from Namibia's Premier Football League and say they will return stronger. The team heads cited challenges including internal conflict, management issues, and referee decisions, but expressed confidence in rebuilding and regaining their elite status.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  13. Versatile footballer Hans 'Allu' Hummel remembered

    Hans 'Allu' Hummel, a Mariental-born footballer who played for Orlando Pirates, Blue Waters, African Stars, and other clubs, has died. The versatile player won multiple major titles including two Mainstay Cup victories and represented Namibia internationally, becoming one of the country's most accomplished footballers of his era.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Tourism & Environment

  1. Government shuttle monopoly plan sparks tourism industry outcry

    The Ministry of Environment and Tourism has announced that driving between Sossusvlei's parking areas will be limited to a single operator (About Africa Co) from 1 May, restricting access for independent tour operators and self-drivers. Tour operators and industry figures warn the exclusive concession will harm competition, raise prices, create liability concerns, and damage the tourism sector despite ministry claims it will generate revenue and protect the environment.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Lüderitz prepares 19th annual Crayfish Festival in April 2026

    The Lüderitz Crayfish Festival will run from 28 April to 3 May 2026 under the theme "Crayfish & Currents: Where Heritage Meets Innovation," blending the town's maritime traditions with its emerging status as an energy hub. The event will feature seafood, entertainment including musical performances and a beauty pageant, motor sports, and business networking opportunities.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

World & Region

  1. Kenya fuel prices surge amid global oil crisis

    Kenya's energy regulator has raised diesel and petrol prices to record levels, citing higher global oil and shipping costs exacerbated by conflict in Iran, even as the government cut value-added tax to cushion consumers. The increase occurs alongside a fuel quality scandal and reports of shortages, though officials say stocks are sufficient.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. US House Democrats impeach Pentagon chief Hegseth

    House Democrats led by Arizona Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari introduced six articles of impeachment against Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth on Wednesday, accusing him of waging war on Iran without congressional approval and committing war crimes including attacks on civilians and a girls' school in Minab, Iran. The impeachment has slim chances of passing due to the Republican majority in the House.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  3. NEFF deputy disputes Julius Malema's South Africa sentencing

    Namibian Economic Freedom Fighters deputy president Kalimbo Iipumbu has described the sentencing of EFF leader Julius Malema in South Africa as politically driven and designed to intimidate. Malema was sentenced to five years imprisonment for unlawful firearm possession in connection with a 2018 incident, though he has been granted leave to appeal the sentence.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  4. South African court sentences Malema to five years for firearm offence

    Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters party, was sentenced to five years in jail for firing an assault rifle at a 2018 rally. The magistrate ruled the shooting was a deliberate violation of firearm laws, not an impulsive celebration as his defence claimed, and Malema's team has signalled an intention to appeal.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  5. Pan-Africanist activist arrested in South Africa on extradition warrant

    South African police arrested anti-Western activist Kemi Seba in Pretoria while he was attempting to flee to Zimbabwe and Europe. Benin has issued an international warrant for his arrest after he publicly supported a failed coup attempt in December, on charges of inciting rebellion and crimes against the state.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. Trump announces Israel-Lebanon leader talks, denied by Lebanese source

    US President Donald Trump said Israel and Lebanon leaders were set to speak, but a Lebanese official told AFP the country had not been informed of any planned contact with Israel, and Netanyahu's office made no comment. The announcement follows the first direct diplomatic talks between the two countries since 1993, when their ambassadors met in Washington amid escalating conflict in Lebanon since Hezbollah's March attack on Israel.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

Opinion

  1. Opinion: Namibian writer calls for national days of prayer

    An opinion piece in New Era argues that Namibia faces widespread social crises—rising crime, missing persons, accidents, and loss of life—that have left citizens living in fear. The author calls for national days of prayer and spiritual reflection, citing the example of former President Hifikepunye Pohamba's declaration of prayer during past national challenges.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  2. DNA testing at birth protects child identity and paternal certainty

    An opinion by Tuhafeni Hailonga argues that voluntary DNA testing of newborns should be available to establish legal parentage and protect children's right to identity, countering privacy concerns by emphasizing the asymmetry between maternity and paternity certainty and the constitutional balance needed between parents' and children's rights.

    17 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Legal expert explains differing bail outcomes in Namcor, Fishrot cases

    According to legal researcher Brian Ngutjinazo, the contrasting bail decisions in the Namcor and Fishrot corruption cases reflect consistent application of Namibia's Criminal Procedure Act rather than inconsistency. In Namcor, courts found insufficient grounds for detention, while in Fishrot, evidence of alleged witness interference and the scale of organized corruption justified continued detention under the law's test of whether the interests of justice permit release.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  4. Opinion: Namibians should focus on domestic priorities

    An opinion piece argues that Namibians waste energy debating international conflicts on social media instead of engaging in serious conversations about national development, holding elected officials accountable, and pursuing initiatives like an eight-hour economy that could transform the country.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  5. Editorial urges shared responsibility for road safety ahead of May holidays

    A New Era editorial warns that road fatalities typically spike during Namibia's busy holiday periods and calls on drivers to take individual responsibility for safety through vehicle maintenance, speed compliance, and aware driving—while also commending law enforcement visibility that helped reduce accidents during the December festive season.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. Lifestyle audits in anti-corruption fight raise constitutional questions

    An analysis of lifestyle audits—investigative tools that compare public officials' known income with observable wealth to detect illicit enrichment—argues they can deter corruption but risk infringing on privacy rights and reversing the burden of proof under the Namibian Constitution. The authors contend that for lifestyle audits to be constitutionally compliant, they require clear legal frameworks with defined triggers, judicial oversight, procedural safeguards, and confidentiality protections.

    17 April 2026 · New Era →

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