Namibia Minute.
Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Tuesday, 21 April 2026
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Archive Minute from Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Politics

Government cites budget limits, opts for floating bridges

The News

Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi says the government lacks funds to build permanent bridges in flood-prone regions including Zambezi, Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Omusati, and is instead deploying floating bridges as a temporary solution. The ministry has purchased 24,640 double floating cubes totalling N$24 million, with bridges already installed or under construction at Kalimbeza and Masikili villages to restore access to schools and essential services during seasonal flooding.

Why it matters

Namibia's government is using temporary floating bridges instead of permanent ones in flood-prone regions due to budget constraints, a decision that directly affects access to schools, healthcare, and essential services for thousands of residents in Zambezi and other northern regions.

21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Politics

  1. Government cites budget limits, opts for floating bridges

    Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi says the government lacks funds to build permanent bridges in flood-prone regions including Zambezi, Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena and Omusati, and is instead deploying floating bridges as a temporary solution. The ministry has purchased 24,640 double floating cubes totalling N$24 million, with bridges already installed or under construction at Kalimbeza and Masikili villages to restore access to schools and essential services during seasonal flooding.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Cybercrime bill has serious flaws, experts say

    The final draft of Namibia's cybercrime bill contains multiple shortcomings including undefined terms around computer viruses, cyberbullying, and obscene images that could lead to unconstitutional restrictions on free speech and inadequate victim protection. The author argues the bill should be improved before parliamentary submission, citing concerns that key provisions lack clarity, may inhibit online speech, and could create practical enforcement problems.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Swapo proceeds with 66th anniversary despite protest camp

    Swapo will hold its 66th anniversary celebrations this Sunday while respecting a court order allowing ex-combatants to continue their months-long protest at the party's head office in Windhoek. The group has been camping since October, demanding accountability over funds they claim were allocated for repatriated refugees before independence.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. NEFF demands suspension of officials in pharmaceutical theft probe

    The Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters has challenged the health ministry's decision to transfer rather than suspend officials allegedly involved in pharmaceutical theft and stock record manipulation. Health minister Esperance Luvindao said due process and Public Service Commission regulations must be followed before suspensions can occur.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Swapo marks 66 years; leaders warn history cannot secure future

    On Swapo's 66th anniversary, party leader Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that while the party's liberation struggle history is important, it alone cannot carry the party forward as people now expect tangible improvements in jobs, housing, healthcare, and education. Political analysts noted Swapo's waning electoral support over recent elections due to corruption and declining leadership quality, though the party remains the country's strongest with functional regional structures.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. Okongo SWAPO fundraiser opens drive for N$1.5 million facility

    SWAPO Party members in Okongo are fundraising to build a N$1.5 million hall and office block by December, with General Epafras Denga Ndaitwah overseeing the project. Two fundraising events have so far collected N$92,914 in cash and pledges, plus livestock.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  7. Twenty Namcor fraud and money laundering accused plead not guilty

    Twenty accused persons including former Namcor executives and businessmen appeared in Windhoek Magistrate's Court and pleaded not guilty to fraud, corruption, and money laundering charges ranging from one to 75 counts. The matter was postponed to 28 October 2026 pending the Prosecutor General's decision on whether to proceed to trial; the accused were arrested in July 2025 following allegations they defrauded Namcor of over N$400 million.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  8. PM clarifies PSEMAS amendments don't require member reapplication

    The Office of the Prime Minister has dismissed claims that recent amendments to the Public Service Employees Medical Aid Scheme require members to reapply, stating the changes—including increased contribution rates, removal of the 5% co-payment, and benefit structure review—do not affect current membership status and were automatically implemented through payroll systems.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

Business

  1. AI systems protect Namibian banking from fraud and cybercrime

    Namibian financial institutions are using artificial intelligence to detect and prevent fraud in electronic fund transfers by monitoring transaction velocity, spending patterns, device fingerprints, and cross-account activity in near real time, enabling banks and law enforcement to be proactive rather than reactive to cybercrime.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  2. Japan leads Namibia vehicle sales in March with 1,069 units

    Namibia sold 1,069 Japanese vehicles in March, making Japan the country's largest vehicle source and driving total March sales to 1,662 units—a 43% monthly increase and the strongest March performance since 2015. Japanese brands accounted for 64.3% of total sales, with commercial vehicle purchases surging 57.1% to a record 916 units, supported by demand from logistics, mining, agriculture, and energy sectors.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Telecom Namibia CEO apologizes for April network outages

    Telecom Namibia CEO Stanley Shanapinda apologized for network disruptions that occurred between 15 and 16 April, attributed to international connectivity failures, copper theft, and vandalism. The company is implementing infrastructure upgrades, enhanced security, and collaboration with law enforcement to prevent future outages.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Bank Windhoek launches WhatsApp banking service

    Bank Windhoek has launched a WhatsApp banking service that allows customers to conduct transactions and access services through the messaging platform. The move reflects the bank's commitment to innovation and meeting customers where they communicate, building on its introduction of cellphone banking in 2006.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. NaCC launches investigation into Ultimate Safaris and three conservancies

    The Namibian Competition Commission has initiated an investigation against tourism company Ultimate Safaris and three Kunene region conservancies for alleged anti-competition conduct, after the respondents defied a December 2024 cautionary notice to cease the conduct. The case stems from a complaint by a mining claimant seeking to reopen Goantagab Mine within a joint management area that the respondents oppose, citing potential harm to black rhino tourism.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  6. Aviation training academy seeks government funding for pilot development

    The Namibia Aviation Training Academy, facing funding shortages and outdated equipment, met President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to request government support for capacity-building. The academy warned that without urgent intervention, Namibia risks losing out on developing its own aviation workforce as demand for skilled professionals is expected to grow with the oil and gas sector expansion.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

Mining & Energy

  1. Zambezi Exploration loses urgent petroleum licence court case

    Acting judge David Mangota ruled that Zambezi Exploration's urgent application to restrain the minister of industries, mines and energy from implementing a decision about a petroleum exploration licence for block 2812A did not meet the requirements to be heard as urgent, finding the urgency was self-created because the company delayed action after learning of a rival's relinquishment in January 2023. The judge ordered Zambezi Exploration to pay the legal costs of the minister and Vena Gemstones & Mining, the company that was awarded the licence.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Agriculture & Land

  1. Police investigate cattle theft and slaughter in Oshana

    Police are investigating a livestock theft case in which four cattle were slaughtered at Olupumbu la Shinyemba village in the Oshana Region on Friday. The animals, valued at N$40,000, have not been recovered and no arrests have been made.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  2. Walvis Bay council approves temporary relocation of illegal land occupants

    The Walvis Bay municipal council has approved a plan to relocate residents illegally occupying land at Kuisebmond and other areas to a temporary site at farm 37, as part of measures to address illegal land occupation and enforce land management. The relocation will include selected backyard dwellers and 50 households from Narraville, with residents required to sign permission to occupy certificates that will regulate their temporary stay.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Society

  1. Employers urged to claim training grants by May 5 deadline

    The Namibia Training Authority CEO urges employers to submit Employer Training Grant applications by midnight on 5 May, noting that more than N$306 million is available for the 2025/26 financial year for businesses that invested in employee training between 1 April 2025 and 31 March. The grant reimburses up to 50% of VET levy contributions for qualifying training, covering accredited programmes and in-house interventions.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Accused in prosecutor attack claims uncle used him without knowledge

    Petrus Shikwaya, 21, testified at his bail hearing that his uncle, former police officer Abner Mateus, used his bank account and sent money through him without his knowledge, including funds allegedly used to buy acid for the attack on prosecutor Justine Shiweda. Shikwaya denied knowing Shiweda or being present during the incident, saying he was in Windhoek at the time.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Government extends costly emergency school food contracts six months

    The government has cancelled a restricted bidding process for school hostel food procurement and extended costly interim emergency contracts for six months to avoid disruptions while a new tender is finalised. The extension follows legal procedures linked to the procurement process, though stakeholders raise concerns about transparency and the impact on vulnerable hostel pupils.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Health ministry under multiple corruption investigations by ACC

    The Anti-corruption Commission is investigating multiple cases of theft and fraud within the Ministry of Health and Social Services, which also launched its own internal investigation after discovering alleged stock manipulation and diversion of pharmaceutical supplies within the Central Medical Stores. The ministry has reassigned implicated staff members pending investigation outcomes.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Government's Cash for Work programme builds house for disabled pensioner

    Lucia Petrus, a wheelchair-bound resident of Oshandi-1 village in Ohangwena, received a newly built one-bedroom house through the Government's Cash for Work Programme after her home was destroyed by a storm three years ago. The disability-friendly house was constructed by nine youth from the village and completed within two months.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  6. Two arrested for illegal game meat and firewood near Tsumeb

    Two suspects aged 35 and 46 were arrested near Tsumeb after police found illegally hunted game meat and unlawfully transported firewood in their vehicle. The confiscated items included warthog meat, four guinea fowl, and firewood valued at N$12,846.00.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  7. Woman convicted of murdering two people in December 2022 arson

    Mecthilde Karomo was found guilty on two murder charges and arson after setting fire to her boyfriend's house in Windhoek on 26 December 2022, killing Leonard Haupindi and Annastasia Matende. The judge found that Karomo, triggered by jealousy over Haupindi's new girlfriend, foresaw the possibility of death when she set the fire knowing they were inside or likely to be inside.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  8. NamPower apologises for two-day Otjinene blackout

    NamPower has apologised to Otjinene residents for a two-day power cut and says it is deploying additional staff to restore electricity to the affected area.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  9. NamWater postpones Opuwo water supply interruption

    The Namibia Water Corporation has postponed a planned water supply interruption for Opuwo and surrounding areas, initially scheduled for 23 April 2026, to avoid disrupting the Opuwo Town Council's Annual Trade Fair (20 April–02 May 2026). The upgrade works will now take place in May 2026, with new dates to be announced later.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  10. Condom shortage reported across Namibian public health facilities

    Members of the public report condoms are out of stock at public hospitals and clinics across Namibia, raising concerns about potential increases in HIV infections, STDs, and teenage pregnancies. The health ministry acknowledged the shortage's importance but stated that HIV prevention relies on multiple interventions beyond condoms, and reassured the public that efforts are underway to stabilise supply chains.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

Culture

  1. Namibian singer Yeezir releases reflective single 'Perfect Timing'

    Namibian artist Yeezir has released his latest single 'Perfect Timing', described as "a song for the soul" that explores meaningful expressions of romance and encourages vulnerability. The 25-year-old, who rose to prominence in 2020, is positioning the track as marking his artistic growth toward deeper perspective, while also becoming an advocate for professionalism and fair compensation within Namibia's music industry.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Ondangwa Expo 2026 draws controversy over artist selection

    The upcoming Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition (24 April–2 May 2026) has sparked social media debate after some local artists were denied performance opportunities. The town council says it rotates fairly among artists and rejected one artist's bid citing steep fees that would exhaust the performance budget, while defending other selections on grounds of regional representation and prior participation.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

Sport

  1. Chelsea needs experienced players, Di Matteo tells media

    Roberto Di Matteo said it is "vital" that Chelsea add experienced players to improve consistency as the Premier League club struggles in sixth place after four straight defeats. Di Matteo, who managed Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2012, also backed manager Liam Rosenior, saying allowances must be made given he only took over in January.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Former Spurs player Davids warns of relegation risk

    Ex-Tottenham midfielder Edgar Davids told AFP that Spurs will struggle to avoid Premier League relegation due to "a lack of quality and a lack of management," though he welcomes the recent appointment of coach Roberto De Zerbi and believes the club should have signed players in the January transfer window.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Wembanyama becomes first unanimous NBA defensive player winner

    San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, 22, was named the NBA's defensive player of the year on Monday with a perfect 100 votes, becoming the first unanimous winner in the award's 43-year history. The France international led the league in blocks per game for a third straight season.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  4. Erongo under-20 football team wins Nedbank Newspaper Cup

    Erongo's under-20 football team won the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup, defeating Kunene 2-1 at Keetmanshoop. Team manager Daniel Mouton attributed the victory to determination, unity, and support from stakeholders including the governor's office.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  5. Government plans N$5 million sports facility for Rehoboth

    Government will build a N$5 million sports facility in Rehoboth with a gravel athletics track, ablution facilities, and a pavilion seating approximately 350 spectators as part of the Basic Constituency Sport Infrastructure Facilities programme allocating N$10 million per region for 28 facilities nationwide. Residents have raised concerns about the location near an oxidation pond and cemetery, and questioned why a new facility is being pursued while an older stadium remains incomplete.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

  6. African Stars win fourth consecutive Namibia Premier League title

    African Stars secured the 2025/26 Namibia Premier Football League title with 58 points and a 2-0 final-match victory over FC Ongos, finishing ahead of runners-up Eeshoke Chula Chula FC on 57 points. Young Brazilians FC returned to the Premier League after winning the Southern Stream First Division.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

Tourism & Environment

  1. Kunene River flow remains elevated after weekend decline

    The Kunene River at Ruacana recorded 1,386.10 m³/s on Monday, 20 April, declining slightly from 1,561.20 m³/s on Sunday but remaining significantly higher than the previous week. Heavy rainfall in southern Angola has prompted NamPower to open floodgates, and communities downstream are warned to remain vigilant for potential localised flooding.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  2. Former minister criticizes Sossusvlei shuttle restrictions from May 2026

    Former Cabinet minister Calle Schlettwein has opposed the government's decision to restrict access to Deadvlei in Namib-Naukluft Park, saying the closure of Sossusvlei for self-drive visitors and requirement to use a single concessionaire robs Namibians of their right to free access. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism announced last week that only two categories of operators—Grow Namibia and registered tour guides employed by lodges—will be authorised to provide shuttle services to Deadvlei effective 1 May 2026, with self-driving beyond the 2×4 parking area no longer permitted for tourists.

    21 April 2026 · New Era →

World & Region

  1. Namibian woman fulfils lifelong dream, traces Kenyan roots via social media

    Aska Ndategako Orlale, a 32-year-old Namibian born to a Kenyan father who came to Namibia around independence, used Facebook and X to locate her paternal relatives and travelled to Kenya last month to meet them and visit her father's grave for the first time. During her two-week visit, she spent time with her uncles, visited her father's legacy school, toured national parks and cultural sites, and reconnected with her father's former colleagues and friends.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  2. Namibia and Zambia negotiate Zambezi River dredging project

    Namibia and Zambia are negotiating a joint dredging project for the Zambezi River to deepen waterways and mitigate severe seasonal flooding. Over 1,510 people have been displaced in the Zambezi region, with the government preparing a dredging machine procured in 2015 to begin operations pending agreement renewal with Zambia.

    21 April 2026 · The Namibian →

  3. Namibia and China pledge cooperation on energy, mining, agriculture

    Following high-level talks between Namibian Foreign Minister Selma Ashipala-Musavyi and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in April 2026, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across energy, oil and gas, mining, agriculture, science and technology, education, tourism, infrastructure, and human resource development. Namibia emphasised the importance of adding value to natural resources including critical minerals through local processing, while both sides committed to enhancing cultural and youth exchanges.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

  4. Algeria pledges to fund medical polyclinic in Namibia

    Algeria has committed to fully fund the construction of a medical polyclinic in Namibia, as confirmed during a State House meeting between President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Algeria's Ambassador Abdelkrim Diaf. The initiative strengthens bilateral ties and follows past health cooperation agreements dating to 2008.

    21 April 2026 · Informanté →

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