Namibia Minute.
Monday, 22 June 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Monday, 22 June 2026
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Archive Minute from Monday, 22 June 2026

Politics

  1. Vice President Witbooi opens National Youth Council assembly

    Vice President Lucia Witbooi delivered the keynote address at the official opening of the 3rd General Assembly of the National Youth Council of Namibia in Swakopmund on 19 June 2026.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Parliamentary committee examines lending practices amid debt crisis

    Parliament's Standing Committee on Economy and Industry held a public hearing to investigate whether existing laws adequately protect borrowers from exploitation by lending institutions and informal money lenders. Committee leaders said household debt is a serious concern among civil servants, some of whom take home very low net pay due to multiple loan deductions from their salaries.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  3. IPC criticises president's silent visit to Tanzania over rights abuses

    The Independent Patriots for Change has accused President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of remaining silent on human rights abuses during a state visit to Tanzania, where the main opposition leader is imprisoned on a treason charge and UN experts have condemned extrajudicial killings and mass arbitrary detentions following the October 2025 elections.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Minister urges worker voices in policy and mineral beneficiation

    Justice and Labour Relations Minister Fillemon Wise Immanuel has called for workers' voices to be reflected in national policy and economic planning, stating that Namibia must move beyond exporting raw minerals to beneficiation and value addition to create sustainable employment. Speaking at a Mineworkers Union of Namibia regional meeting in Swakopmund, Immanuel said the country can no longer export raw minerals while importing finished products at higher value.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  5. Think tank calls for investigation into healthcare procurement practices

    The Institute of Public Policy Research has released its procurement tracker and called for an in-depth investigation into healthcare sector procurement, describing it as a persistent governance challenge. Research shows corruption in the sector has been ongoing for a decade, and the IPPR notes that key laws including the Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017 and the Access to Information Act of 2022 have been passed but not implemented.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Legal vacuum challenged at Namibia Training Authority

    Lawyers for suspended manager Gad Kangueehi have challenged the Namibia Training Authority's operations, arguing it has operated in a "legal vacuum" since its board's term expired and that expenditure approved without a board remains unlawful. The matter has reportedly been referred to the Anti-Corruption Commission.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Five NYC delegates open assault cases at Swakopmund

    Five National Youth Council members opened common assault cases at Mondesa Police Station after being assaulted during a chaotic display on Sunday night in Swakopmund. The general assembly to elect a new NYC executive chairperson has been postponed by the Minister of education, innovation, youth, sports, arts and culture due to the electoral committee's resignation citing safety concerns.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  8. President Nandi-Ndaitwah visits historic Kongwa liberation camp in Tanzania

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah visited the historic Kongwa military camp in Tanzania during a state visit, where Swapo established its first major training and operational base in 1964. The president toured facilities including the dormitory of founding president Sam Nujoma and paid tribute to fallen Namibian freedom fighters at a memorial site.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Kharas municipalities underutilise Road Fund Administration allocations

    //Kharas Governor Dawid Gertze has raised concern over sluggish procurement processes in local authorities that are locking up millions of dollars in Road Fund Administration monies, with several municipalities and village councils returning a combined N$11.4 million and only 16.7% of N$857,100 allocated for traffic law enforcement being utilised.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

  10. Erongo governor wins praise for fiscal management and infrastructure

    Erongo governor Natalia /Goagoses has received cross-party recognition for her financial stewardship, including clean audits as a regional officer and moving the governor's office from costly hotel accommodation to a renovated government building funded by donations.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

  11. National Youth Council assembly postponed after violent clashes

    A National Youth Council elective general assembly that began Friday descended into chaos on Saturday, injuring nine delegates and prompting education minister Sanet Steenkamp to postpone the assembly indefinitely. The disruption involved disputes over the electoral process, with disagreements over delegate allocations and factional tensions.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

  12. Violence at youth council elections injures nine, wastes N$2m

    Violent clashes at National Youth Council leadership elections in Swakopmund on Saturday left nine young people injured and forced the suspension of the election. The violence, which broke out over disputes regarding delegate verification and the electoral process, prompted the resignation of the electoral committee and an estimated N$2 million in wasted public funds spent on transportation, accommodation, meals, and venue costs.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  13. Supreme Court finds City of Windhoek lacks telecom service powers

    The Supreme Court has ruled that the City of Windhoek does not have the power to provide telecommunication services to its residents, finding that the Local Authorities Act does not grant local authorities in Namibia such powers. The judgment upheld the High Court's 2023 decision to set aside the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia's award of a comprehensive telecommunications licence to the city.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  14. Violence at National Youth Council election forces postponement

    The state-funded National Youth Council's general assembly in Swakopmund was postponed after violence erupted during the election of a new executive chairperson, injuring nine delegates. The education minister condemned the incident as "unacceptable, unruly conduct and violence," and critics are calling for the institution to be dismantled.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

Business

  1. Tunga Real Estate Fund distributes N$21.6m to GIPF

    Old Mutual Alternative Investments Namibia has announced a distribution from the Tunga Real Estate Fund to investor participants, with N$21.6 million allocated to the Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF), which holds a 99% stake. This brings total distributions to GIPF to N$266 million since the fund's establishment in September 2011.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  2. Property fund distributes N$21.66 million to GIPF

    Tunga Real Estate Fund distributed N$21.66 million to the Government Institutions Pension Fund, bringing total distributions to N$265 million. The fund invests in retail centres, office developments, distribution facilities and housing projects across several Namibian towns.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  3. CRAN dismisses all applications to overturn Starlink licence rejection

    The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia has dismissed all applications seeking reconsideration of its decision to reject Starlink Internet Services Namibia's licence applications, saying the company failed to comply with communications laws. Of 624 public requests for reconsideration, 622 were dismissed for failing procedural requirements, while the two that met the threshold presented no new evidence or material error.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Namibia's FATF greylist exit boosts business confidence and competitiveness

    Namibia's removal from the Financial Action Task Force greylist in June 2026 signals restored confidence in the financial ecosystem and reduces barriers faced by entrepreneurs, including increased scrutiny, higher transaction costs, and delays in cross-border payments that affected international business dealings.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  5. NaCC merger conditions leave fuel dealers facing chaos and losses

    After the Namibian Competition Commission approved Vivo Energy's purchase of Engen Namibia's 52 service stations on condition that a small Namibian player acquire them, dealers say the subsequent sale to Nasan Energies has left them facing contract changes and business risks despite NaCC assurances in February that they would not be worse off.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

Mining & Energy

  1. Botswana seeks UAE, Oman backing for De Beers stake

    Botswana President Duma Boko said the country is seeking an investment partner from the UAE and Oman to acquire a strategic stake in De Beers as Anglo American sells its 85% stake in the diamond producer. Botswana already owns 15% of De Beers and is also engaging with Namibia and Angola to explore alliances to increase its holding.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  2. Fisheries ministry denies quota allocation was protest response

    The fisheries ministry says the allocation of horse mackerel quota to Etosha Fishing Corporation was not linked to recent employee protests, and that all approvals were completed before the demonstration. The allocation is part of long-standing efforts to sustain employment following the collapse of Namibia's commercial pilchard fishing industry, which has been under a closed moratorium since 2018.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

Agriculture & Land

  1. Orange River Irrigation Project workers allege neglect

    Workers at the Orange River Irrigation Project, a government-backed irrigation initiative in the ǁKharas region, say they feel abandoned by authorities.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Southern Namibia records heavy rainfall, dams overflow

    The south experienced sustained heavy rainfall over the weekend, with several areas in Hardap and //Kharas regions receiving significant amounts, including Bethanie which recorded more than 40 mm. Dam levels rose notably, with Naute Dam reaching over 117% capacity, prompting NamWater to open a sluice gate.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  3. Zambia lifts export ban; Namibian importers resume maize trade

    Zambia has lifted its export ban on maize grain and maize meal, allowing Namibian businesses to resume imports through the Zambian Commodities Exchange (ZAMACE) platform. The move, notified to Namibia's agricultural sector through official channels, is expected to improve access to maize supplies for Namibia.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Kavango leaders oppose N$7bn Windhoek water pipeline

    Kavango East and West traditional leaders and community members are opposing NamWater's proposed N$7-billion pipeline to Windhoek, demanding an audit of the Kavango River first and citing inadequate consultation during the planning stages.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Naute and Neckartal dam releases raise Fish River flood risk

    Namibia Water Corporation opened the Naute Dam's floodgates on Sunday as water levels exceeded capacity, with releases from both Naute and Neckartal dams flowing into the rapidly-rising Fish River. NamWater has warned residents, tourists, and farmers to stay out of the Fish River and canyon areas due to high water volumes and strong flows.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

Society

  1. Two learners arrested at Grootfontein school with drugs

    Two Grade 9 learners, aged 19 and 16, were arrested at a Grootfontein school last Wednesday after being allegedly found in possession of a ziplock bag containing 14.5 grams of drugs.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Erongo region needs three new schools annually

    Erongo's education system faces pressure from rapid population growth, requiring at least three new schools or 60 additional classrooms every year.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  3. Cancer drugs among 47 essential supplies delivered nationwide

    Cancer treatment drugs are among 47 essential pharmaceutical and clinical supply items delivered to public health facilities across Namibia, the health ministry confirmed.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  4. Omusati police seek suspect in Okapya rape case

    Police in Omusati Region are still searching for a suspect accused of raping a 19-year-old girl in Okapya village on the evening of 11 June; the suspect is known to the victim but had not been arrested as of the weekend.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  5. Twenty Lüderitz inmates complete gender-based violence course

    Twenty inmates at Lüderitz Correctional Facility received certificates after completing a Gender-Based Violence course aimed at promoting personal development, behavioural change and reintegration into society. The programme forms part of ongoing rehabilitation efforts by the Namibian Correctional Service.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  6. Minister Ballotti addresses school admissions process for 2027

    Minister of Education Dino Ballotti delivered a ministerial statement to the National Assembly on learner admissions to schools for the 2027 academic year.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Armed gunmen rob Karibib hardware store of N$150,000

    Three armed suspects robbed a Chinese hardware store in Karibib on 20 June, restraining two residents and escaping with approximately N$150,000 in cash, two cellphones, waist bags containing personal documents, and Chinese-branded cigarettes. Police are investigating and no arrests have been made.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  8. Two minors die by suicide in Oshoogolo village

    A nine-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl were found dead by hanging in Oshoogolo village, Etayi Constituency, Omusati Region, on Friday, 19 June 2026. Police investigations are ongoing and post-mortem examinations are pending.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  9. Education leaders warn of skills mismatch between graduates and jobs

    Industry and education leaders have raised concerns that Namibia's education system is producing graduates ill-prepared for the demands of the modern workplace, with employers complaining of a major skills mismatch between the skills required by the labour market and those possessed by many job seekers. The National Council for Higher Education deputy executive director called for renewed efforts to prioritise skilling, reskilling and upskilling, and urged stakeholders to rethink education systems to produce resilient, innovative and adaptable citizens.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  10. Over 16,560 road users petition against B1 speed humps

    A petition with more than 16,560 signatures is calling for pedestrian bridges to replace speed humps on the B1 highway, alleging the humps cause vehicle damage and highway collisions. Social justice activist Michael Amushelelo, who is leading the campaign, has announced plans to file a class-action lawsuit against the minister of works and transport seeking financial compensation for motorists claiming vehicle damage and injuries.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  11. NYC assembly descends into chaos, wastes N$2 million

    The National Youth Council's general assembly in Swakopmund descended into violence on Saturday, injuring nine delegates and forcing the electoral committee to resign over safety concerns. The suspended election process, marred by allegations of political interference and back-door deals, has wasted an estimated N$2 million in public funds.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  12. National Youth Council congress marked by chaos and disorder

    The National Youth Council's elective congress reportedly descended into chaos, intimidation, and alleged physical altercations, with more than N$2 million spent on the event. The Windhoek Observer editorial characterizes the proceedings as unbecoming of an institution representing Namibia's youth aspirations.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  13. Global FortiBleed cyber threat exposes 13 Namibian organisations

    A cybersecurity incident called FortiBleed may have exposed administrator credentials and firewall configuration data at 13 Namibian organisations that use Fortinet infrastructure. The Namibia Cyber Security Incident Response Team identified the affected organisations and recommended they reset credentials, add multifactor authentication, and upgrade their Fortinet devices.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  14. Windhoek motorists protest new speed humps over traffic impact

    Activist Michael Amushelelo led a protest on Windhoek's Western Bypass against N$704,000 speed humps installed per a directive by the minister of works and transport, arguing they cause severe traffic congestion and that pedestrian safety should not come at motorists' expense. The group presented a petition with over 1,000 signatures and offered to help fund alternative solutions such as pedestrian bridges.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  15. Former Kavango East governor disputes pledge money allegations

    Former Kavango East governor Bonifatius Wakudumo denies mishandling N$31 000 pledged to a 14-year-old boy who walked over 200km to attend Sam Nujoma's memorial service, saying he gave the money to the boy's parents. The boy and his family dispute this, claiming the pledged money was never received.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  16. Two men granted bail in Windhoek prosecutor assassination case

    Two men implicated in the assassination of Ondangwa prosecutor Justine Shiweda were granted bail of N$2,000 each in Windhoek Magistrate's Court. They also face separate charges related to allegedly bribing a police officer to release an inmate, in connection with a conspiracy to murder Shiweda.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  17. 96 hikers trapped in Fish River Canyon during flood

    Ninety-six hikers, including school children, are trapped in Fish River Canyon after heavy rainfall and dam releases caused water levels to rise. Police and Namibia Wildlife Resorts have launched a rescue operation involving ground teams and a helicopter.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  18. Oipyaiwa Primary School renamed after ex-regional governor

    Oipyaiwa Primary School in Ohangwena Region was officially renamed Walde Ndevashiya Primary School, honouring the former Ohangwena Regional Governor and current High Commissioner to Nigeria. Ndevashiya donated a photocopy machine, hygiene packages, and school uniforms, while another donor pledged N$40,000 to the school.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  19. Farm water pumps worth N$140,000 stolen near Coblenz

    Three Grundfos water pumps valued at N$140,000 were stolen from two neighbouring farms at Ongongoro near Coblenz in Otjozondjupa Region on Friday. A 35-year-old Namibian male has been detained in connection with the theft.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

Culture

  1. Windhoek mural unveiled for Pride month visibility

    A new Pride month mural was unveiled on Saturday at Sister Namibia premises in Windhoek as a public declaration of visibility, inclusion and celebration.

    22 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Pioneering baritone Richard Meyer dies at age 72

    Namibian music community mourns the death of baritone singer Richard Meyer, who died on 16 June. Meyer, who made his introduction to the Namibian music scene through the Purple Haze band in the 1970s, was known for capturing the soul of Windhoek's communities in his music and left behind a legacy that shaped the lives of many in Khomasdal and Katutura.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. Messi becomes World Cup all-time leading scorer

    Lionel Messi scored twice to guide Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria, becoming the leading scorer in World Cup history with 17 goals total. The 38-year-old captain's performance sent Argentina into the last 32.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Belgium held 0-0 by Iran, Ngoy sent off

    Belgium drew 0-0 with Iran in a World Cup Group G match, with Nathan Ngoy sent off in the second half after fouling Mehdi Taremi. All three games in Group G have ended in draws, leaving Belgium on two points ahead of their final group match against New Zealand.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Egypt beats New Zealand 3-1 for first World Cup victory

    Egypt won their first World Cup match, defeating New Zealand 3-1 in Group G with goals from Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Zico, and Trezeguet. The victory puts Egypt atop Group G on four points and needing just a draw against Iran to advance to the knockout round.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Unam, KK Palace advance to NFA Cup final

    Unam and KK Palace won close NFA Cup semifinals on Saturday. KK Palace defeated Mighty Gunners 5-3 on penalties after a goalless draw, while Unam beat Okahandja United with a goal from Eduardo Namib in the 15th minute.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. FNB Kudus secure 41-27 away win against FNB Unam

    Defending champions FNB Kudus defeated FNB Unam 41-27 away on Saturday with two late tries to climb to fourth place on the log. FNB Grootfontein tops the standings after beating FNB Dolphins 41-36, while Trustco United remains in contention with a 57-21 victory over FNB Reho Falcon.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Clark wins second US Open, edges Burns by one stroke

    Wyndham Clark captured his second US Open title at Shinnecock, finishing at four-under 276 to defeat Sam Burns by one stroke. Clark held a six-shot lead entering the final day and won the event wire-to-wire, claiming the top prize of $4.5 million.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Cape Verde draw 2-2 with Uruguay in World Cup debut

    World Cup debutants Cape Verde scored a second-half equaliser to secure a 2-2 draw against Uruguay on Sunday in Miami, following their opening draw with Spain. Cape Verde now face Saudi Arabia in their final group game, knowing victory would secure a last-32 berth.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  8. KK Palace, Unam FC advance to NFA Cup final

    KK Palace defeated NDF Mighty Gunners 5-3 on penalties after a 0-0 draw, while Unam FC beat Okahandja United 1-0 in the semi-finals of the NFA Cup, setting up a final clash between the two sides for the trophy and winner's prize.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

  9. Rooi wins bronze at World Triathlon Para Cup in France

    Namibian para triathlete Jerome Rooi secured a bronze medal at the World Triathlon Para Cup in Besançon, France on Saturday, despite challenging conditions including extreme heat. His coach noted that Rooi has improved significantly in swimming and cycling and is the youngest athlete in his classification internationally.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

Tourism & Environment

  1. NWR rescuing 96 hikers trapped in Fish River Canyon

    Namibia Wildlife Resorts is rescuing 96 hikers from nine groups stranded in Fish River Canyon since Sunday after heavy rains caused the Naute Dam to exceed capacity, forcing NamWater to open sluice gates that sent dangerous, rapidly rising water downstream. The Fish River hiking trail has been temporarily closed until conditions are declared safe.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Oranjemund residents complete tourism customer service training

    More than 40 Oranjemund residents from various occupations completed a four-day customer service training workshop organised by OMDis Town Transform Agency and Sole Hospitality, aimed at improving the town's hospitality and welcoming environment for visitors. The course, run for the second time this year, included practical skills training on communication, complaint handling, and customer service for workers across fuel stations, restaurants, and other service sectors.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Heavy rains force road closures in ǁKharas region

    Heavy rainfall in the ǁKharas region has forced the temporary closure of road 212 (the C13) between Aussenkehr and Rosh Pinah due to flood-related damage; the Roads Authority is monitoring affected areas and advising motorists to use alternative routes and exercise caution.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

World & Region

  1. President calls for stronger Namibia–Tanzania economic cooperation

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered a keynote address at the Tanzania–Namibia Business Forum in Dar es Salaam, calling for enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns as Labour Party leader

    Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Labour Party leader and prime minister, saying he is not best placed to lead Labour into the next general election. He will remain as prime minister until a leadership contest concludes, with nominations opening 9 July and closing 16 July, and a new leader in place before parliament returns in September.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Namibia, Tanzania strengthen economic ties through state visit

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah visited Tanzania to push for converting decades of liberation solidarity into trade, investment and job creation. She addressed a joint press conference and business forum, urging both countries to translate their strong political ties into tangible economic benefits for their citizens.

    22 June 2026 · New Era

  4. Japan has provided N$80 billion development aid to Namibia

    Japan has contributed N$80 billion in development assistance to Namibia over the past two decades, including technical assistance, grants and scholarships, with close to half—N$47 billion—provided as grants and development assistance, according to the National Planning Commission executive director.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. UK Reform party threatens visa curbs over African reparations demands

    The African Union has declared 2026–2035 the Decade of Reparations and called for a global reparations fund to address colonialism and slavery; Reform UK responded by threatening visa restrictions for residents of African countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, demanding European accountability.

    22 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  6. Namibia, Tanzania sign trade and defence cooperation MoUs

    Namibia and Tanzania have signed several Memoranda of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in trade, agriculture, defence, and small and medium-sized enterprises, following President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's three-day state visit to Tanzania. High-level talks between the two presidents covered trade, mining, regional integration, investment, agriculture and infrastructure development.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  7. UK Prime Minister Starmer to resign, Burnham emerges leadership frontrunner

    British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Labour Party leader and will step down as prime minister once a successor is chosen, with Andy Burnham emerging as the frontrunner. Starmer said he will remain in office until a new Labour leader is selected, ensuring an orderly transition of power.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

  8. President Nandi-Ndaitwah revisits exile home in Dar es Salaam

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah returned to the house in Magomeni, Dar es Salaam, where she lived from 1980 to 1986 as SWAPO's chief representative in East Africa, and met former neighbours who sheltered her during Namibia's liberation struggle.

    22 June 2026 · Informanté

Opinion

  1. Young Namibians must embrace failure as path to success

    An opinion piece argues that young Namibians face enormous pressure to succeed but often fear failure so much they stop trying. The article contends that failure is a normal part of life and that success requires persistence through multiple setbacks—only one breakthrough is needed to change one's life story.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Namibia must build institutions to govern oil discoveries wisely

    An opinion piece argues that Namibia's real task is not to celebrate oil discoveries in the Orange Basin, but to develop the institutional, technical, and commercial discipline needed to govern them before project momentum shapes outcomes. Discovery creates only the possibility of achievement; the state must understand what resources it has found and govern them effectively before bad habits harden.

    22 June 2026 · The Namibian

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