Namibia Minute.
Friday, 26 June 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Friday, 26 June 2026
OkaLexTranslate English into Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Rukwangali and OtjihereroMachine translation.Open the translator →
Windhoek—:—London—:—New York—:—Beijing—:—
Archive Minute from Friday, 26 June 2026

Politics

  1. Windhoek appoints Isack Hamata as head of public participation

    The City of Windhoek has appointed Isack Hamata as its new head of public participation, effective 1 June, in a role responsible for ensuring residents are included in the city's decision-making.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Defence minister denies rift with protesting veterans

    Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs Frans Kapofi told Parliament that veterans camped outside Swapo Party headquarters continue to receive all benefits and support due to them despite their protest, saying they have clarified their concerns are not directed at the government or ministry.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  3. MP Eigub demands action on government contractor payment delays

    Landless People's Movement MP Dawid Eigub has called on Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare to address persistent delays in government payments to contractors and service providers, noting that some contractors have waited more than six months for payment and that the situation is threatening businesses and driving up public project costs.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Ambassador Hengari pursues Dutch investment in agriculture and water

    Namibia's new Ambassador to the Netherlands, Alfredo Hengari, has assumed his post and pledged to leverage Dutch expertise and investment to advance agriculture, water security, and job creation as priority areas aligned with President Nandi-Ndaitwah's development vision.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  5. Kunene Regional Council salaries unpaid due to minister suspension

    Kunene Regional Council employees did not receive salaries as government funds remain withheld by the urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa, who suspended disbursement in May citing concerns over the presence of acting chief regional officer George Kamseb. The suspension has also halted several development projects in the region.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  6. President Nandi-Ndaitwah to attend SACU summit in Cape Town

    President Nandi-Ndaitwah will participate in the 9th SACU Summit of Heads of State and Government on 26 June 2026 in Cape Town, where leaders from the five member states will discuss regional economic integration, industrial development, trade cooperation, and implementation of the SACU Strategic Plan.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  7. Kunene governor blames council dispute for unpaid salaries

    Kunene governor Vipuakuje Muharukua has accused the Kunene Regional Council of using employees as a "human shield" over a dispute involving George Kamseb's position as chief regional officer, after staff members reportedly did not receive their June salaries. Muharukua said Kamseb and those protecting him are responsible for the salary delays, not minister James Sankwasa, and has invited Sankwasa to a meeting on 1 July to find a solution.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

Business

  1. RFA launches digital self-service platforms to improve efficiency

    The Road Fund Administration has rolled out new digital platforms including an online fuel levy refund portal, prepaid cross-border charges system, and mobile application for mass distance charge clients, aimed at reducing delays and improving service delivery in road funding management.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  2. RCC faces High Court winding-up threat over N$5m debt

    The Roads Contractor Company is facing legal action from Dust Construction and Civils over a rejected lease-to-own equipment agreement, with a law firm demanding N$4,969,345.23 within 48 hours and threatening to apply for the company's provisional winding-up in the High Court. The action comes after Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi described RCC as "a mess" over its disclaimer audit opinion and payment failures.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  3. Namibia's economy expanded 2% in first quarter 2026

    Namibia's gross domestic product grew 2% in real terms during the first quarter of 2026, reaching N$70.9 billion in nominal terms, driven primarily by tertiary industries which expanded 5.1%. Secondary industries contracted 3.1% and primary industries fell 5.7%, with mining and quarrying declining 12.2% due to lower mineral production.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Housing affordability rules treat homes like depreciating assets

    Namibia's financial regulators apply a uniform 30-33% debt-to-income ceiling to both housing and vehicle loans, treating appreciating property the same as depreciating cars. The article argues this blanket rule locks creditworthy Namibians out of homeownership despite the Bank of Namibia's recent move to allow 100% financing for first- and second-home purchases.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. President meets fishing leaders on sector challenges and sustainability

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah met with the Confederation of Namibian Fishing Associations to discuss the fishing sector's future, emphasizing that Namibia cannot remain a leading fish-producing nation while citizens struggle to buy fish and that sustainable management of marine resources must remain a priority. The industry warned that growing policy uncertainty is beginning to undermine investor confidence and threaten long-term sustainability.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  6. Windhoek-Okahandja road upgrade completed at N$1 billion cost

    The upgrade of the Windhoek-Okahandja Section 4A road to dual carriageway freeway standard has been completed at a cost of approximately N$1 billion and created 379 jobs. Active road projects in the Khomas region now exceed N$1.9 billion across four major contracts.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  7. Yango trains 50 drivers on safety for women commuters

    Fifty Yango e-hailing drivers received training in gender-sensitive communication, conflict management and customer care from Yango Namibia and the Automobile Association of Namibia in Windhoek. The certified programme aims to strengthen professional service standards and promote safer, more respectful journeys for women commuters.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  8. MTC launches 2026 Content Creator Awards with 24 categories

    MTC Namibia launched the Content Creator Awards 2026 in Windhoek on Thursday, introducing 24 categories including hair and beauty, fashion and lifestyle, with the workshop and main ceremony both scheduled for October. Organisers say the event aims to foster collaboration and professionalisation among creators while inspiring the next generation to create and monetise content.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  9. SACU approves N$5 billion fund, pursues AGOA extension

    Southern African Customs Union leaders, including Namibia's president, approved a N$5 billion Regional Innovative Funding Mechanism to support development projects across member states and called for a 15-year extension of the U.S. African Growth and Opportunity Act beyond December 2026 to protect market access and jobs.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

Agriculture & Land

  1. NAU reminds farmers of livestock and meat transport requirements

    The Namibia Agricultural Union has reminded farmers and the public to comply with legal documentation requirements when transporting livestock, meat, game products, warthogs and warthog meat, warning that non-compliance could result in enforcement action. Required documents include veterinary movement permits, removal certificates, and proof of lawful origin and ownership.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  2. Daure Daman Traditional Authority opposes ultimate.earth leasehold bid

    The Daure Daman Traditional Authority has formally objected to tourism operator ultimate.earth's application for a leasehold of communal land in Kunene Region, citing concerns about consultation and conduct. The objection, submitted to the Kunene Communal Land Board, is part of an ongoing dispute involving a Joint Management Agreement with three conservancies and a separate legal battle with Goantagab Tin Mine.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

Society

  1. Lüderitz school denies charging N$310 for Grade 8 applications

    Lüderitz Junior Secondary School principal Bessly Makaula has refuted claims that the school charged parents N$310 for Grade 8 enrolment application forms.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Over 1,100 Khomas learners without school placements

    More than 1,100 learners in the Khomas region were left without school placements at the start of the academic year, according to Khomas governor Sam Nujoma.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  3. Mammadu Trust creates opportunities for Namibia's youth

    Mammadu Trust has spent nearly two decades changing the lives of vulnerable children and young people in Windhoek's Otjomuise community since its founding in 2008.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  4. Khomas Region recorded 3,396 crime cases in eight months

    The Khomas Regional Governor announced that the region recorded 3,396 cases across priority crime categories between August 2025 and February 2026, with housebreaking and motor vehicle theft being the most common offences, followed by drug-related crimes, domestic violence, and murder. During the same period, drugs valued at N$15.88 million were seized and 262 suspects were arrested on drug-related charges, though the governor noted the Namibian Police Force faces staffing shortages and equipment gaps.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  5. Windhoek fudge sellers support homeless and vulnerable communities

    Four young entrepreneurs founded Tent City Namibia, selling fudge at traffic lights and shopping centres to raise funds for community outreach projects supporting people affected by homelessness, poverty, and substance abuse.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  6. Secilia Okafor balances policy work with women-focused restaurant business

    Secilia Okafor, a financial inclusion expert, founded Mrs Okafor's Kitchen, a Windhoek-based Nigerian cuisine restaurant during the COVID-19 pandemic, which she describes as rooted in empowerment and training of women in professional cooking roles.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  7. Oshana region graduates over 3,000 students in 2025/26

    Oshana region produced 3,010 graduates during the 2025/26 financial year from tertiary and vocational institutions including UNAM, IUM, and Welwitschia Health Training Centre. Young people in the region are calling for more jobs and business opportunities following this milestone in skills development.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  8. Public servant debt crisis extends to mental health and workplace wellness

    Parliamentary discussions on public servant indebtedness have highlighted a broader psychosocial crisis affecting employee mental health, family stability, and workplace performance. Financial distress among teachers, nurses, police officers and other essential workers manifests in depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and reduced productivity, requiring comprehensive employee wellness support beyond awareness campaigns.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Train collides with light motor vehicle at Swakopmund level crossing

    A TransNamib train and a light motor vehicle were involved in an incident at a level crossing in Swakopmund on 26 June at approximately 00:45. All occupants were assessed and transported to the state hospital but later discharged with no visible injuries reported; an investigation is underway.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  10. Henties Bay prepaid water vending system offline

    Residents of Henties Bay cannot purchase water after the town's prepaid water vending system was taken offline by the company that installed it, which is demanding final payment. The municipality has introduced emergency water collection measures and is working with the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development to restore the service.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

Culture

  1. Gospel artist Ally Tobias launches debut album at concert

    Namibian gospel artist Ally Tobias will launch her debut album at Ehangano Concert Vol. 2 on 4 July 2026 at the National Theatre of Namibia.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. House of Poulton launches incubator masterclass for aspiring fashion designers

    Fashion powerhouse House of Poulton has launched an incubator masterclass designed to equip aspiring fashion designers with creative skills.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  3. House of Poulton launches masterclass incubator for artists

    Local fashion brand House of Poulton officially launched a masterclass incubator at the Creative Industry Institute Africa in Windhoek, offering mentorship, industry exposure and practical skills development to equip Namibia's next generation of artists and designers with business skills. The initiative is backed by Miss Namibia 2025 Johanna Swartbooi, who emphasized that creatives need business knowledge to sustain their work alongside their artistic talent.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. Dembele scores hat-trick in France's 4-1 World Cup win

    Ousmane Dembele scored a hat-trick as France defeated Norway 4-1, with Dembele opening in the seventh minute, scoring again on 20 minutes, and completing the hat-trick in the 32nd—one of the earliest in World Cup history. France advanced as Group I winners with nine points and 10 goals in three matches.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Senegal beats 10-man Iraq 5-0 in World Cup Group I

    Senegal became the first African side to score five goals in a World Cup match, defeating 10-man Iraq 5-0 in their final Group I match, with Pape Gueye scoring twice. Senegal boosted their chances of progressing as one of the eight best third-placed teams with the best goal difference of teams on three points.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  3. CastleBet Cup horse racing event scheduled for July in Rehoboth

    The CastleBet Cup 2026, sponsored by CastleBet Namibia for N$300,000, will be held in Rehoboth on 4 July and is described by the Namibia Horse Racing Association as the richest horse racing event in Namibia. The gate draw for the racing teams took place on Thursday with representatives from both the sponsors and the racing association.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  4. MTC Volleyball League Round 4 begins in Rundu this weekend

    The MTC Volleyball National League moves to Rundu for Round 4, with NDF Raptors having ended NCS's unbeaten run in a five-set victory in Round 3, setting up a competitive title race as the two sides and others compete for points at the Rundu Trade Fair Hall.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Retired netball player Kamberipa appointed under-19 national coach

    Former Desert Jewels and Unam attacking player Vijanda Kamberipa has been appointed head coach of the national under-19 netball team. Kamberipa, who played for junior national teams that defeated South Africa, said she was groomed for senior national play from her under-19 days and credits her game intelligence for her success.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Namibia rugby begins new era after World Cup qualifying miss

    The Namibian Welwitschias play Zambia in an international rugby friendly on Sunday, their first match of the year and first since missing out on 2027 Rugby World Cup qualification. The squad, coached by new coach Jerome Paarwater, is preparing for a match against Zambia and an upcoming encounter against the Blue Bulls on 11 July, with plans to give multiple players exposure.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Unam and KK Palace contest NFA Cup final tomorrow

    Unam and KK Palace will play for the NFA Cup at Windhoek's Independence Stadium, with both teams seeking a first trophy. Unam reached the 2018 final but lost; KK Palace are in their first final.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  8. US loses 3–2 to Turkey in World Cup dead-rubber match

    The United States, already qualified as Group D winners, fell 3–2 to Turkey on Thursday in Los Angeles, with Kaan Ayhan scoring in stoppage time. Coach Mauricio Pochettino made nine lineup changes ahead of the knockout stage, saying he prioritized squad rotation over extending their unbeaten run.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Netherlands top World Cup group, advance to face Morocco

    The Netherlands defeated Tunisia 3-1 to finish atop World Cup Group F with seven points, avoiding Brazil and setting up a second-round match against Morocco in Monterrey on Monday.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  10. KK Palace and Unam FC contest NFA Cup final for prize money

    KK Palace captain Ben Mfutila says his team is determined to win tomorrow's men's NFA Cup final against Unam FC at Independence Stadium in Windhoek, describing the encounter as a "do-or-die" affair with substantial cash prize at stake. Mfutila reflected on KK Palace's difficult cup run, which included victories over Eeshoke Chula Chula, Date Eleven (on penalties), Squad 7, and NDF Mighty Gunners in the semi-finals.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  11. Netball playoff race tightens as season progresses

    Namibia Correctional Service remain undefeated with 14 wins from 14 matches and 78 points in the MTC Namibia Netball Premier League, while the competition heads toward an Otjiwarongo bumper weekend with multiple teams battling for top-five positions.

    26 June 2026 · New Era

  12. Usyk vacates heavyweight title belts but denies retirement

    Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk announced he is vacating his three boxing world title belts but will not retire, saying he wants to make the titles available for other contenders. The 39-year-old Ukrainian, unbeaten in his professional career, stated he still has "my last dance" ahead.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

Tourism & Environment

  1. Mining versus conservation in Kunene Region raises governance tensions

    A dispute in Kunene Region between the Dâure Daman Traditional Authority and tourism operator Ultimate Safaris over mining permits tests Namibia's ability to balance environmental protection, economic development, traditional governance, and the rule of law. The authority and local miners cite government-issued mining licences as opportunities for job creation and Black-owned enterprise participation, while conservationists warn that open-pit mining threatens habitat protection efforts for the critically endangered black rhino.

    26 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer

World & Region

  1. Ebola outbreak spreads to Europe; 1,200 cases in DRC

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing a growing Ebola outbreak with about 1,200 confirmed cases and 305 deaths, prompting the Africa CDC to urge construction of dedicated treatment centres. A French medical doctor recently returned from the DRC became Europe's first confirmed case and is now in isolation.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  2. President attends SACU summit in Cape Town

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah will travel to Cape Town, South Africa on Friday to participate in the 9th Southern African Customs Union Summit of Heads of State and Government.

    26 June 2026 · Namibian Sun

  3. Ecuador defeats Germany 2-1 to reach World Cup knockout rounds

    Ecuador upset Germany 2-1 to qualify for the World Cup last 32, with Gonzalo Plata scoring the winning goal in the 77th minute. Ivory Coast beat Curacao 2-0 to finish second in Group E, eliminating the tournament's smallest country by population.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  4. France face Norway in World Cup Group I decider

    France and Norway meet in a crucial World Cup group-stage match on Friday, with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland — both on four goals — set to feature prominently. France need only a draw to clinch first place in the group owing to superior goal difference.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Japan draws with Sweden, advances to face Brazil

    Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden on Thursday to advance from World Cup Group F behind the Netherlands, setting up a last-32 match against Brazil. Sweden also qualified as one of the best third-placed finishers.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Eastern Cape deploys police, military ahead of June 30 immigration protests

    Law enforcement in South Africa's Eastern Cape will deploy additional resources to identified hotspots ahead of nationwide anti-immigration protests planned for 30 June, adopting a zero-tolerance approach to any violence.

    26 June 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Namibia approves voluntary repatriation of citizens from South Africa

    The Namibian Government has approved urgent voluntary repatriation of Namibian nationals from South Africa who wish to return home. Logistical arrangements are still being finalised, and interested citizens are asked to contact the High Commission in Pretoria.

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

  8. President Nandi-Ndaitwah attends 9th SACU Summit in Cape Town

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has arrived in Cape Town to participate in the 9th Southern African Customs Union Summit of Heads of State and Government, where regional leaders from Namibia, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho and South Africa will discuss economic integration, industrial development, trade cooperation, and the implementation of the SACU Strategic Plan (2022–2027).

    26 June 2026 · Informanté

Namibia Minute