Namibia Minute.
Monday, 10 August 2026
Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Monday, 10 August 2026
OkaLexTranslate English into Oshikwanyama, Oshindonga, Rukwangali and OtjihereroMachine translation.Open the translator →
Windhoek—:—London—:—New York—:—Beijing—:—
Archive Minute from Monday, 10 August 2026

Politics

  1. Chief Munjuku II Nguvauva Military Base unveiled at Gobabis

    The government unveiled the Chief Munjuku II Nguvauva Military Base in Gobabis, renaming the 126 Battalion in honour of the late Ovambanderu chief for his role during the colonial period and in Namibia's independence struggle.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  2. Magistrates Association challenges Justice Ministry salary decision

    The Magistrates and Judges Association of Namibia has challenged the constitutionality of provisions giving the Executive powers over magistrates' salaries and employment conditions, arguing the Minister of Justice and Labour Relations overstepped his powers. The challenge targets a Government Notice published on 18 December 2025 that applied Public Service grades to magistrate positions and adjusted housing and vehicle allowances contrary to an earlier agreed schedule.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  3. President challenges state enterprises to reform within 24 months

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has challenged state-owned enterprises to stop producing plans and attending meetings, and instead identify one strategic investment project and one reform that can produce measurable results within 24 months, with the test of an SOE ultimately being what it delivers to citizens and the economy.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Minister urges sustained funding for AU social protection goals

    Justice Minister Fillemon Wise Immanuel told an African Union technical committee that sustained continental financing, effective partnerships and enhanced coordination are needed to implement AU social protection strategies. Ministers from AU member states agreed to accelerate comprehensive social protection systems reaching informal workers, rural communities, and vulnerable groups, and endorsed measures to expand social protection and strengthen migrant worker rights.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  5. President's granddaughter selected her official portrait

    President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said her seven-year-old granddaughter chose the official portrait associated with her presidency from images taken ahead of her 2025 inauguration. Speaking at a Public Enterprises Chief Executives' Forum meeting in Windhoek, the president praised Namibia's creative industry for its potential to create jobs and drive economic growth.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Labour Minister rejects long-serving Council members

    Labour and Justice Minister Wise Fillemon Immanuel has rejected the reappointment of social partner representatives who have served three to four consecutive terms on the Labour Advisory Council, amounting to between nine and 12 years, and called for new nominations to bring fresh representation.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

Business

  1. Namibia and Botswana plan Trans-Kalahari 4G expansion

    Namibia and Botswana have identified 13 additional telecommunications sites needed to close connectivity gaps along the Trans-Kalahari Corridor, with the infrastructure upgrade estimated to cost about N$52 million. The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on ICT cooperation aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital skills.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  2. NSX records N$115.3 million in trades for week ending 7 August

    The Namibia Securities Exchange recorded N$115.3 million in trading value during the week from 3 to 7 August, with 1.89 million shares changing hands across 97 deals. The financial sector dominated trading activity with N$91.59 million in value across 61 deals.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  3. NSX lists NewWave Silver ETN for Namibian investors

    Namibian investors can now invest in silver through the Namibia Securities Exchange via the NewWave Silver Exchange Traded Note, which allows them to benefit from silver price movements without physically owning silver. NSX chief executive notes that financial regulations have not kept pace with new investment products and need updating.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Close to 540 security guards face retrenchment as City ends NPS contract

    The City of Windhoek has declined to renew its security services contract with Namibia Protection Services (NPS), leaving nearly 540 guards facing retrenchment by month end. NPS, a Swapo-linked company, appealed to the City to renew the arrangement, but the City maintained the contract was temporary and has concluded.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

  5. Gobabis mayor leaves as residents object to land sale

    Gobabis municipality plans to sell 100 erven in Extension 6 to Mbatjiua Construction CC for N$8.8 million, but residents and activists protested, arguing local individuals should have priority over private developers. Mayor Elwin Gariseb and two Swapo councillors left the community gathering where residents handed over an objection letter.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

  6. Witvlei Meat abattoir closure leaves 200 workers jobless

    The Witvlei Meat abattoir, which employed over 200 people, shut its doors in 2016, forcing former workers to turn to informal trade like selling kapana to survive. Former employees describe the loss of steady wages, benefits including social security and funeral cover, and the abattoir's role as the village's largest employer and taxpayer.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

Mining & Energy

  1. Mining sector warns of slow government decision-making delays

    The mining sector has warned that slow decision-making by government ministries and public institutions could delay Namibia's next wave of mining projects moving towards construction.

    10 August 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Rössing Foundation seeks partnerships for post-mine sustainability

    The Rössing Foundation is being revitalised and rebranded to serve as a lasting legacy for community development after Rössing Uranium's resources are exhausted. Foundation leadership stressed the need for continuous partnerships with mines, contractors and suppliers to adapt programmes to national priorities and sustain community impact beyond the mine's finite lifespan.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  3. Otjikoto mine lifts 2026 gold output forecast to 80–100k ounces

    B2Gold's Otjikoto mine produced 23,438 ounces of gold in the second quarter and raised its full-year 2026 guidance from 70,000–90,000 ounces to 80,000–100,000 ounces, citing higher-than-expected mill feed grade and stronger underground ore volumes.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  4. Seabed phosphate mining permit reignites fishing industry concerns

    Namibia's environment ministry granted an Environmental Clearance Certificate to Namibia Marine Phosphate for proposed seabed phosphate mining, sparking division among Namibians. Critics including marine experts and the opposition warn the project could damage fish stocks and the fishing industry, while others argue it will create jobs.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

  5. Namibia oil conference partners with youth forum to educate professionals

    The Namibia Oil and Gas Conference in Windhoek will partner with the Namibia Youth Energy Forum on a Future Generations session and local content masterclasses to educate young professionals on opportunities in the energy sector through training, mentorship, and industry networking.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  6. Diamond sector shows recovery signs as market splits

    Namdeb's chief executive says the diamond market is showing first signs of recovery, with lab-grown diamonds hitting their ceiling and buyers at the top end turning toward natural stones. The Rapaport Diamond Report shows diamond prices stabilized in July after months of decline, with demand expected to benefit larger stones, of which over 80% of Namdeb's revenue derives.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  7. Marine phosphate mining project approved despite fishing industry opposition

    Namibian Marine Phosphate received an Environmental Clearance Certificate for its Sandpiver Project, an offshore marine phosphate mining operation, despite sustained opposition from Namibia's fishing industry and environmental groups who warn of potential damage to marine ecosystems and fisheries.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  8. Namibia Marine Phosphate receives environmental clearance for Sandpiper project

    The environmental commissioner issued an environmental clearance certificate on 5 August for Knowledge Katti's Namibia Marine Phosphate's Sandpiper marine phosphate mining project offshore Namibia, valid until 5 August 2029. The decision has triggered opposition from the IPC and conservationists who have raised long-running environmental and industry concerns.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

Agriculture & Land

  1. Deputy Minister urges Ohangwena youth toward climate-smart agriculture

    Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ruthy Masake has called on young people in Ohangwena to embrace climate-smart farming, agribusiness and innovation, urging them to become active producers and leaders rather than programme beneficiaries. She stressed the integration of climate action, water security and sustainable agriculture to strengthen food security and rural development in response to climate impacts including changing rainfall patterns and prolonged dry spells.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  2. Goat export costs squeeze communal farmers' margins in South Africa trade

    Namibian live goat exporters must meet strict animal health requirements including testing for Brucella melitensis to access the South African market, which takes roughly 98% of Namibia's exported goats; however, compliance costs estimated at N$485 per animal—roughly 30% of average auction price—erode profits for communal farmers who depend heavily on this market.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  3. NAB chief proposes single authority for crop sector reform

    The Namibia Agronomic Board's chief executive has called for consolidating crop-related policies and regulatory functions, currently spread across different laws and institutions, under a single institutional authority to unlock investment and strengthen agricultural value chains.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

Society

  1. Project Never Walk Alone delivers 400 shoes to barefoot Namibians

    Project Never Walk Alone, in partnership with the Roads Fund Administration, delivered more than 400 pairs of shoes to barefoot Namibians.

    10 August 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Mentally disabled man arrested for alleged rape of child

    A 35-year-old mentally disabled man allegedly raped a 4-year-old child in Okafitu kaNangombe village, Ogongo Constituency, Omusati Region.

    10 August 2026 · Namibian Sun

  3. Two men die during Gammams water plant repair work

    Two men died on Friday afternoon while carrying out repair work at the Gammams Water Treatment Plant west of Windhoek. The cause of death was not immediately confirmed.

    10 August 2026 · Namibian Sun

  4. Two men acquitted in seal genital export case

    Two Chinese citizens were found not guilty in the Windhoek Regional Court of charges related to 571 seal bull genitals found in their possession at Hosea Kutako International Airport in January last year. The magistrate determined the seal genitals were legally bought and had not been exported, as the accused's luggage was not booked onto a flight before they were arrested.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  5. City of Windhoek formalises 10 settlements in Samora Machel

    The City of Windhoek is upgrading 10 informal settlements in Samora Machel into formal townships, with four areas on Farms 1008 and 1007 at Goreangab Dam already approved. Environmental Impact Assessments for all 10 areas have been completed, and on Farm 1008, 348 households have been rearranged according to the proposed layout, with land allocated for schools, a health facility, and a police station.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  6. Gobabis municipality faces N$1.8m sewerage project claim

    Gobabis municipality is facing a claim of nearly N$1.8 million from Bethlehem Builders over an eight-year-old sewerage project. The High Court hearing was postponed to 12 August 2026 after the municipality's legal representative failed to appear.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  7. Triumphant College faces staff complaints over pay equity and nepotism

    An anonymous coalition of staff at Triumphant College has lodged complaints with the rector alleging pay inequities, arbitrary salary adjustments, and unclear recruitment practices. Administrative employees reportedly earn between N$7,000 and N$9,000 monthly without defined criteria, while a Level 8-qualified lecturer receives N$14,132.56 including benefits, with staff citing inadequate housing allowances and financial pressure in Windhoek.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  8. 244 people trained in waste collection and recycling at Rundu, Ondangwa

    Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, in partnership with local authorities and the Recycle Namibia Forum, has trained 244 people in waste sorting, recycling practices and workplace safety under the 2026 Recycling Heroes Project. The initiative targets women, young people and people with disabilities, aiming to improve recycling practices while creating economic opportunities for waste collectors and addressing waste management challenges in both towns.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  9. Football coach appeals for N$5,000 wheelchair battery funds

    Simson Tuhafeni Paulus, a coach at Spitting Cobras and former Unam Bokkies coach, is appealing for financial assistance to purchase two replacement wheelchair batteries after both depleted, leaving him unable to move or carry out daily activities and community work.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

  10. Oshikoto closes unregistered school after sexual abuse allegations

    The Ministry of Education has closed Ebenezer Royal Primary School in Omuthiya after discovering it was operating without registration. The closure follows allegations of sexual abuse involving hostel learners; the school's former administrator faces seven counts of rape allegedly involving girls aged between five and ten during 2025 and 2026.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  11. Ondangwa confirms rabies case; urgent pet vaccination campaign launched

    The Ondangwa Town Council has confirmed a positive rabies case in Extension 4 and launched an urgent vaccination campaign for dogs and cats in Extensions 2, 3, 4, and 6, with vaccinations scheduled from Wednesday, 12 August 2026, at designated locations and via mobile teams.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  12. Children receiving street support declined over past decade

    The number of Namibian children receiving support for living and working on the street fell by more than 40% from 857 in 2014 to 485 in 2023, according to the government's Child Care and Protection Statistics Report (2014-2023). The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare attributes the decline to improved reintegration into families, schools and communities.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  13. Union reverses opposition to blood donation by truck drivers

    The Namibian Revolutionary Transport and Manufacturing Union (Naretu) has reversed its earlier objection to a blood donation initiative and signed an agreement with the Walvis Bay Corridor Group and the Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia to promote voluntary donations among truck drivers and transport professionals.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  14. First gentleman urges Kavango West boys to complete education

    First gentleman Denga Ndaitwah addressed boys in Kavango West, urging them not to abandon education despite peer pressure, embarrassment and financial hardship. Education director Pontianus Musore reported that 650 pupils dropped out of school during the first semester this year, with boys making up the majority, citing economic hardship, child-headed households, poor parental involvement, limited supervision and limited hostel facilities as factors.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  15. Nine-month-old baby murdered in Omitara, Omaheke Region

    A nine-month-old girl was found dead in Omitara after her mother discovered her missing from bed early Saturday morning. The child's uncle found shoe prints inside and outside the home that he followed, but the circumstances of her death remain under investigation.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  16. Nine-month-old found dead in shrubs near Omitara home

    A nine-month-old girl disappeared from her home in Omitara, Omaheke region, early Saturday morning while her mother briefly left the house. The baby was later found dead in shrubs about 30 minutes' walk from the house, with a cloth tied around her mouth and wrapped in heavy clothing; police investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  17. City of Windhoek seeks eviction of Havana residents over market site

    The City of Windhoek has summoned about 50 people to vacate land earmarked for a new community market to complete the Havana four-way road and intersection; residents object, saying the city has not provided promised services including water and electricity at their allocated relocation sites.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  18. Unemployment and societal pressure drive rising anxiety among male graduates

    A Windhoek conference highlighted how post-graduation unemployment and societal expectations to provide for families are causing rising anxiety and depression among young men in Namibia, with male students in their third and fourth academic years experiencing particularly high anxiety levels.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  19. Security firm warns 534 guards face jobs loss as Windhoek contract ends

    Namibia Protection Services says 534 security guards face possible job losses when its contract with the City of Windhoek ends on 31 August. The company has asked the justice and labour minister to intervene and requested the municipality consider incorporating the guards into a new service provider, though the city says employment decisions are NPS's responsibility.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

Culture

  1. Namibian Annual Music Awards return after six-year hiatus

    The Namibian Annual Music Awards (NAMAs) have been revived and will hold their ceremony on 13 March 2027, with submissions open from 10 August to 11 September. Minister of education, innovation, youth, sport, arts and culture Sanet Steenkamp announced the government's N$10 million pledge toward the awards.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

Sport

  1. Namibian sprinter Masilingi quits athletics over hormone medication

    Beatrice Masilingi, one of Namibia's accomplished young sprinters and Olympic finalist, has stepped away from competitive athletics over hormone medication rules.

    10 August 2026 · Namibian Sun

  2. Ingebrigtsen wins seventh European athletics gold at 5000m

    Norwegian Jakob Ingebrigtsen won the 5,000m at the European athletics championships in Birmingham, earning his seventh individual continental gold and consolidating his place as the most successful male athlete in European championship history.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  3. Namibian fistball teams finish fifth at Swiss championships

    Namibia's u18 men's and women's national fistball teams both finished fifth at international championships in Switzerland from 23–26 July. The u18 team matched the country's previous best World Championship result, while the women's team narrowly missed the semi-finals at the European Championship.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  4. Wanderers defeat Unam amid spectator racial abuse incident

    FNB Wanderers defeated FNB Unam 48-24 in a Rugby Premier League match on Saturday, but the game was marred when a spectator was ejected for racially abusing linesman Dan Sule, who later condemned the incident on Facebook as incompatible with Namibian rugby.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

  5. Desert Jewels use Spar Challenge to prepare for Africa Cup

    The Debmarine Desert Jewels are competing in the Spar Challenge in Cape Town as preparation for the Africa Netball Cup, a World Cup qualifier. Senior players said the tournament is helping the team build combinations, improve fitness, and strengthen teamwork before the continental competition.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

  6. Three football confederations rebuke Infantino over governance

    Uefa, Concacaf and AFC issued a joint letter criticizing Fifa president Gianni Infantino, declaring that football "belongs to no individual" and stating that leadership is not a possession. The letter came after Infantino launched and then withdrew a plan to bring private investment into Fifa competitions, drawing scathing criticism from multiple confederations.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

World & Region

  1. Namibia and Botswana sign ICT cooperation agreement

    Namibia and Botswana have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen digital partnership, focusing on digital transformation, cybersecurity, connectivity, and emerging technologies. The agreement, signed by the countries' respective ICT ministers, establishes a framework for collaboration in ICT infrastructure, innovation, digital skills development, and cybersecurity.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  2. Namibia and Cuba seek expanded economic cooperation beyond politics

    Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare is visiting Cuba (6–11 August 2026) to deepen cooperation in education, healthcare, youth development, water infrastructure, engineering and tourism. Ngurare called for the two countries to move beyond longstanding political solidarity towards stronger economic ties and people-to-people exchanges.

    10 August 2026 · Informanté

  3. PM Ngurare visits Cuba to deepen economic ties

    Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare visited Havana for a six-day official visit to strengthen bilateral relations between Namibia and Cuba, proposing cooperation in education, health, youth exchange, water infrastructure, and engineering to advance economic independence beyond their historic political solidarity.

    10 August 2026 · New Era

Opinion

  1. Africa must build value-adding industries beyond raw material exports

    An opinion piece argues that African industrialisation is a question of economic dignity and sovereignty, not merely economics. The Africa Industrialization Index (2010–2017) shows Namibia's score declined from 0.6332 to 0.6162, while South Africa remained the continent's strongest performer; the author contends that Namibia's dependence on extracting and exporting commodities while importing finished goods is unsustainable.

    10 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer

  2. Minister challenges Africans on foreign cultural influence and identity

    Urban and rural development minister James Sankwasa has called on Africans to examine how foreign cultural influences have reshaped their identity, arguing that Africans are abandoning their own culture in favour of foreign values and beauty standards. He criticised the adoption of foreign beauty practices, including Brazilian hair and artificial nails, saying such practices disconnect people from traditional livelihoods.

    10 August 2026 · The Namibian

Namibia Minute