Namibia Minute

Wednesday, 19 August 2026

Namibia’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026

Wednesday, 19 August 2026

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Politics

Namibia's procurement reform seeks speed without sacrificing accountability

The News

Namibia's revised public procurement regulations, which came into operation on 4 August 2026, give over 80 public entities greater scope to undertake procurement independently, aiming to reduce administrative delays and improve service delivery. The success of the reform will depend on implementation rather than the regulations themselves, balancing efficiency with transparency and accountability.

19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →

Politics

Namibia's procurement reform seeks speed without sacrificing accountability
Namibia's revised public procurement regulations, which came into operation on 4 August 2026, give over 80 public entities greater scope to undertake procurement independently, aiming to reduce administrative delays and improve service delivery. The success of the reform will depend on implementation rather than the regulations themselves, balancing efficiency with transparency and accountability.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Namibia revises procurement thresholds, expands entity participation
More than 80 public entities gain broader procurement authority under Namibia's revised regulations effective August 4, 2026, aimed at reducing administrative delays, decongesting central procurement, and expanding supplier opportunities. The changes raise procurement thresholds to reflect current economic conditions including inflation and currency depreciation.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
MPs warn Mental Health Bill needs resources, rural access
Members of Parliament have backed Namibia's proposed Mental Health Bill 2025 but warned that its reforms could fail without adequate funding, specialised staff, infrastructure, and services reaching rural communities. MPs called for mental health units at regional hospitals and trained staff at district facilities, citing that services remain concentrated in Windhoek while regions struggle to access specialised care.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Namibia's consul denies million-dollar Dangote facilitation fee
Namibia's Honorary Consul in Nigeria, Justin Chuma Anosike, has denied allegations that he charged Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote US$1 million for arranging a meeting with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. The denial comes amid separate allegations that confidential Cabinet minutes and strategic documents were leaked to Anosike and passed to a Dangote Group executive, which NPC director-general Kaire Mbuende also rejects.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
President urges economic independence as next independence goal
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has challenged the current generation to convert Namibia's political freedom into economic independence, saying today's leaders must create opportunities for young people and reduce inequality to ensure independence gains are felt in daily Namibian lives. She made the call in a message marking former president Hifikepunye Lucas Pohamba's 91st birthday, noting that his generation secured political freedom while the current generation bears responsibility for advancing economic independence.
19 August 2026 · New Era →
Minister directs councils to submit pensioners' debts for possible write-off
Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa has directed local authorities to submit outstanding municipal debts owed by pensioners, deceased residents, and destitute persons for possible write-off, with a deadline of 31 August 2026 to provide verified information.
19 August 2026 · New Era →
National Council backs mental health bill with funding concerns
National Council parliamentarians have welcomed Namibia's new mental health bill but warn that the legislation could fail without adequate government infrastructure, staff and funding. The bill seeks to repeal the 1973 Mental Health Act and introduce a modern, rights-based framework promoting community-based care, early intervention and protection of patients' rights.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Windhoek court provisionally withdraws N$4m Zambezi corruption case
Prosecutors have provisionally withdrawn a long-running corruption case against six Zambezi Regional Council officials at the Windhoek High Court, following a previous withdrawal in October 2024. The case concerns alleged corruption involving more than N$4 million in capital projects in the Kongola constituency.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Hengari reduces libel damages claim against rape complainant
Former agriculture minister Mac Hengari's lawyer has filed an amended defamation claim in the Windhoek High Court, reducing the amount demanded from the rape complainant and her mother to N$500,000 each, while lowering the claim against newspaper Confidénte and its editor Max Hamata to N$1 million. The amounts demanded from two police officers, the inspector general, and the minister of safety and security remain unchanged at N$10.25 million.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →

Business

Roads Authority estimates Omaruru-Uis upgrade at N$1.36 billion
The Roads Authority says upgrading the Omaruru-Uis road will cost an estimated N$1.36 billion, with no confirmed funding, completed design, or procurement underway.
19 August 2026 · Namibian Sun →
NaCC investigates Rani Group and suppliers for alleged anti-competitive conduct
The Namibian Competition Commission is investigating alleged anti-competitive practices involving Rani Group and six major FMCG suppliers following complaints from small retailers, who claim they face reserved stock for Rani Group, higher prices, upfront payment requirements, and exclusion from discounts. Small retailers also allege that Rani Group's retail expansion into their areas has forced some businesses to close or be sold.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Letshego Namibia profit rises 2% to N$253.5 million
Letshego Holdings (Namibia) Limited reported a 2% increase in profit after tax to N$253.5 million for the six months ended 30 June 2026, with operating profit rising 3.3% to N$294.2 million. The group plans to focus on deposit-driven growth and digital adoption under its CONNECT 2030 strategy.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Building sector approvals reach 325 units in July 2026
Namibia's building sector approved 325 units in July across Windhoek and Swakopmund, valued at N$300.1 million, marking the sector's second-highest monthly approval volume in 2026. Windhoek saw 244 approvals (up 23.9% month-on-month) valued at N$206.4 million, though average project values remain compressed as affordability constraints favour smaller residential projects.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
SME growth hinges on bankability, not just access to finance
Many Namibian small and medium-sized enterprises struggle to access high-value opportunities not primarily because of lack of capital, but because they lack the financial records, operational capability, compliance standards and risk management structures that large buyers and trade partners require.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
NAC monitors Jet A-1 fuel supply challenges at main airport
The Namibia Airports Company says it is closely monitoring Jet A-1 fuel supply challenges at Hosea Kutako International Airport and is coordinating with fuel suppliers, government authorities, and aviation stakeholders to minimize disruptions to operations and air connectivity.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
SHP Accounting Services CC gains ACCA approved employer accreditation
SHP Accounting Services CC has been accredited by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) as an approved employer, placing it among a select group globally that meet internationally recognised standards for professional training and development of accounting professionals.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Funky Town Mall struggles to fill boutique and dining slots
Khomas Grove Mall (Funky Town), a retail hub in Khomasdal with an 80–85% occupancy rate and strong anchor tenants, has struggled to fill secondary lifestyle, dining, and boutique spaces on its upper floors, though ground-floor retail remains fully occupied.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Jet fuel supply shortage affects Hosea Kutako International Airport
The Namibia Airports Company says it is closely monitoring Jet A-1 fuel supply challenges at Hosea Kutako International Airport and is working with fuel suppliers, government authorities, airlines and other aviation stakeholders to manage the situation and minimise disruptions. Airport operations are continuing and contingency measures are being considered where necessary.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →

Mining & Energy

Namibia Oil and Gas Conference convenes for fourth edition
The Namibia Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition officially began on 18 August 2026 in Windhoek (18–20 August), bringing together government, industry leaders, investors, academia, entrepreneurs and civil society to focus on ensuring Namibia's oil and gas growth creates opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, workers and communities.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Nigerian oil firm offers Namibian policymakers upstream sector experience
Solewant Group, a Nigerian oil and gas engineering company, is seeking to invest about US$120 million in building underwater pipe infrastructure in Namibia and is in talks with the government about establishing a local factory for oil and gas infrastructure and pipeline coatings. The company will host a Roadshow and Press Briefing on August 17, 2026, ahead of the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
US pledges support for Namibia's offshore oil development
The US Ambassador to Namibia says the country's offshore petroleum discoveries could deliver long-term economic benefits, jobs, and skills development, but cautioned that a Final Investment Decision would only mark the beginning of work needed to achieve lasting prosperity. US oilfield service companies are already operating in Namibia.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
ReconAfrica ships equipment for Kavango West horizontal test
Reconnaissance Energy Africa has acquired additional pumps, a swabbing unit, and other equipment in the United States for testing at the Kavango West 1X well in northeastern Namibia. The equipment will support a planned horizontal test to assess the production potential of the Huttenberg reservoir, following the recent flow of natural gas and potential liquids to surface from the formation.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Minister urges Namibia to prepare for oil production, maximise local benefits
At the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference 2026, Honourable Modestus Amutse, Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, called on Namibia to be ready for first oil and to maximise local benefits from the industry, addressing discoveries in the Orange Basin.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibia outlines oil and gas benefits strategy
Special Advisor Kornelia Shilunga outlined Namibia's vision for converting oil and gas sector decisions into national benefits at the Namibia Oil and Gas Conference 2026.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibian businesses must prepare now for oil industry growth
Economic Association of Namibia chairperson Jason Kasuto warned Namibian companies to immediately upgrade their financial, regulatory, and technical capabilities to compete in the nation's growing oil and gas sector. He stressed that international oil companies operate on strict schedules and will only contract suppliers that meet their standards, which require registration, certification, financial proof, and insurance.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →

Agriculture & Land

Botswana steps up FMD controls amid outbreak threat to region
Botswana is intensifying efforts to contain foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) following outbreaks that raise concerns for cross-border animal health and livestock trade in the region, including Namibia. Botswana's agriculture minister said the disease has placed pressure on rural livelihoods, the livestock industry and the economy, while noting Botswana has historically managed to control FMD and maintain World Organisation for Animal Health recognition for zones free from the disease without vaccination.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Farmers Meat Mariental abattoir to close permanently
Hartlief has decided to permanently close Farmers Meat Mariental abattoir due to sustained financial losses, rising procurement costs, and tough international export conditions. The closure will affect 19 permanent and 83 temporary employees.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
El Niño threatens Namibia's food security amid high import reliance
Namibia imports about 70% of its food and faces severe food insecurity risks from a developing "Super El Niño" forecast for October 2026 to March 2027, which could bring drought conditions and crop failure similar to the devastating 2023/24 El Niño. The World Food Programme warned that lower agricultural output across Southern Africa could sharply worsen food insecurity in the region, with over 117,000 households already receiving food assistance in July.
19 August 2026 · New Era →
Chiefs urged to promote climate-resilient adaptation practices
Zambezi regional governor Dorothy Kabula-Simushi has called on traditional authority leaders to advocate for climate-resilient adaptation and natural resource management within their communities, noting that the region faces heightened exposure to floods, drought, and changing rainfall patterns that threaten livelihoods dependent on natural resources.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibia's largest goat exporter exits after 54 years
André Rossouw Trust, Namibia's largest goat exporter, has withdrawn from the live-goat export market, citing rising costs—including testing, permits, and transport—that make up about 30% of the average auction price and logistical challenges such as delays in test results. The withdrawal affects the KwaZulu-Natal market in South Africa and poses concerns for emerging and communal farmers dependent on the goat trade.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Environmental chamber urges Govt to abandon Kavango Link project
The Namibian Chamber of Environment has urged the government to abandon the Kavango Link project, a decades-old plan to transfer water from the Kavango River to Windhoek and central areas, arguing it is environmentally unsustainable and could strain relations with Botswana. The chamber's chief executive Chris Brown warned that the river is already exploited by unmonitored green schemes and farms.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Government cancels N$39.5m agriculture AI system deal
The government has cancelled its agreement with US-based 6th Grain Corporation for an AI and satellite imagery-driven crop monitoring system. The agriculture ministry said the review found the agreement did not meet required legal and procedural requirements.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →

Society

20 murders, 261 armed robberies recorded in 10-month period
Namibia recorded 20 murder cases and 261 cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances between September 2025 and June 2026, according to acting Inspector-General Anne-Marie Nainda. The statistics, alongside reports of over 176 cases of firearm pointing and 88 unauthorised firearm possessions, prompted police to launch September Amnesty Month 2026 to encourage public surrender of illegal weapons without legal consequences.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Otavi Council warns against consuming accident-scene vodka cans
The Otavi Town Council has warned residents against consuming, selling or distributing vodka cans recovered from a truck accident, citing potential health risks from exposure to heat, fire, smoke and other contaminants, and warning that the products contain high alcohol concentration not intended for the Namibian market.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Ongwediva Town Council completes N$7.9m infrastructure projects
The Ongwediva Town Council has completed two capital projects totalling N$7.9 million aimed at improving service delivery, according to Mayor Naemi Amuthenu.
19 August 2026 · Namibian Sun →
No further Covid-19 cases reported at Delta hostel
Education minister Sanet Steenkamp said no further Covid-19 cases have been reported at Delta Primary School hostel in Windhoek following a positive case involving a hostel caretaker, who is recovering well. The ministry has followed its standard operating procedures, including separation of children and disinfection of premises, with pupils expected to remain away until 7 September.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Palms for Life launches youth sobriety and environmental programme
The Palms for Life Fund, partnering with the President's office division of marginalized communities, has launched the Healthy Communities Programme, which invites community-based youth groups to submit proposals for projects combining environmental improvement with activities promoting healthy lifestyles and sobriety. The initiative will support 10 community projects and use community service to encourage young people to engage in improving their surroundings while creating alternatives to harmful alcohol use.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Woman left homeless after ex-boyfriend set fire in 2021
Susana Bock has been living in a makeshift 1.6m by 2m structure with four children at Mariental since her former boyfriend Marius van Zyl allegedly set their home on fire in 2021. Van Zyl was convicted of arson and released in 2025 after spending two years and six months in custody, but Bock and her children remain unhoused and traumatised.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Otavi children hospitalized after consuming accident scene alcohol
Several children in Otavi were admitted to the local clinic after consuming alcohol recovered from a truck accident scene. The Otavi Town Council warned that the products were not intended for the Namibian market, contained high alcohol concentration, and may have been contaminated by heat, fire, smoke, and other hazards from the accident.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Government establishes committee on informal economy institutionalisation
The government has established a National Technical Committee on Institutionalisation of the Informal Economy to design inclusive legal frameworks and budget for social protection and financial inclusion for the informal sector, which accounts for about 57% of Namibian employment according to informal economy advocates.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
First Gentleman launches DEN Impact Foundation for boys, young men
The Denga Epaphras Ndaitwah (DEN) Impact Foundation, established by First Gentleman retired Lieutenant General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah, was officially launched to empower Namibia's boys and young men through education, sport, agriculture, vocational training and mentorship. The foundation's four key pillars are agriculture, sport, education, and vocational and technical training.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Man found guilty of murdering girlfriend in Otjiwarongo
High Court Judge Marelize Du Plessis has found Prostasius Kuvirua guilty of the murder of his girlfriend Auguste Jonas, whom he stabbed multiple times with a knife in March 2023 at Otjiwarongo's Telecom location. Kuvirua was also found guilty of assault by threat, but acquitted of malicious damage to property and obstructing or defeating the course of justice.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
Labour hire middlemen blamed for worker exploitation
A parliamentary standing committee is assessing employment conditions in Namibia's wholesale and retail sectors in Erongo, where labour hire practices and middlemen are reportedly contributing to worker exploitation and poverty. Union representatives have called for a review of the Labour Act to address provisions allowing these practices to continue.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Rural pupils account for 66% of teen pregnancies
Pupils from rural areas make up about 66% of teenage pregnancies in Namibia, and rural young mothers are significantly less likely to return to school than their urban peers, according to a Ministry of Education report. Pupil pregnancy rates declined from 1.97% in 2022 to 1.34% in 2024, while the proportion of pupil mothers returning to school rose to 53.9% in 2024.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Ministry to consult on driving school and instructor regulations
The ministry of works and transport will conduct nationwide stakeholder consultations from August 2026 to March 2027 on proposed regulations for driving schools and instructors aimed at improving driver training quality and road safety. The framework will address instructor certification and competence, standardised training, consumer protection, and requirements for training vehicles and facilities.
19 August 2026 · Windhoek Observer →

Culture

Kwaito star Mushe dominates northern Namibia wedding season
Multi-award-winning kwaito artist Mushe (Albert Uulenga) has become the prominent face of northern wedding season, performing at multiple receptions across regions including Oshikoto and Omusati. He describes wedding performances as intimate shows where guests engage directly with him on the dance floor and sing along to his older songs.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Government allocates N$17.5m for creative industry job creation
The government plans to create more than 470 direct employment opportunities in the creative industry through a Local Content Plan rolled out by the Namibia Film Commission, funded by N$17.5 million as part of a broader N$50 million allocation to creative industries programmes.
19 August 2026 · New Era →
Chief Hosea Kutako Memorial Museum opens as heritage shrine
The Chief Hosea Kutako Memorial Museum and Shrine at Toasis village, officially inaugurated on 10 December 2024, honours the Ovaherero leader who resisted colonial rule and petitioned the United Nations against Namibia's illegal occupation. The shrine has become a tourist attraction and commemorates the legendary national hero.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →

Sport

Kane wins second European Golden Shoe, pursues Ballon d'Or
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane received his second European Golden Shoe after scoring the most goals in Europe's top divisions last season, with 36 in 31 Bundesliga games. Kane said his "best season ever" — during which he scored 73 goals for club and country — positions him to compete for the Ballon d'Or.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Spanish midfielder Rodri transfers to Barcelona from Manchester City
Spain's World Cup-winning captain Rodri has completed his move to La Liga champions Barcelona from Manchester City on a deal running until 2030, with the transfer value reaching 76.5 million euros including bonuses after two failed bids.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Special Olympics Namibia grows through international partnerships
Sport for people with intellectual disabilities is steadily growing in Namibia. Special Olympics Namibia held a four-day Sports for Solidarity Partnership Initiative to promote inclusion and opportunities, bringing together representatives from Italian and Namibian organizations following the partnership established after SON's participation in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin 2025.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
MMA fighter Hinda receives N$100,000 sponsorship from Kadila Poultry
Namibian MMA fighter Veja 'Hindaboy' Hinda received a N$100,000 sponsorship from Kadila Poultry Farming to support his training and preparation for higher-level competition and international representation. The sponsorship reflects the company's commitment to supporting Namibians demonstrating discipline and ambition.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibian volleyball club receives third donation from US partner
Afrocat Sports Club has received its third donation from Alexandria Titans Volleyball Club in Virginia, valued at approximately N$30,000, consisting mainly of volleyball kits and jerseys for the Namibian club's men's and women's teams. The partnership began in 2021 after the two clubs discovered similarities in their approach to developing young players.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Namibia Sport Commission launches regional capacity-building tour
The Namibia Sport Commission has launched a regional capacity-building initiative running from 17 to 29 August across five regions, beginning in Katima Mulilo, to strengthen sports structures, develop coaches, and expand sporting opportunities. The tour involves engagement with regional sport officers, coaches, federation representatives, and athletes to address regional challenges and align development strategies with national standards.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →
Nust staff win inaugural Inter-University sports championship
The Nust Staff Sports Association emerged as the inaugural overall champions of the Inter-University Staff Sports Games, winning gold medals in darts, soccer, and mixed volleyball, plus silver in relay events and bronze in tug of war. Nust finished ahead of Unam Central Campuses and Unam Northern Campuses in the overall standings.
19 August 2026 · New Era →
Young African owner sells Premier League status to Tigers FC
Young African FC owner Marley Ngarizemo said he sold the club's Premier League status to Tigers FC in April because mounting costs and the lack of a sustainable sponsor made it financially unsustainable. He said he used a portion of the proceeds to settle outstanding financial obligations.
19 August 2026 · New Era →

Tourism & Environment

18 rhinos killed for horns in Namibia this year
Poachers have killed 18 rhinos in Namibia this year, including 13 in protected areas and five on commercial farms, according to figures released by the Namibian Sun.
19 August 2026 · Namibian Sun →

World & Region

SADC summit endorses industrialisation, trade and regional integration agenda
At the 46th SADC summit in Durban, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and other regional leaders adopted commitments on industrialisation, infrastructure development, agricultural transformation, critical minerals, and regional trade. The summit theme centred infrastructure, agriculture and critical minerals as priorities for building a competitive, climate-resilient and inclusive SADC region.
19 August 2026 · Informanté →
IPC calls for transparency in Zambian election results
Namibia's Independent Patriots for Change has congratulated Zambia's re-elected president Hakainde Hichilema while urging full transparency in election management and raising concerns over ballot secrecy and incomplete reconciliation at polling stations.
19 August 2026 · The Namibian →