Namib Independent Issue 181

It is the duty of each and every Namibian to contribute to an environment which provides for Namibian’s health and well-being.

Prominent coastal estate agent, Daphne Swanopoel, on the positive outcome of her damages suit against the Namibia Estate Agents Board.

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Issue 181 - Thurs, 21 Jan 2016 to Wed, 27 Jan 2016Like a newspaper, only better!

David Uushona, of Walvis Bay Municipality’s Water, Waste & Environmental Management department, on the town’s waste management issues.

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“I am so grateful to everyone who stood by me, and can now enjoy my successful business, Daphne Swanepoel Properties.”

Continued on Page 3 Continued on Page 3

See Page 2 See Page 4

Police address problems arising from traditional and faith healing methods

Walvis to benefit from Xaris

House price index jumps to new HigH See Pages 6

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The influence of prophets, pastors and witch doctors on members of the community is a matter of concern to the police because it gives rise to cases of domestic violence and, in some extreme cases, even murder.

In this regard, the Chief of Community Affairs, at the

police headquarters of the Erongo region, Sergeant Ileni Shapumba, gathered traditional healers and the various leaders of so-called healing churches around one table, to discuss their accountability towards the community and safety in security in general.

“Over the past few months,

our offices have been inundated with complaints by members of the community saying that they are spending a lot of resources on faith healing and spiritual guidance and that most times they have not had positive results. We need to map out a way forward to lay the foundation of better relationships between the police and tradition and faith healers,” he said.

Sergeant Ileni Shapumba addressing a gathering of prophets, pastors and witch doctors at the police headquarters of the Erongo region

As one of the main local investors in the Xaris Gas to power project, the Walvis Bay Municipality stands to benefit greatly from sales of electricity to the national power grid.

Last week, the controversy surrounding the construction of a gas to power plant behind Dune 7, with regards to a huge escalation in costs and the subsequent stoppage of the Xaris project, was explained during a public meeting hosted by stakeholders

involved the power project.It was reportedly going to cost the

country, and by proxy the taxpayers, the sum of around N$8 billion to construct and put the project into production. That was quickly deferred by the managing director of Xaris, Hennie Steyn, when he said that the company has managed to bring the cost down to the initial cost of below N$4 billion which had been presented to Cabinet during the initial

Thursday, 21 January 20162 news

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Daphne's name cleared after NEAB high court settlement!

Donna Collins

Seasoned Swakopmund estate agent, Daphne Swanepoel, has been paid an out an undisclosed amount by the Namibia Estate Agents Board (NEAB), after winning a High Court battle to clear her name of defamation, after her license to operate was retracted in 2008 causing her to nearly go out of business.

Swanepoel was back then the CEO of Pam Golding Properties based in Windhoek, and one of the country's top Estate Agents who had been operating for three decades. At the time, she had entered into business with Tony Mbok's to exclusively market and sell the properties of the Dignity Housing Initiative.

Mbok was engaged in a housing development that was aimed at developing and selling low-cost housing. However, Swanepoel made a professional decision to resign as his Agent due to "dubious circumstances".

Mbok promptly laid three complaints to the NEAB, which resulted in their disciplinary committee of withdrawing Swanepoel's Fidelity Fund Certificate on the 3 April, 2008. She was prohibited from operating as an Estate Agent, and they also closed the doors of Pam Golding Properties.

The disciplinary committee is said to have proceeded with the hearing in the absence of Swanepoel who was in hospital

at the time and that, according to court records, the charges that the NEAB launched against her were a personal and baseless vendetta against her.

Swanepoel pushed on to fight back based on the fact that the allegations made against her were speculative and lacked proof. She won this High Court Case in July 2008, and was granted permission to open up the Pam Golding office for business again. At the same time she sued the NEAB for damages.

But the damage had been done as articles had appeared in the media of the charges brought against her, which resulted in loss of earnings and a tarnished reputation. In fact, Swanepoel’s unsuccessful application to become an agent for the prestigious Afrodite development in Longbeach, which is a project from the developer Mr John Savva, was also dealt a deathblow.

The following year she moved to Swakopmund to open up an estate agency under her own name Daphne Swanepoel Properties. She claimed that she was working mostly to pay the exorbitant legal fees as well as mounting debt which put a lot of strain on her health.

After a lengthy eight year high court battle against the Namibia Estate Agents Board, the veil lifted, and the NEAB offered Swanepoel a settlement on 13 December in the High

Court. They were ordered to publish a public apology to her and Pam Golding Properties for the damages and hardship they caused.

The public apology which was a first for the NEAB, was signed its Chairperson, Anne Thandeka Gerbhardt, and read: "This apology arises from a conviction of Daphne Swanepoel t/a Pam Golding Namibia at the time, by a disciplinary committee of the Namibia Estate Agents Board on 3 April 2008, and the consequent withdrawal of her Fidelity Fund Certificate as an Estate Agent as a result thereof.

"We apologise for the said conviction and penalty and damages, inconvenience or hardship it may have caused."

Meanwhile Swanepoel, who has been in business for 37 years, said that this experience was a nightmare, but she was prepared to fight tooth and nail to clear her name.

"In all these years as an Estate Agent in the business, I have never been accused of any misconduct or had any complaints filed against me," she said."

She also stated that, whilst she is satisfied with the court order settlement, she is grateful to all those who stood by her and believed in her innocence. "I am so grateful to everyone who stood by me, and can now enjoy my successful business Daphne Swanepoel Properties, which is doing so well at the coast."

A well known Swakopmund estate agent Daphne Swanepoel has been paid out an undisclosed amount by the Namibia Estate

Agents Board (NEAB), after suing them for damages

Cheque payment amounts reduced even furtherTwo of the major commercial banks of Namibia have announced that the process of payment by bank cheques is being phased out by reducing the allowable amount even further.

Both Bank Windhoek and Standard Bank Namibia have announced, by way of statements, that the allowable amount payable for cheques will only be N$100 000. The previous maximum amount was N$500 000.

Standard Bank Namibia announced that the new measure comes after the Payments Association of Namibia (PAN) officially instructed all commercial banks to reduce its cheque limits from N$500 000 to N$100 000.

“The 15th of January was the last date depositing cheques of more than N$100 000. Inter-bank clearing will be completed by 21 January 2016. After the 21st of this month, banks and relevant clearing institutions will no longer process cheques,” informs Surihe Gaomas-Guchu, Corporate Communication Manager at Standard Bank Namibia.

She said that, according to PAN, reducing cheque limits is part of phasing out cheques which they anticipate by 31 December 2017. “Earlier phasing out of cheques by customers is strongly recommended to avoid

inconvenience and interruptions,” she quoted the PAN statement.

Gaomas-Guchu warned: “Customers should take note that split payments, where amounts more than N$100 000-00 are split into smaller amounts, are a contravention of the national payment rules according to PAN.”

Chris Matthee, Executive Officer: Retail Banking Services at Bank Windhoek said: “Customers are encouraged to engage in the process of converting to alternate and safer methods to affect payments. In an effort to encourage customers to make use of electronic banking services, Bank Windhoek has decreased monthly Internet Banking subscription fees by almost 40 percent for individuals and business customers, with effect from 1 July 2015.”

He said the measure is being instituted in anticipation of the phasing out of cheque payments by 1 January 2018. The ultimate process of phasing out of customer cheques will take place during the next two years.

Matthee said continuous customer engagement will take place during this process, envisaged to be concluded by 1 January 2018.

“The rationale and benefits behind this

decision, made by PAN, are that customers should embrace electronic payment methods as a more effective, secure and safer medium to execute payments, the issuing and acceptance of cheques is globally in the process of being phased out and Namibia should be part of global best practices, retail markets are adopting more credit and debit card facilities. Retail markets in Namibia and South Africa already engaged in the process of diminishing cheque payments over the past few years with a “No cheques acceptance” approach, to reduce and ultimately eliminate cheque fraud, and that electronic payment will be more cost effective and more readily available.”

Matthee reiterated that the directive means that business and individual customers may not issue any cheque for an amount exceeding N$100 000 per transaction. Single cheque deposits exceeding the prescribed amount will no longer be accepted, or processed, by any Namibian banking institution.

PAN is the association responsible for managing the national payment system in Namibia. PAN is licenced and recognised by the Bank of Namibia through the Payment System Act, 2003.

3 Thursday, 21 January 2016

Continued from Page 1

Walvis to benefit from Xaris

news

Continued from Page 1

Swakop residents unite against water extraction

Sergeant Shapumba said that, in many cases, advice given by witch doctors, pastors and prophets leads to violence because of a ‘magic spell’ cast on members of the community by family members or people like former spouses or love interests.

“We have had cases where people actually travel to the north to go and kill a brother, mother or ex-girlfriend to gain freedom from a spell or to get rich. We have had cases where criminals approach traditional healers to cast a spell or to ask the spirits to conceal a crime like theft, and yet the police have always found and arrested perpetrators of serious crimes.”

According to Sergeant Shapumpa, certain cases are getting out of hand and the police are mandated to step in to avoid chaos. He said murder and violence can in no way be condoned by the police and perpetrators acting on whatever advice or magic spell will be dealt with according to the laws of the land, and can expect to be prosecuted like any other person found guilty of a crime.

“Besides the effect that certain pieces of advice has on people and their general safety and security, members of the community are also complaining that they spend a lot of money on advice that does not work. They are complaining that they feel cheated out of their hard earned resources when a spell or prayer does not work.”

Sergeant Shapumpa said that the police is also aware that people are in no way forced to see traditional or faith healers. He also admitted that no regulations currently exist in the country’s law books prescribing what prophets, pastors and witch doctors are allowed to do or not, but that common sense must prevail.

“If you promise a person that you will

stages of negotiations.“Reports that the project will cost well

above N$7 billion was brought about by ancillaries getting on board after the initial presentation to the Government of Namibia. Our competitors in some way also had something to say about the project and the confusion and doubt created in this way lead to the President, Dr Hage Geingob, calling a halt to the process,” Steyn said.

He reiterated the project is equity driven and that, if the cost was escalated to around N$8 billion, none of the eventual shareholders would have gone ahead to invest any further. Up until now, in excess of N$30 million has already been spent on the project to ensure that environmental impact plans and all other due diligence have been adhered to.

“This project is completely funded through private equity and debt, with no requirement for government sovereign guarantees. The project requires a bankable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Nampower, Namibia’s national electricity supplier. Allowing the total funding to be structured with 20 percent equity held by various entities, both national and international, five percent mezzanine debt and 75 percent senior debt.”

Steyn said Nampower is one of the only credit worthy utility companies on the continent, making a PPA with the state-owned company a bankable one. He said all partners will invest cash for their equity and that debt will be arranged through Standard Bank which is again based on the bankability of the project.

“All equity shareholders will have to take the financial risk, in proportion to their shareholding. Xaris will be an independent power producer (IPP) and the rate at which power will be sold to Nampower will be fixed. This guarantees no hidden costs or the potential of costs escalating other than inflationary increases.”

At this stage local equity holders in the project are Nampower, Namport, as well as the Municipality of Walvis Bay. International

stakeholders are Garanti Kza which will be overseeing the construction of the project, Tuten KSE that will initially run and manage the plant, General Electric who will give all technical support as well as supplying the gas turbines which will drive the generation process, and Excelerate Energy who will supply the LNG to the project.

According to Steyn, the finalisation of the PPA with Nampower is the only hurdle that needs to be overcome before construction can start on the project.

“We envisage a period of no more than three months before the PPA is finalised and soon after we would be able to start building the project.”

The construction of the North Harbour oil and gas terminal, as well as the on shore infrastructure like pipelines, would also need to be finalised before the fuel for the gas powered station, Liquefied Natural Gas, can be delivered and utilised to generate electricity.

He said if everything goes according to plan, the power plant can start supplying electricity as soon as the first turbine is up and running and that can happen as soon as 2017.

Not only will the Walvis Bay Municipality benefit from the project as a shareholder, but many people living at the coast will have the added benefit of new job opportunities being created. During the construction phase, more jobs will be created than when the project is up and running. In the end the power station will employ more than 60 people.

The developers of the power plant also said that a firm policy of sourcing sundries from local suppliers are already in place, which means that the industrial complex of the harbour town will also benefit financially form the power station during construction and its life, which was initially set at 20 years.

Steyn said, once up and running, the power station could be kept going indefinitely, pointing out that continued maintenance and upkeep will be needed and that turbines could easily be replaced if the need should arise.

Police address problems arising from traditional and faith healing methods

be able to blind the people that committed a crime against you, you are in fact aiding and abetting a criminal. That act in itself is a crime and will no longer be tolerated by the police,” Shapumba warned.

He said the reason for the meeting was to find out if a road map could be formulated to find a way for the police to work alongside traditional and faith healers to stop crime in general and to keep members of the community from committing crime in the name of some kind of spirit or ancestor.

“The police are required to uphold the law and, when the two worlds clash, the police seem to have the stronger magic because criminals are always brought to book some or other time. We seem to be the stronger witch.”

Sergeant Shapumba also pointed out that certain traditional healers come to Namibia under the guise of being a sangoma or some such title, and get legal permits to stay in the country because of that. He said, in many cases, these titles are many times just a front to keep the eyes of law enforcement way from organised crime activities.

“If any person is caught out and their involvement in organised crime is made clear, you will be jailed and deported to your countries of origin. The police need honesty and integrity from people like you to ensure a safe and secure environment for every person living in the country.”

When given a chance the traditional healers said it is easy to blame them for the troubles of members of the community.

“We just consult and charge a fee for it. If the spirits demand food or drink for their advice we must ask for it. In serious medical cases we refer people to the hospital. Nothing else.”

They said that, if they have to consult the spirits and work with people, the fee obviously rises and that people understand the traditional way.

Sergeant Shapumba said that prophets, pastors and witch doctors should guard against the image that they are parasites on the community and that only honesty and integrity will guide them in the right direction and set them free from scrutiny.

Reassurance by Swakop Uranium that a large amount of water from the underground source of the Swakop River will not be over used is not at all helping to lay to rest the fears of the residents and farmers on plots along the river, and they have formed a pressure group to get clear and precise answers from both the line ministries and the mine. A Facebook group “Stand up for Namibia” was created after the fears of residents and smallholding farmers of Swakopmund on water extraction were not allayed by the owners of the Mine and the Namibian water utility, NamWater.

Residents of the Swakop River valley, as well as those living within the coastal town, have been organising and are using social media platforms to create awareness about their right to keep large companies like Swakop Uranium to over utilise underground water from the riverbed for their mining activities.

The issue of the Husab Mine intending to use water pumped

from under the ground in the river close to Goanikontes came in the spotlight when one concerned vegetable farmer voiced her opinion about the pump installation already being in use, and that the mine might not yet have the necessary permit to pump water.

In reaction to the outcry and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry confirming that the mine indeed has the necessary permits to pump water, Swakop uranium issued a statement in order to try and clarify the matter.

In the statement Swakop Uranium said the necessary approvals were obtained from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) as a result of these EIA processes.

“Swakop Uranium received an Extraction Permit # 10842 (2015-20) from the Department of Water Agriculture and Forestry issued on the 30th September 2015 for this activity. The permit allows a maximum extraction of 500 000 cubic metres of water per

year and that the company have not been pumping water from these boreholes as yet. The contractor only finished the infrastructure in mid-December last year and tested the lines and holding tanks. They found that these fittings were leaking and everything was left as is to be repaired now in January before a hand over is effected to Swakop Uranium.”

The statement also said that an intensive borehole monitoring programme is in place and a report is submitted to the Ministry on a monthly basis for any extractions. No water has been extracted for commissioning or mining purposes yet. However 410 cubic metres of water was extracted for testing of the boreholes and pipeline during December. According to the statement the extraction was reported to the Ministry.

“Swakop Uranium aims to be a world class Namibian uranium mining company operating in a safe, cost effective and eco-friendly manner. The shareholders of Swakop Uranium are the

Republic of Namibia and the People’s Republic of China. Swakop Uranium endeavours to have good relations with the communities in which the Company operates and any stakeholder, public or individual may contact the Company and raise any issue of concern, which will be investigated and feedback will be given.”

According to the statement from Swakop Uranium, various Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes have been conducted for the Husab Mine and the associated infrastructure since 2009 until now. The extraction of water from the Swakop River was part of the EIA process for the linear infrastructure for the mine.

Comprehensive public participation processes were conducted as part of these EIAs and all Interested and Affected Parties (IAPs) on the Swakop Uranium database (including farmers) were

informed/consulted. In the meantime concerned

residents of Swakopmund and small farmers along the river have created a group on Facebook called Stand up for Namibia. On this forum they launched a poll in which readers of the posts are asked whether the mine should be allowed to extract ground water from the river, or if the company should be forced to use desalinated water from the plant which the Areva mining company built near Wlotzkasbaken.

The group also quotes NamWater Chief Executive Dr Vaino Shivute from a statement he made during 2009.

“Water is a scarce resource in Namibia and should, therefore, be utilised sensibly.”

However, this so-called scarce commodity is under great threat. The recent uranium boom in the Namib, which has consequently led

to a number of new mines being established, is posing an immense threat to water conservation given the high rate of water consumption of such mines. Uranium mining is going and already is contributing greatly to the Namibian economy, however, the only drawback of such mining is that the mine projects are located in the Namib Desert and uranium processing requires huge volumes of water.

The water requirements of at least 12 new uranium mines by 2015 will come to about 53 million cubic metres, compared to a total water supply of 67 million cubic metres presently provided by NamWater to all its customers countrywide.

Back in 2009, Dr Shivute envisaged that a water desalination plant at the coast was imperative and would be constructed in order to supply 25 million cubic metres from seawater by January 2010.


Mineworkers Union not content with Labour office

Marshallino Beukes

According to a statement issued by the Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN), documentation regarding a dispute resolution concerning a Recognition and Procedural Agreement, submitted by the Union’s Branch Executive Committee (BEC) at Langer Heinrich Mine to the

Ministry of Labour (Swakopmund), has puzzlingly disappeared.

As per the MUN, the application was submitted on 14 October 2015 and 17 December 2015 (9 o’clock) was the date set for conciliation at the Swakopmund Labour offices. Upon arrival at the labour office, the labour inspector, Mr Ono Angula, was apparently not able to trace the documents

concerning the application, after it has been submitted more than thirty days prior to the scheduled conciliation date.

“The labour inspector even claimed that this was the first time that he heard about the submitted application,” the BECs chairperson, Mr Michael Mauha stated. The labour inspector apparently later offered to informally act as a mediator in assisting the two parties to reach an agreement. However, according to Mauha, throughout the whole process, they (BEC) observed a biased approach by the labour inspector, as he supposedly not once corrected, advised or requested the Langer

Heinrich management to change their standpoint.

“However, he constantly said that the Branch Executive Committee should reconsider,” the statement reads. After an agreement was eventually reached by the two parties, another problem allegedly occurred, as there were apparently no typing facilities at the Ministry of Labour’ offices. The Langer Heinrich management supposedly then went to their offices in order to compile and type the final document, but it is alleged that they changed a specific agreed clause to their liking. According to the statement the (changed)

clause was pointed out to the Mine’s management and also the labour inspector, but the Union members’ complaint was allegedly derided by the before mentioned parties. The Branch Executive Committee then declared the informal process as failed. They noted that they will now request the office of the Labour Commissioner to get its house in order and schedule a formal process, as it is unacceptable that the labour office (Swakopmund) lost or misplaced the submitted application. Efforts to reach Mr Angula for comment proofed futile, as he is only expected back from leave, next month.

Swakopmund born entrepreneur makes wavesJeremiah Ndjoze

In life one will come across individuals who believe in savouring the status quo – but then there are those folks that continuously evolve.

These are the individuals who derive their greatest joy from change, from seeing, living and absorbing new experiences at all times provided that such transformations are accompanied by positive energy and financial spin-offs. One such character is Wambu-seun, real name Lownan Nangombe.

As if bursting onto the music scene with his unique brand of Afrikaans lyrics glued onto hip-hop beats was not enough for the masses’ amusement, Nangombe took it further, with the launch of This TV – Namibia’s first 24 hour music television channel.

And while many might argue that such a launch was long overdue, for a country whose entertainment scene has been on the rise and rise since Boli Mootseng’s Soul Makhosa, the launch of This TV Namibia

still had worrywarts and visionaries at each other throats.

Notwithstanding their debates, Nangombe and his team successfully silenced the naysayers – twelve months later. He maintains that no special formula was employed, and that the puzzle came together simply because he and his team knew exactly what they were getting themselves into.

“Today, one year later, I can confidently say that we have seen steady growth in the business and we have gradually shown the masses what they should look forward to from us in years to come. Our second year will see us flying more local content,” Nangombe said

The crew, he said, is currently pushing for the launch of This TV Music Video Awards which are set to take place in December this year, while This TV Hip-Hop Music Video Awards are slated for mid this year. He was however quick to indicate that they are approaching all these ventures with due diligence.

Lessons learntThe past twelve months were fun, but there were lessons to be learnt.

Says Nangombe; “We’ve learnt that not having a good financial backer can be a strain, that not having enough material content can also be a strain, that content production is expensive, and that even if you prepare for a project for close to a decade you are still going to get some nasty surprises.”

This TV’s footprint extends countrywide transmitting on channel 107 of the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation’s new digital terrestrial television (DTT) platform. The launch of This TV, last year, brought the number of channels currently available on the NBC digital decoder to seven, along with NBC1, NBC2, NBC3, One Africa Television, Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) and EduTV.

The station has a broad focus

on urban music, specifically Hip-Hop, RnB, Dancehall, Reggae, Kwaito and Afro-Pop, but also electronic dance and alternative rock. And while it has been accused in some quarters for playing a lot of international stuff, Nangombe maintained that they are still operating within the parameters of the law, as they do meet the prescribed 30% local content.

“All in all, we are on schedule and exactly where we want to be. Our reception by the Namibian public was quite remarkable in the first three months because we were embraced by not only the artist but also by the corporates. And being a musician myself I am proud that This TV has had such a remarkable impact on fellow musicians particularly with regard to marketing,” Nangombe said.

He maintained that the This TV crew is open for suggestions and ideas for new projects that

falls within the channel’s scope. “We are welcoming towards

people who are coming with ideas that fall within our scope. All we say to them is that they should produce a prototype to give us a better idea of what they want,” he said.

The ThisTv crew may not be ballin’ out of control yet, but payday is still payday at This TV and everybody does smile all the way to the bank.

“We are making an income, maybe not what we expected but my entire team is happy and so am I,” Nangombe said, stressing that while it might take three years for the venture to breakeven, all is well.

On the musical front, Wambuseun is set to drop an EP in April, which will then be followed by a whole album later this year. All of this just in order to remain relevant and to meet his obligation towards his fan base.

Walvis Bay dogged by dirt, illegal dumping

Jeremiah Ndjoze

The Municipality of Walvis Bay is in the process of rolling out an all-inclusive plan of action as a direct response to the after-effects of the just concluded festive season.

This plan, according to David Uushona, a municipal official in the Water, Waste & Environmental Management department, also sets the tone for the town’s approach to solid waste management – which in recent times has become an eyesore and a source of concern for the residents.

Uushona told the Namib Independent that a post mortem assessment which was recently conducted established that the number of visitors to the harbour town increased significantly compared to previous years, and with this came an upward trend in the quantity of the remnants that they left behind.

As such, Uushona said, the municipality’s solid waste management plan of activities will be enhanced according and continuously.

“Activities such as: issuing more refuse bins to households and businesses; increasing and placing the number of skips

at strategic littering hotspots; increasing the number and frequencies of cleaning services facilities, equipment and activities; and any additional solid waste management suggestions will be in place and as requests are received from the community and our stakeholders,” Uushona said.

He further maintained, upon enquiry, that the strategic action plan is updated to operate within the Council’s abilities and resources, and that any solid waste management services should be done within the economical means of the town and its community. To this end, no extra financial burden will placed on the residents as a result of the cleanup operations.

Nonchalant approachThe municipal official however conceded that Council has been lax in the implementation and enforcement of the “Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Regulations (GN 151 of 2011)”, particularly the admission-of-guilt fines for which Council applied and approval was subsequently obtained from the Walvis Bay Magistrate’s Office in October 2012.

Uushona told this newspaper that with the new drive for a cleaner Walvis Bay, the

Municipality will tighten its grip on would be lawbreakers by using four concrete techniques.

Firstly, Municipal law enforcement officers, or peace officers dealing with solid waste management, will aggressively start enforcing these regulations. Secondly, additional municipal staff will be identified and trained as enforcement officers. Thirdly, the regulations will intensively and continuously be communicated through all available means and media to sensitise and raise awareness of such regulations to the Walvis Bay community and lastly, Council maintained that it will remain open to any improvement suggestions from the community in its quest to combat illegal dumping.

“It is constitutionally and thus legally the duty of each and every Namibian to contribute to an environment which provides for Namibian’s health and well-being. Council wants to make use of this opportunity to thank those few that prevent and report littering and dumping. Council looks forward for a collaborative year ahead on solid waste management issues of our port city,” Uushona said.


House price index jumps to new high

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Registration fee: N$7500, which includes NAtis service, accommodation and food for the 4 week duration!

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Trainee Truck DriversATTENTION!

The third quarter of the past financial year saw the fastest growth in house price index since 2013 and is driven by transactions in Windhoek and both Swakopmund and Walvis Bay.

The FNB House Price Index is based on the median house price from Deeds Office data, based on bonds registered.

The third quarter of 2015 saw favourable volumes seeping into the market as new residential properties reached completion. On a quarterly basis, the price index advanced 22%, supported mainly by price growth during September. The volume index growth edged higher than 12% which is the fastest quarterly growth since 2013. The current growth in prices stems mainly from the Windhoek area, albeit growth in volumes seems to be a result of transactions within the towns of Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. Northern towns have further drawn attraction with prices in the region edging 21.5% higher and

volumes increasing by 10.1%.

Coastal property volumesCoastal volumes have shown substantial increase in the third quarter, with 12% increase across the three major towns. Median prices have increased with 11% for the quarter recording N$975,000 at the end of September.

Transactions for the top end of the market are down 38% quarter on quarter with median price currently at N$2.5m possibly linked to slowdown in tourist activity that was experienced in 2015. Swakopmund recorded the highest quarterly growth volumes 56% due to increased economic activity and new property developments. Prices in Swakopmund are up 23% while in Walvis Bay and Henties Bay the growth was recorded at 13% and 6% respectively.

Northern towns housing index 22% upPrices of houses in the Northern regions recorded an overall growth

of 22% quarter on quarter as areas like Ongwediva and Tsumeb record significant transactions during the quarter. Tsumeb recorded a growth of 30.0% pushing the median price in the area to N$829,000 while in Ongwediva, prices edged jumped by 18%. Median prices within North East Namibia (specifically town areas) are N$640,000 at the end of third quarter but with stand sizes that equate to 564m2 giving more value per sqm of land. Transaction wise, volumes were up 10% for the quarter based on transactions in the following towns: Ondagwa; Otjiwarongo; Tsumeb; Eenhana. Ondangwa recorded 75 transactions for the third quarter making it the fastest growing Northern town.

Central Property prices continue to climbAt the end of the third quarter central property prices grew substantially with data from Windhoek indicating a 27% growth in median prices while prices in the Okahandja area grew by 13.8%.

In Gobabis, property prices grew by 16.3% while number of transactions tripled in that area. In Windhoek, prices in Academia increased by 76% pushing median prices to N$1.9 million. In Cimbebasia median prices have increased to N$1.6 million but offer better value for money based on the average stand size of 341sqm compared to central Windhoek. Overall Volumes in the central region have increased by 15% for the quarter with most transactions emanating from Katutura, Otjomuise and Khomasdal. Dorado Park prices and volumes have improved drastically from the first two quarters of 2015.

Southern property a complete dudMedian prices in Keetmanshoop and Luderitz edged to N$700,000 by the end of the third quarter. Most transactions were recorded in Luderitz but with low median prices at N$440,000. The most expensive property was in Keetmashoop valued at N$900,000. The South remains a region with very low transactions and hardly any movement in property prices.

Land delivery recoversLand delivery continues steadily across coastal and northern Namibia with a 57% increase in new stands during the third quarter. The spike in new stands was

mainly a result of coastal developments which have grown sharply since August 2015. In total 258 stands were mortgaged representing a 62.9% improvement for the quarter.

ConclusionThe third quarter received the highest volume in transactions since the third quarter of 2013. This is a positive sign for the market indicating that despite the quick rise in property prices the demand for housing has not eased. It is anticipated that fourth quarter numbers will reveal higher volumes and higher prices than initially estimated. Average growth in prices for 2015 is expected to be 17% and average volume growth is expected to be 14%. In 2016 and beyond, the main concern will be jolting the supply side in order to cater to new entrants in the market (home owners). In terms of market dynamics, there has been a 44% decline for housing in the medium to upper end in favour of property well under N$1m over the past year. The shift in demand is not only in the pricing but also in location with a 13% increase in property demanded at the coast and in northern towns versus property in Windhoek. The trend is likely to continue into 2016 unless further measures are taken to address the current structural bottlenecks.

7 Thursday, 21 January 2016 news

Spar’s ceiling (not roof ) collapses

Advice on money matters and inflation

Henties folk go to Council

Jeremiah Ndjoze

Only about 162 491 out of a total of 418 544 registered voters took to the polls during late last year’s regional and local authorities elections. But that prevalence of voter apathy did not deter the residents of Henties Bay from making their mark, and now the peoples’ voices are set to be louder following the outcome of the elections in which the Civic Association of Henties Bay obtained a seat in that town’s municipality.

The Civic Association of Henties Bay is a non-partisan, apolitical, community organisation whose main object is to advocate for the development of the coastal town in relation to the needs of the electorate.

The association’s sole representative at the town council is one Gustav Dlamini, a former United Democratic Front (UDF) politician. He migrated from that party following his decision to disassociate himself from political rhetoric and propaganda, which sometimes stands in the way of practical development.

“I decided to distance myself from politics in order to focus on development because when one is campaigning for development in the name of a particular political party, one tends to politicise everything. After I arrived here in 2006, I started to observe the needs of the people from outside politics and I saw a completely different picture,” Dlamini told the Namib Independent this week.

On the agendaHigh on the agenda for the Civic Association of Henties Bay, this year, is the land delivery issue which, for Henties Bay – as is the case with all other towns in Namibia - is happening at a sluggish

pace.But unlike in other towns where land

delivery is hampered by the lack of funds to finance the servicing of the plots, the dynamics at Henties Bay are different.

“We simply do not have land. We now need to approach the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development for an extension of our town’s municipal boundaries,” Dlamini said.

While lamenting the fact that houses that were constructed as part of the government’s mass housing intervention are too costly for the average Henties Bay resident to afford, the councillor expressed joy that about 20 to 30 houses will be delivered to new owners upon completion in the first quarter of this year. The association will further campaign for the upgrading of the town’s road, while doing away with the French Drain sewage system that is being used at the town.

He expressed pride in the fact that Henties Bay residents are forthcoming when it comes to paying their municipal bills and urged them to come up with ideas that will result in the betterment of the entire Henties community.

“As we all know, one hand always washes the other. In the same manner, our residents should feel free to approach the town’s leadership with mutually beneficial comments, queries and suggestions,” Dlamini said.

Other residents associations that managed to secure seats in their respective town councils are the Swakopmund Residents Association which got a seat in Swakopmund and the Karibib Ratepayers Association which also managed to scoop a single. In Kavango East, Rundu Concerned Citizens Associations also managed to get a seat.

Marshallino Beukes

Superspar in Swakopmund’s Central Business District will have to fork out a hefty sum of money in order to pay for repair-works, after a part of the shop’s ceiling collapsed last Thursday.

The incident occurred while customers were busy with their daily shopping, around mid-day. According to the Spar’s manager, Mr Ryno Du Preez, it was earlier

reported wrongly that the roof of the building collapsed, and not the ceiling, as was the case. He further noted that a small part of the ceiling collapsed and the momentum brought down a bigger chunk of the structure. According to Du Preez, the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, but noted that rust might also have played a role. The contractor, appointed to do the job, is also going to strengthen the existing roof

structure. Nobody was injured and Du Preez expressed the business’s sincere apologies to its customers and for any inconvenience it may have caused. The contractor is working long hours in order to repair the structure in the shortest possible period, he said. Meanwhile, it’s business as usual at the Spar’s food (cuisine) department, where the unfortunate incident occurred.

New oil survey along the coast

Chariot Oil & Gas, an independent oil and gas exploration company, has started a 3D seismic acquisition survey of approximately 2,600 square km in Blocks 2312 & 2412A (the Central Blocks), offshore Namibia.

The survey is being conducted by PGS Exploration (UK) Limited and will fulfil the work commitment for the Central Blocks.

Following the analysis of its survey of approximately 1,700 line km of 2D seismic data acquired on the north western flank of the licence in 2015, the company has identified several significant additional leads within the Upper Cretaceous crust,

Chariot said on Monday.The company further explained that,

whilst there are drill ready prospects already identified in the Central Blocks, this 3D survey will enable Chariot and its partners to mature these new leads and further develop its inventory in this region, which it believes to contain a giant prospected source.

Chariot Oil & Gas’ partners are AziNam with 20% interest, NAMCOR 10%, and Ignitus with 5% interest.

The survey is expected to take approximately 40 days.

Delinking the Namibian Dollar from the South African Rand is an option, but is much easier said than done, so says a recent report issued by the FNB Group.

“Ever since the Rand’s nose-dive there have been questions and queries as to why our Namibian Dollar should remain linked to the Rand, especially as it seems to pull us down as well,” said Namene Kalili, Senior Manager Research and Development at the FNB Group. “De-linking a currency, however, is much easier said than done and entails numerous considerations.”

Kalili explained that the Rand, to which the Namibian dollar is pegged, has depreciated following the dramatic policy mistakes in South Africa. He advised that, before anyone becomes overly concerned, we should also remember that the dollar has appreciated against most currencies across the globe and the rand is not its only victim. “Essentially the depreciation will pass through in the form of higher prices for certain

consumer goods such as consumer electronics and vehicles.”

FNB Namibia has therefore increased their inflation expectations to 5.8% in 2016 and rising to 6.1% in 2017. Kalili said, “We expect faster interest rate hikes this year to contain inflation below 6% and reduce aggregate demand. It is possible for Namibia to delink from the Rand, but I do not believe it will be in our best interest. Reason being, persistent dollar strength is likely to depreciate the value of the free float Namibian dollar. Current fundamentals suggest that the Rand is undervalued and is therefore likely to recover from 2017 onwards (see graph below).”

He adds that currencies are determined by a host of fundamentals and market sentiments. Given Namibia’s limited FX reserves, a free float Namibia dollar is likely to be more volatile than the Rand. Event risks such as drought, energy fiasco or unrest would, in all likelihood, weigh down on the free float currency, leading to more

depreciation. Kalili went on to say that

launching a new currency is a long term project, whereby countries need to show the global community that they are able to manage interest rates, inflation rates, balance of payments, government expenditure and economic growth, amongst other things. “Then the country must have adequate reserves to back the currency in circulation. Where our money gets printed and determinants of money supply then become important considerations. We also need to consider our trade partners. Trade between Namibia and South Africa, our biggest trading partner, would become more complex as foreign currency translation now enters into the equation. Therefore, this is not a decision to be taken lightly and has to be taken with a long term view.”

Kalili concludes by saying that that he felt Namibia was better off under a linked currency regime. “We do not have the market size to influence the price for our currency, neither do we have the human capital to manage a free float currency.” He encouragingly stated, “The Rand will recover, it’s only a matter of when, as the fundamentals point to an undervalued Rand. So as traders take advantage of the price advantage, the Rand will appreciate and normalise. Furthermore, markets have now factored in the Zuma effect into Rand pricing and as soon as his term runs out, the currency should normalise.”

Thursday, 21 January 20168

Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry. Clearly indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet the criteria will not be considered.

Enquiries can be made directly to the Recruitment Team at 064 410 9000Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement

and no documents will be returned. Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments. Previously

disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply.

For more information on the company, please visit www.swakopuranium.com

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB Implement and maintain emission and performance monitoring and measurement programme for Swakop Uranium (SU) as per the requirements of the Environmental Management Plan, Integrated Management Systems and applicable legislation, regulations and standards.

Key Performance Areas:• Manage and implement the performance monitoring and measurement programme on all aspects of

potential environmental impacts; groundwater, air quality, biodiversity, heritage resources, and other relevant aspects;

• Organise all activities of environmental monitoring, sampling, laboratory analysis, data collation and quality control;

• Ensure the effective implementation and maintenance of environmental monitoring requirements, standards and guidelines;

• Provide technical guidance and support to ensure compliance to internal processes (EMS/IMS) and legislation;

• Assist and support visiting Specialists and Service providers with field activities and data collection;• Plan, maintain and manage all monitoring equipment and materials effectively;• Assist with the environmental training and awareness programmes of the Organisation;• Manage and support a Field Assistant on a daily basis.

Requirements and experience:• National Diploma in Environmental Management or related field • 2 years’ work experience in Mining environment• Environmental aspect monitoring, sampling and measurement • Sample collection, data analysis, interpretation and database management• Practical and technical aptitude on instruments and maintenance capability• Code B Driver’s License, 4X4 driving experience• Able to work in the field for extended periods• Experience with Microsoft Applications and GIS • Good communication, report writing and interpersonal skills• Experience and training in ISO14001 implementation and auditing

Swakop Uranium, a Namibian world class uranium mining company, invites people who are self-motivated, energetic and wish to work in a High Performance Culture environment, to apply for the following role.

VAcANcy: ENVIRONMENtAl OFFIcERLocation: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from Swakopmund

Reports to the Environmental Superintendent

Send your cv’s and other relevant documents to [email protected] by 29 January 2016

VAcANcIES

Husab Mine production on target despite fire

Fatal accident in Swakopmund

Donna Collins

The unexpected fire that raged for over six hours at Husab Mine on 28 December, has not set back the production schedule, according to Percy McCallum (Vice President: Human Resources and Business Support).

He stated this week that, while the fire was a set-back, mining operations were not affected by the blaze and commissioning of the initial target of producing uranium oxide from Husab remains, which will be in the second quarter of this year.

McCallum confirmed that the fire incident took place in a confined

space within the ball mill of the process plant whilst it was still under construction. The fire was caused by the ignition of rubber lining during welding by one of the project’s contractors which were under direct supervision of the EPCM contractor.

The flames were extinguished with support from the Swakopmund Uranium fire team and the Swakopmund and Arandis fire brigades.

"The cost of damage has not been quantified as yet, as the assessment of the damage has not been completed," said McCallum, adding that further assessment is ongoing and corrective actions are

being taken to minimise the risk of something like this happening again.

"The affected area has been made safe and released for defined remedial works," he said. "Other areas of the plant and the rest of the Husab Mine were not affected by the fire, and work is continuing as planned before the incident occurred - it's business as usual."

The Husab project received a mining licence from Namibia's Ministry of Mines and Energy in November 2012 and a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the site in the Namib Desert the following April.

Construction of the mine, which

was scheduled to be completed by the end of 2015, has notwithstanding stretched its deadline with the work and manpower invested in repairing the fire damaged plant. Production is planned to ramp up to 5770 tonnes of uranium per year by 2017.

The operation will be an open pit mine with an acid leach process plant on site. The Husab ore-body is claimed to be

the third largest uranium-only deposit in the world. With measured and indicated reserves of about 140,000 tonnes, Husab is expected to operate for at least 20 years. The mine will comprise of two pits: the Zone 1 pit will be some 3km long, 1km wide and 412m deep; the Zone 2 pit will be about 2km long, 1.3 km wide and 377m deep.

Mining operations were not affected by the blaze at Husab Mine last month, and production of uranium oxide is on track as planned. (Photo contributed)

Marshallino Beukes

A case of culpable homicide and reckless driving and or negligent driving is being investigated by the Swakopmund police, after a 24-year old male, Johannes Pendapala Keremens died on the spot, following the overturning of the vehicle in which he was a passenger, during the early morning hours of Monday.

The accident occurred opposite the Indoor Sports Centre (The Dome) in Daniel Kamho Street, at around 3.00 am. According to Deputy Commissioner,

Ottilie Kashuupulwa, the vehicle overturned after the 25-year old driver lost control over the vehicle. It hit a pavement, overturned and rolled three times. It is suspected that the driver of the Opel Corsa bakkie (Walvis Bay registration number) was under the influence of alcohol, but he could not be tested as he also sustained serious injuries and medical personnel were already busy attending him when the police arrived on the scene, Kashuupulwa added. The driver was admitted at the Swakopmund State Hospital and police investigations continue.

The scene of the accident (Photo: Facebook)

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Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry. Clearly indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet the criteria

will not be considered. Enquiries can be made directly to the Recruitment Team at 064 410 9000Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no documents will be returned.

Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments. Previously disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply.


Swakop Uranium, a Namibian world class uranium mining company, invites people who are energetic, self-motivated and wish to work in a High Performance Culture environment, to apply for the following role.

C&I MeChanICIan Diesel Mechanic (Mine Maintenance)

conDition Monitoring technician electrician

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Team Leader C & I

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Team Leader Shovel Maintenance

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Superintendent Condition Monitoring

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Team Leader Electrical





Main PUrPose oF JoB To provide a maintenance service on instrumentation and actuated valves, including the installation and commissioning of instrumentation for production equipment to the highest standards for maximum availability.

Key Performance areas:• Monitors, benchmarks and evaluates technology in order to ensure continuous

improvements;• Effects implementation of new equipment and systems;• Optimizes performance of equipment by monitoring the effectiveness and making corrective

recommendations;• Coordinates and effects the monitoring, installation, services and reconditioning of a variety

of equipment and instruments;• Manages and ensures technical availability to achieve optimal efficiencies on control gear/

instrumentation, associated equipment and systems and ensures availability of critical spares for all proves control equipment;

• Project and Administration effectiveness;• Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation and Quality Effectiveness.

requirements and experience:• A formal Instrumentation Mechanician Trade qualification N3 or National Diploma obtained

through T3/S4 in Control and Instrumentation field.• 3 Years post qualification C&I Mechanician experience in Plant Maintenance.• Experience in Endress & Hauser instrumentation, Rockwell Automation, solvent extraction.• Experience working with SAP PM modules.• Uranium plant experience will be a distinct advantage.• Excellent work ethics with a strong emphasis on safety and quality standards.• Ability to work with diverse cultures and have a tolerant nature.• Code B/BE license

Main PUrPose oF JoB To provide mechanical and general maintenance work in the shovel maintenance section on planned or unplanned bases to support the maintenance function towards maximum equipment availability and optimum cost including adherence to job safety and good housekeeping standards.

Key Performance areas:• Performs planned and unplanned maintenance tasks within set time limits and to OEM/

Owner specifications.• Performs analytical and pro-active maintenance • Hydraulic system maintenance and adjustments.• Uses Computer skills for equipment problem analysis. • Attend equipment training as identified or as required. • Perform standby duties on regular basis.• Ensure quality workmanship and maintenance improvement training to the assistants• Pre –maintenance risk assessments to ensure safe work completion • Supports the Environment, Health & Safety systems

requirements and experience:• Grade 12 plus recognized Trade Diploma in relevant field with 4 technical theoretical

subjects at N3 Level• Post-apprenticeship experience 3 years • Experience in OEM electronic monitoring/fault finding systems (VIMS, ET, Link1, Mine

care)• Previous maintenance experience on Caterpillar or Komatsu loading equipment will be a

distinct advantage • Driver’s License

Main PUrPose oF JoB To collect and analyse equipment and machinery condition monitoring data, present improvement opportunities to the Reliability, Process and Production Maintenance Teams, and provide technical support for lubrication activities to ensure that effective and efficient strategies and procedures are in place to properly maintain the rotating/static equipment and machinery in the process plant and mining production, in accordance with World Class Maintenance Standards.

Key Performance areas:• Expert knowledge in at least two of the following areas: equipment/machine condition

assessments (i.e. Minecare), infrared and vibration data collection and managing the oil sampling and analysis process.

• Responsible for condition monitoring data collection, analysis and technical advice to the reliability, maintenance and operations teams for equipment and machinery performance issues and condition monitoring requirements.

• Responsible for the maintenance and quality control of the condition monitoring database.• Responsible for correct system interface on as required basis to action equipment and

machinery ConMon recommendations. • Act proactively on ConMon results and assist Reliability Engineer with improvement of

routine maintenance schedules of all Plant and Mining equipment. • Ensure prompt and effective management reporting• Responsible for professional development and growth• Ensure Safety, Health, Environmental, Radiation & Quality effectiveness

requirements and experience:• Mechanical/Electrical Trade qualification or Mechanical/Electrical Engineering Certificate • Vibration Analyst certification/IR Thermography certification/Oil Management certification/

MineCare Training• Code BE Drivers’ License.• Proven experience in the mechanical/electrical engineering discipline within a heavy

industrial background of which time has been spent in condition monitoring and rotating /static equipment and machinery maintenance engineering: 8 years.

• Experience in the application of CM methods and devices including practical experience in equipment / machine rebuilds and/or diagnostics.

• Experience in the use of the SAP or other maintenance management system.

Main PUrPose oF JoB To effectively install, repair and maintain all Medium to Low Voltage equipment in process plant to a high standard, to achieve target availabilities and to continuously perform high quality work, without jeopardizing safety, health and environmental standards.

Key Performance areas:• Repairing, reconditioning, inspecting or changing out worn or defective equipment in

accordance with set standards and procedures.• Carry out failure Analysis on equipment and recommend corrective actions.• Diagnoses, maintains, adjusts, repairs faults and overhauls equipment and machinery on

site in order to maximize availability of equipment and machinery.• Assist in planning scheduled maintenance activities by ensuring that the required parts,

tools and special tools are available during services and repairs as planned.• Provides proactive guidance and advice on the effective repair and maintenance of

equipment and machinery.• Identifies and interprets best practice guidelines, plans and implements such.• Be responsible for own safety and the safety of colleagues.• Assist with the achievement of compliance to all relevant legislation, agreements,

standards, codes of practice, statutory and other specified reporting requirements.

requirements and experience:• A formal Electrical trade qualification, N3 • Minimum of 3 years’ experience post apprenticeship.• Specific experience in the following fields will be an advantage:

- Smart overload systems like Rockwell E3.- Variable Speed Drives like Rockwell.- Experience in solvent extraction (Ex environment).- Experience in SAP-PM modules.- Process plant experience especially uranium mining.

• A team player with a systematic approach.• Excellent work ethics with a strong emphasis on safety and quality standards.• Ability to work with diverse cultures and have a tolerant nature.• Code B/BE license

VaCanCIeS


National marathon championship to take place in SwakopmundThe 25th Rössing Marathon National Championship since independence will take place at Swakopmund’s Vineta Central Sport Fields on Saturday, 13 February 2016 and is regarded as a milestone in the mines history.

The 42-kilometre annual running event, sponsored by Rio Tinto Rössing Uranium and hosted by Swakop Striders Athletics Club, crowns Namibia’s national marathon champion. Over N$100 000 worth of prizes are available to runners in 10 different running categories.

An extra N$25 000 was added to the cash prizes to celebrate Rössing’s 25th consecutive year of sponsoring the event, in the same year that Rössing Uranium is celebrating 40 years since first production at the mine – Working for Namibia.

The winners of the ladies’ and men’s open categories will receive prizes worth in total N$60 000, including N$10 000 cash each and an additional N$20 000 development bonus each. The development bonus is meant to help the winners further their careers throughout the year of their reign as Namibia’s

marathon champions. An extra N$1 000 cash

bonus is up for grabs should the marathon records be broken in the open categories. The Rössing Marathon record of two hours, eleven minutes and twenty-three seconds (2:11:23) by Luketz Swartbooi was set in 1992. The Namibian national marathon record of two hours, nine minutes and eight seconds (2:09:08) was also set by Luketz Swartbooi, in Boston in 1994.

Reonard Namupala, running for the Namibia Defence Force (NDF) won the men’s open category last year in a time of two hours, nineteen minutes and fifty-seven seconds (2:19:57). The ladies’ open champion was Alina Armas, who got married to Reonard in August last year. It was her third, straight win in the category.

Apart from the marathon, the popular 10km Run is again on offer this year for athletes that prefer a shorter route. The Uranium Relay over ten kilometres and 5km Fun Walk in aid of the Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN), will add loads of fun to the event. The Uranium Relay is open to employees and contractors of uranium mining

companies in the region with all proceeds from entries for this event, donated to the CAN. The 5km Fun Walk is a big hit with families, corporate entities for team building and the otherwise health conscious public and is presented along the scenic, northern beach walk of Swakopmund.

The Fun Walk includes an exciting competition for best themed/most original costume, funniest hat, youngest walker (excluding toddlers in prams & pets), oldest walker, tallest walker and cutest pet walker. The coastal community is invited to show their support for the fight against cancer in Namibia by coming up with creative themes for the competition.

Entry fees are: for the Marathon N$60 for Namibians and N$100 for international runners; for the 10km Run N$40 for

Namibians and N$60 for international runners; for the Uranium Relay event it is N$80 per team, and the 5km Fun Walk is N$10 per walker. All proceeds from these two events are donated to the CAN.

Rössing Uranium creates positive social impacts where they operate, helping to improve living standards, health and wellbeing, and education in their host communities. As part of the Rio Tinto Group, their approach equips their partners to reap sustainable benefits long after their operations conclude. The theme for this year’s Rössing Marathon is “Live well! Be well!”

All the running events start at seven o’clock from the Vineta Central Sport Fields athletics stadium. The cut-off time for the Marathon is twelve o’clock. The 5km Fun Walk starts at 9.00 from

the same venue, with the prize-giving ceremony at 10.00.

Registration for the Rössing Marathon National Championship takes place at the stadium on Friday, 12 February, from 18.00 to 21.00. On Saturday morning, 13 February, registration will take place strictly from 5.00 to 6.00. Athletes participating in the Marathon and 10km Run will receive race numbers and T-shirts (on a first-come-first-served basis) during registration. Entry forms and more information are available on the Rössing website at www.rossing.com or contact Frank Slabbert of Swakop Striders at Tel: 064 405788 (h) / Cell 081 240 3383 or Botha Ellis of Rössing at Tel: 064 520 2426 (w) / Cell 081 286 0456.

Ladies Open marathon winner Alina Armas (left) and Men's Open marathon winner, Reonard Nampala (right) with Rossing MD Werner Duvenhage (middle)

Reonard Nampala (right - Number 18) - Champion - Rossing Marathon National Marathon 2015


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Lifestyle

Lifestyle

10 Tips to saving money on your grocery billAs everyone needs to buy groceries, being able to save on your grocery bill is one way you can make your budget stretch a little further at the end of the month.

Have you ever reached the checkout counter, and saw the bill looming back at you and wondered how your groceries could cost so much? I think we have all

been there. Below are some handy tips on how to make your money stretch a little further when it comes to grocery shopping.

1. House brandLook for the house brand of the item you are buying. Generally, the house brand will be cheaper.

Just because the house brand is cheaper, it does not mean that it is worse. If you take the challenge to downscale to a cheaper brand and find no difference in taste or experience, why not commit to the new brand purchase permanently to save money?

2. ListsMaking a list at home with just the items you need on it. This can help you to save money when shopping. Buying on an impulse can cause your bill to rack up way more than you need it to. This way, by having a list, you cut out the unnecessary products, and cut back on costs as well.

3. PromotionsKeep a sharp eye out for promotions. Promotions are a great way to get good products at a much reduced price. Note that buy-two-get-one free are not promotions, but are rather deals. Promotions are when, for example, all pork is priced down, for a certain amount of time.

4. Always check pricesSometimes we get stuck on a favourite brand, without really checking the prices. There are plenty of different brands out there that are not as costly. However, if you feel that the quality is just not up to scratch then simply switch

back and know the extra money is well spent.5. Do not fall for buy2-get-3 deals

A lot of the times, these deals are to do with perishable items, which means you might not even get the chance to use it before the item expires. Calculate the price per item when you are taking three, and then ask yourself how many would you buy, if it was that price, and not a ‘deal’? If your answer is still three, then great buy them. If not, then put them back, and just take what you need.6. Buy only what you needThis links back the previous point about lists. When you go groceries shopping only buy what you need, and no more than that. This way, you cut out the unnecessary costs of impulse buys, and end up saving money.7. Every little bit countsEven when you are deciding between two similar products, and there is only a few cents difference between them, just remember that every little cent counts. Eventually, all those 10 and 20 cents you saved, would add up.8. RewardsIf you need to, try to use your rewards points. If you have diligently shopped, and added up

enough points, then why not use them to try and get your grocery bill reduced? They are there for you to use, so do.

9. Beat the clockGive yourself a set amount of time to complete your shopping. If it is just a small shop, for example, then give yourself 30 minutes to get it done. This way, again, you cut out impulse buying and go in and get exactly what is on your list.

10. Packed-lunchesThe best way to save extra money is to pack your own lunch for work. Going out every day for lunch, or even just buying that coffee in the morning all adds up.

For example: if you buy a N$20 coffee every morning, for a month, you would have spent N$400. If you went and had a N$60 meal for lunch every day, then by month end you would have spent N$1200.

So rather factor in your lunches in your grocery shopping expedition and save yourself that little bit extra to your monthly food bill.

By following these 10 tips, you can save on your grocery bill every month, helping your budget to stretch just a little further.

Source: www. moneybags.co.za

5 Mistakes people make at the grocery storeWhat do root canals, pelvic exams, filing taxes, car repairs, and grocery shopping have in common? Absolutely nothing, except they are all life activities we despise with the intensity of a thousand white-hot suns.

Many of us feel overwhelmed and anxious when faced with a warehouse full of food. Part of the reason this necessary evil is difficult is that many of us make a few big mistakes when it comes to shopping for our food. 1. Going to the store only once per week. This is a very common way for people to shop. We fill up our mega-carts to the point of exploding once per week and hope that this haul will last us for the entire week. Because of this strategy, the average shopper buys more foods with a longer shelf life, which equals more processed food. Many of us get pretty freaked out and angry when our expensive groceries rot because we cannot get to them fast enough. However the nature of whole, natural food is that it will eventually go bad if you do not eat it or freeze it. If you buy less food more frequently, you will save money and have fresh food in your belly on a regular basis. This adds up to happy tummies and happier wallets. 2. Shopping without a plan.

Many people have a list when they shop, but one mistake we do

is that the items on the list do not add up to well-coordinated meals. Before you venture to the store, know what you need for three meals per day for 2-3 days. Shop only for those nine meals. We have all made the mistake of going to the store with a list of foods only to get home and have nothing to eat. If we do not plan at least a few meals and then purchase the ingredients, we end up going out to eat while the random carrots, cabbage and canned pumpkin sit at home wondering why they were purchased in the first place. 3. Shopping with a totally full stomach.

So by now, we all know that shopping when you are starving is a horrible idea. This is how you end up rationalizing that Twinkies are healthy and two kilograms of deli meat and cheese is a fantastic idea.

The mistake we are doing is taking the "do not go shopping hungry" edict a bit too far. We go out for brunch, eat a ton of food, feel stuffed to the gills, go to the store and buy absolutely nothing edible. While we are stocked on paper towels and soap, we end up back at the store the next day for some actual food. The best strategy is to build your list and go to the store when you are neither too full nor too empty. Take the middle path. 4. Buying too many "healthy" convenience foods.

Food marketers rejoice

at new food fads. Knowing that a fad exists means that there are hundreds of new processed foods that look really healthy on the package, but really are just another wolf in sheep clothing. Just because it is "paleo approved" or "gluten-free" or "organic and natural" does not necessarily mean it is a healthy choice. Stick to eating real food, not food that comes in a package that would last a nuclear holocaust, and you will end up eating the best way for your body. 5. Not knowing when your local store restocks.

The key to buying the freshest food is, knowing when your store restocks. Ask the manager what days of the week major restocking happens, and plan to shop on those days. I am lucky that I have two stores that I rotate that stock on different days. Buying food that is closest to being just picked can be challenging, but at least you will know that it has not been sitting on the shelves forever. This goes for fruits and veggies most obviously, but also should be taken into consideration when buying high quality protein sources. Knowing when the meat comes off the truck and into the store will put you in a better place to buy fresh.

By avoiding some of the big mistakes when it comes to the grocery store, perhaps you can find some enjoyment in the process. When all else fails, here is one last trick. Delegate the shopping to your family member who is most patient when in the store.

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Thursday, 21 January 201614

Worldwideworldwide

NASA astronaut tweets images of first flower grown in spaceNASA astronaut Scott Kelly has tweeted images of the first flower to be grown in space.

Vibrant images of the International Space Stations's latest guest, an orange zinnia flower, were posted by Mr Kelly on Twitter.

"First ever flower grown in space makes its debut," he tweeted.

"Yes, there are other life forms in space!"

The astronaut, who posted mesmerising, colour-enhanced images of Australia from space in October, has been nursing the flowers since fellow crew member astronaut Kjell Lindgren returned to Earth in December.

At that stage the flowers were not holding up well to conditions on the Soyuz TMA-16M.

Mr Kelly became the 'autonomous gardner' aboard the space station, and was given one page of care instructions to assist the rescue mission.

On December 28, Mr Kelly tweeted a picture of the flowers in distress.

After tending to the plants over the holiday period, two zinnia plants died, and the remaining two continued to thrive.

On January 8, Mr Kelly posted an image of the impressive turnaround and tiny buds beginning to sprout.

NASA said the zinnia flower was chosen because it can help scientists understand how plants flower and grow in microgravity, not for its beauty.

The space agency said growing flowering crop is more challenging than vegetative crop, and the issues faced by Mr Kelly presented a good learning opportunity for scientists.

Source: www.abc.net.au

Goodbye, MotoMotorola gave wireless its start. But its name will soon disappear from products as a new brand label comes to life called "Moto by Lenovo."

The storied Motorola name will be wiped off phones this year.

Lenovo, which bought Motorola Mobility from Google in 2014, is unifying its two phone businesses under the Lenovo name. It is going to use Motorola's Moto brand for high-end products and its homegrown Vibe brand for budget devices. The Motorola name is not completely gone. It will live on from a corporate perspective as a division of the Chinese consumer-electronics giant, said Motorola Chief Operating Officer Rick Osterloh.

"We will slowly phase out Motorola and focus on Moto," Osterloh said in an exclusive interview Thursday at the CES conference in Las Vegas.

The phase-out is notable because Motorola once represented the pinnacle of wireless technology. The company did invent the cell phone, after all. At a point in the mid-2000s, you couldn't turn your head without seeing the ultrathin Razr flip phone, which came with a "Hello, Moto" ringtone. Older folks will remember the Motorola DynaTAC as one of the first true mobile devices.

But times change. Google bought Motorola's phone business in 2012 and sold it two years later.

"It is our treasure," Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing said after the deal. "We plan to not only protect the Motorola brand, but make it stronger."

Lenovo wants to use its corporate brand to unify the products. Phones such as the Moto X will prominently feature the blue Lenovo logo. Motorola's iconic M "batwing" logo

will still be used. Lenovo's branding makes sense.

Motorola has seen its business take a beating. Nowadays, you are more likely to nab the latest Apple or Samsung phone than you are to look at a Motorola device. Motorola said it removed its name from the packaging in 2013.

Still, some bemoan the loss of such a significant name.

"Lenovo does not have a bad brand but Motorola stands for a lot, especially in mobile," said Carolina Milanesi, an analyst for Kantar WorldPanel. "It would be a shame to move away from that."

The decision is likely a play to use the Moto lineup, which is popular with Android enthusiasts, to get people more acquainted with the Lenovo brand. While Lenovo is the world's largest PC maker, it is not front of mind for phones and other mobile products.

Osterloh and his business group will soon take over all mobile operations at Lenovo. This means bringing Vibe phones into markets where Moto exists, and vice versa.

In markets where the Lenovo name is strong, the company intends to introduce the Moto line as an upscale product. Motorola will use the relationships and sales channels in its territories to push Vibe phones that cost less than $100. Osterloh said he expects to bring the Vibe line to the US, though that's not likely to happen this year.

Source: www.cnet.com

Through its commitment to its people, the company offers a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work alongside some of the most experienced and dedicated people in the industry. Clearly

indicate the position you are applying for as well as your name and surname in the subject line of your application email. Applications received that do not meet the criteria will not be considered. Enquiries can be made directly to

the Recruitment Team at 064 410 9000Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two weeks of the closing date of this advertisement and no

documents will be returned. Short-listed candidates must be willing to undergo pre-employment selection assessments. Previously

disadvantaged Namibians meeting the above criteria are encouraged to apply.


MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB To effectively install, repair and maintain all High Voltage tension equipment in process plant to a high standard, to achieve target availabilities and to continuously perform high quality work, without jeopardizing safety, health and environmental standards.

Key Performance Areas:• Monitoring the correct operation of HT reticulation system at Swakop Uranium (SU)• Repairing, reconditioning or changing out worn or defective parts• Diagnoses, maintains, adjusts, repairs faults and overhauls equipment and machinery on site• Detecting reason for recurring faults, and takes corrective action where necessary• Ensuring that the required parts, tools and special tools are available during services and repairs as

planned• Performs electrical High Voltage repairs to cables, breakers and HV installations• Provides proactive advice and guidance on the effective repair and maintenance of equipment and

machinery• Enforces compliance to Company job safety and good housekeeping standards/practices at all times

Requirements and experience:• Recognised Trade Diploma with 4 technical theoretical subjects (N3 level) or with Grade Twelve and 4

technical theoretical subjects• Post apprenticeship experience: 3 years• Electrical experience in mining / HV Industry / Technical Engineering an added advantage• Experience on Three Phase, HV, LV and Single Phase electrical applications• Proven competency and reliability in all aspects of HV work• Code B Drivers’ License

MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB To prepare, examine, analyze, negotiate and revise tender documents and contracts that involve the purchase of goods or services such as equipment, materials, supplies, or products. To provide contract summaries and ensure contract execution in accordance with the company policy. The position will also take up key control over Procurement activities related to small and large capital projects and day to day procurement requests from internal stakeholders.

Key Performance Areas:• Executes transactional procurement tasks with high quality delivery standards in order to meet business

objectives;• Co-ordinates and supervises negotiations with suppliers in an effort to obtain more advantageous terms

of business;• Manages the contractual relationships with the supplier to maximize benefit for both the Company and

the supplier;• Establishes accurate internal development/running costs versus externally acquired products/services;• Negotiates preferred supplier discounts and effects cost reduction achieved due to negotiation and

contracting;• Identifies potential contract items and takes the necessary steps to ensure such items are added to

existing contracts or appropriate contracts to be established;• Establishes and maintains effective supplier relationships with contracted suppliers;• Develops knowledge on industry characteristics and trends so that the BU can optimize its contract

spend.

Requirements and experience:• Diploma in Procurement Management, Sourcing and Supply Chain Management or Business

Administration OR a Certificate in Procurement Management, Sourcing and Supply Chain Management or Business.

• Certificate in contract administration will be an added advantage• 3 – 5 years’ experience in the preparation, administration and monitoring of bidding or tender

documents and contracts• Experience in contract/purchase order management and administration. Proven experience in using

office support systems e.g. SAP.• Proven experience in a procurement function involved in high risk, high value, complex works services

and supplies covering a range of commodities.

Swakop Uranium, a Namibian world class uranium mining company, invites people who are self-motivated, energetic and wish to work in a High Performance Culture environment, to apply for the following role.

HV ElEctRIcIAN

SENIOR PROcUREMENt OFFIcER

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Team Leader HV Electrical

Location: Husab Site – 67 kilometers from SwakopmundReports to the Procurement and Contract Manager


Send your cv’s and other relevant documents to [email protected] by 5 February 2016

VAcANcIES


Motoringmotoring

ExecutiveCareExecutiveCare

Contact 081 304 0232Email: [email protected] next to Mega Stationers in Walvis Bay

Every 5th Every 5th Wash & Vacuum is FREE

Wash & Vacuum is FREE

CAR WASH

Five of the best at the Detroit Auto ShowBy past standards, this year’s Detroit auto show was on the quiet side, some of the newcomers having been previewed elsewhere. That said there were some standouts. Here are five of the best Motown had to offer.Buick AvistaWho knew a Buick could look this good. The Avista is a coupe that any brand, including the mighty German luxury automakers, could be proud of. Though the Avista was introduced as a concept, it is based on the Camaro platform and looks very much like it is ready for production. If Buick keeps this up, the only problem that can be foreseen is from sister brand Cadillac, who might feel a little jealous.Lexus LC 500In an effort to re-energize its image, Lexus has gone overboard with design on some of its recent production models, such as the overwrought RC F sports coupe and RX 350 crossover. The N$1,675,725 V8-engined LC500 puts that to rights, with a finely

executed flagship luxury coupe design. Even though the spindle grille is still too big, the rest of the wide stance body is beautifully sculpted and detailed, and the interior is a leather intensive work of art.Chevrolet BoltTake that Tesla! GM comes out swinging with the world’s first affordable production electric car with a decent range. Coming to showrooms in late 2016, the Chevrolet Bolt boasts a 320km range, which is enough for most users’ driving needs, argues GM. Couple that with an attractive, practical hatchback design and a price around N$502,717 (estimate) and Chevy could be on to a winner, even with low gas prices.Chrysler Pacifica MinivanChrysler invented the US minivan market so it is good to see the company has decided to breathe fresh life into the breed with this dramatically improved version. Compared to the boxy predecessor, the Pacifica is almost sleek looking and lays waste

to the minivan haters’ argument that all people movers are boring. Not only is the Pacifica cool looking but it is packed with clever features. If you have three kids or more, a minivan is still THE best transport option. Do not let the crossover crazy crowd fool you.BMW M2It has been a while since BMW has had a punchy, smallish performance sedan like the original M3 . Like every other car out there, BMWs have grown fat over time. But now we have the M2, petite but powerful with a 365 horsepower six-cylinder and optional manual transmission (a rarity these days). The back end looks oddly shortened but overall it is sharp and promises giant killer performance.

Source: www.forbes.com

Buick Avista

Chevrolet Bolt Chrysler Pacifica Minivan

Lexus LC 500 BMW M2

PROUDLY BREWED BY NAMIBIA BREWERIESPROUDLY BREWED BY NAMIBIA BREWERIES

Namib Independent Issue 181

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Transcript of Namib Independent Issue 181