MIB Bulletin Dec 2007 Jan 2008 - Namibian Government

8/7/2019 MIB Bulletin Dec 2007 Jan 2008 - Namibian Government

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Govrnmnt Information Bulltin Dc-07/Jan-08

Rpublic of Namibia

Govrnmnt Information

BulltinDcmbr 2007/January 2008

INThIsIss

ue All about Namibia

snior scondary

Certifcate

Pag 6-7

Qution about

t Anti-Corruption

Commiion

Pag 10-11

Nw from Cabint

Cambr

Pag 18-20

In his address to Cabinet, he saidproductivity, efciency and effectivenessin both the private and public sectors canonly be improved if all Namibians make hardwork and dedication the cornerstone of theiractivities in 2008.

He reminded Cabinet members of the eightimportant priorities that his governmentidentied as critical areas for implementationand called on them to ensure long-terminvolvement in projects to ensure theirsustainability and viability over a longperiod.

The eight government priorities areaddressing poverty and unemployment;tackling the HIV/AIDS pandemic; reformingthe education sector; accelerating ruraldevelopment to reduce poverty; providingsocial and economic amenities; addressingthe need of vulnerable members ofthe Namibian society; the economicempowerment of previously disadvantagedNamibians; and improving the economicperformance of the country throughtrade, industrialisation, manufacturingand the promotion of small and mediumenterprises.

Addressing unemployment, the Presidentsaid Cabinet should continue to create aconducive atmosphere for investments.This calls for a review of relevant legislationto make sure that the countrys incentivepackages are competitive and attractiveto make Namibia a favourable investmentlocation. Small and medium size enterprises

Hrd work nd dedcton needed to tke the Nmbn nton to greter heght of property nd to mprove the lvngconditions or people in all parts of the country, President Hikepunye Pohamba said when he ofcially opened the rstCbnet meetng for 2008 on Tuedy, 22 Jnury 2008.

FREE/GRaTis

Work ard to nur proprity,

Poamba urgd

Traditional leaders pay their last respect to the late chief Munjuku II Nguvauvain Okahandja on 25 January 2008

Paramount Chef Munjuku Nguvauva ii has completed hs earthly msson wthdstncton. it s now the responsblty of those remanng behnd to contnuewhere he left so that hs teachngs and legacy can lve on for generatons to come.

Continu on pag 4

Cif Munjuku II laid to rt

With these words, President HikepunyePohamba paid tribute to the lateParamount Chief of the Mbanderu andDeputy Chairperson of the Council ofTraditional Leaders who passed away on16 January this year at the age of 85.

As Deputy Chairperson of the Council ofTraditional Leaders, the late Chief Munjukuwas accorded a state funeral. His memorialand funeral services were held in Okahandjaon 25 and 26 January 2008 respectively.

Continu on pag 4


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During 2007, 22 ordinary Cabinetmeetings were held and 290 decisionshave been taken or adopted. Pres. Pohamba

said that the Cabinet, as the executive organ

of state, has to ensure the proper formation

and implementation of government policies.

The decisions that Cabinet take, affect the

lives of Namibians in a practical and direct

manner.

Besides thanking Cabinet members and

the Cabinet Secretariat for their support,

hard work and dedication during 2007, the

President also expressed appreciation for the

role of the legislature and the judiciary that

have also contributed to the smooth running

of the work of the Cabinet in 2007.

He also acknowledged the constructive role

of registered political parties represented

in the Namibian Parliament. He praised the

interactions and suggestions of their leaders

on various topics and issues affecting the

Namibian people that were made during

consultations with the Ofce of the President.

This is an essential task of nation building

and the process of national reconciliation.

Cabint workd wit unity, patriotim in 2007

The Nmbn Cbnet delberted nd took decon on mny ue of ntonl mportnce n 2007 nd t bune wconducted in the spirit of unity, patriotism and openness, President Hikepunye Pohamba said when he addressed the last

Cbnet meetng of 2007 on 11 December.

Prof. Peter Katjavivi and his family with Pope Benedict XVI on 13 December 2007 in the Vatcican

One of the important milestones for 2007

was the nalisation of the Third National

Development Plan (NDP3), the countrys road

map for social and economic development,

through which the government aims to bring

about visible improvement in the social and

economic landscape of Namibia. NDP3

has specic targets that must be met in

different sectors and these targets relate

to the provision of social amenities, suchas education, health care, water, housing,

electricity and the promotion of economic

growth.

NDP3 also strongly focuses on the creation

of employment, the expansion of the

manufacturing base, food production, and

the expansion of physical and communication

infrastructure, such as roads, railways,

harbours, airports and telecommunication

networks.

President Pohamba said NDP3, Vision

2030 and the 2004 SWAPO Party Election

Manifesto will remain the centre of policy

implementation. They should form part of

the governments most urgent priorities and

areas of focus.

With reference to the 2004 SWAPO Party

Election Manifesto, the President reminded

Cabinet members that the government

is fast approaching its nal phase of the

mandate it won in the 2004 elections. The

government is, therefore, obliged to full the

expectations, aspirations and wishes of the

electorate by doing everything possible to

ensure the implementation of the manifesto

in the broadest sense.

According to the President, the

implementation of the 2004 SWAPO Party

Election Manifesto and NDP3 are important

catalysts for the realisation of Namibias long

term development policies encapsulated in

Vision 2030. Their effective implementation

will bring us closer to the realisation of Vision

2030. We must continually assess, monitor

and evaluate the implementation of this road

map, he said.

President Pohamba also called on

Government institutions to follow up onbilateral agreements signed with other

countries to ensure that Namibia benet

from such agreements.

Katjavivi and crdntial to Pop

Prof. Peter H. Katjavivi, Ambassador ofthe Republic of Namibia to the FederalRepublic of Germany, presented hiscredentials to His Holiness Pope Benedict

XVI, at a colourful ceremony at the Vaticanon 13 December 2007.

With the hand-over of his credentials tothe Pope, Prof Katjavivi became the rstAmbassador of Namibia to the Holy See. Prof.Katjavivi will take care of this responsibilityfrom Berlin where he is stationed.Ambassador Katjavivi was accompaniedby his wife, Rosemary Jane Katjavivi, theirdaughter, Isabel, and Mrs Frieda Guios, adiplomat at the Namibian embassy in Berlin,attended the ceremony in the Clementine

Hall in the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican.

At the same ceremony, new ambassadorsfrom Thailand, The Seychelles, Gambia,Suriname, Singapore and Kuwait handedover their credentials to the Pope.


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Continu from pag 1Cif Munjuku II laid to rt

Hereros from all over Namibia converged in Okahandja for the statefuneral of the late Chief Munjuku II Nguvauva

Pall bearers stand at attention before the casket of the late ChiefMunjuku II is lowered in the grave

Addressing a huge crowd, who came topay their last respect to the late Chief,

President Pohamba, in his message at thememorial service, said the late Chief wasan outstanding son of the Namibian soil,a tested leader, a pillar of strength, and apatriot who dedicated his life to the well-being of his people and the developmentof the Namibian nation. He contributedto the anti-colonial struggle and theattainment of the countrys nationalfreedom and independence.

After independence, he was one of thetraditional leaders who worked actively to

promote the policy of national reconciliationand mutual understanding among differentcommunities. He also contributed to shapingthe course and evolution of traditionalleadership in the country as a member anddeputy chairman of the Council of TraditionalLeaders.

Speaking at the funeral on 26 January,President Pohamba again stressed the late

Chiefs contribution to the nation. Hecalled on the mourners to continue to

promote the positive values which theChief stood for to ensure that his legacyis immortalised. We mourn the loss ofour hero, however, we are strengthenedand consoled by the legacy of hard work,dedication and leadership that the lateParamount Chief Munjuku Nguvauva IIleaves behind, he said.

Continu from pag 1Work ard to nur proprity

must also be sustained and broadened.On the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Pres.Pohamba acknowledged progress, butcalled on his government to continueavailing anti-retroviral drugs, as well asmeasures to prevent mother-to-childtransmission. He called on Namibians toget tested and to make safe choices toprotect themselves and their families.

The government is committed to reform

the education system through ETSIP.This calls for improvement in the qualityof teaching, expanding access to schoolsand addressing the needs of Grade 10and Grade 12 school leavers throughvocational training and other measures.

Namibians in rural and peri-urban areasbear a disproportionate burden of povertyand this challenge must be tackled head-on.

Feeder roads are being built to facilitatean increase in commercial activities and

infrastructures, such as grain silos arebeing built in rural areas for the storageof grain. Targeted action is also taken toassist the San and Ovatua communitieswho are living in difcult conditions.

To improve the social and economic situationof citizens, the government continue toprovide quality health care, potable water,electricity and housing. He called onthe relevant ministries to accelerate theupgrading, expansion and renovation ofexisting health facilities, adding that qualityhealth care is vital for the well-being ofNamibias communities.

Every effort is also being made to address

the need of the youth, women, seniorcitizens, workers, people with disabilitiesand orphans and vulnerable children, thePresident said.

Steps have also been put in place to facilitate,promote and regulate genuine economicempowerment of previously disadvantagedNamibians. The Transformational Economicand Social Empowerment Framework isbeing drafted by the Ofce of the PrimeMinister to bring about social justice andeconomic empowerment of the previouslydisadvantaged.

President Pohamba said the government haslaid a strong foundation through prudent andpragmatic policies aimed at achieving thenations development objectives and notable

progress has been made in many areas.This should encourage everybody to workharder to bring improvements where theyare needed. He called on Cabinet to learnfrom past setbacks and to take correctivesteps to proceed speedily.

He once again stressed that thegovernment should always be ready tolisten to the concerns expressed by thecountrys citizens. Indeed, a democratic

systems of governance such as oursshould welcome the voices and concernsof our people regarding their Governmentin the matters of social and economicdevelopment, Pohamba said.

The President also voiced his concernover the destructive impact of the oodsand drought experienced in different partsof the country and called on his Cabinet toensure that no human life is lost becauseof lack of food or water.

He concluded is message to Cabinet with

a call to government to work togetherin the spirit of mutual respect, nationalreconciliation and tolerance so thatNamibia can continue to be an oasis ofpeace and tranquillity.


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President Hikepunye Pohamba inaugurated the non-ex-ofcio members of the 5th Ntonl Plnnng Common on 12December 2007 n Wndhoek nd expreed the wh tht the new member wll crry out the mportnt functon of ettng

prorte nd drectng the coure of Nmb ocl nd economc development for the next three yer wth dtncton,dlgence nd dedcton.

disabilities and those infected and affectedby HIV/AIDS.

The challenge for the Commission is tond effective ways and means as well asadequate resources to implement thesepolicy measures effectively. He remindedthe commissioners that time is not standingstill and goals, such as poverty reduction andemployment creation cannot be postponed.He emphasised that government has toact promptly to bring relief to those who

lead a bleak existence because of poverty,unemployment and under-development.

There is a need to accelerate industrialisationby deploying our own human resources,to create a society where our people canenjoy economic prosperity, harmony andpolitical stability. To realise those targets,the government has to promote economicgrowth, employment creation and capacitybuilding, while improving its capacity tomonitor implementation to ensure that itstays on course. Where corrective action isneeded, the government must act promptly

and without hesitation.

The reduction in development assistance ispresenting a challenge to the governmentto accomplish more with less externalresources, the President said.

He also reminded the commissioners thatthe Commission can only take valid decisionswhen there are enough members to froma quorum. He called on commissioners toattend all meetings and to base their decisionson available statistical indicators. He saidthe transformation of the Central Bureauof Statistics into an efcient coordinator of

ofcial statistics in the country is a hugechallenge facing the new Commission.

In his capacity of Director General of theNational Planning Commission, Mr. HelmutAngula thanked the outgoing commissionerswho have diligently completed their termsof service. He similarly welcomed the newcommissioners and said he was lookingforward to working with them.

Mr. Angula reminded the newly appointedcommissioners that their appointmentswere not to ceremonial positions, but that

they have been entrusted with a huge taskof identifying, planning and implementingnational development priorities. Hetherefore called on the new commissionersto acquaint themselves with their duties andresponsibilities as per the National PlanningCommission Act.

The new NPC Commissioners will be expected toaddress the plight of people with HIV/AIDS, people

with disabilities and the youth, among others

The non-ex-ofcio Commissionersinaugurated on 12 December are Mrs.Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi, Dr. Mary Sealy,Ms. Maggy Nghatanga, Mr. Sam Shikongo,Mr. Alpheus Muheua, Ms. Juliet Kavetuna,Mr. Justin Ellis and Mrs. Jacky Asheeke.President Pohamba appointed them to theNational Planning Commission on the basisof their expertise and skills.

The National Planning Commission consistsof two categories of members as per the

National Planning Commission Act. TheCommission comprises of ex-ofcio memberswho serve on the Commission because of theposition they hold in Government. They arethe Director-General of the National PlanningCommission, Mr. Helmut Angula, the Ministerof Agriculture, Water and Forestry, Dr.Nickey Iyambo, the Minister of Finance,Mrs. Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, theMinister of Trade and Industry, Mr. ImmanuelNgatjizeko, the Minister of Works, Transportand Communication, Mr. Joel Kaapanda, andRegional, Local Government and Housingand Rural Development Minister, Mr. John

Pandeni.

At the inauguration, President Pohamba saidthe senior ministers and eminent Namibianpersonalities with many years of experiencein different areas will enrich the work anddeliberations of the Commission. Althoughthe duties and functions of the Commissionemanate from legislation, the commissionersalso need to take the needs, aspirations andexpectations of the Namibian people intoconsideration.

The President reminded the Commissionthat they must provide guidance and

leadership, as well as taking sound decisionsin the interest of all Namibians and thesocio-economic development of Namibia.The commissioners are expected toidentify development priorities and providedirection for national development prioritiesas outlines in the governments policiesand programmes. This must be done inline with national development goals andobjectives to ensure sustainable growth,social harmony and equitable development,Pres. Pohamba said.

According to the President, Namibias national

planning and development frameworksare already in place with documents suchas the different development plans andVision 2030. These policies are designedto address the needs of our people, namelythe youth, women, the elderly, orphans andvulnerable children, the workers, people with

Nw National Planning Commiionr

inauguratd


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answer scripts, computerised processing of

examinations data, the awarding of grades

as well as the reviewing of grades.

Wll the Mntry hve the cpctynd reource to dmnter the new

exmnton?

Checks and balances were built into

the development processes to ensure

that functions were not taken over from

Cambridge before the Ministry had the

capacity and resources to do so. While

the NSSC was being developed, progress

was closely monitored by the National

Examination Assessment and CerticateBoard as well as during annual review

meetings between ofcials of Cambridge

and the Ministry of Education.

Whch Drectorte from the Mntry

were nvolved n developng the newNssC currculum nd exmntonyytem?

The National Institute for Education

Development (NIED) and the Directorate

of National Examinations and Assessment

(DNEA) were responsible for the

development of the new NSSC curriculumand examination system respectively whilst

the Namibian Qualication Authority (NQA)

was involved with the development of the

requirements for the NSSC qualication

and the registration thereof on the National

Qualications Framework.

Wht chnge were mde to theyllbue?

The NSSC syllabuses were developed from

the IGCSE/HIGCSE syllabuses with the

assistance of Cambridge experts and wentthrough various quality control stages before

the National Examination, Assessment and

Certication Board approved them. Changes

were made to syllabuses in order to improve

their relevance were necessary but for

most subjects not to such an extent that it

necessitated the immediate replacement of

textbooks.

Changes made within syllabuses:

- Both the IGCSE and the HIGCSE

Mathematics syllabuses were upgraded

to include more topics at ordinary level.

- The Development Studies syllabus wasupgraded with the inclusion of more topics

relevant to the Southern African context.

- Management essential non-overlapping

topics in the Natural Environmental

syllabuses were incorporated in theOrdinary level Geography syllabuses

and the Environmental Management

syllabuses were phased out.

- The IGCSE subjects, Child Development,

Religious Studies and Music were phased

out because of the low candidate

enrollment.

- The seven specialised IGCSE technical

subjects will be examined as Ordinary

level syllabuses only up to 2007 after

which they will be phased out. Designand technology will remain the only

technical subjects at both NSSC

Ordinary and Higher levels.

- Literature which was a separate syllabus

from the First Language English and

German was intergrated into these two

Ordinary level syllabuses as other rst

languages literature was already part of

the language syllabuses.

Doe the number of ubject to beoffered to cnddte remn the

me?

The structure of the NSSC senior secondary

curriculum remains the same as before

namely six subjects: English and another

language, three subjects constituting a

eld of study, and a supplementary subject

selected from the options available.

Wht grde ymbol wll be ued to

report the chevement of cnddte?

The grading scales remain the same as was

the case for IGCSE and HIGCSE A* (highest)to G (lowest) for Ordinary level and 1

(highest) to 4 (lowest) for Higher level.

Wll lerner tll receve grde 12

certicates?

Two types of NSSC certicates will be

awarded, namely the Namibia Senior

Secondary Certicate Subject Award and

the Namibia Senior Secondary Group Award.

The NSSC Subjects Award will be awarded to

all candidates who have been graded in one

or more Ordinary or Higher level subjects

and will be similar to the IGCSE and HIGCSEcerticates that were issued for the past

twelve years.

Continu on pag 7

Rplacmnt of IGCse/hIGse ytm

wit t WssC

Mr. Cowley van der Merwe, Director of NationalExaminations and Assessment in the

Ministry of Education

When w the Nmbn senor

Secondary Certicate (NSSC)

currculum nd exmnton ytem

mplemented?

The NSSC is the new nal exit level

qualication of the Namibian School

System. The syllabuses leading to the new

qualication were already implemented in

Grade 11 at the beginning of 2006.

The Grade 12 candidates of 2007 are the

rst group to write the new Namibia SeniorSecondary Certicate (NSSC) Ordinary

and Higher Level Examinations, replacing

the IGCSE and HIGCSE examinations of

Cambridge International Examination in the

United Kingdom.

Wht rrngement hve been putn plce to enure tht the NssC

qualications are recognised nationally

nd nterntonlly?

To make sure that the new NSSC

Ordinary and Higher Level qualications

are recognised and accepted as at least

equivalent in standard to the IGSCE and

HIGCSE qualication, the Ministry of

Education entered into an Accreditation

Agreement with the University of Cambridge

Local Examination Syndicate (UCLES).

The new NSSC syllabuses and examinations

are of high quality and they will be accepted

and recognised inside and outside the

borders of the country and they are of

equivalent standard to IGCSE and HIGCSE.

Detailed plans and schedules have beendeveloped in collaboration with Cambridge to

systematically build the necessary capacity in

the Ministry of Education in areas of syllabus

and question paper development, marking of


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President Hikepunye Pohamba urged all Namibians to make 2008 the best year ever by working harder and by facing theyear with optimism and condence to achieve both personal and professional goals and objectives.

support and guidance to children tobecome upright and responsible citizens.

He equally called on children to obey theirparents, refrain from using drugs andalcohol and embrace the values of hardwork, self-discipline and tolerance. Heurged children to concentrate on theirstudies and implore teachers to providequality education so that the pass rate canbe improved at all levels.

With reference to the government, thePresident said that the managementcadre had been instructed to becomemore productive to ensure that the effectsof poverty, unemployment and crime

are addressed, while development andinfrastructure need to be expanded in therural areas.

He also pleaded for greater compassionand better care for the elderly, orphansand vulnerable children, while giving theassurance that the availability of potablewater, electricity, housing and healthcare will remain a high priority for thegovernment.

Who wll be elgble recever of the

NssC Group awrd?

The NSSC Group Award is a new

qualication and will be awarded to

candidates who are graded in six subjects

and meet the minimum requirements

applicable to the group award.

Wll there be chnge n the

dmon requrement to tertrynttuton?

Continu from pag 6Rplacmnt of IGCse/hIGse ytm wit t WssC

The University of Namibia and the

Polytechnic of Namibia and other institutions

of higher learning accredited with the

Namibia Qualication Authority have satised

themselves about quality and standard of

the new NSSC qualication and will accept it

for purposes of admission to tertiary studies

if the minimum admission requirements

determined by each institution, on the basis

of the NSSC qualication, are met.

In August 2005 the Ministry of Education

approached the Matriculation Board in South

Africa to get the new NSSC qualication

approved for purposes of admission

of Namibian candidates to rst-degree

studies at South African universities.

From 2008, Namibian candidates with the

NSSC qualications will be admitted on the

same requirements as were applicable to

the IGCSE and HIGCSE qualications.

At the dawn of 2008, we should cast oureyes further on the horizon to meet new

challenges and opportunities. I trust thatperseverance and dedication will be thehallmarks of all Namibians, both young andold, in 2008. I am condent that 2008 willsee more successes than those recorded inprevious years in both the public and privatesectors. Namibians must cooperate to createa brighter tomorrow for all our people in thespirit of national reconciliation, the Head ofState said in his New Years message to thenation on 31 December 2008.

According to the President, the yearwas characterised by positive actions toconsolidate the gains of the revolution

through the implementation of targetedpolicies to improve the living standards ofall Namibians, to restructure and strengthenthe education system through ETSIP,to concretize NDP3 and Vision 2030, toimprove the delivery of public amenities andseveral initiatives to ensure improved publicmanagement and administration. In his NewYears message, President Pohamba calledon parents to rededicate themselves to theirduty of parenting by providing the necessary

Mak 2008 t bt yar vr - Pridnt

The President called on Namibians to treat the elderlywith compassion

The Minister of Gender and Child Welfare,Hon. Marlene Mungunda, in Januarylaunched a community project at Aroab inthe Karas region. The project consists ofthree centres, namely a community centre,playground and an HIV/AIDS centre.

Apart from providing space for HIV/AIDScounselling services, library services forschool going-children and computer trainingand use, are some of the activities to beoffered at the centre. A playground area

will provide orphans and vulnerable childrenwith a space to experience family life in thewake of the devastating effects of widespread poverty and the HIV/AIDS pandemicin the country. Many children have losttheir parents and they need a conduciveenvironment for their social upbringing.

Mungunda assured the community of Aroabthat her Ministry would support their effortsthe care for and protect the children and theyouth, urging the community to work hard

in building a prosperous nation. She advisedthe community to take ownership of thecentre and guard against vandalism.

The project is the brainchild of the AroabVillage Council. The Minister praised theCouncil for its initiative in establishing thecentre, which will go a long way to reducethe traumatic experiences of the victims ofHIV/AIDS and improve the living standardsof the people through the dissemination ofinformation.

Aroab opn cntr for t l fortunat


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Community, traditional and church leaders have been called upon to work towards a common goal in the ght againstGender-Based Violence (GBV). The Governor of the Hardap Regional Council, Hon. Katrina Hanse-Himarwa, wants to see thepng of rgd nd tffer entence meted out for rpt nd murderer of women nd chldren n the ner future.

to overcome gender-based and domesticviolence? How do we, as partners in thisstruggle, get the vast majority of men-folk toconsciously act on the fact that women andmen were created differently but equal andbelieve deeply that all human rights applyfor both women and men?, the statementquestioned. It went on to state that, wealso know that women equally need to

change deep set attitudes. How often haveyou heard a woman say: she asked for it orno, you mustnt bring down the family nameby telling people or God Forbid, report to thepolice about what happened to you.

It concluded that action on conscious level,on a minute-by-minute basis, is needed bywomen and men to bring about change.

Tak action againt gndr-bad violncBy Norbert shthgon

She reminded the nation that theprevention of violence against womenand children is not only the responsibilityof the Ministry of Gender Equality andChild Welfare (MGECW), but it requiresindividual and community participation andinvolvement. I believe the highest form ofviolence in the context of Namibia is theviolence against women and children, shenoted.

The Governor stated that the impact ofGender-Based Violence is felt at all levels ofthe society. We are all witnesses to violence

on streets, in families, among friends,between parents and children, husbandsand wives, and at homes and workplaces.Gender-Based Violence has become part ofour everyday life, she said.

She also noted that violence, in whateverform, can no longer be tolerated andtherefore let us join hands, as communityleaders, to cooperate with one another forthe benet of all communities.

The Governor commended members ofcivil society organisations and NGOs forhaving played a critical role in their callfor the upliftment of social standardsand promoting sustainable developmentamongst communities. I believe the ghtagainst Gender-Based Violence without yourinvolvement will not succeed, she added.

The Governor was speaking at the launchingof 16 Days of Activism in the Hardap regionon 23 November 2007. She concluded thatthe occasion should serve as a forum forstakeholders to re-arm themselves withdedication and commitment to ght againstGender-Based Violence and make Namibia apeaceful country to attract investors who will

maximise the economic activities to benetall communities.

At the same occasion a statement wasread on behalf of UNICEF Representative,Khin-Sandi Lwin and the UN System, as co-sponsors of the 16 Days of Activism. It notedthat the issue of Gender-Based Violence hasreached a point of zero tolerance amongNamibian women. The issue is receivingthe multi-sectoral attention it deservesand needs. The UN agencies realise thatalthough the attention is drawn to the issue,action is missing in the ght against Gender-Based Violence and that men are missing inaction for the course.

How do we, as partners in the struggle,get the vast majority of men to get deeplyinvolved and committed in the struggle

Women and children should be treated with love and respect and violenceagainst them should not be tolerated.

Poamba on Intrnational

iua they y, no country n lnd but prt of other who mke up the world.The following are some pronouncements made by President Hikepunye Pohamban 2007, wth regrd to Nmb tnd on world ue.

Namibia strongly applauds the holding offree and fair elections in DRC last year,as well as, the formation of a democraticgovernment led by His Excellency,Joseph Kabila. We are concerned aboutsome groups who continue to underminethe rule of law in that country. We callupon them to refrain from violence andjoin the peace process. We are alsoconcerned about the ongoing violencein the Darfur Region of Sudan andthe conict in Somalia where innocentcivilians are suffering.

I wish to reiterate my countrys positionwith regard to the spectre of globalwarming and climate change. We believethat it is imperative for all nations of theworld to join hands and adopt policiesthat are environmentally friendly and willreduce carbon emissions that contribute

to climate change. Climate change hasbecome, more than ever before, a globalchallenge that needs urgent redress.

The ongoing reform of the UnitedNations system, particularly theexpansion and democratisation of theSecurity Council should be expedited. Inthis context, I wish to reiterate Namibiassupport for the Common African Positionas contained in the Ezulwini Consensusand the Sirte Declaration.

My government calls for the immediate

and unconditional implementationof the UN Settlement Plan for theWestern Sahara, and all resolutions ofthe Security Council and the GeneralAssembly, with the aim of holding a freeand fair referendum in Western Sahara.

Continu on pag 9


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Christmas is a time to reinforce the teachings and values of caring and sharing with those members of our communities who ndthemselves in difcult living conditions, President Hikepunye Pohamba said in his annual Christmas message delivered on 24

December 2007.

The President similarly called on Namibians toremain alert so that they do not fall victim tocriminals. Criminal elements take advantage ofthe holiday season to rob, attack and burglarhouses and businesses. Therefore, evenwhile Namibians are relaxing and enjoyingthe holiday season, they should remain on

guard and report suspicious behaviour tothe law enforcement agencies. According tothe President, the law enforcement agenciesare under strict order to maintain law andorder to ensure that the holiday season is not

We are deeply concerned about

the continuous suffering of thepeople of Palestine under Israelioccupation. I wish to reafrmour full and unequivocal supportfor the inalienable rights ofthe Palestinian people to self-

Car for and ar wit l privilgd

ti Critma

Christmas is the special time when families,ends and communities come togetherin the spirit of sharing and togethernessand Namibians should not forget orphansand vulnerable children, the elderly, peoplesuffering from Aids, those with disabilities andthose who are bedridden and weak. With timeoff from work, Namibians should make time forthose who are in need and show compassionfor those who are in pain, he said.

The President also paid tribute to the police,soldiers, medical personnel and other who

have to perform essential duties over thefestive season. He also included workers whokeep the wheels of the economy rolling andwished them strength and dedication to theirwork, while expressing the hope that they toowill get the opportunity to rest and be withtheir families.

He similarly appealed to road users to heedand respect the trafc rules and regulationsto avoid accidents and to prevent the loss ofprecious lives and serious injuries becauseof vehicle accidents. He called on drivers,passengers and pedestrians to support the

ongoing trafc campaign to reduce vehicleaccidents in Namibia. This will spare familiesand communities the unnecessary pain andsorrow that accompany horric accidents.

Medical professionals, police and soldiers remain onduty when others go on leave

Christmas is a time to care for the less privileged

marred by crime and violence. Members of theNamibian Policy and Defence Force will carryout patrols and anti-crime operations to ensurethat people can enjoy their holidays with peaceof mind and a sense of security.

President Pohamba concluded his Christmasmessage by wishing all Namibians a well-deserved rest, but called on everybody toreect on the past year and to embrace2008 with the resolve to work hard toachieve personal objectives and to reach newmilestones of success.

Poamba on Intrnational iu Continu from pag 8

determination, including their right

to establish a free and independentState of Palestine alongside Israel.

Our world needs peace andsecurity so that humanity can worktogether towards the realization

of the Millennium Development

Goals (MDGs). Our continentneeds peace and security sothat Africans can work towardsgreater economic integrationand the eradication of hunger,diseases and poverty.

Christmas is a time for sharing time with loved ones and for giving and receivinggifts. It is also a time to share with the less fortunate and to remember those

rendering essential services

December is holiday time and many Namibians move to the coast to escape from theheat in Windhoek and other areas of the country


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Corruption has many corrosive effects. It results in insufcient public facilities, a decline in economic development, a highunemployment rte, poverty nd nequlty, the fcltton of orgned crme, the volton of humn rght, ncree npoltcl ntblty nd n enrchment of few t the expene of the mjorty.

The 2006/2007 Annual Report of theAnti-Corruption Commission contains anumber of frequently asked questions aboutthe Commission. Since the information in theAnnual Report will not necessarily reachesthe public, the Government informtonBulletn extracted some of the questionsand answers to enlighten the public on thework of the Commission.

Wht the ant-CorruptonCommon?It is an independent and impartial body thathas a statutory mandate to ght corruption.It is also and agency as contemplated in thePublic Service Act, 1995 (Act 13 of 1995).

Wht re the functon of theCommon?The main function of the Commission is tocombat corruption through investigation,prevention and public education. TheCommission thus has a three-prongedapproach in ghting corruption. The

Commission is mandated under section 3 ofthe Anti-Corruption Act to:- receive or initiate and investigate

allegations of corrupt practices;- refer an allegation to any other

appropriate authority for investigation oraction;

- consult, cooperate and exchangeinformation with appropriate bodiesor authorities, including bodies orauthorities of other countries that areauthorised to conduct investigations inrelation to corrupt practices;

- prevent the occurrence of corruptpractices;

- investigate any conduct of a personemployed by a public body or private

body which may be connected with orconducive to corrupt practices;

- examine the practices, systems andprocedures of public bodies and privatebodies;

- advise public bodies and private bodieson ways of preventing corrupt practices;

- educate the public on the dangers ofcorrupt practices; and

- enlist and foster public condence andsupport in combating corruption.

How doe the Common recevecomplnt bout corrupton?The ACC receives complaints orally or inwriting from members of the public or frominstitutions. Some members of the publicprefer to report anonymously or give anindication that their identities should beprotected. The Commission may also initiateinvestigations.

i the Common cceble tomember of the publc who do not lve

n Wndhoek?The Commission has established a freehotline number 0800 222 888 throughwhich the public anywhere in the countrycan reach the Commission. In addition, theCommission intends to, within the very nearfuture, establish at least two regional ofces

Frquntly akd qution about t ACC

Mr. Paulus Noa of the Anti-Corruption Commission and President Hikepunye Pohamba at thelaunch of the anti-corruption week in 2007.


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and introduce mobile report centres to makeitself more accessible to the public. This, ofcourse, depends on the availability of funds.Once the Directorate of Education andCorruption Prevention is fully operational,the Commission will be more proactivewith its outreach activities to sensitise thepublic on the dangers or corruption and onreporting procedures.

Doe the Common cooperte wthother uthorte n crryng out tmndte?Yes. In terms of section 3 of the ACC Act,the Commission may consult, cooperate andexchange information with appropriate bodiesor authorities, including authorities andbodies of other countries that are authorisedto conduct inquiries or investigations inrelation to corrupt practices.

The Commission frequently interactswith the Namibian Police as some of the

complaints are of such a nature that itrequires an investigation by the Police andnot the Commission. In the ght againstcorruption, the Commission has to ensure inaddition to the Namibian Police, that it hasgood working relations with ofces, such asthe Ofce of the Ombudsman, the Ofce ofthe Attorney General, the Prosecutor Generaland even the Parliamentary Committee onPublic Accounts.

i the Common n ndependentbody?Yes. The Commission is an independentand impartial body that is accountable to

the Namibian people through the NationalAssembly by way of an annual report thatthe Director submits to the Prime Ministerfor tabling in the National Assembly. Thisguarantees the Commissions independenceand ensures that it can perform its functionswithout fear of any interference.

Wht the reltonhp between theCommon nd other Common nNmb?The Commission has the specic mandateto deal with corruption. Corrupt practiceswhich it is mandated to deal with are dened

in Chapter 4 of the ACC Act. The Commissionmay cooperate with any other authorityinclusive of any other Commission in thedischarge of its mandate.

Doe the Common proecute thece t nvetgte?The Act explicitly states that, if uponcompletion of an investigation by theCommission, it appears to the Director that aperson has committed an offence of corruptpractices under Chapter 4 or any otheroffence discovered during the investigation,the Director must refer the matter andall relevant information and evidence

assembled by the Commission in connectionwith the matter to the Prosecutor General.The power to prosecute is a constitutionalpower that vests in the Prosecutor General.

A staff member of the Commission whopossesses the required legal qualications

to appear in a court of law in Namibia mayprosecute if the Prosecutor General, inconsultation with the Director, delegates theauthority to conduct criminal proceedingsin court in respect of the matter. The staffmember will in the exercise of such power besubjected to the control and direction of theProsecutor General.

Cn peron be proecuted under theant-Corrupton act, 2003, for offencecommtted before the comng ntoforce of the act?No. The Act has no retrospective effectunless of course it is a continuous offence.Depending of the facts of the case, theProsecutor General may decide to prosecutesuch a person, if it is not a continuousoffence, under the Prevention of CorruptionOrdinance, 1928 (Ordinance 2 of 1928)or with a common law offence of fraud orbribery or any other offence as the casemay be.

Doe the ant-Corrupton act, 2003,bnd Nmbn for offence commttedoutde Nmb?Most denitely yes. Under the Anti-Corruption Act Namibian citizens andpersons domiciled or permanently residentin Namibia may be brought before Namibiancourts for corrupt offences committed in aforeign country if the conduct in questionswould amount to a corrupt practice underthis Act.

i there ny legl protecton forperon who t the Common n

t work?Yes. The Anti-Corruption Act provides thatno action or proceedings of a disciplinary,civil or criminal nature may be institutedor maintained by any person or authorityagainst any informer or a person who hasassisted the Commission in an investigationinto an alleged or suspected offence underthe Act.

It should also be noted that the mentionedprotection is not extended to those whomaliciously give false information againstothers. However, the Commission is of

the opinion that the Protection of WhistleBlowers legislation should be enacted soas to extend protection to whistle blowersin general. This will help remove the fearof victimisation that people may have shouldthey report corruption.

Wht re the cue of corruptonidentied thus far?It is appropriate to rstly state thatcorruption is a manifestation of institutionalweakness, poor ethical standards, skewedincentives and inadequate enforcement ofthe laws of the country.

As part of our national crusade againstcorruption and our quest to enforcetransparency and accountability, legislationthat adequately provides for minimumstandard of behaviour and conduct ofpublic ofcials should now be enacted.Such legislation should also provide

for mandatory disclosure of assets andliabilities. The enactment of such legislationwill reafrm Governments commitment toensure accountability and transparency inthe conduct of public affairs.

The causes of corruption are, among others,the following:- Lack of adherence to the laws, rules and

regulations;- Lack of programmes combating

corruption in various institutions;- Failure to develop proper ethical and

business standards for the public andprivate sectors;

- Appointment of incompetent persons incertain positions of authority;

- Lack of transparency and accountabilityin the decision-making process;

- Lengthy and cumbersome procedures inthe decision-making process;

- Poor remuneration of employees;- Absence of adequate internal controls to

prevent bribery, nepotism and abuse ofpublic properties.

Wht re the penlte for corruptonunder the ant-Corrupton act, 2003?A person convicted of an offence under anyprovision of Chapter 4 is liable to a ne notexceeding N$500 000 or to imprisonment fora term not exceeding 25 years or both suchne and such imprisonment.

Wht role cn cvl ocety orgntonplay in the ght against corruption?Civil society has an important role to play asa stakeholder in the ght against corruption.

It is a vehicle that reaches out to ordinarycitizens. Its role in awareness raising oncorruption cannot be underestimated.Civil society should develop anti-corruptioneducational material as part of programmessensitising the public. They should educatethe public to demand quality goods, servicedelivery, transparency and accountability.Only when civil society is engaged inoversight programmes can the requiredlevels of transparency and accountability berealised.

Wht bout the med?

The media can play a vital role in exposingcorruption, raising public awareness,enforcing and maintaining professionalstandards. The media is responsible formonitoring the three pillars of the stateagainst corrupt practices. The role of themedia in enhancing ethical values and inreducing the levels of corruption should beappreciated.

if you need to contct the ant-Corrupton Common, you cn rechthem t the 12th Floor, Frn indongoGrden, Dr. Frn indongo street,

Wndhoek. You cn rech them by mlat P O Box 23137, Windhoek. They canlo be reched t telephone number061 x 370600, fx 061 x 300 952, freehotlne t 0800222888 or v eml [email protected]


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The National Consultative Conference to discuss the draft Third National Development Plan (NDP3), covering the ve-yearperiod from 2007/08 to 2011/12, was held in Windhoek in October 2007.

The main aim of the conference was forthe stakeholders to discuss the draftof NDP3 and provide feedback, which willpave the way for nalising the document.Stakeholders were drawn from public andprivate sectors, civil and internationalorganisations and other developmentpartners.

NDP3 has been developed, using anintegrated result-oriented managementapproach that links the NDP3 goals to theeight main objectives of Vision 2030.

The NDP3 is a planning approach thatfocuses on development planning to enable

policy makers and planners to implementand evaluate programmes and projects atevery stage of development. This will helpthe nation achieve results and see how theyare contributing towards the attainment ofthe objectives of Vision 2030.

The NDP3 focuses on institutionsresponsibilities for the successful realisationof each of the Vision 2030 objectives. It willform part of the decentralised structures,making it possible to address prioritiescoherently at all stages of development.Through the structures of the economy,all stakeholders will be able to make their

contributions through participatory efforts,down through to the grassroots levels.

This will make it easy for all parties, amongthe public and private sectors and otherinstitutions to pull synergies aimed atmaking meaningful contributions towardsnation building.

Upon successful implementation of theplan, positive results will have beenrealised through regular and continuous

monitoring, reporting andevaluation of progress. In thisway, any deviations will bedetected through the courseof implementation so thatappropriate remedial actions canbe taken timely.

NDP3 is the most importantcourse towards the achievementof the goals and objectives of

building an industrialised nationwithin 23 years to come. Theroadmap to success requirespeoples will to change andadopt new ways of innovationand inventions while remainingcompetitive in the rapidlychanging world.

Addressing the conference,President Hikepunye Pohambanoted that more than everbefore, we must strengthencollaboration and cooperationamong different stakeholders to

realise the dream and the visionthat we want for ourselves,our children, and the futuregeneration of our country.

The theme of the NDP3 isAccelerating Economic Growth

and Deepening Rural Development. PresidentPohamba expressed himself on the issue ofrural development that rural development isone of the issues close to my heart.

He noted that over 60 percent of Namibians

reside in rural areas. There is no doubtthat a signicant number live under difcultconditions. The majority of our citizensin rural areas depend on underdevelopedsubsistence farming for their livelihoods. Wecannot afford to continue to ignore theseharsh realities.

Therefore, it is only tting that ruraldevelopment takes centre stage in ourpursuit of economic emancipation, thePresident said.

The Head of State said, The fact of the

matter is that we cannot expect to achievebroad-based development if a signicantsection of our citizens remain poor. This isthe challenge facing all of us. We shouldseek ways and means of uplifting the livingconditions of all our people.

President Pohamba noted the importanceof the mainstreaming of cross-cuttingissues, such as HIV/AIDS, gender equality,poverty reduction, pro-poor interventionsand environmental sustainability into thedevelopment process. The integrationof these interventions, he declared, iscompulsory for all development programmes

in the NDP3 plan, noting that, these aresome of the challenges facing our countrytoday.

We need to address these challengescoherently, consistently and in a holisticmanner, he added.

NDP3 National Conultativ Confrnc ld

The desperate face of poverty. NDP3 addresses poverty and will take the nation towards Vision 2030

We feel hungry. We want a job, reads the placard of this lady. NDP3aims at creating employment for the Namibian youth


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Once again the world has commemorated the World Food day, a special occasion that provides the citizens of the world with unque opportunty to ddre the plght of the poor nd vulnerble people cro the globe.

President Pohamba said that the WorldFood Day commemoration is taking placeat a time when conicts and wars in differentparts of the world have escalated, involvingpeople who are unable to meet their basichuman needs such as access to nutritiousfood, shelter, health care and education. Itis therefore important that we remember theestimated 800 million people who do nothave access to adequate food and commitourselves to our vision of a world free fromhunger and poverty, he added.

We have made strides towards eradicatingpoverty and hunger. However, manychallenges remain. We must, therefore,ensure that food production always remain

at the centre of national and internationalpoverty reduction programmes, thePresident noted.

People who are poor loose out on educationthat could help them to escape the hunger-poverty trap. Undernourished adults areslowed and less productive at work. Anation of hungry individuals cannot growand prosper.

The theme, The right to Food has beenchosen for this years commemoration. Theright to food has been recognised in one

of the most important international humanrights documents, the Universal Declarationon Human Rights, which was adopted bythe United Nations in 1948. It states that,the right to adequate food is realised whenevery man, woman and child, alone or incommunity with others, has access at alltimes to adequate food or means for itsprocurement. Although the right to food is abirthright, it should be noted that this doesnot mean that people who are able to workshould sit back and demand free food.

President Pohamba urged leaders, civicorganisations, business people and

individuals to work hard to ensure thatpeople, especially the vulnerable groups,have access to adequate and nutritiousfood. He added that it is for this reasonthat the Namibian government has adoptedpolicies and programmes which are aimed atensuring food security for all citizens in ourcountry.

The right to food is also included in theinternational Convenant on Economic, Social,and Cultural Rights, which was adopted bythe UN General Assembly in 1966 and cameinto force in 1976. A total of 156 countrieshave ratied this Convenant to date. Article

11 of the Convenant recognises the right ofeveryone to an adequate standard of living,including adequate food, as well as thefundamental right of everyone to be freefrom hunger.

Seventy percent of the worlds populationlives in rural areas where they dependon agriculture for food production andemployment. Namibia is no exception.Hence, during the World Food Summit in1996, Heads of State and Governmentcommitted themselves to promoting publicand private investments in agriculture as a

contribution to the goal of reducing by halfthe number of hungry people by 2015.

As part of the initiative towards the realisationof the African Green revolution, the AfricanUnion has committed itself through thenew Partnership for Africas Development(NEPAD) to increase investment inagriculture to 10 percent of each memberstates public sector investment budget. Thiswould certainly make a notable contributionto the sector and improve the livelihoods

of the rural communities, including farmersand workers. At country level, the Namibian

government, through the Ministry ofAgriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF), haslaunched the Green Scheme to boost foodproduction by encouraging local productionof staple food, such as maize and mahangu,as well as vegetables and fruits.

Another key area with high potential forreducing poverty which the Namibiangovernment is promoting is aquaculture. TheMinistry of Fisheries and Marine Resources isencouraging small holder farmers to engagein aquaculture as an additional source ofincome for their households. The sherysector can go a long way in improving food

security because sh is a good source ofprotein and other nutrients for a healthydiet. We should continue to encourage ourpeople to eat more sh for a healthy life,recommended President Pohamba, addingthat Namibia is committed to the eradicationof hunger and poverty. We will continue toparticipate in future campaigns aimed ateradicating poverty and hunger.

As small farmers need to be encouragedto produce more food, they also need tobe provided with facilities and markets sothat their harvest will not be left to rot due

to lack of storage facilities and markets.This will discourage emerging farmers fromproducing more food.

It is our duty to change the weak foodsecurity situation and poor quality of lifefaced by our people. Thus, we must standtogether to overcome the present and futurechallenges. Through the resolute efforts ofsmall holder farmers we can free vulnerablegroups in our nation from poverty andhunger, the Head of State advised.

Popl av a rigt to food

The development of Namibias Green Scheme will help to create food security and ensure that Namibians have access to food for a balanced meal every day


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sfety nd securty Mnter Peter Theehm echoed h Mntry von of fe, ecure nd crme free Nmbwherepeople live in peace and harmony throughout and beyond Namibias Vision 2030 when he ofcially opened his Ministrys

rst strategic planning workshop outside Windhoek in November 2007.

Addressing the ve-day strategic planningworkshop of the Ministry of Safety andSecurity, Minister Tsheehama remindedparticipants of the Ministrys high-levelstatements that were developed andadopted in 2006. It is only when peace andstability prevail in Namibia, that Vision 2030can be achieved, he said.

According to Tsheehama, his Ministrysmission is to ensure the maintenance of lawand order, the provision of safety, security

and correctional services for everyoneliving within the boundaries of Namibia,irrespective of colour, race or gender.

The Ministry of Safety and Security hasadopted three strategic objectives that willguide its work in the years to come. Its rstmain objective is to enforce and maintain lawand order. Secondly, the Ministry will striveto ensure the safe custody, rehabilitation and

re-integration of offenders and, lastly, theMinistry will render quality and timely safetyand security services to all people within theborders of Namibia without fear or favour.

Minister Tsheehama told participants thathe was satised with the vision, mission andobjectives that the Ministry has adopted. He,however, cautioned that the Ministry hasset itself a difcult obligation that will besubjected to a lot of challenges. He calledon ministerial staff to be prepared to meet

these challenges.

He directed his ministrys staff to developa strategic plan, keeping the high-levelstatements in mind, as well as giving dueattention to the National Development Plan3 and Vision 2030. He also requested staffto complete the process to allow the Ministryto implement its strategic plan with the startof the new nancial year on 1 April 2008.

The Mntry of Home affr nd immgrton cqured four truck nd x mnbue nd hd them converted nto 9 mobleregtrton truck nd one moble forenc lbortory t cot of jut over N$10 mllon to enble the Mntry to recht gol of provdng ll Nmbn wth ntonl document, whle the moble forenc lbortory wll gretly enhnce thecapacity of the Forensic Science Institute to provide scientic evidence to the justice system in the country.

At the last Cabinet meeting held on 11December 2007, Minister of HomeAffairs and Immigration, Rosalia Nghidinwainformed Cabinet of the acquisition of the

ten trucks to enhance the work of theMinistry.

According to the Minister, long queues arestill experienced at the Ministrys ofces,while the poorest of the poor cannotaccess the services of the Ministry becauseof the long distances they have to cover.To address this shortcoming, the Ministryintroduced constituency ofces and mobileregistration ofces.

The mobile registration vehicles are equippedwith the latest communication technology,such as cameras, computers and satellite

telecommunication systems. The vehicleswill move from one area to another toregister people in villages. The data can bedownloaded to the head ofce for the issuing

of identication documents, which can againbe delivered to its owners within a shortertime. The technology that is being useddoes not compromise security, but rather

enhance it, according to the Minister.

Funds for the acquisition of the mobileregistration vehicles became available atthe end of the 2006 nancial year when theNational Planning Commission approved theverementation of more than N$10 millionfor the purchasing of the vehicles. Treasuryexempted the Ministry from normal tenderrequirements and Windhoeker MachinenFabricken assembled the mobile vehicles.The work on the vehicles was completedtowards the end of the 2007 calendar yearand the vehicles will be launched soon.

Minister Nghidinwa said with the mobileregistration vehicles, the Ministry will be ableto capture data from village to village and to

Mss af, cur and crim fr

Namibia by 2030

The Ministry of Safety and Security adopted astrategic plan that will ensure a safe, secure and

crime free Namibia where people can live in peaceand harmony

hom Affair gt tn mobilrgitration truck

transmit the data to the production centre.The documents will be processed and issuedwithin ten days without compromising thesecurity of the documents.

The new strategy adopted by the Ministryof Home Affairs and Immigration during the2006/07 nancial year has already drasticallyreduced the waiting period for nationaldocuments from 734 days to 24 days foridentity documents and from 100 days to10 days for passports. At the same time,the Ministry has increased its productioncapacity.

The minibus that has been converted into amobile forensic laboratory will enhance thecapacity of the Forensic Science Instituteby allowing it to timely collect forensic data

and improve its capacity to provide scienticevidence in an attempt to speed up thecountrys justice system.


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The stte Vt to Nmb of the angoln Predent, Jo Edurdo Do snto ber tetmony not only to long-tndnghistorical ties, but most signicantly to the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two countries and peoples.These were remarks made by President Hikepunye Pohamba at a State banquet organised in honour of the visiting Angolan

Predent.We recall the seless sacrices andenormous contributions made by the bravesons and daughters of your great countryduring the protracted struggle for Namibiasindependence from the yoke of colonialismand apartheid, remarked PresidentPohamba.

Angola stood side by side with us duringthe difcult days and for this, we remaingrateful. It is against this background ofa shared history, heritage and strugglethat I wish to re-afrm my governments

unwavering desire to further consolidate theexcellent bilateral cooperation and solidaritythat exist between the two countries, hecontinued.

The bilateral relationship that existsbetween the two countries is characterisedby a mutual desire and commitment tostrengthen socio-economic and culturalco-operation.

The cooperation includes sectors rangingfrom agriculture, safety and security,mines and energy, sport and culture, aswell as tourism and trade.

This cooperation has expanded since thesigning of the Framework Agreementestablishing the Permanent JointCommission of Cooperation, which hasbeen regularly reviewed and progressmade in several areas.

A preparatory meeting for the 3rd Sessionof the Namibia-Angola Joint PermanentCommission of Cooperation met inWindhoek in June 2007. The Commissionswork resulted in the nalisation of the 11agreements that were signed during the

State Visit.

The two countries have realisedmeaningful strategic cooperation in theareas of defence and security. They areworking together addressing commonchallenges to improve the livelihood ofthe people.

Namibia is looking forward to the 2010African Cup of Nations Competitionthat will be hosted by Angola and thecountry is ready to cooperate with theAngolan government to make the eventsuccessful.

The two heads of State resolved toimprove the living standards of theirpeople by strengthening trade andeconomic cooperation, while continuingto explore new opportunities, such as

the establishment of a free trade area.They recognise the signicant role that theprivate sector can play to advance the socio-economic development in both countries.President Pohamba proposed that Ministriesof the two countries should establish ajoint trade committee to prepare for theupcoming event.

It is benecial that the Angolan governmentand citizens of that country has beencommitted to peace, national reconciliationand unity since the signing of the Luena

Peace Accords.

The restoration of peace and stability inAngola has created an enabling environmentfor the reconstruction and development ofAngola.

President Pohamba commended the Angolangovernments efforts in the preparation ofthe Legislative and Presidential elections, aspart of consolidating the democratic processin that country.

Namibia has called on the internationalcommunity to support the people of Angolain the reconstruction and development ofthe country. The international communityshould lend a helping hand to the eradicationof poverty and the effects of the long anddestructive war in your country to achieve

sustainable development, PresidentPohamba encouraged.

As SADC member states, President Pohambasaid, we must continue to recognise thatpeace and stability are indispensablefor economic development and regional

integration.

We must implement relevant instrumentsand protocols aimed at enhancing trade,economic cooperation, free movementof people and goods, as well as regionalintegration to achieve our main objectiveof economic integration in Africa.

The State Visit of the Angolan Head ofState culminated in the signing of elevenagreements. They cover a ranger ofsectors of government-to-governmentco-operation, including co-operationagreements on general education:

Co-operation Agreement onHigher Education and Training ofProfessionals;

Co-operation Agreement onMarine, Fisheries and Aquaculture;

Technical Co-operation agreement

in the Field of Health along theCommon Border areas; Co-operation in the eld of

Science, Technology andInnovation;

Treaty on Extradition; Protocol on Culture; Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance

on Criminal Matters ; and Co-operation Agreement on Public

Security, Law and Order,

The signing of these agreements isindicative of the commonality of viewsthat the two counries share on socio-

economic development. It also reectsthe challenges that their people andgovernment face towards the realisationof development objectives of addressingpoverty, underdevelopment, hunger anddisease.

Namibia and Angola ign 11 agrmntBy Klen Hylw

Namibia and Angola agreed to cooperate in the eld of healthalong the common border of the two countries, while it will

also continue to cooperate in marine sheries and aquaculture


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The ntegrton procee tkng plce mong the saDC neghbourng countre re progreng nd collborton ndcooperton between Botwn, Nmb nd south afrc re on coure.

The Mata-Mata border post, that wasinaugurated recently, will be developedas an international tourist access facility thatwill facilitate, among many things, increasedcross border scientic research into thecountries diverse cultures by scholars andscientists to enrich the understanding andtolerance among the people in the regionand beyond.

This vision will benet participating countriesin capturing and sustaining the interactionamong the more than 200 million SADCcitizens.

President Hikepunye Pohamba sees itin the light that, The new border postwill facilitate the free ow of our people,increased mobility, enhance the creation ofmore jobs and contribute to the economicdevelopment, especially in the culture andtourism sectors of our countries. It will alsohelp us to have more efcient and effectivecommunication across borders.

The plans and initiatives are seen as the drivetowards the upliftment of the livelihood ofcommunities as they are geared towards thereduction of poverty. The people will benetfrom income-generating projects that willinclude employment at community lodgesand as community tour guides. People will

be engaged in trade activitiessuch as the sale of crafts,establish open-air museumsand cultural villages throughwhich they will benet fromnatural resources.

Botswana, Namibia and SouthAfrica are mobilising andprioritising various aspectsof their cultural and naturalresources to be incorporatedinto visitors experiences,programmes and products inthe new conservation areas

and communities.

The President believes thatthe Mata-Mata border postand other facilities will providetourists, travelling within the three countries,with shorter routes, while encounteringminimum hurdles. I have no doubt thatthe joint management of the KgalagadiTransfrontier Conservation Area will alsooversee the long-term development andsustainable use of our natural and culturalresources. This will in turn ensure that theTransfontier Conservation Areas in our regioncan promote and contribute towards regionalintegration of SADC nations, PresidentPohamba added. Namibia has a lot to offer

to visitors, including the cultural dance andsong through which it can demonstrate therichness and diversity of its traditions anddisplay the best of her heritage, includingthe beauty of the land, the ora and fauna.

It is the hope of President Pohamba thatthe Kgalagadi Transfrontier ConservationArea will become a world class eco-tourismdestination with the International Tourist

Access facility serving as an important entryand exit point for tourists.

Mata-Mata bordr opning will boot tourimBy Klen Hylw

The harbour town of Lderitz has a lot to offer to foreign tourists - fromexperiencing the Namib Desert to enjoying the history of Kolmanskop

The opening of the Mata-Mata border post will facilitate the visits of foreign tourists to the majestic Fish River Canyon in southern Namibia


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Cbnet took the followng decon t t 21t ordnry meetng held on 4 December 2007.

Culture nd development MDG fund:pprovl of concept note for Nmbt vlue of Us$6 mllon over three

yer

In December 2006, the UNDP and theGovernment of Spain signed an agreementto establish a fund to accelerate the effort ofthe Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)in selected countries and to support UNreform efforts at the country level.

The Spanish Government committed 528million Euros to the MDG Achievement Fundto be programmed and disbursed between2007 and the end of 2008. The Fund aims toaccelerate progress towards the attainmentof the MDGs in selected countries by:

- supporting policies and programmesthat promise signicant and measurableimpact on select MDGs;

- nancing the testing and scaling up ofsuccessful models;

- catalysing innovations in developmentpractice; and

- adopting mechanisms that improve thequality of aid as foreseen in the ParisDeclaration on Aid Effectiveness.

Namibias concept note in the thematicarea of gender equality and womensempowerment, amounting to US$11 millionwas approved earlier.

On 9 November 2007, Namibia was informedthat its concept note on sustainable culturaltourism was approved under the thematicarea of culture and development of theSpanish MDG Fund.

With the approval of this note, Namibia willbe eligible to receive US$6 million. To accessthe funding, Namibia has to formulate aJoint Programme Document.

Namibias programme on Sustainable

Cultural Tourism intends to strengthenthe contribution of cultural diversity tothe achievement of the MDGs. Namibiasrichness in cultural and natural heritagerepresents the basis for the development ofcultural tourism.

Cultural/eco tourism policies have thepotential of catalysing sustainablelivelihoods, social equity and economicdevelopment.

The programme will help the government tomore effectively integrate cultural diversityand heritage into national development

policies and programmes through thedevelopment of a national knowledge baseand tools, the strengthening of capacity andthe raising of awareness on the mutuallyreinforcing capabilities of sustainabledevelopment and cultural diversity.

The programme activities will target andempower disadvantaged indigenous groups,local communities and cultural practitioners.

Cabinet, therefore, noted the approval ofNamibias concept note on SustainableCultural Tourism and the fact that it qualiesfor US$6 million from the Spanish MDG Fund.Cabinet also noted that the Joint ProgrammeDocument needs to be submitted by 28January 2008 for approval to enable Namibiato access the funding.

Recently concluded 9th eon ofthe Jont Common for Economc,Scientic, Technical and TradeCooperton between Nmb ndCub

The 9th Session of the Joint Commissionwas held from 12 to 15 November 2007 inWindhoek. The Namibian delegation was ledby Dr. Abraham Iyambo, Minister of Fisheriesand Marine Resources.

The Commission considered cooperationin two broad areas, namely that of Social,Culture and Legal Matters and that ofEconomic and Infrastructure matters.

Under Social, Culture and Legal Matters, theCommission dealt with;

- cooperation in health, especially thesecondment of Cuban health experts toNamibia;

- Education, specically with reference toscholarships, post-graduate courses andcooperation between the Polytechnic andCuban institutions of higher learning;

- Youth, National Service, Sport andCulture, with specic reference to sporttraining programmes and exchange ofartists;

- Gender Equality and Child Welfare,specically cooperation in the area ofearly childhood education;

- Labour and Social Welfare, withemphasis on bilateral cooperation; and

- Legal matters, dealing mainly withcooperation.

Under Economic and Infrastructure Matters,the Commission dealt with:

- Issues of Trade and Industry, withspecic focus on a pharmaceutical plant,Tropitex Manufacturers Ltd and tradeissues;

- Works, Transport and Communication,with emphasis on a meteorologyagreement; naval architect, and two

marine pilots for Namport;- Fisheries, with specic reference to

aquaculture capacity building;- Agriculture and Forestry, dealing with

the extension of contracts for forestengineers;

- Lands and Resettlement, with referenceto assistance with the resettlementprogramme; and

- Regional and Local Government, withemphasis on capacity building in theelds of construction and physicalplanning.

Cabinet considered and approved the reportof the 9th Joint Commission for Economic,Scientic, Technical and Trade Cooperationbetween Namibia and Cuba and directedthe relevant ministries to pursue activecooperation with the Government of Cuba.Cabinet discussed the low trade betweenNamibia and Cuba and directed the Ministryof Trade and Industry to develop a strategyto improve the situation. Cabinet also

directed a top up payment of N$2 100.00 forCuban health experts in Namibia.

Cbnet took the followngdecon t t 22nd

ordnry meetng held on11 December 2007

Report on the ofcial working visitto Japan by President HikepunyePohamba, 14 17 October 2007

President Pohamba, accompanied by the

Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Finance andWorks, Transport and Communication, aswell as the Director General of the NationalPlanning Commission, visited Japan inOctober 2007 and proposed a comprehensivemulti-co-operation agreement with Japan toserve as the framework for the future.

Talks centered around a loan fordevelopment purposes, including thedeepening of the port of Walvis Bay, whileviews were also exchanged on the grantingof technical assistance to Namibia in anumber of specic areas. Japans PrimeMinister invited Pres. Pohamba to participatein the TICAD IV International Conference in2008 and for Namibia to support Japanscandidature for a non-permanent seat in theUN Security Council for 2009/2010. Japanalso wanted to know Namibias position onclimate change.

In the light of the above, Cabinet directedthe Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Tradeand Industry to work out a comprehensivemulti-cooperation framework of agreementwith their Japanese counterparts. Cabinetalso directed the following:

- the conclusion of the bilateral agreementto be worked out and to be concluded in2008;

- the Ministry of Finance, in conjunctionwith the NPC and other stakeholders towork out a proposal for a loan of N$3billion at a rate of 0.5% per annum

Nw from Cabint Cambr


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for development purposes and for thedeepening of the Walvis Bay harbourand improvements to Namibias railwaylines;

- that line ministries pursue technicalassistance with their Japanesecounterparts;

- that Namibia accepts the invitation toparticipate in TICAD IV and that theprivate sector should be mobilised toexhibit their products as TICAD IV;

- that Namibia support Japanscandidature for a non-permanent seaton the UN Security Council for the term2009/2010 and that Namibias positionbe forwarded to Namibias Ambassadorat the UN;

- that the Ministries of Environmentand Tourism, Agriculture, Water andForestry and other stakeholders studyJapans position on climate change andrecommend Namibias position on theseissues. Cabinet, furthermore, directed

line ministries to seek internationalassistance to enable them to participatein the research on global warming and itsoverall effect on Namibias biodiversity;

- that the Ministry of Foreign Affairsfollow up on Namibias request to JICAon the secondment of more Japaneseoverseas volunteers in various elds tobe deployed in Namibia as a matter ofurgency; and

- that the Ministry of Mines and Energyproactively follow-up on the interestsand requirements of ITOCHU forUranium supplies from Namibia and givefeedback to ITOCHU on behalf of the

President.

Mntennce of government buldngnd relted nfrtructure

Following visits of President HikepunyePohamba to hospitals in Eenhana, Engelaand Oshakati, a Ministerial Committee,composed of the Ministers of Works,Transport and Communication, Health andSocial Services, Education, Youth, NationalService, Sport and Culture, Defence andPresidential Affairs was established to makesuggestions on how to curb any further

deterioration of Government property andto nd solutions to maintenance problemsthat are being experienced. Governmentsinfrastructure consists of about 1 400buildings worth N$17.5 billion.

Since independence, the Governmentadopted three methods aimed at the upkeepof government buildings, namely smallcapital works, upgrading and new capitalprojects. The Directorate of Maintenancein the Ministry of Works, Transport andCommunication (MWTC) is only responsiblefor small capital projects, involving minorrepairs such as broken doors, windows

and replacement of light bulbs. Upgradingof buildings and additional ofces and newcapital projects is the sole responsibility ofofces/ministries/agencies. MWTCs onlyresponsibility is to ensure that such projectscomply with specications.

The MWTC is experiencing a critical shortageof staff to undertake strict supervision andinspection. Skills are expensive to retain inthe government, which cannot compete withthe private sector.

To address the problem of maintenance ofgovernment buildings, Cabinet approvedthe engagement of regional based smallcontractors to maintain governmentbuildings with strict adherence to theprinciple of awarding contracts. Cabinet alsodirected that the MWTC should coordinatewith the Ministries of Education and Youth,National Service, Sport and Culture tofacilitate the attachment of learners fromvocational training institutions to assist withthe maintenance of government buildings.

Cabinet also directed the Ofce of the PrimeMinister to work out guidelines regardingthe attachment of trainees to governmentinstitutions. Approval was also given for

the decentralisation of basic maintenancefunctions to regional councils after their staffhas received basic training. Cabinet alsodirected that ofces, ministries and agenciesshould create units in their institutions tocoordinate the maintenance of governmentbuildings. These staff members should alsoreceive basic training. Cabinet, furthermore,directed that government institutions mustregularly replace equipment that has outlivedits lifespan through proper budgeting.

Nmb-Germn specl inttve

The Namibian and German Governments

agreed on a special Namibia-GermanInitiative for community driven developmentprojects in specic regions. Within theperspective of social consolidation, theinitiative will support development activitieson local and community levels in areas ofNamibia where Germany acknowledgesspecial historical and moral responsibility,namely in the Karas, Hardap, Kunene,Omaheke, Otjozondjupa and Erongoregions.

The initiative is to benet all people livingin these areas and is thus meant to actively

endorse the Namibian policy of nationalreconciliation and contribute to povertyreduction and economic growth.

The Special Initiative will be funded with anamount of up to 20 million Euro and will beimplemented over a period of 3 to 5 years.

A feasibility study was already done onprojects identied by the Ofce of theDeputy Prime Minister. These projectsinclude livestock distribution and waterrelated projects, health and educationfacilities; cultural and community centres;quarantine camps, road rehabilitation and

garden projects.

Phase 2 of the programme should nowcommence, providing for the appointment ofconsultants to execute the special initiativeprogramme.

Cabinet, therefore, gave the green light tothe National Planning Committee to proceedwith the implementation of the Namibia-German Special Initiative.

Appointment of a Steering Committee forthe implementation of the Public PrivatePartnership (PPP) and Build, Operate andTransfer (BOT)

Cabinet earlier granted approval forthe construction of accommodation forgovernment institutions on the basis of PPP,since this method is convenient and does notrequire the government to put up money inadvance.

Following the Cabinet decision, the Ministryof Works, Transport and Communicationconducted consultative meetings and aworkshop on the implementation of PPP. Apresentation was also done by the Ministryof Trade and Industry on PPP with the aim to

develop a PPP Policy for Namibia. Accordingto the presentation, a Steering Committee,as a decision making body, and a TechnicalCommittee to manage and supervise theproject from inception, is needed.

For the application of the PPP, user ministrieswill have to come up with a concept of thebuilding they require and call for tendersfrom different companies to come up withdrawings. The Technical Committee willassess and scrutinise the drawing as perthe user ministrys specications, beforeapproving the drawing and costing of thebuilding.

In the light of the above, Cabinet gaveapproval for the appointment of a SteeringCommittee to oversee/manage theimplementation of PPP and BOT in thedelivery of ofce accommodation to thegovernment. The Steering Committeecomprises of the Ofce of the Prime Ministerand the Ministries of Education; Health andSocial Services; Safety and Security; Finance;Trade and Industry; Justice and the AttorneyGeneral; the National Planning Commissionand the Ministry of Works, Transport andCommunication as convener. Each of these

institutions will have a role to play as part ofthe decision-making body.

Cbnet took the followngdecon t the 1t 2008

meetng held on 22Jnury 2008

Krkul Bord of Nmb Budget2008/09

The Namibian karakul pelts, tradingas swakara, are recognised as one of

the leading furs in terms of quality anduniqueness. The pelts were admitted tothe purple club, meaning that swakara canbe sold exclusively from the 100 leading furpurple boutiques around the world.


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Due to very successful promotion campaignsduring the past two seasons in Moscow,Hong Kong, Milan and Frankfurt, the KarakulBoard resolved to continue to exhibit eight(8) karakul garments at international tradefairs. Although the promotion campaignsare very costly, it will be more costly not tobe present at the international fur arena asthe prole built up over the last few yearswill be lost.

In the light of the above, Cabinet approvedthe 2008/09 budget of the Karakul Board ofNamibia and also approved support to theamount of N$200 000 to the Karakul Boardfor participation in international fur fairs.

Annual General Meeting of the LderitzWterfront Development Compny(Pty) Ltd

The Lderitz Waterfront DevelopmentCompany (Pty) Ltd was formed to realise the

potential of Lderitz as a business, recreation,tourist and social focus destination.

The Waterfront project plays a pivotal rolein transforming the harbour town into aviable and self-sustaining commercial city.It also seeks to accommodate, facilitateand minimise the shortcomings of the townthat should have been the heartthrob of theKaras region.

The Company held its annual generalmeeting on 22 November 2007 andannounced that it made a prot and that it isable to pay dividends to its shareholder, the

Namibian Government.

Cabinet, therefore, approved the AnnualFinancial Statements of the LderitzWaterfront Company (Pty) Ltd for the yearending 28 February 2007 and authorisedthe Ministry of Finance to table it in theNational Assembly. Cabinet also approvedthe payments of dividends amounting toN$476 773.00 to the shareholder. TheCompany also received the green light toappoint company auditors in consultationwith the Minister of Finance, while Cabinet,furthermore, approved the fast tracking

of the implementation of the companystrategy.

Cbnet took the followngt t 2nd ordnry meetngheld on 5 Februry 2008

Requet for ddtonl budget fordrought relef from contngencyprovon 2007/2008

The 2007 rainy season was disappointing,resulting in several areas being droughtstricken. Cabinet, therefore, approved an

amount of N$37.5 from the ContingencyProvision from the 2007/2008 FinancialYear to cater for the distribution of shproducts to the amount of N$2.5 millionand other drought commodities amounting

Cabinet also approved the allocation ofa further N$180 million for the NationalEmergency and Drought Fund/Account inthe Ofce of the Prime Minister to cater for6 months of drought relief in the 2008/2

Documents

MIB Bulletin Dec 2007 Jan 2008 - Namibian Government