MIb Bulletin September 2008 - Namibian Government

Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Republic of Namibia

Government Information

BulletinSeptember 2008

IN Th

IS IS

Sue Treasure

shipwreck recovered

Page 3 – 6

Pictures of shipwreck excavation

Page 10 – 11

News from Cabinet Chambers

Page 18 - 20

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader operator discovered a treasure shipwreck

By Kaleni Hiyalwa

FRE

E1

The site of excavation of the Portuguese shipwreck that sank 500 years ago in the Atlantic ocean near Oranjemund

20

It is an international instrument aimed at

controlling and reducing tobacco use and its

negative effects on health, the economy and

the environment.

Namibia was among the first African countries

to sign up to the Treaty in November 2005

and became one of the first members of

the Conference of Parties to the Framework

Convention on Tobacco after the Treaty was

ratified by the National Assembly.

The Tobacco Control Bill endeavours to

make Namibia comply with the provisions

of the FCTC, which required parties to

“adopt and implement effective legislative,

executive, administrative and/or other

measures for preventing and reducing

tobacco consumption, nicotine addiction and

exposure to tobacco smoke.

A survey by the Ministry of Health and Social

Services indicated that youth can too readily

buy single cigarettes in Namibia. While a

packet of cigarettes costs between N$20

to N$25, single cigarettes are sold by many

highly exploitative vendors at a price of up

to N$2.50 per cigarette, leading to perverse

profits of more than N$1.50 per cigarette.

The Ministry also found that it is mainly

the youth who are targeted by tobacco

advertising and once hooked and nicotine

dependant, the youth will “become loyal

smokers” for many years.

Wide consultations took place during

the development of the Bill, including

consultations with the Office of the Attorney

General and several other Government

institutions, the Cancer Association of

Namibia, the Hospitality Association of

Namibia, British American Tobacco and

other Non-Governmental Organisations.

The Tobacco Products Control Bill is aimed

at establishing a Tobacco Products Control

Committee to advise the Minister on matters

relating to the use of tobacco products;

to provide for the constitution, powers,

duties and functions of the Committee; to

provide for the reduction of demand for and

supply of tobacco products; to provide for

protection from exposure to tobacco smoke; to

provide for the establishment of a fund for the

control of tobacco products and to provide for

related and incidental matters.

In the light of the above, Cabinet gave the

green light to the Ministry of Health and Social

Services to table the Tobacco Products Control

Bill in the National Assembly.

Further information can be obtained from the

Ministry of Trade and Industry at telephone

number 2837111.

7. PROCLAMATION OF THE

SPERRGEBIET AS A NATIONAL PARK

The decision to proclaim the area known as the

Sperrgebiet as a national park resulted from an

extensive planning and consultation process

driven by the Ministries of Environment and

Tourism, Lands and Resettlement and Mines

and Energy.

Cabinet already in 2004 approved the

proclamation of the Sperrgebiet as a national

park and directed the Ministry of Environment

and Tourism to consult with other stakeholders

concerning a name for the new park and

to submit proposals to Cabinet at a later

stage. Cabinet also mandated the Ministry of

Environment and Tourism to explore alternative

means of financing essential park management

and maintenance costs through revenue earned

from tourism in such parks.

Following the 2004 Cabinet decision, a Park

Advisory Committee (PAC) has been formed as

a strategic level stakeholder forum of the new

park. The PAC is co-chaired by the Permanent

Secretaries in the Ministries of Mines and

Energy and Environment and Tourism and has

representatives of the Ministry of Fisheries

and Marine Resources, Ministry of Lands and

Resettlement, the Karas Regional Council and

the National Botanical Research Institute as

members.

A highly advanced draft management plan

for the new park has been developed and a

Sperrgebiet Park Tourism plan and Business

plan have been developed and will be finalised

shortly. Furthermore, a park management

base has been established in Oranjemund

with Namdeb donating offices and the

Strengthening the Protected Area Network

(SPAN) project and the Succulent Karoo

Ecosystem Project (SKEP) purchasing park

homes for staff members. The Ministry

of Environment and Tourism has also

established a presence at Rosh Pinah and

Dreigat, close to the Sendelingsdrift border

post which was opened in October 2007.

A biodiversity management plan and gap

analysis were also finalised and the planning

for a biodiversity monitoring regime was

completed with the publication of a booklet

Monitoring the Sperrgebiet and adjacent

areas.

Preparations for the gazetting of the national

park is finalised and it is likely that the park

will still be launched during the centenary

year of mining in the Sperrgebiet.

Extensive consultations with stakeholders on

a name for the new national park resulted

in all overwhelmingly being in favour of

retaining the name Sperrgebiet for the

national park.

The alternative means of financing for the

new park will be finalised in the park’s

business plan.

In light of the above, Cabinet temporarily

approved the name of Sperrgebiet National

Park for the new national park to be gazetted

soon. Cabinet, however, directed the

Minister to approach the National Heritage

Council to find an appropriate Namibian

name for the park in close consultation with

traditional communities in the southern part

of the country. All proposed names should

be submitted to Cabinet for consideration.

Further information can be obtained from

the Ministry of Environment and Tourism at

telephone number 2842335.

signed

MBEUTA UA-NDJARAKANA

PERMANENT SECRETARY

Continues from page 19News from the Cabinet Chambers


Government Information Bulletin: Publicising GovernmentThe Government Information Bulletin was established through Cabinet decision number 13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information bulletin to publicise the Government’s programmes, policies and activities for the benefit of Government institutions and the Namibian public. All Government institutions contribute towards the Bulletin. The Government Information Bulletin is published monthly by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology. To meet the specific information needs of communities, the public is invited

to send comments and suggestions on Government projects, programmes and policies, which will then be covered in the Bulletin. More Government news and information can be accessed on the GRN news button on the Government internet site at www.grnnet.gov.na

The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural communities through the Ministry’s regional offices. The public and organisations are welcome to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing costs will be for the account of the subscriber.

Contents

Private Bag 13344, WindhoekTelephone 061 - 2839111Fax 061 - 230170E-mail [email protected] DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi, Windhoek.Layout and printing Solitaire Press, Windhoek.

2

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader

operator discovered a treasure shipwreck...................... 3

From the discovery of a shiny diamond to a find of

pure gold and silver coins................................................. 4

Discovery of shipwreck can become world heritage

site.................................................................................... 5

What Readathon is to Kunene residents.......................... 6

Erongo teachers assess their health status..................... 7

Anti-corruption advocacy meeting at Omuthiya.............. 8

Desist from confrontational media statements –

Min. Kaapanda.................................................................. 9

Review of the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996............ 9

Shipwreck excavation in pictures ................................... 10

Small Arms and Light Weapons licenses on the

increase............................................................................ 12

Government tightens purchasing procedures at its

warehouses....................................................................... 13

Oral Polio vaccination campaign in the Karas region....... 13

MICT and MTC joint visit to Omaheke region................... 14

MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey

outcome............................................................................ 14

Developing SMEs sector in Namibia................................. 15

Commemorating Disability Day in Tsumeb ...................... 16

!Han-/Hawab Conservancy launched............................... 16

Omuthiya’s state of the art regional office opened.......... 17

Caprivi and Kavango get recreational centres................. 17

News from Cabinet Chambers.......................................... 18

From the Desk of the Minister

19

During my first inter-

active session with the

news fraternity, following

my appointment as

Minister of Information

and Communication

Technology, I expressed

the value that my

Ministry has for the

media’s contribution in

the process of nation

building, development

and reconciliation.

MICT in particular and

government as a whole,

regards the media as

an important partner

in the process to build

the country as a stable

democracy based on the rule of law.

The media has an important role to play in projecting a positive image of

our country in the context of freedom of expression and association. It

is important to project Namibia as a stable and secure country to attract

investment since nobody would invest in an insecure and crime-ridden

environment.

The government, through the 1991 Information Policy, has put in

place policy guidelines that provide for strategies to ensure a free and

pluralistic media, access to information and to ensure country-wide

media coverage. It is recognised that information is the strongest tool to

empower people to meaningfully participate in national socio-economic

development initiatives.

The MICT will endeavor to build and maintain a strong relationship

with the media and to extent the already existing cordial relationship

through an open door policy for consultations. The MICT regcognises

and appreciates the image-building efforts that our national media

under your able leadership as editors are doing and wish to urge you

to continue on this positive path. I trust that this meeting will not be

the last but will mark the beginning of the long and fruitful relationship

between us for the benefit of our nation at large.

Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Minister of Information and Communication Technology

Namibia under-performed in the sanitation

area and because of this under-performance,

it is unlikely that the country will achieve the

Millennium Development Goals, specifically

goals 7 and 10, which aims at halving by 2015

the proportion of people without sustainable

access to safe drinking water and basic

sanitation.

For Namibia to meet the basic sanitation

needs of the population, it is important that

all policies are relevant to address the current

challenges. Given the fact that WASP was

approved in 1993 and is currently 15 years

old, as well as the increased demand and

organisational and structural changes that

have taken place, there was a need to review

the Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Policy

of 1993.

The reviewed policy aims at harmonising

all existing policy instruments, clarifying the

roles and responsibilities of key players and

proposes modalities as to how policies can be

effectively implemented to address the needs

of the current and future water supply and

sanitation in Namibia.

Human resource development will be an

essential component of the implementation of

the revised WASP to cover the entire range

from community mobilisation, management

skills, technical training and health and

hygiene education for the policy to succeed.

A strategic plan on sanitation will also have

to be drafted and budgeted for by the

Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry in

collaboration with the Ministries of Regional

and Local Government, Housing and Rural

Development and Health and Social Services.

Cabinet, therefore, endorsed the

implementation of the Revised Water Supply

and Sanitation Sector Policy, WSASP-2008

and approved that the provision of sanitation

services in rural communal areas be

transferred from the Ministry of Health and

Social Services to the Directorate of Rural

Water Supply in the Ministry of Agriculture,

Water and Forestry. Cabinet also approved

the proposed Directorate of Water Supply

and Sanitation Coordination in the Ministry

of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) to

provide overall coordination, regional advisory

functions, inspection and monitoring functions

related to sanitation services. Cabinet,

furthermore, directed local authorities and

regional councils to take full responsibility for

the supply of water and provision of sanitation

services to urban areas under their areas

of jurisdiction. Cabinet also approved the

development of sector strategies and action

plans for the implementation of WSASP-2008

and its budgetary implications. Cabinet directed

that public health and user health education

campaigns will remain the responsibility of the

Ministry of Health and Social Services with local

authorities and regional councils taking part in

these functions in their areas.

Cabinet directed that the Ministry of Lands and

Resettlement will remain responsible for the

establishment of water supply and sanitation on

resettlement farms, while resettled farmers will

be responsible for the operation, maintenance

and replacement of these facilities. Cabinet

instructed that responsible ministries must

budget and provide water supply and sanitation

facilities at government centres, such as rural

schools, clinics and border posts. Cabinet also

directed owners of private land to take care

of all water supply and sanitation facilities

on their land, while the Directorate of Water

Supply and Sanitation Coordination will provide

information, as well as assume responsibility for

functions related to coordination, inspection and

monitoring. The Ministry of Regional and Local

Government, Housing and Rural Development

will be responsible for the construction and

provision of sanitation facilities in unproclaimed

settlements, while the overall water resource

inventory, monitoring, control and management

will remain the responsibility of the Ministry of

Agriculture, Water and Forestry. Cabinet further

directed that if individual local authorities

cannot handle the supply of bulk water, they

may approach NamWater or any other person

willing to construct the necessary infrastructure

to do so on condition that the responsible

Minister gives his consent.


Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry at


5. DOUBLE TAXATION AGREEMENT

Cabinet has already given approval to the

Ministry of Finance to conclude double taxation

agreements with 37 countries in Africa,

Europe, America and Asia and eleven treaties

have been concluded and were ratified by the

National Assembly.

The Ministry of Finance approached Cabinet

for approval to conclude double taxation

agreements with Liberia, Bulgaria and

the Democratic Republic of Congo on the

avoidance of double taxation and to prevent

fiscal evasion.

The three countries mentioned above

approached the Ministry of Finance through

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with a request

to negotiate double taxation agreements with

Namibia.

One of the purposes of the double taxation

agreement is to promote greater inflow of

foreign investments from developed countries

on conditions which are politically acceptable

as well as economically and socially beneficial

to countries to such an agreement.

The objectives of the agreements are to

eliminate all common international double

taxation problems and to establish an

environment in which the exchange of

technology, trade and investments will be

encouraged.

Cabinet, therefore, approved the conclusion

of double taxation agreements with Liberia,

Bulgaria and the Democratic Republic of Congo

and authorised the Minister of Finance to sign

the agreements in pursuance of Article 32 (3)

(e) of the Namibian Constitution. Cabinet

also authorised the said Minister to submit

the agreements to the National Assembly for

ratification in accordance with the mentioned

article in the Namibian Constitution.


the Ministry of Finance at telephone number

2099111.

6. PERMISSION TO INTRODUCE THE

TOBACCO PRODUCTS CONTROL

BILL IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

The framework Convention on Tobacco

Control (FCTC) was adopted by the World

Health Assembly in May 2003 in Geneva.

Continues on page 20


Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

3


By Kaleni Hiyalwa

Sperrgebiet site: Dr. Bruno Werz of the Southern African Institute of Maritime Archeology showing the media parts of the shipwreck remaining

after several items had been removed to a warehouse

Continues on page 4

Dr. Peingeondjabi Shipoh, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth National Service, Sport and Culture and in charge of the excavation project

looking on as Dr. Werz explains to the media what happened

Exactly 100 years ago a railway worker, Zacharias Lewala, discovered

Namibia’s first diamond at the southern coastal town of Lüderitz along the Atlantic Ocean shore. This discovery resulted in a diamond rush after which more alluvial diamonds were discovered in the area now known as Oranjemund – a diamond mining town located at the mouth of the Orange River. As a result, diamonds became Namibia’s most important source of wealth and contributing enormously to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

As the country celebrates a diamond production centenary (1908 -2008), a discovery of a shipwreck laden with treasure of rare and pure gold and silver coins was made. A Namdeb front loader operator, Mr Kaapanda Shatika, discovered the shipwreck in the Sperrgebiet (the forbidden zone).

On the morning of 1 April 2008, Mr. Shatika was doing his job on an ordinary working day. But the day turned out to be extra-ordinary when his eagle eyes spotted parts of a shipwreck which is believed to have sunk there 500 years ago during the Portuguese voyage eastward bound to Asia through the southern African coast.

“I realised that what seemed to be a sea-bed rock was a huge piece of metal that the loader heaped out of the ground,” Mr. Shatika started. Seeing that the content of the loader was unusual, he reported it to his Namdeb supervisor who

eventually contacted the first archeologist to be on sight, Dr. Dieter Noli. Dr. Noli sought advice from Cape Town, South Africa on the discovery of the shipwreck. Eventually the Namibian government was informed of the find and decided to rescue and preserve the artifacts.

The excavation began right away in April 2008 and concluded early October, as a matter of urgency. The discovery was made due to Namdeb’s exploration

of diamond on the sea shore. A dry land surface for a temporal mineral exploration work was created and made the discovery of the shipwreck possible. The sea water was pushed some metres back into the ocean, forming a sand dyke.

During the shipwreck excavation process, Namdeb’s diamond mining and exploration at Sperrgebiet came to a halt. As a result, the excavation was undertaken as an emergency work to rescue, restore and preserve the artifacts in safe conditions to prevent the destruction of the originality of the material.

After lifting the last part of the wreckage, the sand dyke was removed to let the sea flow its normal course, thanks to Namdeb’s level of expertise and technological know-how.

Considering the significance of the finding, the government invited archaeologists from the United States, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Spain as well as students from the University of Namibia (UNAM) studying archaeology. It was then established that the ship that might have sunk between 1525 but before 1535 originated from Portugal. During that time, only Portuguese merchants

travelled through the western and southern coast of Africa on outward-bound voyages to Asia, while Spanish vessels only travelled to South America.

Although the structure of the ship partially disintegrated over the years, a treasure of objects, such as the navigation instruments - the anchors, a base and the main wooden sail, mortar and pestle were found and gave it an identity as an ancient Portuguese merchant vessel. The archeologists suspected that the type of ship could be the ancient Galean ship of the 16th century.

The content of the shipwreck revealed that the vessel did not belong to the Portuguese era of explorers of Bartolomeo Diaz and Vasco da Gama, who sailed along the southern African coast. History has it that Diaz sailed through the south western coast of Africa, stopping at the modern town of Luderitz that he named Agra Pequena. It rather transported people and goods, which means that it was a merchant vessel. It contains elephant tusks, copper ingots, Portuguese rare and pure gold and silver coins which were minted between 1400s and early 1500s. The ship was transporting other objects such as tin, bronze and elephant tusks of the African origin which might have been bought from the western coast of the African continent for trade at the destination in the Far East.

The artifacts found in the shipwreck such as gold and silver coins are recognised by the characteristics of the designs imprinted on them, especially during the life time of the famous Fugger family traders who financed


4

Abisai Heita, a Namdeb worker and one of the strong team the company

assigned to the recently discovered shipwreck at Oranjemund’s Sperrgebiet area to help recover the new wealth, spotted the first gold coin under one of the rocks at the site of the shipwreck.

Dr. Dieter Noli, the archeaologist who helped in recovering the initial rare gold coins was amazed by the enormous find of the Portuguese and Spanish rare pure gold coins retrieved at the initial stages of excavation that filled his “cowboy-like” hat.

Six bronze canon barrels and tons of copper that were also found in the shipwreck are unique to Portugal and Spain. They were used for war and protection of the merchant ships. Huge round bullets which were popular in Europe around 1535 were also found and some of the barrels were still loaded with bullets. Other weapons such as swords and handles were also found at the site. More than 500 popular, solid and soft elephant tusks of African origin, used for furnishing and manufacturing in India, as well as cooking utensils such as kettles and pots were among the artifacts found on board.

Parts of the shipwreck that resulted from the excavation are being removed from the site to be preserved in safe places, pending further investigations and research. The artifacts are preserved in a warehouse with the gold and silver coins taken to Windhoek for safe keeping. Some of the sensitive materials excavated from the site of the shipwreck are preserved in a mixture of water and sand, pending thorough

research by experts.

The government invited the African World Heritage Fund, based in Johannesburg and represented by Mr. Weber Ndoro, a Zimbabwean national. Mr. Ndoro said that the discovery is important to Africa because of the interaction between the people of the world, adding that goods from the African continent were contained in the ship and for the fact that the discovery was made in Namibia.

Portugal wants to be involved in the study of the shipwreck which they call “the treasure of knowledge” concerning the discovery of the weapons and ancient common equipment and tools. “The information about the earliest life of archeology is scarce in Portugal today. This shipwreck is like salvaging treasure comparable to the discovery of gold. It is an opportunity to reconstitute archeological history that remained frozen for 500 years,” said the principal director

of the excavation project, Dr. Bruno Werz from the Southern African Institute of Maritime Archeology.

From the discovery of a shiny diamond to a find of pure gold and silver coins, copper

ingots, tusks and tin in NamibiaBy Kaleni Hiyalwa

Media Day: Journalists briefed on the objects found in the shipwreck and stored in a warehouse at Oranjemund

Sensitive materials stored in containers awaiting scientific research

Continues from page 3A railway worker found a diamond and a loader operator discovered

a treasure shipwreckmerchandise and reminiscent of the nautical age with figures of the Portuguese King and Queen who reigned after 1525 and before the end of mid 1550s. The coins are made out of the rare pure gold that became the mode of exchange during the flourishing Portuguese merchant voyages at the time. It is evident that no human life would have

survived the impact of the accident of the ship. Some human rib-like artifacts under iron bars, shoes, leather jackets and some food remains were found among the debris, although the archeaologists do not want to draw conclusions in the absence of scientific confirmation. There is a need for relevant scientific research to be carried out to determine and verify the presence

of human remains in the shipwreck. Detailed research work is expected to commence once relevant scientists are recruited. Research will be a continuous process that will ensure accurate documentation of material and proper conservation of the find. It is a norm that archaeological work has time for field study and analysis.


5

Discovery of Shipwreck in Namibia can become World Heritage Site

By Kaleni Hiyalwa

Namibia may claim a second prestigious World Heritage Site in addition

to the Twyfelfontein site, which was declared and registered UNESCO’s World Heritage Site in June 2007. The shipwreck discovered at the coastal mining town of Oranjemund is considered important for its uniqueness as the first and oldest ever discovered in Namibia, Southern Africa and Africa. Raison d’être exist to suggest that the find may be considered a World Heritage Site some day because of its historical and archeological importance in the modern world.

This can also be deduced from the words of Dr. Peingeondjabi Shipoh, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, National Service, Culture and Sport, who is tasked to oversee the excavation process of the shipwreck discovered on 1 April 2008. He assured Namibians that nothing from the wreckage is going to leave the country because it is an important treasure that belongs not only to Namibia but to the world, adding that the country will guard jealously its found treasure. The material will be a national asset of global importance.

Dr. Bruno Werz, the principal archaeologist from the Southern African Institute of Maritime Archeaology, wants the world to know that although the find is Namibian and Southern African, it is a world heritage that belongs to all the people of the world. “It is a project that builds the world and the future for the benefit of generations to come,” he added.

Dr. Francisco Alves and Miguel Alelvia are Portuguese maritime archeaologists who arrived in the country from Portugal at the invitation of the Namibian government to be part of the excavation team. The team is helping in tracing the ancient archaeological history of the sailing vessel and find out as much information which they say is rare in the world today.

Portugal only expressed its interest to be involved

in the study of the shipwreck which they call “the treasure of knowledge” concerning the discovery of ancient Portuguese weapons and common instruments and tools found on board the shipwreck. “The information about the earliest life of archeology is scarce in Portugal today. This shipwreck is like salvaging treasure comparable to the discovery of gold. It is an opportunity to reconstitute archeological history that remained frozen for 500 years,” said one of the Portuguese archeaologists on site.

This historical and archeological information is described as rare in the world today. Complying with the international maritime laws, Portugal will not claim any find from the wreck. “It is extremely exemplary that poses challenges to the 20th and 21st century archaeology,” Alves noted, adding that “now we are aware of the importance of archaeological heritage and there is no more exploration and exploitation because the skills of the modern archaeology have changed from the world of “our forefathers”. He acknowledged that the modern skills of archeologists have changed from the old world of the ‘forefathers’ to modern technology.

Dr. Werz could not agree more that the wreckage

shows that history has been frozen, dormant or quiescent for 500 years and now there is a need to be reconstituted.

The project is receiving both human and financial resources from Namdeb and the government.

Many questions have been posed as to why the world, especially the Namibian government, is interested in the rescue, excavation and preservation of an ancient shipwreck. The shipwreck will offer the Namibian government information on the development and progress made in the field of archeology. It is the oldest discovery ever made in Southern Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa and the strangest find in the desert. It was discovered at the point where the Namib desert meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The artifacts discovered on the shipwreck are described as rare and important in reliving more than six centuries back. The modern world in the 21st Century will be able to turn fairy tales of the old world in to the new world of reality. The findings will be important sources of information that will give more evidence on what had happened in opening up the world’s Dark Age history. They will enlighten people, from all over the world, particularly Namibians and Africans, about the European voyages through the coast of the south west Africa.

Archaeology students at higher institutions of learning will be able to obtain knowledge on the old technology and what had happened

Excavation of the shipwreck base underway

Some of the materials are stored in a mixture of water and sand to prevent their destruction

Continues on page 6


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What “Readathon” is to Kunene residentsKaoko-Otavi School Cluster held it’s

annual Readathon event during the this month at Otjikondavirongo, some 230 km south of Opuwo and 60 km west of Sesfontein settlement, where 11 schools battled it out in reading competencies.

The cluster head, principal of Kaoko-Otavi combined School, Hinamundu Tjazapi, told Readathon participants that Readathon is “like a marathon where participants use speed to win their opponents in running races”, adding that learners compete against each other in Readathon to develop and boost their confidence through reading and writing. He also explained that reading and writing go hand in hand and learners need to develop skills in both activities.

Otjikondavirongo Readathon competition brought together 60 learners and 28 teachers from various schools in the region. The Opuwo constituency was represented by the Kaoko-Otavi, Musaso Combined School, Okorosave and Otjikondavirongo schools. The event was also attended by two invited guests from Warmquelle Combined School and Elias Amgab Combined School, both from the Sesfontein constituency.

Schools of Ondao Mobile Unit mainly teaching the nomadic Ovahimba children from as far as Otjinungua, Onjuva, Ozonungu also participated in the Readathon, reading in English and Otjiherero. Older beneficiaries of the Namiban Literacy Programme also displayed their skills at the Readathon event which lasted for six hours.

In his opening speech, inspector of schools in Opuwo Circuit, Uatirouje Katjirua, said “to avoid failure rates in schools, teachers should make sure that learners, right from grade one are able to read and write”. All participants have shown their mettle in reading in both English and Otjiherero. Some critics commented that whether learners could only read because they were prepared for the occasion or they knew how to read, it remains to be seen in their school performances.

For Kaoko-Otavi cluster saw it important that the Readathon event was held at the Otjikondavirongo school as it is one of the most outlying and neglected schools in the region.

“Learners should see different living conditions to realise that learning can also take place even in the most awkward conditions,” said Tjazapi.The Readathon at Kaoko-Otavi School Cluster took place amidst lack of adequate sponsorship to fund the event. Teachers from the participating schools had to dig deep in their pockets to make things happen as a commitment and dedication to education.

Puros Conservancy donated meat, while drinks were bought by teachers. “We are in dire need of assistance such that I am calling upon all parents and the business community to come to our rescue,” said Tjazapi.

Read-A-Thon Day in the Kunene region

Continues from page 5Discovery of Shipwreck in Namibia can become World Heritage Siteduring the European exploration and exploitation of Africa’s natural resources. It will become a source of a new framework for the development of new skills in the world of advanced technology. Given many years of the world’s accumulated knowledge and experiences, the discovery of the shipwreck in the African continent will give new insight on the international relations and give a chance to archaeologists to re-write history.

The archeaologists believe that the project has a bearing on the relations among many countries of the world. While it is a Namibian find in the southern African region that originated from Portugal to trade goods in Asia, it is also an African and world asset for many reasons. The artifacts such as elephant tusks tell it all that European exploration and exploitation of the African resources is real and it is evident that globalisation did not just start in the 21st century but has, in fact, evolved at different stages of human development. Evidently, international trade and commerce have been catalysts of growth

of the world economy, even in the dark years of early civilisation.

The shipwreck also gives evidence of how the development of engineering and technology has evolved. The genius ‘forefathers’ had used readily available materials to construct huge bodies of ships, made out of wood, to enable them to criss-cross the world by sea in their endeavour to advance history, science, trade and commerce. These efforts have become important in creating and bringing into harmony diverse economies through trade and commerce on one global market. The Portuguese archeaologists were able to identify a base of wood that was used to hoist the main sail board (main sail) of the sailing ship that helped to pull up the sailing from the deck. “It has never been seen before. This is an example of how it looked like. It is not a common find because it is only found in the old ships,” explained .Miguel Alelvia, Assistant Archeaologist from the Instituto de Gestão do Parrinónio Arquitetonico et Arqueológico

(IGESPAA) in Portugal. The base is made from oak wood – from the oak trees that were common in Portugal although they have diminished these days.

It is envisaged that the nature of the find will be an attraction of tourism not only to the country but for Oranjemund town where a museum is expected to be constructed for the preservation of the artifacts. As a result, the project will increase employment opportunities for Namibians because it is expected that the combination of mining and tourism will attract investment to the town.

Namibia spent close to N$100 000 in the excavation process alone and more money will be needed in the research, preservation and the establishment of the new museum. According to archeological evidence, about 200 Portuguese ship vessels got lost mysteriously between 1600 and 1615, around the world, and were never recovered, making the Namibian discovery significant in the search for the lost vessels.

Continues on page 7


7

The Readathon competition in the Kaoko-Otavi Cluster Schools started in 2006. The idea is to involve the residents of the region especially the parents, learners and teachers in the activities of this nature.

The Readathon is a national annual event that started on 12 October 1988, an initiative of the Namibian Children Book Forum established in the year with sponsorship from the Penguin Puffin Book.

The development of the reading culture is an aspect that needs the attention of all the residents of the Kunene region where literacy is very low.

Stressing his point that Namibians should learn how to read and write, Tjazapi stated that “if you want to hide away information

Continues from page 6What “Readathon” is to Kunene residentsfrom a black person, publish it in a book and keep that book on the shelves of a library, no one will get that information because blacks do not like reading”.

“Not only school children should read but everyone including ordinary residents should make use of the public libraries to read and carry out research,” said Tjazapi.

Currently, there are three libraries in the Kunene region located at Khorixas, Outjo and Opuwo. In most cases these libraries are only utilised by school children.

It was confirmed at the event that books are available from the National Library in Windhoek and elsewhere in the country. He advised people not only to concentrate on reading books but also newspapers, which are part

of the reading material that enriches the mind with knowledge. Schools here in the Kunene region have established reading clubs which are more effective at secondary schools where there are also debating clubs. Teachers realise the need to expand the activities to primary schools.

Story telling and other oral presentations, including poetry and drama performances formed part of the activities the Otjikondavirongo Readathon.

This was an occasion to bring people and pupils together and share experiences. For some people, the occasion was an eye opener to know the conditions of isolated schools such as that of Otjikondavirongo where learners are sleeping in the open without any roof over their heads.

Erongo teachers assess their health statusBy Ester Paulus

The Ministry of Education recently held its Education Sector Employee health

day for the Erongo region at the Namibia Institute for Mining and Technology (NIMT) main campus in Arandis.

The event was attended by the employees of the Ministry and their spouses. It was aimed at giving employees an opportunity to test for blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and HIV/AIDS, as well as receive health related information from organisations such as NawaLife, Know your Medicine, Sanlam and Old Mutual.

In a speech read on his behalf by the Governor of the Erongo Region, Samuel Nuuyoma, Minister of Education, Hon. Nangolo Mbumba, said the Education Sector is the nation’s largest single employer, engaging close to 40 000 employees.

Hon. Mbumba noted that the Ministry as the lead agency of the Education Sector has a responsibility to ensure that its employees and students have access to care and support treatment on humanitarian ground and on the efficiency and effective ground. “The Ministry should give unmistaken evidence that it is a caring and concerned employer, to show its humanity and to promote good labour relations to all its employees, students and learners”, he said. The Minister added that one of the most effective ways of mitigating the negative

impact of absenteeism and employee attrition, which heavily impact on productivity, employee

benefits, production costs and work morale of the sector, in the workplace, and any other institution is the establishment of a workplace wellness programme that addresses disease prevention, treatment, care and support. Chief Health Programme Administrator in the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS), Martha

Van Neel said that an awareness of one’s health status is an important step towards taking appropriate measures to keep healthy, adding that the Ministry of Health and Social Services supports activities that includes provision of various medical and other health tests to enable everyone present to know their state of health. The Education Director of Erongo Region, John Awaseb applauded employees for turning up in large numbers to access the health services that were being offered at the event. “ I am glad that many of you have turned up to have the opportunity to access health services that you could not get hold of because of the distance and remoteness of your locations” said Awaseb.

He stated that the services being provided will increase employees’ well being, self image and self esteem, reduce illnesses, enhance employee productivity and improve health care and cost management.

Staff members undergoing the various medical tests came from, the Voluntary Counselling and Testing Centre and MoHSS. The EduSector Health day is the second celebration of 13 regions that will be held in all regions annually. It was made possible by the Ministry of Education through its HIV and AIDS Management Unit (HAMU), the Namibia National Teachers Union (NANTU) and funded by USAID through the Academy for Educational Development.

“ I am glad that

many of you have

turned up to have the

opportunity to access

health services that

you could not get

hold of because of

the distance and

remoteness of your

locations”

said Awaseb.


8

Anti-Corruption advocacy meeting at Omuthiya

The Anti-Corruption Commission in Namibia held its sensitisation

meeting at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Omuthiya Constituency in June 2008. The meeting was aimed at advising public and private bodies on ways of preventing corrupt practices as well as changes of practices, systems and procedures compatible with the effective performances of their duties which are necessary to reduce the likelihood of the occurrence of corrupt practices.

In his welcoming remarks, the Governor of Oshikoto Region, Hon. Penda ya Ndakolo, said the meeting come at a time when people at the grassroots level need to be educated on issues that constitute corruption and their negative impact on national aspirations.

Ya Ndakolo said that the government of Namibia has put in place National Development Plans (NDPs) and Vision 2030 with the aim to accelerate development in the country. He saw the need to educate the nation to mobilise

resources towards the attainments of the national development goals. He warned people to refrain from diverting resources from the national development objectives to serve their individual interests.

The Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Paulus Noa, said that corruption has the potential to destroy all the gains that have been made since independence if allowed to deepen its roots.

Noa stressed that corruption hampers national economies and socio- political progress in the country seized by it, reduces competition, efficiency, lowers public revenue, increases public spending and discourages economic innovations.

He further said corruption can create an atmosphere of frustration, where by the hardworking and honest citizens become distrustful of the decision makers, explaining that the poor and the marginalised citizens suffer most from the effects of corruption.

He issued a stem warning to those who will be found guilt of misusing and abusing government property and vehicles either parked at shebeens or being driven around on private business, saying that the culprits will be brought to book.

Noa explained that corruption is not just about commercial transactions but may also be present when citizens do not have access to social services such health, welfare and education which refer to administration corruption.

Corruption also includes negligence in the execution of functions, failing to take relevant considerations into account, mismanagement and the destruction of official records on purpose and making private phone calls from official telephones without paying for them.

He concluded that it is worst when bribes are demanded by a public official to deliver the service in return or grant access to the service which the people are entitled to and which the public official is obliged to deliver. Failing to deliver speedy services leads to a culture where citizens feel forced to offer bribes in order to receive such services to which they are entitled.The Director of the Anti-Corruption Commission feels that Namibia cannot afford to take the destructive route, saying that if corruption

is allowed to deepen its roots, like a virus, it will attack the principles of transparency, accountability and fairness.

Namibia is a signatory to and has ratified the SADC Protocol Against Corruption, the Convention Against Corruption and Transnational Organised Crime and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption which aims at promoting and strengtheing the development of mechanisms relating to the prevention, detention, punishment and eradication of corruption.

The country also commits itself to promote, facilitate and regulate co-operation amongst other states in the fight against corruption, development of policies and domestic legislation related to anti- corruption initiatives.

He explained that his Commission is responsible for the scrutiny of practices, systems and procedures of the public and private bodies to facilitate the discovery and revision of corrupt practices that may promote corruption.

He highlighted some types of corruption as, among others, bribery, fraud, nepotism, extortion, embezzlement, graft, money laundering, gifts, inside trading, double invoicing, patronage, speed money and maladministration. Noa urged the community of Omuthiya in particular and Namibians in general to come forward and report corrupt practices so that those who are guilty will be held accountable.

The Director of

Anti- Corruption

Commission feels

that Namibia cannot

afford to take

the destructive

route, saying that

if corruption is

allowed to deepen

its roots, like a

virus, it will attack

on the principles

of transparency,

accountability and

fairness.

Noa urged the

community of

Omuthiya in

particular and

Namibians in general

to come forward

and report corrupt

practices


9


The Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Joël

Kaapanda, acknowledged that one of the sources of concern in the controversy surrounding the disputes among players in the telecommunications industry was the lack of a comprehensive legal framework to properly regulate the industry. The Minister has shown dissatisfaction with the manner in which players have been embroidered in “destructive behaviour” which may bring the management of the industry into disrepute and may be counter-productive for the

development of the telecommunications sector in the country. He expressed concern that as a result of these disagreements it is the public that will suffer the consequence.

The Minister has been involved in discussions with the three major telecommunications service providers in the country on various relevant and related developmental issues and concerns which he described as having been “open and frank”.

Following his appointment as Minister of Information and Communication Technology responsible for the telecommunications industry, the Minister placed the completion and adoption of the Information Communication Bill as top priority on his diary because he realised that the absence of a comprehensive legal framework for telecommunication development and regulation will be a stumbling block in the industry. The Bill is currently being discussed at the Cabinet level.

In the meantime, the Minister is requesting all players in the industry to desist from making confrontational media statements, which is not helpful in stabilising relations but which will only end up confusing the end users. He encouraged honest dialogue between all parties behind closed doors and not in the public domain as the issues

at hand cannot be resolved in the way it is being done.

The Minister will soon facilitate a meeting with the main operators to agree on exploring the evolution of the interconnect model that is fair, economically viable and benchmarked along the best practices in the SADC region and other developed markets.

The Minister called on the telecommunications operators to lend their support to the MICT advanced efforts to develop and finalise the Information Communication Bill and Policy on Telecommunications that will help to level the playing field for all the parties and close the loopholes that are currently hampering the development of the industry.

Hon. Kaapanda assured the public that none of the players are violating the basic rules as provided for in the law in conducting their businesses.

“I am comfortable in the knowledge that all companies are adhering to good business practices in the interest of the customers and the NCC deserves praise for ensuring good regulatory practices despite the fact that a comprehensive framework is lacking,” he concluded.

“Desist from confrontational media statements” - Hon. Kaapanda

By Kaleni Hiyalwa and Julia Hamhata

Review of the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996 (Act No. 7)

By Mulisa Simiyasa, Oshakati

The National Focal Point Sub-Committee on National Policy and Legal Drafting

has made headway in reviewing the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996, Act No. 7 of 1996, Minister of Safety and Security, Nickey Iyambo said.

Dr. Nickey Iyambo said the regulations on Arms and Ammunitions strives to put in place adequate laws, regulations and administrative procedures. “This is aimed at closing the gaps in the legislation by incorporating elements enumerated in Article 5 of the SADC Protocol into the national laws”. The Republic of Namibia became party to the international, regional and sub-regional declarations and protocols on small arms and light weapons. These are the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat

and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in all aspects. Not forgetting the Bamako Declaration on an African common position on illicit proliferation, circulation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, as well as the SADC Protocol on the control of firearms, ammunition and other related materials.

In a bid to comply with the provisions of the international, regional and sub-regional protocols and declarations, Namibia held the first National Conference on small arms and light weapons from 7 to 9 October 2002. The Conference was organised by the Namibian Police Force under then Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with civil society, which paved the way for the creation of a Namibia National Action Plan on small arms and light weapons. This move was

approved by the Namibian Cabinet in November 2004. It was subsequently launched by H.E. Hifikepunye Pohamba on 14 April 2005. The major significant step undertaken so far as a nation; is the establishment of inter-agency committees and sub-committees to coordinate the actual implementation of the National Action Plan. This will allow the eradication of illicit firearms and have a verifiable database on all legal firearms. The institutional framework encompasses a National Management Committee (NMC); National Focal Point (NFP) and the Regional Focal Points (RFPs).The NMC consists of the Permanent Secretaries from the Government Ministries, Offices and Agencies. It is responsible for keeping political leadership informed on the implementation of the Namibia National Action Plan and provides guidance and directives to the National Focal Point.


10

Shipwreck excavation at the site of Oranjemund’s Sperrgebiet in Pictures

Miguel Alelvia, Portuguese archeaologist at the excavation site

More than 500 African elephant tusks were found in the shipwreck

Copper ingots packed in shelves in the warehouse

Dr, Dieter Noli, archeaologist, holding the hat that was filled with gold coins retrieved from the shipwreck

Canon bullets

A pile of tin slabs


11

Shipwreck excavation at the site of Oranjemund’s Sperrgebiet in Pictures

The shipwreck cordoned off

Dr. Bruno Werz, Mr. Miguel Alelvia, Fausy Kambombo and Francisco Alves have been working unceasingly at the site of the shipwreck

to rescue the newly found treasure

Ester Mombola-Goagses of the National Museum of Namibia Dr. Dieter Noli, Dr. Bruno Werz and Dr. Peingeondjabi Shipoh showing the picture of the shape of

the Galean ship which could be the type that sunk at Oranjemund

Some of the canon barrels that were retrieved

Canon barrels and elephant tusks form part of the treasure

A big canon barrel with an elephant tusk which was found some kilometers away from the shipwreck, with copper ingots below


12

Small Arms and Light Weapons licenses on the increase

By Mulisa Simiyasa, Oshakati

Hon. Dr. Nickey Iyambo, Minister of Safety and Security, expressed

his dismay at the presence of many firearms per capita among a population of two million people in a country that is peaceful, democratic and free from war.

Dr. Iyambo made this known at a workshop of traditional and church leaders, regional councillors, governors, mayors, chief information officers, city police chiefs, the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) and the Namibian Police (NAMPOL) cadres that gathered at the Oshakati Country Hotel in September 2008 to discuss the strategic plan to implement public education and awareness on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), as a subject of concern.

More than one hundred and one thousand licensed firearms were reported to be in private hands between April to July 2008. This, the Minister said, did not auger well for a country that is not at war. According to Police statistics crimes committed with firearms during the same period are recorded as follows:

• 2, 061 cases of unauthorised possession of firearm and ammunition

• 4, 604 cases of pointing firearm at persons• 660 murders with firearms• 2, 649 attempted murders• 4, 000 armed robbery with firearms• 1, 598 thefts of firearms and• 22 attempted thefts of firearms.

Dr. Iyambo said that despite the above terrifying figures of firearms, the Namibian Police (NAMPOL) and other law enforcement agencies are hard at work to ensure that the safety and security of the Namibian people are not compromised.

On 23 November 2007 at Walvis Bay, Namibian law enforcement agencies in the fight to secure the safety of people destroyed the biggest collection of arms, ammunitions and unexploded ordinances (UXOs) namely:

• 10,738 rounds of ammunition• 1,426 firearms • 162 detonators• 53 hand grenades• 29 rockets• 43 mortars and• 3 anti-tank mines.

Dr. Nicky Iyambo, Safety and Security Minister

This exercise followed the previous destruction of UXOs found around the former South African

More than one

hundred and one

thousand licensed

firearms were

reported to be

in private hands

between April to

July 2008.

military bases and power pylons in northern Namibia between 1999 and 2001. During the same time, the Government launched a much known slogan “DON’T TOUCH IT REPORT IT”, a joint effort by the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) and the then Ministry of Information and Broadcasting that launched an awareness campaign on the dangers of the UXOs and the need to rid the land of the dangerous explosives left during the war for national liberation. The Ministry of Safety and Security decided to involve stakeholders, as well as regional, traditional and community leaders in the campaign to redouble efforts to rid the country of dangerous unexploded material and unlicensed light and small weapons.

The Minister called on the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and the media to relentlessly educate the nation and involve the general public in taking action to increase public safety and security in Namibia.

He encouraged the workshop to come up with a comprehensive national strategic plan of action as a tool in mobilising the nation.

The United Kingdom is providing financial support for the sustainable implementation of the Namibia National Action Plan on Small Arms and Light Weapons.


13

Government tightens purchasing procedures at its Warehouses

In an effort to reduce the possibility of fraud committed when purchasing from

the government stores or warehouses, strict purchasing measures have been introduced to avoid irregularities in the future.

The government stores have inter-alia decided to update the lists of designated officials in all Ministries/Offices/Agencies authorised to sign purchase orders from the stores countrywide. The measure came into force because the current lists are outdated since previously designated officials have either been transferred, promoted or resigned from the government services.

The lists of designated signatory officials usually include; the Secretary to Cabinet, Secretary to the President’s Office, Deputy Secretary to Cabinet, All Permanent Secretaries, the Deputy Auditor General, Secretary to the National Assembly, Secretary to the National Council, Director of the Namibia Intelligence Services and all Financial Advisors.

According to a circular released by the Ministry of Works and Transport, cases have occurred where the government stores have suffered financial loses due to incorrect /outdated signatures and/or incorrect official stamps used on purchase orders. The matter has prompted, the Ministry to request all accounting officers to submit a new list of officials designated to sign

purchase orders for the Government stores. Such lists are to indicate for which ministry, or department the designation is applicable and must also indicate the full name of the designated officials, their signatures and the official stamp that will be used in conjunction with a specific given signature.

The new procedural purchasing measures strictly discourages purchase orders where signatures and official stamps do not match.

Ministries/Offices/Agencies are also requested to provide a separate list for each warehouse or government store where orders of goods to be purchased are made.

In case where officials may authorise purchases at all the different warehouses it will suffice to indicate such on one list only. Where the same official stamp is used by more than one individual it will not be necessary to put such a stamp behind each signature but only to indicate that a single stamp is to be used in conjunction with all given signatures.

A circular by the Permanent Secretary says it should also be understood that when duly authorised stamped purchase orders have been processed, such purchase will be regarded as sufficient proof that the individual who has brought such goods from the government stores will be entitled to obtain the items

purchased. The circular further warned that if items are not collected at the time of handing over the purchase order, but are to be collected by someone else at a later stage, a separate proof of authorisation to collect such items will be necessary.

Therefore, all Ministries/Offices/Agencies are also requested to provide separate lists of persons who are authorised to collect and sign for items already issued but still standing in government stores. The latter list is only required to indicate the rank, full name and signature of the officials. No official stamps will be required in such instances. Lists for collection of items should also be indicated per each regional warehouse where applicable and Ministries/Offices/Agencies are urged to only use officials who have knowledge of purchase orders to enable them to verify the correctness of any order before signing of acceptance of items.

To assist the government stores to prevent fraud, Ministries/Offices/Agencies are strictly requested to keep the names on the lists to a possible minimum number and send them to the following address

The Head: Central Government StoresMinistry of Works and TransportPrivate Bag 13240Windhoek

Oral Polio vaccination campaign in the Karas region

By Alie Thaniseb, Keetmanshoop

An urgent response to the call to immunise children under the ages

of 5 has kicked off in the Karas region with 43 teams visiting the villages and towns. Although the Polio outbreak in 2006 has been under control, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) is not taking any chance and once again reminded the community of the urgency to ensure that children from the ages of 5 are vaccinated. The exercise is aimed at promoting a healthy and productive citizenry and parents are encouraged to let their children vaccinated.

The MOHSS launched its 2008 National Polio Immunisation and Vitamin A drops campaign in Keetmanshoop during the first phase held from the 24 – 26 June and the second phase held from 29 – 31 July 2008.

The region coverage of 8190 in 2007 was regarded as a success and the Ministry aims to improve on last years’ results. According to health authorities, the coverage needs to increase and needs to be maintained in the 2008 campaign. The Keetmanshoop Health District plans to implement the Reach Every Child (REC) approach with the aim to improve the coverage to 9090 children.

The vaccination is free and all leaders and parents are called upon to encourage communities to take children for immunization.

The National Polio Vaccination campaign 2008 was launched by the Ministry of Health and Social Services throughout Namibia. During the 2006 Polio Outbreak, the Ministry undertook an aggressive surveillance programme which will remain active and continuous. This was confirmed by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Richard Kamwi, in his speech read on his behalf by Hon. Paulus Ephraim, Councillor of the Karasburg constituency.


14

The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology undertook a joint fact finding visit with its telecommunication stakeholders to Gam and Eiseb Block in the Omaheke Region in August 2008. The aim was to find out the community’s needs concerning telecommunications, broadcasting and postal services. The visit resulted from a letter of concern received from the community.

The four industries that form part of the delegation were the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), Telecom Namibia Ltd, Namibia Communication Commission (NCC) and Mobile Telecommunications Ltd (MTC). Some

MICT and MTC joint visit to Omaheke region

By Julia Hamhata

of the raised concerns were the insufficient radio and TV coverage, limited fixed line public phones, coverage and lack of postal banking services.

Hon. Joel Kaapanda, Minister of Information and Communication Technology, called a media briefing in September 2008 to update them on the Ministry’s joint planning and implementation of capital projects with its ICT stakeholders. The Minister told the meeting that the four industries are doing their best to respond to the community’s concerns. “The NBC is in the process to install a solar power system to augment power for the reception tower, which is expected to be completed within the next three months” said the Minister. He further

urged other communities to follow suit by informing the MICT about their problems in their respective communities.

At the same occasion, MTC Managing Director, Mr. Miguel Geraldes, presented a laptop that was manufactured in Portugal to Hon. Kaapanda. He indicated that MTC intends to give free computers with internet connection to rural schools in Namibia in six months time. The main intention is to provide learners with internet access. Geraldes further stated that MTC has just signed a protocol agreement with UNAM and Polytechnic of Namibia to subsidise laptops to make them affordable for students and staff.

MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey outcome

By Rhingo Mutambo

In responds to the Service Delivery Survey findings and recommendations

the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, has inter-alia, decided to avail a list Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centres in the regions.

According to the results of the survey, the number of people who has access to institutions offering ICT training in Namibia is limited. Only an estimated 14.9% of a total number of 382 908 respondents indicated that they have access to an institution providing ICT training.

This means a large number of the respondents did not have access to ICT institutions or centres and approximately 24.4% from the total sample of the survey did not know of any centre providing ICT education within the proximity of their residence.

According to the survey, there are many institutions offering ICT training. However, “it appears that a lot of people are either unaware of the availability of these institutions or they cannot afford the fees being charged per course”.

To some extent, the issue that these results bring up is associated to the question of affordability, proximity and accessibility of the majority of Namibian population to ICT.

The survey recommended that the issue, therefore, needs a comprehensive and focused strategy to increase access through making ICTs and education related to these both affordable and easily accessible.

This has suggested to the ministry that there is an urgent need to come up with mechanisms of providing such information to overcome the barrier.

Hence the MICT decided to provide a list of some of the available ICT centres in each region at its regional offices, as well as constituency offices, so that people know where the available institutions providing access to ICT’s can be found.

The Service Delivery Survey was conducted by UNAM’s Multidisciplinary Research and Consultancy Centre (MRCC) between June and October 2007 and valuable findings and suggestions regarding services and information

A new portable laptop

Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Information and Communication Technology receiving A laptop from the MTC Managing

Director, Miguel Geraldes


dissemination were presented to the ministry on 25 April 2008. The former Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) commissioned the


15

service delivery survey in 2007 to determine whether the information it produces and disseminates meet the national demand for access to information so as to empower people to make meaningful contributions to the democratic process and national development.

List of Government ICT /Multi-Purpose Community Centres (MPCCs) in the regions.Kunene region (at Queen Sophia settlement and Okanguati)

Continues from page 14MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey outcomeOmaheke ( at Eiseb and Duplesis farm) Kavango (at Rundu rural area, Mukekete Consituency)

These centres are donations by the Government through the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology’s Directorate Audiovisual Media and Copyright Sevices to communities in those regions. Each region has two centres that are facilitated by respective Regional councils but maintained by the Ministry for a period of one year after which respective Regional councils take full responsibily for their

maintenance and management.

Each has a photocopy machine, Dual DVD, printer, computer, generator, video machines (VCR), projector, projector screen, PA system and solar panel where there is no electricity.

According to Audiovisual Media and Copyright Services’ Fefa Ngola, more MPCCs in the Karas, Ohangwena and Caprivi regions are expected to be established in the near future depending on the budget.

Developing SMEs sector in NamibiaBy Kaleni Hiyalwa

In the efforts to uplift the standards of living of Namibians, the Ministry

of Trade and Industry wants to create a highly sophisticated industrial sector in the economy. It is aiming at ensuring that the SMEs sector does not remain as it is but that it should graduate into the next level of development. Although the ministry does not necessarily promote intra-community trade, it encourages the small and micro enterprises to identify markets beyond their local communities. These objectives are clearly manifested in the support mechanisms such as the support given to the SMEs - the means to participate at local and international expositions. The Ministry of Trade and Industry is cognisant of the huge potential of the SMEs sector in relation to the aspirations to become an industrialised nation by the year 2030. With this commitment, the Ministry will continue to

intensify its programmes and strategies in meeting the modern needs of this strategic sector. At the International trade arena, the MTI is proactively engaged in numerous trade negotiations aimed at opening up more market opportunities for local products.

As Namibia gains more access to international markets, a complementary market strategy is a prerequisite for harmonising industrial and trade policy. A well promoted and supported SME sector will surely play a critical role in achieving this noble objective.

The Ministry has realised that a provisional service from a central point has not been desirable in terms of the SMEs sector accessing the services. That means the Ministry will provide service from its Head office in Windhoek. As a result, the Ministry has established regional offices in all thirteen regions of the country. This is apart from the Khomas region, which is served from the headquarter.

The offices have been empowered for most of the services, including assisting the local communities in registering their companies. Added to the decentralisation of the offices is the introduction of the business services in all the regions. These services are aimed at helping entrepreneurs with good ideas to be assisted with feasibility studies and business plans. The service is free of charge to entrepreneurs as the Ministry pays for it. This effort is particularly targeted towards those historically disadvantaged communities who are living in the former homelands where such services were unavailable. The Ministry is engaged with establishing procurement systems of large

local retail stores to ensure that products and services of the SMEs sector are afforded proper support in terms of procurement. In this regard the MTI has afforded the SMEs sector the opportunity to ensure that their products and services on offer are of high standards. These are only the products by the SMEs sector that is currently denied opportunities and shares. The Ministry is trying to see whether it can convince the owners of the retail shops to take in the local products.

These local retailers buy their products from South Africa and the products are the same as the local ones, such as cosmetic soaps and perfumes that are produced by the local people but are denied shelf space by the bigger retail shops

The local entrepreneurs are being educated about the sustainable supply of products to the retailers. Once the local entrepreneurs realise that the products are bought, they will ensure constant supply. But sometime things do not go as planed, especially when products turn out to have no market. As a result, people get discouraged. The Ministry has already started to talk to managers of businesses for them to provide space for those local products, that of quality, on their shelves.

Those that are involved in the production will be encouraged to work hard. The Ministry believes that they will be ambitious enough to be graduated from retailing the products in the shops that they can also judge themselves if they are qualified to export their products and expand their markets. “SMEs are not expected to remain small for ever.

Dr. Hage Geingob, Minister of Trade and Industry


16

Commemorating Disability Day in Tsumeb

Disability Day gives an opportunity for people living with disability to

move out of their dwelling places and come together to share common ideas and problems with regard to the socio- political and economical conditions prevailing in the country.

These were the words of His Worship the Mayor of Tsumeb Town, Engel Nawatiseb, at the commemoration of the World Disability Day under the theme “Society for All”, held at the Nomutsoub Community Hall in Tsumeb in June 2008.

Namibia joined the African continent and the world at large to commemorate Disability Day as a commitment to the implementation of the instruments on people living with disability country-wide. The Cabinet approved the Continental Plan of Action for the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities for 1999-2009 and further instructed the development of the Namibian Disability Plan of Action, which is coordinated and monitored by the Office of the Prime Minister and implemented through line ministries and agencies.

Hon. Nawatiseb noted that as part of the African Decade of Persons with Disabilities, municipalities and town councils were tasked with the drafting of action plans for 2008-2011 which would ensure full participation, equity and empowerment of persons with disabilities in Africa.

The National Policy on Disability adopted by the National Assembly in 1997 states that Namibia

strives for the creation of a society for all, based on the principles of the United Nations Standard Rules on Equalisation of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities.

According to the 2001 census, out of a population of more than 1.6 million, a total of eight thousand six hundred and seven inhabitants are living with different disabilities. Blindness was the most common type of disability in Namibia affecting about thirty-five percent of the disabled population with six percent higher in females than males, while impairment of legs is the second common, accounting for twenty-four percent of all disabilities and is significantly higher in males than females.

Hon. Nawatiseb stressed that children living with disabilities need to be accommodated at public schools or any special schools so that they are not excluded from their right to education and information just because they are considered different.

He encouraged people living with disabilities in the Oshikoto region in particular and the whole country in general who are sitting with suitable qualifications or skills not to despair when job opportunities or tenders become available as municipal councils will be sensitive towards them and will show support to any initiative from the vulnerable members of the society.

The Chief Medical Officer for Oshikoto Region, Dr Noel Siyame, said it was worrisome that the majority of the eighty-three point five percent of the disabled people live in the rural areas with

minimum access to health and rehabilitation services.

Thirty-seven point six percent of all people with disability in the country need physical disabilities treatment, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and orthopedics services.

Eleven point four percent of people with disabilities have impaired speech, thirty-five percent are blind, twenty-one percent deaf and fifty-six percent are suffering from mental disorders.

Mr. Nawatiseb is of the opinion that Namibians have a great role to play in turning around the plight of the people living with disabilities, especially those living in the rural areas.

He applauded the government for taking necessary steps through different programmes to raise awareness and creates equal opportunities which include persons with disabilities and the implementation of the affirmative action police to ensure that people with disabilities are accorded equal opportunities in employment.

The National Policy on Disability adopted by the National Assembly in July 1997 advocates for an inclusive society, which recognises and values individual differences and acknowledges common humanity and equality. Dr. Siyame warned the people who are hiding people with disabilities in their villages to ensure that they are accorded equal opportunities in a Society for All, to allow them equal access to culture, recreation activities, social welfare, housing and transport.

!Han-/Hawab Conservancy launchedBy: Alie Thaniseb

The Karas region has launched its fourth conservancy in August 2008

at Berseba in the Berseba constituency. “We must guard against illegal pouching of our game, each and everyone has the responsibility for policing this game” Mr Wellem Ludwig, of the Conservancy said.

The conservancy was launched under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Through the Communal Conservancy

Programme, rural Namibians have gained rights over wildlife and tourism and are generating income from the sustainable use of wildlife.

The conservancy has benefited from the MET’s translocation programme of wildlife to conservancies supported by Namibia’s Poverty Reduction Programme. The !Han-/Hawab conservancy received 80 Springboks and 23 Oryx through this initiative, and the programme is funded by the European Union.

The CBNRM programmes have shown tremendous success in the development of conservancies. The programme generated about N$ 39.1 million of cash and in-kind benefits.

Veteran politician, Ida !Hâ–eiros, received a standing ovation when she addressed the event. She warned the community of the Karas region against the misuse of their game. “Guard against bribery and show strong leadership,” !Hâ–eiros said.


17

Omuthiya’s state of the art regional office opened

By Meschtride Mathias, Tsumeb

The state of the art head office of the Oshikoto Regional Council, which was

constructed at a cost of N$ 22 million, was officially inaugurated in August 2008 by His Excellency, President Hifikepunye Pohamba.

In his official welcoming remarks, the Governor of the Oshikoto region, Penda Ya Ndakolo, expressed his sincere appreciation toward the President for having played a crucial role in providing guidance and advice on the planning of Omuthiya town.

He highlighted some of the achievements of the Oshikoto Regional Council in the transport, education, communication and health sectors since its inception in 1992.

During his keynote address, President Pohamba reiterated the government’s resolve to expand infrastructure to all parts of the country, saying it is also consistent with the country’s strategy to bring public services to the grassroots in the quest to improve effectiveness and efficiency through the decentralisation policy. The official opening of the head office of the Oshikoto Regional Council was another welcome step toward making the town of Omuthiya the capital of the Oshikoto region. Pohamba further said

the government has embarked upon various development programmes in all sectors of the economy aimed at accelerating socio-economic development and the well-being of the citizens.

In the Oshikoto region, several capital projects, such as the Oshivelo-Omutse gwOnime –Okankolo water pipeline, as well as the building of schools, clinics and hospitals have been identified as priority development areas.

The government has facilitated the resurrection of the old TCL by the Ongopolo Mining and Processing Limited, which is up and running and is contributing immensely to the economy and development of the Namibia.

It is important to note that the development and improvement of transport infrastructure is an important catalyst for economic development and the Tsumeb-Oshikango Railway Extension Project is one such transport link aimed at facilitating trade and commerce within Namibia and other countries in the SADC region.

The President emphasised the fact that the decision to relocate the Regional Council Office from Tsumeb to Omuthiya was taken after broad consultations involving many stakeholders.This development is in line with the overall strategy

to ensure balanced socio-economic development and the provision of public services in an efficient and effective manner, as well as the expansion of infrastructure, especially to the areas where they did not exist in the past.

In many practical ways the development of Omuthiya will reduce the long distances that the majority of the residents of Oshikoto region had to travel to access services rendered by the Regional Council.

He informed the gathering that the new school at Onashikuvu has started and a state of the art hospital will be built in Omuthiya town with the support of the People’s Republic of China, saying that this town should be a model for other towns that will be developed around the country.

The President called upon the Oshikoto Regional Council to rededicate itself to quality service delivery and to continue to guide and direct the development of the town in particular and the whole region in general.

Pohamba urged the regional council staff and the public to put the facility to good use and cautioned them that development can only be achieved in the atmosphere of peace, security and stability.

The Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare (GECW) recently

inaugurated recreation centres in Katima Mulilo, Caprivi and in Rundu, Kavango. At Katima Mulilo, the centre was inaugurated by Hon. Marlene Mungunda, Minister of the GECW, while Hon. Angelika Muharukua, Deputy Minister of the GECW inaugurated the centre at Rundu.

The construction of these centers fulfill the Ministry’s responsibilities of ensuring the well-being of children, women and men by ensuring that the communities are provided with facilities where they can meet to plan and organise their development activities. The recreation centre is an area where children can come together for their early childhood development activities that can promote their intellectual, physical,

Caprivi and Kavango get recreation centresBy Norbert Shithigona

social, spiritual and emotional development to prepare them for future learning.

The centres are also open for older children to come and interact with each other, do their homework, play games, watch video shows and other forms of entertainment that can keep them away from wandering on the streets. The recreation centres are also venues for community meetings, workshops, training, events for community members to acquire skills in various fields and at the same time generate income by running kiosks and renting stalls to various traders.

During the inauguration, Hon. Mungunda urged the community and the Namibian people to strive towards a culture of peace and universal

human value. “Namibia is part of the large world, once we are able to see ourselves as part of the large human family, which can only survive on this planet if the principle of our mutual respect, peace and non-violence are observed, it will be easier for us to understand how horrible and disturbing gender based violence is” said the Minister.

The recreation centre in Rundu was named after Hompa Angelina Matumbo Ribebe. Hompa Ribebe is a dynamic, talented and a strong leader. She brought a substantial change in the application and ascertainment of customary laws since she took the chieftainship.

The Caprivi recreation centre costed N$668 000 while the one in Kavango costed N$716 000.


18

News from Cabinet chambers continuesCabinet took the following decisions at its 18th

ordinary meeting held on 30 September 2008.

1. REPATRIATION OF THE REMAINS

OF NAMIBIANS WHO WERE

VICTIMS OF THE GERMAN WAR OF

EXTERMINATION FROM GERMANY

TO NAMIBIA

During the Anti-Colonial War of Resistance

many Namibians were murdered by German

colonial troops. German doctor Eugene Fisher

ordered that the heads of the deceased be sent

to Germany for research purposes to proof

the superiority of European brains over those

of Africans. His research strengthened the

ideology of Nazism, which eventually led to the

holocaust.

It is estimated that more than 40 head remains

of Namibians are held in various laboratories in

Germany. The Traditional Leaders of the Nama

and Ovaherero requested the Government to

facilitate the return of the remains to Namibia.

Cabinet, therefore, designated the National

Monuments Council as the competent authority

to deal with the matter. Cabinet also wants

Germany to pay for the repatriation of the

remains and all related costs. Once in Namibia,

Cabinet ordered that the remains be accorded

a heroes burial at the Heroes Acre.


the Office of the Prime Minister at telephone

number 2879111.

2. REPORT ON THE NATIONAL RESPONSE

TO THE 2008 FLOOD DISASTER

The national response to the flood disaster

in the North and North Eastern regions was

implemented between February and May

2008 to assist affected communities after H.E.

President Hifikepunye Pohamba declared a

state of emergency in the area.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of

Regional, Local Government, Housing and Rural

Development, assisted by three staff members

from the Office of the Prime Minister and

assisted by regional Governors were appointed

to oversee the operations in the five affected

northern regions. The Namibian Defence Force,

the Namibian Police and staff members from

several line ministries were involved during the

whole operation.

The donations received covered most of the

expenses during the flood emergency operation.

The N$5 million the Government availed to the

Directorate Emergency Management in the

Office of the Prime Minister was used to buy

450 new tents from South Africa.

Cabinet noted and approved the final report

on the implementation of the flood emergency

in the North/North Eastern regions of Namibia

and also approved the following:

- That the Namibian Red Cross Society

(NRCS) work closely with the Government

on the preparedness activities as well as

response in times of emergencies;

- As part of the rehabilitation process, the

NRCS assists the flood affected people in

the rural areas with the construction of

houses in term of assisting with construction

material;

- Regarding the food security aspectå, seeds

and agricultural tools must be provided to

the relocated households in the affected

areas. The NRCS will also coordinate

the establishment of effective community

based early warning systems with all

relevant stakeholders involved to minimize

the risk of damage to property and loss of

live in future floods;

- That the Roads Authority work closely

with the Ministry of Works and Transport

to repair the roads and bridges that were

affected by the flood;

- That NamWater immediately start with the

repair of the water canal for human and

livestock consumption; and

- That NamWater will serve as an active

member of the National Hydrology

Committee to be set up by the Department

of Water Affairs. The purpose of the

Committee is to conduct hydrology studies,

as well as an environmental impact

assessment with the aim of looking into the

possibilities of deepening the rivers upper

stream from Oshakati and widening the

culverts at the bridges in the four northern

regions to allow more water outflow.


the Office of the Prime Minister at telephone

number 2879111.

3. CONSTRUCTION OF OFFICES FOR

THE FOUNDING PRESIDENT OF THE

REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA

The Ministry of Works and Transport, on the

advice of the Tender Board, approached the

Cabinet Committee on Defence and Security

regarding the adjudication of the tender for

the construction of offices for the Founding

President of the Republic of Namibia. The

Cabinet Committee on Defence and Security,

under the chairpersonship of the Rt. Hon.

Nahas Angula, Prime Minister, advised that

Cabinet should be approached on the matter

to direct the Cabinet Committee in its decision.

The Ministry of Works and Transport wants the

tender to be awarded to the lowest tendered of

the three vetted contractors.

An amount of N$21 676 623.39 will be spent

on the construction of offices for the Founding

President if the tender is awarded to the lowest

of the three vetted contractors.

In the light of the above, Cabinet directed the

Cabinet Committee on Defence and Security

to award the tender to the lowest of the three

vetted contractors for an amount of N$21 676

623.39.


Ministry of Works and Transport at telephone

number 2088111.

4. WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION

SECTOR POLICY (WASP) REVIEW

The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and

Forestry approached Cabinet to endorse the

implementation of its revised Water Supply and

Sanitation Policy (WSASP-2008).

While great strides have been made to achieve

accessibility to safe water for the rural population,

the same cannot be said for sanitation.

Accessibility to safe water for the rural population

increased from 43% in 1991 to 80% in 2001, but

providing adequate sanitation increased only from

16% in 1992 to 18.9% in 2000.


Government Information Bulletin: Publicising GovernmentThe Government Information Bulletin was established through Cabinet decision number 13th/04.07.06/002 as an official information bulletin to publicise the Government’s programmes, policies and activities for the benefit of Government institutions and the Namibian public. All Government institutions contribute towards the Bulletin. The Government Information Bulletin is published monthly by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology. To meet the specific information needs of communities, the public is invited

to send comments and suggestions on Government projects, programmes and policies, which will then be covered in the Bulletin. More Government news and information can be accessed on the GRN news button on the Government internet site at www.grnnet.gov.na

The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural communities through the Ministry’s regional offices. The public and organisations are welcome to subscribe to the Bulletin, but mailing costs will be for the account of the subscriber.

Contents

Private Bag 13344, WindhoekTelephone 061 - 2839111Fax 061 - 230170E-mail [email protected] DV8 Saatchi & Saatchi, Windhoek.Layout and printing Solitaire Press, Windhoek.

2

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader

operator discovered a treasure shipwreck...................... 3

From the discovery of a shiny diamond to a find of

pure gold and silver coins................................................. 4

Discovery of shipwreck can become world heritage

site.................................................................................... 5

What Readathon is to Kunene residents.......................... 6

Erongo teachers assess their health status..................... 7

Anti-corruption advocacy meeting at Omuthiya.............. 8

Desist from confrontational media statements –

Min. Kaapanda.................................................................. 9

Review of the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996............ 9

Shipwreck excavation in pictures ................................... 10

Small Arms and Light Weapons licenses on the

increase............................................................................ 12

Government tightens purchasing procedures at its

warehouses....................................................................... 13

Oral Polio vaccination campaign in the Karas region....... 13

MICT and MTC joint visit to Omaheke region................... 14

MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey

outcome............................................................................ 14

Developing SMEs sector in Namibia................................. 15

Commemorating Disability Day in Tsumeb ...................... 16

!Han-/Hawab Conservancy launched............................... 16

Omuthiya’s state of the art regional office opened.......... 17

Caprivi and Kavango get recreational centres................. 17

News from Cabinet Chambers.......................................... 18

From the Desk of the Minister

19

During my first inter-

active session with the

news fraternity, following

my appointment as

Minister of Information

and Communication

Technology, I expressed

the value that my

Ministry has for the

media’s contribution in

the process of nation

building, development

and reconciliation.

MICT in particular and

government as a whole,

regards the media as

an important partner

in the process to build

the country as a stable

democracy based on the rule of law.

The media has an important role to play in projecting a positive image of

our country in the context of freedom of expression and association. It

is important to project Namibia as a stable and secure country to attract

investment since nobody would invest in an insecure and crime-ridden

environment.

The government, through the 1991 Information Policy, has put in

place policy guidelines that provide for strategies to ensure a free and

pluralistic media, access to information and to ensure country-wide

media coverage. It is recognised that information is the strongest tool to

empower people to meaningfully participate in national socio-economic

development initiatives.

The MICT will endeavor to build and maintain a strong relationship

with the media and to extent the already existing cordial relationship

through an open door policy for consultations. The MICT regcognises

and appreciates the image-building efforts that our national media

under your able leadership as editors are doing and wish to urge you

to continue on this positive path. I trust that this meeting will not be

the last but will mark the beginning of the long and fruitful relationship

between us for the benefit of our nation at large.


Namibia under-performed in the sanitation

area and because of this under-performance,

it is unlikely that the country will achieve the

Millennium Development Goals, specifically

goals 7 and 10, which aims at halving by 2015

the proportion of people without sustainable

access to safe drinking water and basic

sanitation.

For Namibia to meet the basic sanitation

needs of the population, it is important that

all policies are relevant to address the current

challenges. Given the fact that WASP was

approved in 1993 and is currently 15 years

old, as well as the increased demand and

organisational and structural changes that

have taken place, there was a need to review

the Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Policy

of 1993.

The reviewed policy aims at harmonising

all existing policy instruments, clarifying the

roles and responsibilities of key players and

proposes modalities as to how policies can be

effectively implemented to address the needs

of the current and future water supply and

sanitation in Namibia.

Human resource development will be an

essential component of the implementation of

the revised WASP to cover the entire range

from community mobilisation, management

skills, technical training and health and

hygiene education for the policy to succeed.

A strategic plan on sanitation will also have

to be drafted and budgeted for by the

Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry in

collaboration with the Ministries of Regional

and Local Government, Housing and Rural

Development and Health and Social Services.

Cabinet, therefore, endorsed the

implementation of the Revised Water Supply

and Sanitation Sector Policy, WSASP-2008

and approved that the provision of sanitation

services in rural communal areas be

transferred from the Ministry of Health and

Social Services to the Directorate of Rural

Water Supply in the Ministry of Agriculture,

Water and Forestry. Cabinet also approved

the proposed Directorate of Water Supply

and Sanitation Coordination in the Ministry

of Agriculture, Water and Forestry (MAWF) to

provide overall coordination, regional advisory

functions, inspection and monitoring functions

related to sanitation services. Cabinet,

furthermore, directed local authorities and

regional councils to take full responsibility for

the supply of water and provision of sanitation

services to urban areas under their areas

of jurisdiction. Cabinet also approved the

development of sector strategies and action

plans for the implementation of WSASP-2008

and its budgetary implications. Cabinet directed

that public health and user health education

campaigns will remain the responsibility of the

Ministry of Health and Social Services with local

authorities and regional councils taking part in

these functions in their areas.

Cabinet directed that the Ministry of Lands and

Resettlement will remain responsible for the

establishment of water supply and sanitation on

resettlement farms, while resettled farmers will

be responsible for the operation, maintenance

and replacement of these facilities. Cabinet

instructed that responsible ministries must

budget and provide water supply and sanitation

facilities at government centres, such as rural

schools, clinics and border posts. Cabinet also

directed owners of private land to take care

of all water supply and sanitation facilities

on their land, while the Directorate of Water

Supply and Sanitation Coordination will provide

information, as well as assume responsibility for

functions related to coordination, inspection and

monitoring. The Ministry of Regional and Local

Government, Housing and Rural Development

will be responsible for the construction and

provision of sanitation facilities in unproclaimed

settlements, while the overall water resource

inventory, monitoring, control and management

will remain the responsibility of the Ministry of

Agriculture, Water and Forestry. Cabinet further

directed that if individual local authorities

cannot handle the supply of bulk water, they

may approach NamWater or any other person

willing to construct the necessary infrastructure

to do so on condition that the responsible

Minister gives his consent.


Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry at


5. DOUBLE TAXATION AGREEMENT

Cabinet has already given approval to the

Ministry of Finance to conclude double taxation

agreements with 37 countries in Africa,

Europe, America and Asia and eleven treaties

have been concluded and were ratified by the

National Assembly.

The Ministry of Finance approached Cabinet

for approval to conclude double taxation

agreements with Liberia, Bulgaria and

the Democratic Republic of Congo on the

avoidance of double taxation and to prevent

fiscal evasion.

The three countries mentioned above

approached the Ministry of Finance through

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with a request

to negotiate double taxation agreements with

Namibia.

One of the purposes of the double taxation

agreement is to promote greater inflow of

foreign investments from developed countries

on conditions which are politically acceptable

as well as economically and socially beneficial

to countries to such an agreement.

The objectives of the agreements are to

eliminate all common international double

taxation problems and to establish an

environment in which the exchange of

technology, trade and investments will be

encouraged.

Cabinet, therefore, approved the conclusion

of double taxation agreements with Liberia,

Bulgaria and the Democratic Republic of Congo

and authorised the Minister of Finance to sign

the agreements in pursuance of Article 32 (3)

(e) of the Namibian Constitution. Cabinet

also authorised the said Minister to submit

the agreements to the National Assembly for

ratification in accordance with the mentioned

article in the Namibian Constitution.


the Ministry of Finance at telephone number

2099111.

6. PERMISSION TO INTRODUCE THE

TOBACCO PRODUCTS CONTROL

BILL IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

The framework Convention on Tobacco

Control (FCTC) was adopted by the World

Health Assembly in May 2003 in Geneva.




Republic of Namibia

Government Information

BulletinSeptember 2008

IN Th

IS IS

Sue Treasure

shipwreck recovered

Page 3 – 6

Pictures of shipwreck excavation

Page 10 – 11

News from Cabinet Chambers

Page 18 - 20


By Kaleni Hiyalwa

FRE

E

1

The site of excavation of the Portuguese shipwreck that sank 500 years ago in the Atlantic ocean near Oranjemund

20

It is an international instrument aimed at

controlling and reducing tobacco use and its

negative effects on health, the economy and

the environment.

Namibia was among the first African countries

to sign up to the Treaty in November 2005

and became one of the first members of

the Conference of Parties to the Framework

Convention on Tobacco after the Treaty was

ratified by the National Assembly.

The Tobacco Control Bill endeavours to

make Namibia comply with the provisions

of the FCTC, which required parties to

“adopt and implement effective legislative,

executive, administrative and/or other

measures for preventing and reducing

tobacco consumption, nicotine addiction and

exposure to tobacco smoke.

A survey by the Ministry of Health and Social

Services indicated that youth can too readily

buy single cigarettes in Namibia. While a

packet of cigarettes costs between N$20

to N$25, single cigarettes are sold by many

highly exploitative vendors at a price of up

to N$2.50 per cigarette, leading to perverse

profits of more than N$1.50 per cigarette.

The Ministry also found that it is mainly

the youth who are targeted by tobacco

advertising and once hooked and nicotine

dependant, the youth will “become loyal

smokers” for many years.

Wide consultations took place during

the development of the Bill, including

consultations with the Office of the Attorney

General and several other Government

institutions, the Cancer Association of

Namibia, the Hospitality Association of

Namibia, British American Tobacco and

other Non-Governmental Organisations.

The Tobacco Products Control Bill is aimed

at establishing a Tobacco Products Control

Committee to advise the Minister on matters

relating to the use of tobacco products;

to provide for the constitution, powers,

duties and functions of the Committee; to

provide for the reduction of demand for and

supply of tobacco products; to provide for

protection from exposure to tobacco smoke; to

provide for the establishment of a fund for the

control of tobacco products and to provide for

related and incidental matters.

In the light of the above, Cabinet gave the

green light to the Ministry of Health and Social

Services to table the Tobacco Products Control

Bill in the National Assembly.


Ministry of Trade and Industry at telephone

number 2837111.

7. PROCLAMATION OF THE

SPERRGEBIET AS A NATIONAL PARK

The decision to proclaim the area known as the

Sperrgebiet as a national park resulted from an

extensive planning and consultation process

driven by the Ministries of Environment and

Tourism, Lands and Resettlement and Mines

and Energy.

Cabinet already in 2004 approved the

proclamation of the Sperrgebiet as a national

park and directed the Ministry of Environment

and Tourism to consult with other stakeholders

concerning a name for the new park and

to submit proposals to Cabinet at a later

stage. Cabinet also mandated the Ministry of

Environment and Tourism to explore alternative

means of financing essential park management

and maintenance costs through revenue earned

from tourism in such parks.

Following the 2004 Cabinet decision, a Park

Advisory Committee (PAC) has been formed as

a strategic level stakeholder forum of the new

park. The PAC is co-chaired by the Permanent

Secretaries in the Ministries of Mines and

Energy and Environment and Tourism and has

representatives of the Ministry of Fisheries

and Marine Resources, Ministry of Lands and

Resettlement, the Karas Regional Council and

the National Botanical Research Institute as

members.

A highly advanced draft management plan

for the new park has been developed and a

Sperrgebiet Park Tourism plan and Business

plan have been developed and will be finalised

shortly. Furthermore, a park management

base has been established in Oranjemund

with Namdeb donating offices and the

Strengthening the Protected Area Network

(SPAN) project and the Succulent Karoo

Ecosystem Project (SKEP) purchasing park

homes for staff members. The Ministry

of Environment and Tourism has also

established a presence at Rosh Pinah and

Dreigat, close to the Sendelingsdrift border

post which was opened in October 2007.

A biodiversity management plan and gap

analysis were also finalised and the planning

for a biodiversity monitoring regime was

completed with the publication of a booklet

Monitoring the Sperrgebiet and adjacent

areas.

Preparations for the gazetting of the national

park is finalised and it is likely that the park

will still be launched during the centenary

year of mining in the Sperrgebiet.

Extensive consultations with stakeholders on

a name for the new national park resulted

in all overwhelmingly being in favour of

retaining the name Sperrgebiet for the

national park.

The alternative means of financing for the

new park will be finalised in the park’s

business plan.

In light of the above, Cabinet temporarily

approved the name of Sperrgebiet National

Park for the new national park to be gazetted

soon. Cabinet, however, directed the

Minister to approach the National Heritage

Council to find an appropriate Namibian

name for the park in close consultation with

traditional communities in the southern part

of the country. All proposed names should

be submitted to Cabinet for consideration.


the Ministry of Environment and Tourism at


signed

MBEUTA UA-NDJARAKANA

PERMANENT SECRETARY


Documents

MIb Bulletin September 2008 - Namibian Government