Government Information

Bulletin
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Republic of Namibia September 2008

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader

operator discovered a treasure shipwreck
By Kaleni Hiyalwa

FREE
1

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

Treasure Pictures of News from Cabinet

IN ThIS ISSue

shipwreck shipwreck Chambers

recovered excavation

Page 3 – 6 Page 10 – 11 Page 18 - 20

 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

From the Desk of the Minister Contents

During my first inter- A railway worker found a diamond and a loader
active session with the
news fraternity, following operator discovered a treasure shipwreck...................... 3
my appointment as
From the discovery of a shiny diamond to a find of
Minister of Information
and Communication pure gold and silver coins................................................. 4
Technology, I expressed
Discovery of shipwreck can become world heritage
the value that my
Ministry has for the site.................................................................................... 5
media’s contribution in
the process of nation What Readathon is to Kunene residents.......................... 6
building, development
Erongo teachers assess their health status..................... 7
and reconciliation.
MICT in particular and Anti-corruption advocacy meeting at Omuthiya.............. 8
government as a whole,
Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Minister of Information regards the media as Desist from confrontational media statements –
and Communication Technology
an important partner
Min. Kaapanda.................................................................. 9
in the process to build
the country as a stable Review of the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996............ 9
democracy based on the rule of law.
Shipwreck excavation in pictures ................................... 10

The media has an important role to play in projecting a positive image of Small Arms and Light Weapons licenses on the
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 increase............................................................................ 12
investment since nobody would invest in an insecure and crime-ridden
Government tightens purchasing procedures at its
environment.
warehouses....................................................................... 13
The government, through the 1991 Information Policy, has put in
Oral Polio vaccination campaign in the Karas region....... 13
place policy guidelines that provide for strategies to ensure a free and
pluralistic media, access to information and to ensure country-wide MICT and MTC joint visit to Omaheke region................... 14
media coverage. It is recognised that information is the strongest tool to
empower people to meaningfully participate in national socio-economic MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey
development initiatives.
outcome............................................................................ 14

The MICT will endeavor to build and maintain a strong relationship Developing SMEs sector in Namibia................................. 15
with the media and to extent the already existing cordial relationship
through an open door policy for consultations. The MICT regcognises Commemorating Disability Day in Tsumeb ...................... 16
and appreciates the image-building efforts that our national media
2
!Han-/Hawab Conservancy launched............................... 16
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 Omuthiya’s state of the art regional office opened.......... 17
the last but will mark the beginning of the long and fruitful relationship
Caprivi and Kavango get recreational centres................. 17
between us for the benefit of our nation at large.
News from Cabinet Chambers.......................................... 18

Government Information Bulletin: Publicising Government

The 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
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to send comments and suggestions on Private Bag 13344, Windhoek
Government projects, programmes and policies, Telephone 061 - 2839111
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The Bulletin is distributed free of charge to rural
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 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader

operator discovered a treasure shipwreck
By Kaleni Hiyalwa

eventually contacted the travelled through the western and southern

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
Sperrgebiet site: Dr. Bruno Werz of the Southern African Institute of October, as a matter of
Maritime Archeology showing the media parts of the shipwreck remaining
urgency. The discovery
after several items had been removed to a warehouse
was made due to
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

E xactly 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
Namdeb’s exploration coast. History has it that Diaz sailed through
of diamond on the sea shore. A dry land the south western coast of Africa, stopping at
surface for a temporal mineral exploration work the modern town of Luderitz that he named
was created and made the discovery of the Agra Pequena. It rather transported people and
shipwreck possible. The sea water was pushed goods, which means that it was a merchant
some metres back into the ocean, forming a vessel. It contains elephant tusks, copper ingots,
sand dyke. Portuguese rare and pure gold and silver coins
which were minted between 1400s and early
During the shipwreck excavation process, 1500s. The ship was transporting other objects
Namdeb’s diamond mining and exploration at such as tin, bronze and elephant tusks of the
Sperrgebiet came to a halt. As a result, the African origin which might have been bought
excavation was undertaken as an emergency from the western coast of the African continent
work to rescue, restore and preserve the artifacts for trade at the destination in the Far East.
in safe conditions to prevent the destruction of
the originality of the material. The artifacts found in the shipwreck such as
gold and silver coins are recognised by the
After lifting the last part of the wreckage, the characteristics of the designs imprinted on
sand dyke was removed to let the sea flow its them, especially during the life time of the
3
normal course, thanks to Namdeb’s level of famous Fugger family traders who financed
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, Dr. Peingeondjabi Shipoh, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth
only Portuguese merchants National Service, Sport and Culture and in charge of the excavation project
looking on as Dr. Werz explains to the media what happened

Continues on page 4
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

A railway worker found a diamond and a loader operator discovered
a treasure shipwreck
merchandise 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
Continues from page 3
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.

From the discovery of a shiny diamond to a

find of pure gold and silver coins, copper
ingots, tusks and tin in Namibia
By Kaleni Hiyalwa

A bisai Heita, a Namdeb worker and research by experts.

one of the strong team the company
assigned to the recently discovered The government invited
shipwreck at Oranjemund’s Sperrgebiet the African World
area to help recover the new wealth, Heritage Fund, based
spotted the first gold coin under one of in Johannesburg and
the rocks at the site of the shipwreck. represented by Mr. Weber
Ndoro, a Zimbabwean
Dr. Dieter Noli, the archeaologist who helped national. Mr. Ndoro
in recovering the initial rare gold coins was said that the discovery
amazed by the enormous find of the Portuguese is important to Africa
and Spanish rare pure gold coins retrieved at because of the interaction
the initial stages of excavation that filled his between the people of the
“cowboy-like” hat. world, adding that goods
from the African continent
Six bronze canon barrels and tons of copper that were contained in the ship
Media Day: Journalists briefed on the objects found in the shipwreck and
were also found in the shipwreck are unique to and for the fact that the stored in a warehouse at Oranjemund
Portugal and Spain. They were used for war and discovery was made in
protection of the merchant ships. Huge round Namibia.
bullets which were popular in Europe around
4 1535 were also found and some of the barrels Portugal wants to be
were still loaded with bullets. Other weapons involved in the study
such as swords and handles were also found of the shipwreck which
at the site. More than 500 popular, solid and they call “the treasure of
soft elephant tusks of African origin, used for knowledge” concerning
furnishing and manufacturing in India, as well the discovery of the
as cooking utensils such as kettles and pots weapons and ancient
were among the artifacts found on board. common equipment and
tools. “The information
Parts of the shipwreck that resulted from the about the earliest life
excavation are being removed from the site to of archeology is scarce
be preserved in safe places, pending further in Portugal today. This
investigations and research. The artifacts are shipwreck is like salvaging Sensitive materials stored in containers awaiting scientific research
preserved in a warehouse with the gold and treasure comparable to
silver coins taken to Windhoek for safe keeping. the discovery of gold.
Some of the sensitive materials excavated from It is an opportunity to of the excavation project, Dr. Bruno Werz from
the site of the shipwreck are preserved in a reconstitute archeological history that remained the Southern African Institute of Maritime
mixture of water and sand, pending thorough frozen for 500 years,” said the principal director Archeology.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Discovery of Shipwreck in Namibia can

become World Heritage Site
By Kaleni Hiyalwa

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.
Excavation of the shipwreck base underway
Portugal only expressed
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

N amibia 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.
its interest to be involved the desert. It was discovered at the point where
in the study of the shipwreck which they call the Namib desert meets the Atlantic Ocean.
“the treasure of knowledge” concerning the
discovery of ancient Portuguese weapons and The artifacts discovered on the shipwreck are
common instruments and tools found on board described as rare and important in reliving
the shipwreck. “The information about the more than six centuries back. The modern
earliest life of archeology is scarce in Portugal world in the 21st Century will be able to turn
today. This shipwreck is like salvaging treasure fairy tales of the old world in to the new world
comparable to the discovery of gold. It is an of reality. The findings will be important sources
opportunity to reconstitute archeological history of information that will give more evidence on
that remained frozen for 500 years,” said one of what had happened in opening up the world’s
the Portuguese archeaologists on site. Dark Age history. They will enlighten people,
from all over the world, particularly Namibians
This historical and archeological information is and Africans, about the European voyages
described as rare in the world today. Complying through the coast of the south west Africa.
with the international maritime laws, Portugal
will not claim any find from the wreck. “It is Archaeology students at higher institutions of
extremely exemplary that poses challenges to learning will be able to obtain knowledge on
the 20th and 21st century archaeology,” Alves
noted, adding that “now we
the old technology and what had happened
5
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
Some of the materials are stored in a mixture of water and sand to
more that the wreckage prevent their destruction
Continues on page 6
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
Discovery of Shipwreck in Namibia can become World Heritage Site
during 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
What “Readathon” is to Kunene residents
K aoko-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
6 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.
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
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.
Continues from page 5
(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.
Read-A-Thon Day in the Kunene 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.
Continues on page 7

What “Readathon” is to Kunene residents
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
Erongo teachers assess their health status
T he 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
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
from 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
By Ester Paulus
impact of absenteeism and employee attrition,
which heavily impact on productivity, employee
“ 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.
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
Continues from page 6
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.
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
7
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.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
Anti-Corruption advocacy meeting at
Omuthiya
T he 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
The Director of
Anti- Corruption
Commission feels
that Namibia cannot
afford to take
the destructive
8 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.
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.
Noa urged the
community of
Omuthiya in
particular and
Namibians in general
to come forward
and report corrupt
practices

“Desist from confrontational media
statements” - Hon. Kaapanda
Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Minister of Information and
Communication Technology
T he 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
Review of the Arms and Ammunition Act of
1996 (Act No. 7)
T he 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
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
By Kaleni Hiyalwa and Julia Hamhata
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
By Mulisa Simiyasa, Oshakati
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
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.
9
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.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Shipwreck excavation at the site of

Dr, Dieter Noli, archeaologist, holding the hat that was filled with gold coins Miguel Alelvia, Portuguese archeaologist at the excavation site
retrieved from the shipwreck

Canon bullets More than 500 African elephant tusks were found in the shipwreck

10

A pile of tin slabs Copper ingots packed in shelves in the warehouse

 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Oranjemund’s Sperrgebiet in Pictures

Some of the canon barrels that were retrieved The shipwreck cordoned off

Canon barrels and elephant tusks form part of the treasure 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

11

A big canon barrel with an elephant tusk which was found some kilometers away Ester Mombola-Goagses of the National Museum of Namibia Dr. Dieter Noli, Dr.
from the shipwreck, with copper ingots below 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
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

Small Arms and Light Weapons licenses on

the increase
By Mulisa Simiyasa, Oshakati

H on. 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 Dr. Nicky Iyambo, Safety and Security Minister
crimes committed with firearms during the
same period are recorded as follows: More than one military bases and power pylons in northern
Namibia between 1999 and 2001. During the
• 2, 061 cases of unauthorised possession of hundred and one same time, the Government launched a much
known slogan “DON’T TOUCH IT REPORT IT”,
firearm and ammunition
a joint effort by the Namibian Defence Force
• 4, 604 cases of pointing firearm at persons
thousand licensed (NDF) and the then Ministry of Information
• 660 murders with firearms
and Broadcasting that launched an awareness
•
•
2, 649 attempted murders
4, 000 armed robbery with firearms
firearms were campaign on the dangers of the UXOs and
the need to rid the land of the dangerous
•
•
1, 598 thefts of firearms and
22 attempted thefts of firearms.
reported to be explosives left during the war for national
liberation. The Ministry of Safety and Security
Dr. Iyambo said that despite the above
in private hands decided to involve stakeholders, as well as
regional, traditional and community leaders
12
terrifying figures of firearms, the Namibian
Police (NAMPOL) and other law enforcement between April to in the campaign to redouble efforts to rid the
agencies are hard at work to ensure that the country of dangerous unexploded material and
safety and security of the Namibian people are July 2008. unlicensed light and small weapons.
not compromised.
The Minister called on the Ministry of Information
On 23 November 2007 at Walvis Bay, Namibian and Communication Technology and the media
law enforcement agencies in the fight to secure to relentlessly educate the nation and involve
the safety of people destroyed the biggest the general public in taking action to increase
collection of arms, ammunitions and unexploded public safety and security in Namibia.
ordinances (UXOs) namely:
He encouraged the workshop to come up with a
• 10,738 rounds of ammunition comprehensive national strategic plan of action
• 1,426 firearms as a tool in mobilising the nation.
• 162 detonators
• 53 hand grenades The United Kingdom is providing financial
• 29 rockets support for the sustainable implementation of
This exercise followed the previous destruction
• 43 mortars and the Namibia National Action Plan on Small Arms
of UXOs found around the former South African
• 3 anti-tank mines. and Light Weapons.

Government tightens purchasing procedures at
its Warehouses
I n 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
Oral Polio vaccination campaign in the Karas
region
A n 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.
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
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
By Alie Thaniseb, Keetmanshoop
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.
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 Stores
Ministry of Works and Transport
Private Bag 13240
Windhoek
13
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.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008

MICT and MTC joint visit to Omaheke

region
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
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

I
the
n responds to the Service Delivery
Survey findings and recommendations
Ministry of Information and
To some extent, the issue that these results bring
up is associated to the question of affordability,
proximity and accessibility of the majority of
Communication Technology, has inter- Namibian population to ICT.
alia, decided to avail a list Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) The survey recommended that the issue,
Centres in the regions. therefore, needs a comprehensive and focused
strategy to increase access through making ICTs
According to the results of the survey, the and education related to these both affordable

14 number of people who has access to institutions and easily accessible.

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”.
Hon. Joël Kaapanda, Information and Communication
This has suggested to the ministry that there is Technology receiving A laptop from the MTC Managing
Director, Miguel Geraldes
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
A new portable laptop
by UNAM’s Multidisciplinary Research and
Consultancy Centre (MRCC) between June dissemination were presented to the ministry on
and October 2007 and valuable findings and 25 April 2008. The former Ministry of Information
suggestions regarding services and information and Broadcasting (MIB) commissioned the
Continues on page 15

MICT responds to the Service Delivery Survey outcome
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)
Developing SMEs sector in Namibia
Dr. Hage Geingob,
Minister of Trade and Industry
I n 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
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
Omaheke ( 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
By Kaleni Hiyalwa
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
Continues from page 14
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.
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
15
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.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
Commemorating Disability Day in
Tsumeb
D isability 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
16
National Assembly in 1997 states that Namibia
!Han-/Hawab Conservancy launched
T he 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
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
By: Alie Thaniseb
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.
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.
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.

Omuthiya’s state of the art regional office
opened
T he 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
Caprivi and Kavango get recreation centres
T he 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,
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
By Meschtride Mathias, Tsumeb
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
By 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
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.
17
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.
 Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
News from Cabinet chambers continues
Cabinet 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.
Further information can be obtained from
the Office of the Prime Minister at telephone
number 2879111.
18 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.
Further information can be obtained from
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.
Further information can be obtained from the
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.

News from the Cabinet Chambers
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
Government Information Bulletin Sept 2008
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.
Further information can be obtained from the
Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry at
telephone number 2087643.
5. DOUBLE TAXATION AGREEMENT
Cabinet has already given approval to the
Ministry of Finance to conclude double taxation
Continues from page 18
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 19
the agreements to the National Assembly for
ratification in accordance with the mentioned
article in the Namibian Constitution.
Further information can be obtained from
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
News from the Cabinet Chambers
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
20 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
Continues from page 19
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