LinkedPrime
Jobs

Articles by Staff Reporter

111 articles found

Survivors recovering after deadly gas station explosion
Technology

Survivors recovering after deadly gas station explosion

— Minister Walrond says government providing full support to affected families THE survivors of Sunday night’s deadly explosion at the Mobil Service Station on Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, are recovering steadily, even as the government continues to provide full support to the affected families. Delivering an update during a joint press conference on Tuesday evening, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond said that the three injured children and one adult are receiving medical treatment and have shown positive signs of recovery. “The adult is, first of all, doing as can be expected. They are recovering. The two children have been able to start eating; they are still hospitalised and will be kept in the hospital for a few more days. The adult has a fracture and is expected to be released in a day or two. The other children are currently out of surgery. The plastic surgeon is looking at the child who had many lacerations as a result of the glass, but they are all recovering well,” Minister Walrond said. She added that the government has pledged continuous support to the families, particularly that of six-year-old Soraya Bourne, who tragically lost her life in the explosion. “We have assured, first of all, little Soraya’s mother, whose name is Samantha Bourne. I’ve spoken with her; we’ve given a pledge of government support in whatever regard. In terms of when she wishes to lay Soraya to rest and all related support. We’ve already started and we’ve assured her, and will continue to assure her, of our support,” Walrond noted. The Minister explained that additional assistance is also being coordinated through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and the Ministry of Education, given that the injured children are all school-aged. “In relation to the parents and the family of the two children who are hospitalised, it’s an entire family unit and we will continue to support them. They are getting support through Human Services, and the Minister of Education has also reached out to them,” she said. Minister Walrond reaffirmed the government’s position that justice will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law. “The penalty for terrorism, under the section as quoted by the Commissioner, is death and we will be pursuing that in the courts. We will be making a case for the death penalty,” she declared. The deadly blast occurred on Sunday, October 26, destroying several vehicles and damaging nearby buildings. Investigators have since arrested the prime suspect, Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomoo, who has reportedly confessed to the crime.

Sol Guyana launches internal review following deadly Regent Street explosion
Technology

Sol Guyana launches internal review following deadly Regent Street explosion

— Company pledges full cooperation with authorities as probe intensifies SOL Guyana Inc., the authorised distributor of Mobil fuels in Guyana, has launched an internal review in collaboration with its retailer following Sunday night’s tragic explosion at the Regent Street Service Station in Georgetown, which claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne and left several others injured. In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the company said it is deeply saddened by the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, while also expressing gratitude to emergency responders and law enforcement for their swift action. “Sol Guyana Inc. (Sol), the authorised distributor of Mobil fuels in Guyana through its Mobil Branded retail network, is deeply saddened by the tragic explosion that occurred on Sunday, October 26 at the Regent Street Service Station in Georgetown. Our sincere condolences go out to the family of young Soraya Bourne who lost her life, and our heartfelt thoughts remain with all those injured or affected. We also extend our appreciation to the emergency services, authorities, and our retailer for their swift and professional response,” the statement read. The company confirmed that authorities led by the Ministry of Home Affairs and supported by the Guyana Police Force are conducting a thorough investigation, noting that the matter is being treated as a criminal act. “At this time, authorities led by the Ministry of Home Affairs are on-site conducting a thorough investigation. The Guyana Police Force has confirmed that the incident is being treated as a criminal matter and that an individual believed to have caused the explosion has been identified and is presently in police custody, assisting with the investigation,” Sol stated. Sol further assured the public that it is fully cooperating with the investigation and will continue to work closely with officials as inquiries progress. “Sol remains fully committed to cooperating with the relevant authorities as the investigation continues and has also launched an internal review in collaboration with the retailer,” the statement continued. The company acknowledged widespread public concern over the incident and reaffirmed its dedication to safety, stating that it is taking all necessary measures to safeguard its employees, customers, and the wider community. “We recognise the public concern surrounding this devastating incident and reaffirm that the safety and well-being of our team, customers, and community remain our top priority,” Sol emphasised. The company also committed to sharing verified updates as they become available and urged the public to rely on official information sources. “Sol will continue to share verified updates as they become available and urges the public to follow official safety guidance and avoid the affected area while investigations are ongoing.” The explosion, which occurred late Sunday evening at the Mobil Service Station at Regent and King Streets, resulted in widespread damage to nearby buildings and vehicles. Police have since arrested Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomoo, who has reportedly confessed to planting and detonating the explosive device. Authorities have confirmed that the investigation will proceed under anti-terrorism and criminal law provisions, with the state expected to pursue charges of murder, terrorism, and arson.

Aranos community urged to stay calm following the devastating storm
Technology

Aranos community urged to stay calm following the devastating storm

Staff Reporter THE Chairperson of the Hardap Regional Council, Gershon Dausab, has urged the Aranos community to remain calm following the recent thunderstorm that left around 200 residents displaced and two injured. “Please do not panic. The disaster risk management committee of the constituency, as well as the regional disaster risk committee members, have been informed of the incident, and we are busy on the ground establishing the effects of the disaster. We will send out teams early tomorrow morning from Mariental Municipality together with the Disaster Risk Management,” he said. This appeal follows an intense thunderstorm, accompanied by strong winds, which struck Aranos on Tuesday, resulting in two children sustaining injuries. Dausab confirmed that the children have been hospitalised since the incident and are currently in a stable condition. Photo: Hardap Regional Council The storm also caused significant property damage in the southern town. According to the Ministry of Information in the Hardap Region, between 60 and 70 houses were damaged — some with roofs torn off, while others were completely destroyed — leaving around 200 residents displaced. The affected individuals have been provided with temporary shelter in a local church, but Dausab assured the community that the regional council is working towards a more suitable long-term solution. The Chairperson further confirmed that the Mariental Municipality and the Disaster Risk Management Team will conduct an assessment tomorrow to determine the full extent of the damage and to inform the next steps. “We are looking into the issues of accommodation and how we can assist in repairing or addressing the effects of the disaster that has just occurred. But we need to have at least a concise report early tomorrow morning that can tell us the quantum of the disaster so that we can take appropriate action. So please do not panic,” Dausab added.

Prime suspect was positively identified by his accomplices – Crime Chief
Technology

Prime suspect was positively identified by his accomplices – Crime Chief

— says suspect linked to Venezuelan syndicate gang THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has confirmed that the prime suspect in Sunday night’s deadly Mobil Service Station explosion has been positively identified and has since confessed to his role in the attack that claimed the life of six-year-old Soraya Bourne and injured four others. Speaking at a joint press conference on Tuesday evening, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said the identification was made by one of the suspect’s accomplices, effectively eliminating any doubt about his involvement. “The prime suspect was positively identified by one of his accomplices. Moreover, the suspect, as I mentioned before, confessed his involvement in this particular crime. There is no issue about identification any longer,” Blanhum stated. The suspect, identified as Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomoo, a Venezuelan national, was arrested earlier Tuesday during a coordinated operation in Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo. According to investigators, Peodomoo entered Guyana illegally on the morning of the explosion and is believed to be affiliated with a Venezuelan criminal network known as the Syndicato gang. Blanhum said Peodomoo arrived in the country at around 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, carrying the explosive device used in the attack. Surveillance footage captured him walking into the Regent and King Streets gas station compound with two bulky black plastic bags. Moments later, the explosion ripped through the area, killing Bourne and injuring four of her relatives-Jenica Hooper (27), Yvonne Jonas (71), Seddia McIntosh, and Reshard Lord (11)—who were seated in the vehicle. The blast also damaged several other vehicles and nearby buildings. The Crime Chief confirmed that the suspect has been cooperating with investigators and provided details of the incident, including how he activated a switch to detonate the device after leaving the scene. “Among other things that he mentioned to us is that the device… he brought it in from Venezuela to Guyana. He also indicated that the device had a switch, which he activated when he exited the vehicle which was parked within the vicinity of the gas station,” Blanhum said. He added that investigators are working to determine whether the act was part of a larger organised operation or a lone-wolf attack, noting that nine persons remain in police custody, including Venezuelan and Guyanese nationals. Blanhum said local law enforcement is also collaborating with INTERPOL and regional counterparts to verify the suspect’s background and connections to transnational criminal groups. The Safe City Command Centre and intelligence-led policing systems played a critical role in tracking the suspect’s movements and securing his capture, with AI-enhanced CCTV footage providing investigators with key leads. Authorities have since indicated that the suspect will face multiple charges, including terrorism, murder, attempted murder and arson, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Prior to his capture, police had issued a Wanted Bulletin for Peodomo and announced a $5 million reward for credible information leading to his arrest.

Double suicide/murder incident reported in Oranjemund
Technology

Double suicide/murder incident reported in Oranjemund

Staff Reporter THE Namibian Police have reported a double suicide and murder in Oranjemund, whereby a 31-year-old pregnant woman identified as Lizetha Kinda is believed to have been shot dead by her lover, who then turned the gun on himself. According to Chief Inspector Elifas Kuwinga, public relations officer within the Namibian Police, the incident of murder read with the provisions of the Domestic Violence Act and suicide occurred on Wednesday, 29 October 2025, at around 02:10 at Bagdad location, Oranjemund. “Two lifeless bodies (male and female), both Namibians, were discovered lying in a pool of blood with a firearm between them in the street by a passerby. It is alleged that the two known couple are believed to have a history of domestic violence,” Kuwinga said. He, however, said the circumstances around the alleged killings of both persons are unknown at this stage. “It is further alleged that the female victim was four months pregnant at the time of her untimely death. She is identified as Lizetha Kinda, Namibian female, 31 years old. The male is identified as Willem Jan Johannes Januarie, aged 54,” Kuwinga said. He added that the next of kin have been informed and the bodies were removed from the scene and transported to Oranjemund Private Hospital morgue for storage and autopsy arrangements. Police investigations in the matter continue.

Deadly fuel station explosion: Police actively examining all evidence to determine the motive, possible wider connections
Technology

Deadly fuel station explosion: Police actively examining all evidence to determine the motive, possible wider connections

Investigators are working assiduously to determine the motive and possible border connections behind last Sunday’s explosion at the Mobil fuel station on Regent Street, Georgetown, which resulted in six-year-old Soraya Bourne’s life tragically ending and four others being left injured. So far, a total of nine persons, including the prime suspect, are in custody. Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, through a press statement on Tuesday, announced a major breakthrough in the investigations and confirmed the arrest of Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, a male Venezuelan national, who was apprehended at Vergenoegen Sideline Dam East Bank Essequibo. A special investigative task force was established from the onset and the investigation was coordinated from the highest level of the force, the Commissioner said, noting it was with continuous oversight by himself and his executive leadership team. In collaboration with the Safe City Command Centre and allied intelligence agencies, the force was able to utilise video-forensic analysis, digital tracking, and data correlation to trace the suspect’s movements before and after the incident. Acting on credible information and through inter-agency coordination and field intelligence, investigators were able to locate the suspect at Vergenoegen Sideline Dam, East Bank Essequibo, where he was captured on Tuesday in a coordinated operation led by a Superintendent. THE DIRECTION OF THE INVESTIGATION The main suspect, Daniel Alexander Ramirez Peodomo, a male Venezuelan national, is presently in custody assisting with ongoing investigations, the Commissioner reported. Investigators are also working closely with regional and international counterparts, including INTERPOL, to verify the suspect’s background and possible affiliations,” the statement read. Investigators were informed that Peodom was armed with a switch, which he activated shortly after placing the device and exiting a vehicle parked near the gas station. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the Spanish-speaking suspect walking into the compound with two bulky black plastic bags before 19:30 hours. When he was prevented from dumping them in a nearby bin, he walked toward the western side of the premises. Moments later, a massive explosion erupted near the bottled cooking gas storage area, ripping through the compound and destroying the vehicle in which little Soraya Bourne and four of her relatives-Jenica Hooper (27), Yvonne Jonas (71), Seddia McIntosh, and Reshard Lord (11)—were seated. The blast also damaged several other vehicles and nearby buildings. CCTV analysis led to the interception of a silver motor car (license plate PSS 7874) used to transport Peodomo. Based on the evidence gathered thus far, detectives are establishing the elements to support the charges of Sections 309A and 309B of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, which address acts of terrorism and conspiracy to commit terrorism. Additional charges relating to murder, attempted murder, arson and malicious damage to property are being actively pursued, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). “The Guyana Police Force remains resolute and relentless in its duty to protect the public, ensuring that any act of terror or violence is met with decisive and lawful action,” the Commissioner said. The investigation remains active as investigators continue to examine all evidence to determine the motive, origin and any wider connections surrounding the attack.

Agribank takes presidential advisor to court over unpaid debt
Technology

Agribank takes presidential advisor to court over unpaid debt

Staff Reporter THE Agricultural Bank of Namibia (Agribank) has taken presidential advisor Christine //Hoebes to court after she allegedly failed to repay two loans granted to her over a 10-year period, with the debt standing at over N$230,000. In the particulars of claim, Agribank said that it on or about 3 March entered into a written loan agreement with //Hoebes, adding that it made available to her the sum of N$193,000 for the purchase of 26 cows and a bull. The said loan amount was granted for a period of 10 years. In addition to this, it added that it also advanced a second loan amount of N$7,000 for the purchase of one goat ram and one sheep ram. The bank claimed that //Hoebes, however, fell into arrears, as a result of which the total balance of the first and second loans is now outstanding. “In breach of the agreements, the defendant failed to effect the agreed repayments in respect of the amounts lent and advanced to her in terms of the first and second loan agreements,” the bank said, demanding a total of over N$230,000. PAY UP: Presidential advisor Christine //Hoebes.

Innovation, energy and human capital will define Guyana’s global competitiveness
Technology

Innovation, energy and human capital will define Guyana’s global competitiveness

—President Ali tells world leaders in Saudi Arabia GUYANA is rapidly emerging as one of the most dynamic developing economies, leveraging its newfound oil wealth to drive sweeping transformation across energy, technology and human-capital development. Speaking at the ninth Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, President, Dr Irfaan Ali outlined an ambitious vision to position the South American nation as a competitive force in the global economy powered by innovation, sustainable growth and strategic investment. With the discovery of vast oil reserves, Guyana has entered a new era of prosperity that is fuelling unprecedented infrastructural expansion and social development. The government is channelling revenues into critical sectors such as education, healthcare and digital technology, laying the foundation for long-term resilience and inclusive growth. “We recently discovered oil and that has really ignited the pace of transformation, and it has also allowed us to make the right set of investments in human capital, health care, education and technology. “To compete in a global system, regardless of how big or small you are, you have to have the right infrastructure, the right education system, health care, and food system that will keep your people out of starvation and hunger. You have to do these things,” President Ali said. Central to this transformation is the creation of a modern energy infrastructure designed to deliver affordable and competitive power. This shift is set to underpin Guyana’s aspirations to become a regional hub for technology, with investments in artificial intelligence, data centres and digital innovation at the heart of its growth strategy. “We are now able to have energy that will be competitive and allow us to compete in the energy infrastructure of which digitisation [and] AI will be a big part,” President Ali said. Already, Guyana has touted plans to establish a hyper-scale data centre that could power Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital services across the Caribbean. The government is actively advancing opportunities that would position Guyana with the technological evolution of the world, especially in the areas of AI, digitisation and data infrastructure. Just recently, President Ali announced that Guyana will begin the large-scale implementation and distribution of the electronic identification system. The President also assured citizens that there will be public awareness and education as the government looks to roll out the initiative. Dr Ali was the first to receive his E-ID back in August. The biometric cards will not only offer citizens preferential treatment in certain areas, but will also strengthen border control by monitoring who is entering the country. The cards will be important for daily transactions, including opening bank accounts and are a critical part of Guyana’s wider digital transformation agenda. At the same time, the administration is ensuring that traditional industries remain central to national progress. Significant investments are being made to strengthen Guyana’s position as a global leader in sustainable agriculture and food security, while protecting its vast forests as part of a wider commitment to environmental stewardship and climate responsibility. “We are also investing in the traditional sectors, ensuring that we position ourselves as a food capital of the world, investing to ensure that we keep our standing forest standing for the sake of humanity, we’re investing to ensure that we have the most skilled population,” President Ali told world leaders on Tuesday. Further, recognising the constraints of a small population, Guyana is actively seeking international partnerships to accelerate its development. The government’s strategy focuses on attracting skilled talent, advanced technologies and proven investment models to fast-track progress rather than build from the ground up. “We know like Qatar, we have to bring in talent, we have to bring in investment. We have to bring in technology. So that is what we’re doing. We don’t have the time or the human-resource assets in terms of numbers to start from scratch; we have to bring in the models that are proven and then advance it for our own development,” Dr Ali said.

Intense thunderstorm hits Aranos, leaving 200 residents displaced
Technology

Intense thunderstorm hits Aranos, leaving 200 residents displaced

Staff Reporter AN intense thunderstorm struck Aranos in the Hardap Region on Tuesday, leaving several residents injured and displaced, while also causing significant property damage in the southern town. According to the Ministry of Information in the Hardap Region, Aranos recorded approximately 30 millimetres (mm) of rain on Tuesday, accompanied by extremely strong winds. The severe weather damaged between 60 and 70 homes — some suffered roof damage, while others were completely destroyed. THUNDERSTORMS: Photos and videos of recent rainfall. Photos: Aranos Town Council and Facebook (MICT Hardap Region, Rus En Vrede Safaris, John Lucas, Rheta Kruger Smeer, F.J Visser). “About 200 residents have been displaced, with the local church providing temporary shelter. Minor injuries were treated at the hospital, and slight damage was reported at some schools, including the private Jesus Centre. The Hardap Regional Council has dispatched a team from the Disaster Risk Management Unit to conduct an assessment,” the Ministry of Information in the Hardap Region revealed. Aranos was not the only area affected by recent thunderstorms, though the town experienced the most severe conditions. On a lighter note, several areas across the country — from the northern to the southern regions — have experienced light to moderate rainfall, and in some cases, hail. Towns such as Tsumeb in the Oshikoto Region, Otavi in the Otjozondjupa Region, Gobabis in the Omaheke Region, and Stampriet in the Hardap Region all reported rainfall. Gobabis also saw some hail. This follows a recent forecast by the Namibia Meteorological Service, which predicted widespread showers across much of the country. More rainfall is expected today in all the mentioned regions, and possibly in parts of the Khomas Region as well.

$450M Tissue Culture Lab commissioned to increase crop production
Technology

$450M Tissue Culture Lab commissioned to increase crop production

GUYANA has taken a major step towards advancing sustainable agriculture, by commissioning its first biotechnology plant-tissue culture laboratory that was inaugurated on Tuesday by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. The state-of-the-art facility, established with an investment of approximately $450 million, represents a key component of the government’s broader agenda to modernise and strengthen the agricultural sector. Delivering the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Mustapha emphasised that the government continues to prioritise agriculture as a cornerstone of Guyana’s non-oil economy. He noted that the sector has recorded steady growth in recent years, contributing significantly to GDP expansion, job creation, and export diversification. “Over time, this increases the national supply of key crops such as plantains, pineapples, citrus, and root crops, which will strengthen domestic food security and sustain the local agro-processing industries, such as fruit processing, packaging and export,” Minister Mustapha explained. Developed in collaboration with The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) of India and financed through the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) under the Sustainable Agricultural Development Programme (SADP), the laboratory is expected to transform the country’s crop-production capabilities. The facility is designed to produce over one million plantlets annually, a significant leap from the previous output of 15,000. These plantlets will be clean, high-yielding, and disease-free, supporting crops such as pineapple, citrus, plantain, sweet potato, breadfruit, sugarcane, and even exotic fruits such as strawberries and blackberries. The biotechnology lab marks a major milestone in Guyana’s efforts to enhance food security, agricultural innovation and sustainable economic growth, laying the foundation for a more resilient and diversified agricultural future.

Confidence in Guyana’s private sector is strong
Technology

Confidence in Guyana’s private sector is strong

— Minister McCoy says partnerships driving national digitisation and SME growth MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, has reaffirmed the government’s strong confidence in Guyana’s private sector, noting that local businesses continue to play a major role in advancing the country’s development and digitisation agenda. Minister McCoy made the remarks on Tuesday evening during the launch of Huawei’s e-Kit line at the Royal International Hotel, where he underscored government’s unwavering commitment to building a modern, technology-driven economy. “The emphasis on digitising government and ensuring greater efficiency through technology and all the opportunities that come with digitisation has been a key national priority,” McCoy stated. He noted that since assuming office in 2020, the administration has launched several initiatives to modernise public services and enhance connectivity, positioning technology as a core enabler of growth and transparency. PRIVATE SECTOR AT THE CENTRE OF TRANSFORMATION Minister McCoy emphasised that private-sector partnership remains essential to achieving the country’s modernisation goals. “From the government’s perspective, the private sector plays a central role in the realisation of this national aspiration. Confidence in Guyana’s private sector is strong,” he said. He added that the administration is committed to ensuring the right business environment, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). “The government continues to promote entrepreneurship through access to credit and training, and we are advancing plans for SME, and you heard reference to our development bank, as articulated during the election campaign, on the platform and included in our manifesto,” he stated. He went on to note that the planned development bank will provide critical financial and technical support to small businesses. “This will provide microloans at zero interest and guidance to help small businesses grow, training programmes that are being developed to help entrepreneurs prepare business plans and qualify for bank financing under the scheme,” he said. McCoy added that that kind of support for local businesses is exactly what enables local businesses to expand their impact and further link with global technology players. Further to this, Minister McCoy added that the government’s policies aim to ensure inclusivity, transparency and efficiency in business development. To this end, he added that they must ensure that the right business environment exists, and as such, the government is supporting this through multiple channels.

Zambia and Namibia strengthen defence and security cooperation
Technology

Zambia and Namibia strengthen defence and security cooperation

Staff Reporter NAMIBIA and Zambia strengthened defence and security cooperation at the 26th Session of the Zambia–Namibia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security (JPCDS), which was held in Chilanga, Zambia, reaffirming the two countries’ commitment to peace, stability, and regional cooperation. The Zambian delegation was led by Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu, Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia Stephen Katuka, and other senior officials. The Namibian delegation was headed by Defence and Veterans Affairs Minister Frans Kapofi, supported by Executive Director Annely Haiphene, Home Affairs Executive Director Nghidinua Daniel, and Acting High Commissioner to Zambia Nomsa Uushona, among others. The Commission commended Namibia for the peaceful 2024 Presidential and National Assembly elections that brought President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to office and expressed appreciation to both President Nandi-Ndaitwah and President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia for their continued leadership in fostering bilateral cooperation. Video: Ministry of Defence – Zambia Photos: Ministry of Defence – Zambia Both countries reiterated their dedication to implementing resolutions from the session and to strengthening their longstanding diplomatic ties. The Commission also welcomed President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s working visit to Lusaka in May 2025, where the two Heads of State reaffirmed their commitment to improving livelihoods and advancing regional economic development. With Namibia’s Regional and Local Authority elections set for November 2025 and Zambia’s general elections scheduled for August 2026, the Commission commended both nations for upholding democratic values and promoting peace within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The two delegations exchanged condolences on the passing of Founding President Dr. Sam Nujoma of Namibia and Former President Edgar Lungu of Zambia earlier this year, honouring their legacies as leaders who shaped their nations’ histories. Discussions also covered regional and cross-border security matters, including transnational crimes such as illegal migration, smuggling, poaching, stock theft, and human and drug trafficking. Both sides agreed to intensify joint operations and intelligence-sharing efforts to address these challenges. The Commission welcomed progress toward operationalising the Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post and the establishment of a Permanent Corridor Secretariat for the Walvis Bay–Ndola–Lubumbashi Corridor, which is expected to improve trade facilitation and regional connectivity. On regional issues, the Commission noted continued peace and stability across southern Africa but expressed concern over political unrest in Madagascar following a recent military takeover. It reaffirmed support for the SADC Organ Troika’s efforts to restore democratic governance there and commended ongoing peace initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Namibia was also praised for hosting the 25th Anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security earlier this month, and Zambia was commended for successfully hosting the SADC Aviation Exercise “Blue Lugwasho 2025.” As the meeting concluded, Namibia extended best wishes to Zambia on the occasion of its 61st Independence Anniversary on 24 October 2025. The Zambian delegation expressed gratitude for Namibia’s continued partnership and accepted the invitation to host the next session of the Commission in Namibia. The session was held in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation, reflecting the enduring friendship between the two nations.

WFP and Capricorn Foundation boost food security in Omusati
Technology

WFP and Capricorn Foundation boost food security in Omusati

Staff Reporter THE United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Capricorn Foundation and Development Aid from People to People (DAPP), has strengthened food and nutrition security in the Omusati region through a community-based agricultural initiative that is empowering local farmers. The organisations visited farmers in Outapi and the Anamulenge constituency this week to observe the progress of their joint project, which aims to enhance local food systems and improve household nutrition. Since January, the initiative has supported 120 farming families to establish small-scale agricultural projects. Participants have received training, seeds, irrigation equipment, and tools to grow a range of nutritious crops for both household consumption and local market sales. Photos: WFP Namibia According to WFP, the project is now providing access to healthy food for over 900 community members, including children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people living with HIV and tuberculosis. WFP Namibia Country Director Naouar Labidi commended the collaboration, saying the Capricorn Foundation’s continued commitment to strengthening Namibia’s food systems “makes a meaningful difference.” “This partnership reflects our shared vision of empowering communities to become self-reliant and resilient in the face of challenges such as drought,” Labidi said. During the site visit, representatives from WFP, the Capricorn Foundation, and DAPP toured flourishing household gardens and engaged with the farmers benefiting from the project. Capricorn Foundation Head Veripura Muukua said the success of the project demonstrates the power of partnerships. “Together with WFP and DAPP, farmers are empowered with the right tools, skills, and market linkages to improve food security, build sustainable livelihoods and stronger communities,” Muukua said. Farmers in Outapi are already seeing results. Luise Mpingana, one of the participants, said the support has transformed their ability to grow food. “Before this project, we struggled to grow enough food for our families. With the training and tools we received, our gardens are thriving. We can now feed our children healthy food and even earn an income from selling what we grow,” she said. The project is jointly funded by the Capricorn Foundation and the World Food Programme, with DAPP Namibia leading implementation on the ground. DAPP provides hands-on training, installs key farming infrastructure such as shade nets, and conducts regular follow-ups to ensure long-term sustainability. WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organisation, providing food assistance to save lives in emergencies while helping communities build resilience against conflict, disasters, and the effects of climate change.

A female bartender’s loud screams force armed robbers to flee
Technology

A female bartender’s loud screams force armed robbers to flee

Staff Reporter The loud and continuous screaming of a female bartender forced two suspects to abort an armed robbery at Ondunge shebeens in the Iindangungu area near Ondangwa on Thursday morning. According to the police, two panga-wielding suspects attacked a security guard and took away his service shotgun, then proceeded to the bedroom of the bartender to demand the keys to the safe. However, she screamed loudly and non-stop until the suspects aborted the robbery and fled the scene. Police officers who visited the crime scene observed two pairs of shoe prints leading to a getaway car that had been parked behind nearby bushes.

Armed robbers steal 16 smartphones, leave their own phone at the scene
Technology

Armed robbers steal 16 smartphones, leave their own phone at the scene

Staff Reporter A 26-year-old male resident of Oshakati was robbed of two pairs of glasses, his house keys, and a bag containing sixteen smartphones. The incident occurred in the early evening, immediately after he was dropped off by a taxi at his residence in the Ehenye suburb. According to the police, the victim was returning from work, but as soon as he got off the taxi, a white Toyota Corolla (N6317SH) stopped nearby and four men jumped out. One, who was armed with a pistol, moved towards the victim, took the bag that was on the ground, and fired a bullet aimed at the victim’s feet but missed. The suspects then jumped into their car and sped off. The total value of the stolen items was given as N$105,580. Meanwhile, when the bag-snatching suspect jumped into the getaway car, his own Nokia fell out of his pocket and was left at the scene of the crime, which could be of much help to police investigators.

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s axe falls on Deputy PM and Mines and Energy Minister, Ithete
Technology

Nandi-Ndaitwah’s axe falls on Deputy PM and Mines and Energy Minister, Ithete

Staff Reporter PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has relieved Natangue Ithete of his duties as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy with immediate effect. Jonas Mbambo, Presidential Press Secretary, said the President has, in accordance with Article 32(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia, made an executive decision to relieve Honourable Ithete of his duties as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy. “In the interest of ensuring continuity and effective coordination within this key sector, President Nandi-Ndaitwah will assume responsibility for the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, effective immediately. The President has expressed appreciation to Honourable Ithete for his service to the Government and people of Namibia. He will continue to serve as a Member of Parliament. The Presidency reaffirms its commitment to sound governance, accountability, and the effective implementation of national priorities in pursuit of Namibia’s shared vision of sustainable and inclusive development,” Mbambo concluded.

Ministry of Home Affairs urges married couples to verify their marriage records
Technology

Ministry of Home Affairs urges married couples to verify their marriage records

Staff Reporter THE Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) is urging all married couples to visit their nearest Ministry office to confirm that their marriage records have been properly submitted and registered by their Marriage Officers. The Ministry’s Executive Director, Nghidinua Daniel, explained that, in accordance with Section 40(2) of the Births, Marriages and Deaths Registration Act, 1963 (Act No. 81 of 1963), every Marriage Officer is legally required to retain a copy of the marriage register for their own records and to transmit the original marriage register to the Ministry within three days of the marriage being solemnised. However, Daniel revealed that some Marriage Officers have not consistently submitted marriage registers to the Ministry as required by law. “This late or non-submission resulted in some marriages not being registered on time in the Ministry’s system or not at all. To ensure completeness and accuracy of the national marriage register, the Ministry encourages all married couples to visit their nearest MHAISS office to verify whether their marriage records were submitted to the Ministry by the Marriage Officers and whether they have been duly registered in the Ministry’s system. This verification process is important to safeguard the legal recognition of marriages and to maintain the accuracy of national civil records,” Daniel explained. He further assured the public that the Ministry remains dedicated to maintaining the integrity and reliability of the country’s civil registration and vital statistics system, and urged all citizens to verify official information through the Ministry’s official communication channels. “As part of this commitment, MHAISS will continue to implement measures aimed at verifying, updating, and strengthening marriage records to ensure that every legitimate marriage in Namibia is accurately recorded and protected. The Ministry urges all citizens to verify official information through its official communication channels before acting on unverified messages circulating on social media,” Daniel added. Picture for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Pixabay

Previous 2 3 4 5 6 Next