Namibia's green energy transition risks nature without proper safeguards, lawyers warn
via The Namibian5 min read
Environmental lawyers in Namibia caution that the country's shift to renewable energy could harm ecosystems if environmental safeguards are not adequately enforced. Des-Rose Engelbrecht, chairperson of the Environmental Lawyers Network of Namibia, emphasizes the need to balance the push for cleaner energy with the protection of biodiversity and natural resources. She notes that while renewable energy is crucial for combating climate change, projects like solar and wind farms can negatively impact ecosystems if not carefully planned and regulated. Engelbrecht stresses that Namibia's renewable future must be built on a legal foundation that protects ecosystems and upholds sustainable development principles. She highlights that Namibia possesses a strong legal framework for environmental challenges, but effective implementation is critical. The Environmental Management Act requires all entities undertaking activities that could affect the environment to comply before commencing operations. Engelbrecht calls for collective effort from government, businesses, and citizens, urging lawmakers and policymakers to strengthen environmental accountability. Meanwhile, NamPower head of generation projects Fred Bailey stated that the utility has installed 519MW of renewable energy generation capacity, including the Ruacana Hydropower Station. Excluding Ruacana, the capacity is 172MW from solar PV and one 5MW wind project. NamPower aims to source at least 70% of Namibia’s electricity from re
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
National Assembly speaker Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila has urged media organizations to report fairly on women in leadership positions, noting that coverage often focuses on controversy and personal conduct rather than their work and achievements. Speaking at the 35th anniversary celebrations of the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation in Windhoek, she stated that this imbalance erodes public confidence in women leaders and discourages women from participating in public matters. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila emphasized that women leaders are frequently judged on personal issues, with less attention given to their professional contributions in government, business, and other fields. She argued that focusing on personal conduct over performance weakens accountability and distorts the understanding of leadership. The speaker clarified that her call is not for favorable treatment but for fair, substantive, and contextualized reporting based on facts. She also expressed concern about online abuse targeting women, including harassment, impersonation, deepfakes, and disinformation campaigns, which can lead women to withdraw from public life. Kuugongelwa-Amadhila urged public media to avoid spreading abusive content and to report responsibly on digital violence against women. Additionally, she called for more training for journalists in specialized fields such as economics, public finance, health, technology, and legislative processes.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform is developing the 140-hectare Ekoka brownfield in the Ohangwena region into an irrigated green scheme to enhance food security. Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda stated that the project is in its initial phase, with trial crops such as mahangu, sorghum, cowpea, and maize already planted. Feasibility studies are underway to assess water and soil quality. While current crops are rain-fed, there are plans to transition to an irrigation system, with four boreholes already drilled. Of the 140 hectares, 110 hectares are actively cultivated this season, and crops are ready for harvest. Mahangu covers 70 hectares, sorghum 20 hectares, cowpea 15 hectares, and maize 5 hectares. Eighty percent of the perimeter fencing is complete, though animal intrusion, bird pressure, and irregular rainfall remain challenges. A consultant has been appointed for an environmental impact assessment and topographic study, and stakeholder consultations are finished. Plans for 2026/27 include constructing irrigation infrastructure and procuring agricultural inputs. The project, which will use borehole water for irrigation, aims to boost food production, create jobs, and benefit local communities, aligning with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's directive to expand agricultural land.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a diverse soundtrack with contributions from global artists. Shakira and Burna Boy lead with the official tournament anthem, 'Dai Dai,' co-written by Ed Sheeran, blending Latin pop and Afro-fusion rhythms. This song pays homage to football legends such as Pelé, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi. Another track, 'Goals,' is a collaboration between Lisa, Anitta, and Rema, offering a multilingual mix of English, Portuguese, and Spanish lyrics across rap, pop, and Afro-beats. South African music fans can anticipate 'Game Time' by Future and Tyla, which combines trap beats with African dance music influences. Tyla has also shown support for Bafana Bafana with this release. Jessie Reyez and Elyanna contribute 'Illuminate,' a blend of pop, R&B, and Middle Eastern influences, focusing on unity and cultural identity. Jelly Roll and Carín León present 'Lighter,' a bilingual track mixing country, pop, and regional Mexican sounds. Lastly, Darren Watkins Jr, known as IShowSpeed, features with 'Champion,' a viral internet release that names all 48 competing nations.