Namibia's regulatory environment too rigid for economic progress, says President Nandi-Ndaitwah
via The Namibian4 min read
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah stated that Namibia's regulatory environment is excessively rigid, resembling that of developed countries, which hinders meaningful economic progress. She described this situation as a significant challenge, noting that many of the country's laws are not suitable for a developing economy. The President made these remarks on Tuesday during a visit to Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies in Windhoek, while responding to questions on economic transformation. She emphasized the necessity of reform and transformation to unlock economic growth, advocating for a rethinking of traditional approaches to productivity and work culture. Nandi-Ndaitwah suggested moving away from rigid working patterns, citing countries like China and Singapore where economies operate around the clock, clarifying that this does not promote exploitation. She urged a shift from the traditional 08h00 to 17h00 work schedule, stressing that mental transformation is crucial for policies to yield results. Reflecting on her factory visit, she expressed encouragement by the workers' sense of pride, linking job satisfaction to increased productivity. Dinapama Manufacturing and Supplies, established in 2009, is a Namibian-owned garment manufacturer employing about 500 people, predominantly women, producing uniforms, corporate wear, and bags.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
A doctor at Onandjokwe Hospital has been arrested in connection with a second rape investigation in five years. The Ministry of Health and Social Services stated it could not prevent the doctor from practicing after his previous acquittal, as allegations not resulting in a conviction do not warrant professional action. Ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya emphasized that an unproven allegation cannot be treated as a conviction, and a professional license should not be revoked based on charges followed by an acquittal. The 31-year-old doctor, son of a prominent Namibian figure, was arrested over the weekend following allegations of raping a 26-year-old man at his room on the hospital grounds. This incident occurs three years after the Windhoek High Court overturned his conviction and acquitted him of a separate rape charge involving an 18-year-old patient at Katutura Intermediate Hospital. Deputy commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, national police spokesperson, confirmed the arrest, stating the alleged incident happened around 2:00 AM on Saturday. The complainant reported that the doctor invited him to Oniipa for the weekend, paid for his transport, and arranged for him to be dropped at the hospital gate. At the doctor's room, after consuming alcohol, the complainant alleged the doctor mixed vodka with something "lemony." The complainant noticed what appeared to be a pill dissolving in his drink, felt nauseous, and attempted to scream for help. He managed to overpower the suspect, b
The Ministry of Health and Social Services has initiated an administrative investigation into Dennis Noa, a 31-year-old medical intern at Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital, following his arrest for the alleged rape of a 26-year-old man at hospital accommodation. Health executive director Penda Ithindi stated that the ministry considers these allegations deeply concerning and inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of health professionals. While the police investigation is ongoing, the ministry has activated its internal disciplinary processes and administrative investigation in line with the Public Service Act. The ministry condemned all forms of sexual violence, reaffirming its commitment to a safe environment for patients, staff, and the public, and urged the public to allow the legal process to proceed without interference. Noa appeared in Ondangwa Magistrate鈥檚 Court, and his case was postponed to July 27 for a formal bail application.
The High Court has frozen a farm and a vehicle linked to Cornelius 'Cedric' Willemse, an accused in the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia Namcor fraud and corruption case. Judge Boas Usiku granted a preservation order on June 12 under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, targeting farm Groot Driehoekvlakte, a 1,933-hectare property in the Hardap region, and a Toyota Land Cruiser. This order prevents the assets from being sold, transferred, or mortgaged while the case is ongoing. The Registrar of Deeds has been instructed to endorse the title deed of the farm to prevent its encumbrance without court permission. Inspector Johan Green of the asset recovery sub-division has been appointed to safeguard these properties. This preservation order is the initial step in a forfeiture process, with the prosecutor general having 120 days to seek a final order to permanently transfer the assets to the state. Willemse, or any other interested party, has 21 days from receiving the notice to oppose the forfeiture. Willemse faces 10 charges, including fraud, corruption, money laundering, and failing to pay tax, stemming from his tenure as Namcor's supply and logistics manager. He is accused of receiving over N$3 million from fuel supplier Enercon Namibia and N$1.04 million related to Namcor's purchase of nine filling stations. Willemse has denied the allegations, stating the money was for farm-sold meat and logistics services. During his bail hearing, Magistrate Olga Muharukua noted