🇳🇦NamibiaSouthern Africa
National Arts Council of Namibia chairperson aims to double creative sector's GDP contribution
via The Namibian2 min read
Lot Ndamanomhata, the newly appointed chairperson of the National Arts Council of Namibia, plans to increase the creative sector's economic contribution to the country from 1.5% to 3% of the national GDP under the sixth National Development Plan. He noted that Namibia's creative landscape is transitioning from uncoordinated operations to a more structured ecosystem. Between 2022 and 2024, 327 local film productions generated an average of N$122.5 million in spending and created over 2,400 jobs. Ndamanomhata acknowledged that policy, infrastructure, and financial deficits restrict the industry's capacity, with funding being the most pressing issue as many creative projects are self-financed due to artists' inability to meet credit requirements. The state's direct financial support is low, with a 2026/27 national budget allocation of approximately N$6.1 million for over 130,000 active creators. Namibian artists also face global digital hurdles, including exclusion from YouTube monetization and inactive PayPal payout functions. Ndamanomhata also highlighted the challenge of local art often only being celebrated after international validation. The new board is shifting its grant distribution strategy to enforce geographic inclusivity, aiming to reach all 121 constituencies. The council is currently running its second funding call for the 2026/27 cycle, with a deadline of July 3. Ndamanomhata called for immediate private sector intervention, stating that the national budget alone
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
Anke Erasmus, secretary general of the Namibia Wrestling Federation, highlighted the need for greater international exposure, training camps, and improved logistical support to develop Namibian wrestlers for the Road to LA 28. She emphasized that high-level international competition, including flights, accommodation, and registration fees, must be a priority for elite athletes. Erasmus noted that success at regional events, such as the South Africa Greco-Roman Nationals, builds capacity and dedication for long-term achievement. She explained that coaches adapted the team's training regimen for the SA Greco-Roman tournament by incorporating weekly Greco-Roman specific training and adding extra sessions. Erasmus clarified that wrestling focuses on Olympic styles, including freestyle, Greco-Roman, and beach wrestling. She stated that the additional training days and joint build-up improved the team's general fitness, and while not all wrestlers won medals, they gained invaluable experience. Francois Dames was appointed as the mental and high performance coach to support the wrestlers' mental preparation. Erasmus stressed the importance of early exposure to high-level events and a clear pathway for success, especially since athletes can only compete internationally from age 17. She also mentioned efforts to establish clubs in regions and create a schools wrestling league to foster grassroots development. Wrestling is classified as a priority sport in Namibia, with ongoing develop
Victor Wembanyama scored 32 points, along with eight rebounds, six assists, three blocks, and two steals, to lead the San Antonio Spurs to a 115-111 victory over the New York Knicks in Game 3 of the NBA Finals. This win at Madison Square Garden snapped the Knicks’ 13-game win streak and reduced their series lead to 2-1. Wembanyama emphasized that the job is not yet done, despite the crucial win. The game, the first NBA Finals match at Madison Square Garden since 1999, featured a lively crowd that booed President Donald Trump when he appeared on the arena videoscreen. Trump was the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game, and his presence led to increased security measures. Stephon Castle contributed 23 points for the Spurs, and Dylan Harper added 13 points off the bench. For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson led with 32 points, and OG Anunoby scored 28. Knicks coach Mike Brown expressed frustration with the officiating, particularly the free throw disparity, but acknowledged the Spurs’ strong performance. The Spurs are aiming for their sixth NBA title, their first since 2014, while the Knicks seek their first championship since 1973. Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday in New York.
Must ReadEnvironmental 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