Roads Authority spends N$2.6 million on disciplinary hearings for two executives
via The Namibian6 min read
The Roads Authority RA spent over N$2.6 million on private lawyers to conduct disciplinary hearings that led to the dismissal of two executives, former RA transport executive officer Sidney Boois and divisional manager Richard Milinga. They were fired in February after being accused of inflating a vehicle procurement tender valued at approximately N$16 million. Lawyer Ileni Velikoshi received N$1.5 million as chairperson of the hearing, and the firm Köpplinger Boltman van Greunen Incorporated was paid N$1.1 million as the initiator. Labour experts have criticized the expenditure as an "extreme wastage of resources" and a disregard for public funds, especially given that the case has now moved to the High Court, potentially incurring further costs. RA spokesperson Hileni Fillemon declined to comment, citing the sub judice nature of the matter. Lawyer Richard Metcalfe questioned the use of a disciplinary process for allegations of fraud and corruption, suggesting that criminal charges with the Commercial Crime Investigation Unit or the Anti-Corruption Commission would have been more appropriate and cost-effective.
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The 2026 Tour de Windhoek, Namibia's international cycling event, was officially launched, with organizers promising an exciting race. Scheduled from August 13 to 16, 2026, the event will feature elite and emerging cyclists competing on challenging routes. Pupkewitz Megabuild managing director, Martin Schoeman, confirmed the company's continued commitment as the title sponsor, highlighting its support for the growth of cycling in Namibia and its corporate social responsibility. Schoeman stated that the sponsorship aligns with Pupkewitz Megabuild's vision of improving lives and contributing to a progressive Namibia. He also noted that Pupkewitz Motors will serve as the mobility partner, and Agrimark as the fuel sponsor, with these partnerships crucial for a professionally managed event. Gerald Vries, executive director in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering a thriving sports environment in Namibia through strategic partnerships, athlete development, and talent nurturing from grassroots to elite levels.
Must ReadNamibia's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has stated that Namibian fishing quota holders are permitted to enter into private commercial agreements with third parties. This clarification follows a disputed horse mackerel deal involving a Democratic Republic of Congo-linked entity and Namibian fishing companies. The ministry emphasized that fishing rights are exclusively for Namibians and quotas are allocated to Namibian rights holders in accordance with the country's fisheries laws. Quota holders can engage third parties for harvesting if they lack the necessary vessels or capacity. These arrangements are considered private business agreements between the quota holder and the third party. The dispute in question involved Fond Social de la République Démocratique du Congo, Hodago Fishing Pty Ltd, and Daron Namibia Pty Ltd, concerning a "horse mackerel quota exploration agreement" from September 2025. Fond Social de la République Démocratique du Congo terminated the agreement, alleging that the Namibian companies failed to meet agreed fishing volumes, with only approximately 500 tonnes landed despite a payment of US$3,066,666. The lawyers for the DRC entity demanded repayment and threatened legal action. The ministry did not specify whether such agreements require approval, disclosure, or monitoring, nor did it address whether foreign entities can financially benefit from these arrangements. Hodago Fishing previously cited confidentiality obligations fo
The Namibian government has initiated a pilot project by installing an electric vehicle EV charging station at the Ministry of Works and Transport head office in Windhoek. This move aims to evaluate the viability of establishing a nationwide EV charging network. Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi announced the initiative in the National Assembly, noting the increasing number of electric vehicles, particularly in Windhoek. The charging station was designed and developed by the ministry's in-house engineers and will serve as a case study to guide future deployment of EV charging infrastructure. The pilot project is expected to provide data to support a national charging network, initially for government-owned EVs, with plans to expand public access. Government employees, including Members of Parliament with electric vehicles, are encouraged to register. Nekundi confirmed the service is currently free as part of the study. He emphasized that electric vehicles are a global reality and Namibia must not be left behind. Findings from the study will be shared with parliament and the public to inform decisions on expanding the initiative to other regions, and the ministry will engage relevant government institutions on broadening the rollout of EV charging infrastructure nationwide.
Young people are showing growing interest in environmental careers, a shift from past generations who typically aspired to professions like medicine or law. This change is driven by increased awareness of climate change, water conservation, and sustainability. Many young individuals begin their journey through simple actions such as school clean-up campaigns or social media discussions. Environmental science offers a purposeful career path for those seeking to solve problems and contribute to a sustainable future, with roles in water resource management, climate research, renewable energy, and conservation. Young people are actively participating in climate conferences, environmental forums, and awareness campaigns, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to impact. Engaging in activities like recycling, tree planting, or educating others can ignite a passion for environmental stewardship. As environmental challenges persist, the involvement of young people in shaping a sustainable future through curiosity, education, and action is becoming increasingly vital, fostering the emergence of a new generation of environmental leaders.